timberframing and stick framing are really the same thing with different dimensions, and so they are good companions in a building. "settling" will be close to zero in either system. As far as attachment goes, is there any thrust in the equation??
if thrust is present the connection of the timbers and sticks(as well as the timber joinery) should be looked at by an engineer.... otherwise I've always nailed(or lagged) the 2x's into the timbers.
good luck with the design.
