I know this thread is a few months old but I figured I'd bring it back because I'm struggling with the same questions as FrankieD. My stock springs are in good shape as far as I can tell without rate-checking them, but my car needs new shocks.
My understanding is that suspension upgrades come in one of two flavors these days:
1) keep stock springs, in which case a modern gas-filled shock will contribute to a higher effective spring rate (wheel rate) and raise ride height
2) install a lowering spring, all of which seem pretty aggressive and may have other negative consequences (reduced jounce travel, excessive bump stop engagement, scraping hard parts, harsh ride)
Are there any other options on the table? What spring did you end up with, Frankie?