Hmm the soft springs & damper solution is a little tough, it'll be trial and error.

Here's a few links to some strut spacers on Amazon.

20mm: should give you that 1in level https://www.amazon.com/Front-strut-spacers-ESCAPE-FOCUS/dp/B07CG2FQPW#

30mm: should give you 1½in https://www.amazon.com/Front-strut-spacers-ESCAPE-FOCUS/dp/B07CG36G67#aw-udpv3-customer-reviews_feature_div

Non Amazon option: 2in also more costly https://www.universalcarlifts.com/product/strut-spacer-front-lift-kit-for-12-18-escape-c-max-focus-and-transit-connect/?gad=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw6cKiBhD5ARIsAKXUdyb9QUgBS6q-pH_CLKbdTh8wc89bC_cgkRg92lYdWDbgZafs68tLPS8aAmb1EALw_wcB