variable wall thickness

[LMS]

how are others approaching this type of situation - brick over 2x6 stud wall for first 36" with siding on 2x6 above that i.e. wall section has 2 different thicknesses for a given floor height

[CipesDesign]

For the condition you describe, which is actually 2 walls, I usually use 2 walls, just like real life. In other words, I create the wood framed wall (to plate height) and then create a lower (36") veneer wall around the exterior. I always create a discreet class for the brick veneer wall so that I can make it invisible for the floor and framing plans, but so the it can show in elevations and sections. I generally stop and start the veneer walls at doors/openings (as opposed to using doors). If you want to get really fancy you can create an extruded ledge, too!