Trying to figure out a weightlifting routine...

[Meguro]

for strength without bulk, plyos and isometrics would be far inferior to heavy weights and plyos.

I'm not disputing the effectiveness of heavy lifting. I think similar gains can be made by isometric-type exercises. Consider gymnasts, whose relative strength would rival powerlifters if not exceed them, or rock climbers, whose upper body strength rival that of orangutans. Gymnasts and rock climbers are two types of athletes who are extremely strong due to static-hold type exercises and not so much heavy lifting (although I'm sure they augment their training with some weight lifting). Basically, these athletes take eccentric body positions, often with added weight for increased resistance, and hold the position. Think iron crosses, planches, V-sits, flexed arm hangs, etc. The end result is explosive strength and muscular endurance in a small package.

[elbows_and_knees]

I do agree with you there, gymnasts are pound for pound the strongest around. I have always attributed that to plyo type work though, not isometrics.