There’s something unforgettable about the natural warmth cedar brings to a house. Whether you see sunlight glinting off fresh boards or the subtle aging as time passes, cedar’s character only deepens. It’s not just for cabins in the woods; modern, traditional, urban, or countryside, cedar easily adapts and uplifts. When you choose cedar, you make an impression before guests even reach your front step.
Ask yourself: What story do you want your home’s exterior to tell? Rustic nostalgia, sleek modernity, or something uniquely your own? With a little inspiration and the right guidance, you can use cedar as a canvas for creativity. From mixing materials to playing with finishes, the possibilities are as broad as your imagination.
Ready to be inspired?
Let’s dive into a world where curb appeal meets nature’s artistry.
Modern Farmhouse Charm
Instantly create modern farmhouse charm by choosing cedar board and batten siding. The blend of crisp lines and soft, natural angles feels both current and comforting—an atmosphere that turns heads from the curb.
Little details make all the difference.
I once worked with a lively family looking to modernize their old farmhouse. We coordinated the cedar’s honeyed tones with matte black window frames and a simple, farmhouse-style porch swing, and the results were stunning. Don’t be afraid to contrast textures—it amplifies that timeless warmth!
Why Cedar & Brick Are a Match Made for Warmth
There’s a special kind of harmony when cedar siding meets the textured strength of brick. The earthy tones and tactile contrast call out to anyone who loves a cozy, layered look. Why not repeat a warm brick color in your trim or accents to truly tie the whole design together?
Cedar and brick: a partnership that never disappoints.
Turn Any Home Into a Rustic Cedar Retreat!
There’s magic in the way cedar shingles create a feeling of escape. Imagine gentle shadows drifting across a wall of weathered wood as the seasons pass. The slight irregularity in each shingle gives character—no two homes ever look the same. It’s a look that encourages pause, quiet, and a deeper sense of comfort.
I recently helped an artist select cedar shingles for her woodland cabin. We went with a mix of unfinished and pre-stained pieces, so the effect would be both controlled and organic—her favorite combo! If you want your retreat to develop that gentle patina, let the shingles age naturally. Prefer more vibrancy? A simple sealant goes a long way in protecting color and grain.
Either way, shingled cedar makes your space feel like a private sanctuary, untouched and deeply inviting.
Why Cedar and Eco-Friendly Landscaping Belong Together
A cedar sided house doesn’t just ask for beauty—it calls for harmony with nature. When I’m designing outdoor spaces, I always reach for eco-friendly landscaping principles. There’s something magical about watching local wildlife return to a garden that feels wild, but intentional.
I remember working with a client whose backyard was once a patchy, underwhelming stretch of turf. We reimagined the space with native grasses, mulched beds, and a palette of perennials. Not only did their garden become less thirsty and more self-sustaining, but it also became their favorite place to unwind. If you’re hoping for a sustainable landscape, start here:
- Plant native species that naturally thrive in your climate—less watering, more wildlife.
- Choose permeable pathways and organic mulch to nurture soil health.
- Reduce lawn space with “xeriscaping,” blending practical beauty with water conservation.
And if you’re curious about what fits your space, just imagine how joyful it feels to see butterflies return every spring.
Eco-friendly landscaping and cedar: they’re a match made for mindful living.
Cedar Loves Light
There’s nothing quite like sunlight spilling across honey-hued cedar walls. Adding expansive windows creates not just a brighter home, but a deeper sense of connection to your yard, trees, or sky. Where would your favorite window face?
One client, a young family, was amazed at how their once-dark living room felt twice as large once we opened it up with generous glass and warm cedar. It’s a transformation that never fails to delight.
Sometimes, just letting the light in is the biggest change of all.
What If Your Roof Became the Star of the Show?
The lines of your home can be a conversation starter. Why stick with the expected, when a playful shed roof or a dramatic gable can turn heads? Asymmetrical rooflines with cedar siding create a visual story, pulling the eye up and giving personality to even the simplest footprint.
I once guided a client through transforming their ordinary ranch into a local landmark by adding a steeply pitched roof and bold cedar cladding. Suddenly, their house felt inspiring—almost sculptural.
Your home deserves to be unforgettable.
What silhouette would you create if the sky was your canvas?
