Simplify the joinery, not saying to eliminate it altogether, as an example joist set atop other members, no drop in or tusk and so on. Purlins as well, perhaps just set into shallow daps. I use a lot of long timber reducing the number of splices.
Stretch out the bents, but no more than 16'.
Height, keep it low. It will cost after the frame. Staging takes time.
Hips, valleys, dormers, are out of the question.
No finishes, oils etc.
Keep It Small Stupid, instead of keep it simple stupid, well keeping it simple is the goal, too.
Fewer windows, are more efficient, think about it after the frame, closing it in and its life after you are gone. Enclosure systems, roofing, siding, all contribute.
Look to our past for examples. Don't build for the glossy magazines.
Shop tooling? Travel time, to the site?
I keep coming back to the big picture, from the ground work to the ridge cap, the whole picture has to be taken into account. The frame is only one joint. It really rubs me the wrong way when I am pinched on one aspect of the frame and the client then turns around and spends big bucks on granite counters and or a frivolous bathroom, or granite facing on the foundation, real world scenarios. Oh, and don't forget that open fire place and the masonry work to boot. And while I am at it, no paint on the exterior trim.
