Starting a Debian-based distro — custom kernel config or fork a minimal base?
I'm building a Debian-based Linux distro focused on universal app compatibility (Wine, Proton, Darling for .dmg). Starting from scratch on the tool chain setup. The main reason I choose debian for it is security updates. But, I also want to optimise the operating system such that it feels like it is built for that specific build/configuration. I'm not really sure from where I should start, any suggestions would be valuable.
Edit1: I don't actually intend to build a linux distro. My intention is to build an OS. But at least for now I cannot keep up with the security updates & stuff debian is quite stable in that department. Once I get the resources I might even pivot to a proper os & not just a distro.