Hazardous: I think its fine to use models - if they are needed.
[Please tell me if i went too far with the following:]
I think that we should have 4 BSPs (~3people per BSP)
That way, each mapper can use up more TextureMemory etc.
With 3 People Per map, we can improve on a lot more. And there's more room for creativity. The first BSP already has a Xen sky, that may limit someone from doing a desert base, or a city.
Vassy and Zombieloffe seemed ok with a xen sky, and i was too - so after i finish my map - we could start a new one - i'm sure Jahzel or Rabid Monkey won't mind setting up a levelchange after my turn?
Levelchanges should not be avoided. HL is built to have small maps.