Um, go with 15" and be done with this.
It's an absolute myth that big drivers are slow. They are not. What happens is that integration is a PITA no matter what you do.
Take a look at the AM Acoustics room mode simulator and try to keep your listening location, speakers and sub out of the lowest modes.
Measure and clip any peaks so that you can bring your sub up enough.
Plug your main speakers if they are ported, this will help you raise the crossover point, minimize IM distortion on your mains and let the subs do what they do best: Amplify your dynamic range.