does anyone have a good idea how romex would be needed to wire a new house about 1350 sq ft ?

I'm guessing you mean 'how much romex'......

Approximately 2-3 150m 14-2 rolls. 1 roll of 14-3 should be adequate, 10-3 and 8-3 would have to be determined on site (measured).

are we talking a minimalist approach?

I just finished rough-in on 1300 sq ft ranch, used (250'coils) 5--14-2, 5--12-2 and 1--14-3 coil. No elect dryer or elect range. Panel and kitchen where on opposite ends of house. I don't skimp on outlets, bedrooms have seven plus two phones.

Just finished a 1450 sq. (2 story, basement, 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath, interconnected AC smokes, ceiling & bath fan/light, microwave, dishwasher).

Start with-
1500' 14/2 (1000' reel + 2 250' coils)
750' 12/2
500' 14/3

This may seem excessive, but it goes fast, and you still may run out of something.
If not, it will stay fresh for the next job.

LOL
Well, it is the NEC, after all.

we're talking spec rules, no excess, I was told the electrical was small budget.. Thanks guys

Romex [[[Shudder]]]

I forget about that stuff until I visit my mom & in-laws who live outside of the Conduit-Zone (Chicago & suburbs).

It's fast, but gimme my EMT for upgrades & re-wires in the finished wall.

{just messin' wit'cha, guys)