I plan on building a semi-custom 35 whelen as well.
Just gathering parts right now.

Remington ADL 30-06 as the donor (barel is trashed)
Remington Ti style fluted bolt
Holland overside recoil lug
Holland overside firing pin
Holland spring kit (trigger, ejector, bolt stop)
Remington factory bottom DM metal
B&C DM stock
1 piece low talley rings
Leupold VX-II 2x7 33mm (to be ordered still)
Pacnor stainless barrel (to be ordered still)

I'm planning on going with a 21 inch barrel in the 1-14 twist.

Not sure what to shoot yet but probably something in the 225 -250gr. size.