In Which I Attempt to Build a Sensible Road Bike + other bike content

I still haven't got the finished wheels but while waiting I remembered I need to think about gearing.

I have nothing I can't do on the current setup planned atm, but it is too big and I want to sort it before too long.
I came up with 3 options and pros/cons:

1. Get a compact
   +best gearing overall +most sensible option / -strictly speaking this also needs a new derailleur but then it's too expensive -spiritually distasteful

2. Get a medium cage derailleur and bigger cassette
   +best looking / -I couldn't think of any actual pros? -most expensive

3. Get an old mtb derailleur and use the 11-36t I have
   +easily cheapest +biggest range and easiest easy gear / ±stupidest option / -most visually displeasing -probably won't work very well

My brain says 1 but what I actually want to do is 3, unless anyone has a good reason why I shouldn't do 3 it will probably depend on what's available when it's time buy something

Also not decided (and not important): gumwall or not
Currently leaning towards not