On the subject of wheel building, I thought y'all might like to read this, which comes from the Barnett's Bicycle manual, aka the definitive source:

Large-flange hubs were traditionally thought to
increase a wheelís lateral, radial and torsional stiffness.
Of these, only torsional stiffness has been scientifically
verified, but the increase in torsional stiffness
reduces spoke fatigue by an insignificant degree.
Small-flange hubs have been traditionally described
as having less radial stiffness (making them more comfortable),
less lateral stiffness (making them less stable
in cornering) and less torsional stiffness, which is true,
but of low significance (see above). The assumptions
about comfort and lateral stiffness with either flange
type are false and the difference in torsional stiffness
is not significant, so flange diameter should not be a
major consideration in designing a wheel. This is also
true for mixed-flange designs (small flange on one side
and large flange on the other side).
In conclusion, flange-diameter considerations
are relatively insignificant with regard to wheel
properties.

i was suprised to learn that flange size is a purely cosmetic choice. I'm not saying that the high flange hubs don't look awesome, but when I get a pair (har har), I think I'll save me some weight and go low.