Hi Emmett,
It is a stick built house, constructed using 2X6. We intend on using timbers but at this point they will purely be cosmetic (we couldn't afford for them to be structural). The back of the house is south facing, receives full sun all day and is loaded with windows for a view of a local ski hill (typical cathedral ceiling, open concept chalet style home, with a loft). We are having the windows tinted to help out with solar gain. We are considering creating venting by running a "tunnel" in the top of the cathedral ceiling (not sure if it is necessary). Being that we are in ski country we were thinking of insulating the walls to R40 and the ceilings R50 or higher. We get tonnes of snow! I look forward to your suggestions. Have a great day! Heidi