Letting Light In: The Beauty of Cedar and Glass Together
If you’ve ever dreamed of a living space that feels open, bright, and truly connected to the outdoors, pairing expansive glass with cedar siding might be the answer. This combination isn’t simply about looks—it’s about letting your home breathe.
Imagine how sunlight pours in, bathing your interiors in a gentle glow and framing every season like living art. You don’t just see the world outside—you feel it, too.
To make this look work, plan your glass panels to maximize both daylight and privacy. Consider where the sunlight falls at different times of day, and use window placement to highlight views or create seamless indoor/outdoor flow. If you’re concerned about privacy, think about layering with sheer curtains or placing plants strategically inside and out for a natural screen.
I recall guiding a family who wanted more daylight and a better connection to their garden. We incorporated floor-to-ceiling windows facing their favorite flower bed—suddenly, coffee in the morning felt like being in a woodland retreat.
That feeling of spaciousness? Absolutely priceless.
Step Outside!
A cedar sided house truly comes alive when you add outdoor living spaces. Imagine lounging on a cozy porch, sipping iced tea, or gathering friends for a breezy evening under the sky.
Isn’t comfort even sweeter when it’s just a step away?
What Happens When Cedar Meets Metal?
Mixing cedar siding with metal isn’t just a trend—it’s a statement. The organic warmth of cedar brings balance to the clean, crisp lines of metal, creating an industrial edge that’s inviting rather than stark.
If you’re curious how to blend these materials, here are some stylish options to consider:
- Accent your facade with metal awnings or trim for subtle shine
- Install sleek steel railings alongside wooden decks or stairs
- Use metal roofing with cedar walls for a dramatic, modern effect
A couple once approached me looking for a way to boost their home’s curb appeal without losing warmth. By combining dark metal panels with horizontal cedar planks, we achieved an exterior that stopped neighbors in their tracks.
There’s an unexpected harmony in the mix.
Why not invite a little surprise onto your facade? Sometimes, the most memorable designs are those that dare to mix things up.
Bringing the Outdoors In: Cedar and Open Layouts for Modern Living
Cedar siding paired with an open layout is pure magic for anyone who dreams of a home that truly lets the outdoors in. I absolutely adore how these spaces breathe—sunlight dances along the wooden textures, and you can hear birdsong even from the couch. Whether you favor big sliding doors or a wall of windows, this style blurs boundaries with nature in the best way possible.
Once, I worked with a lovely couple looking to host big family gatherings while still feeling at home in nature. We designed their living area so the terrace flowed right into the kitchen. Their children could dash in and out while adults chatted over coffee, with seamless sightlines that made everyone feel connected, inside and out.
If you’re considering cedar siding with an open-plan design, think carefully about traffic patterns and weather protection. Have you ever wondered how your home could feel bigger without building an addition? Cedar’s warmth and an open layout can make even a modest space feel expansive and inviting. Add a few plants, and you’ll create genuine indoor-outdoor continuity.
It’s like living in a gentle hug from the outdoors, year-round.
Why Pair Cedar With a Green Roof?
When you combine cedar siding with a lush green roof, the result is a home that feels both stylish and sustainable. The living roof offers insulation, supports native plants, and reduces rainwater runoff—while cedar keeps the exterior feeling warm and harmonious with nature. If you’re thinking about this pairing, just remember: regular maintenance is the secret to keeping everything vibrant and healthy.
Green dreams are always in style.
Small Touches, Big Charm!
Sometimes, a little detail goes a long way. Cedar accents can infuse your exterior with *subtle elegance* without overwhelming your home’s style. You don’t have to redo your whole façade to enjoy the warmth and depth cedar brings. Here are a few inviting accent ideas to inspire you:
- Frame your windows with cedar for definition and warmth.
- Add entryway panels for a welcoming, modern twist.
- Highlight rooflines or eaves for dimension and light-play.
When I helped the Thompsons choose cedar trim around their front door and garden windows, the transformation truly surprised them! Do you ever notice how just one thoughtful detail can change the whole character of a house?
Little touches can leave the biggest impression.
13. Porch Perfection with Cedar
There’s something magical about stepping onto a porch lined with cedar. The scent, the color, the irresistible charm—it all works together to create a space that feels like a warm welcome before you even cross the threshold.
I’ve found that the secret to a porch that truly stands out is embracing nature’s handiwork. If you want to roll out the red carpet (in wood, of course) for your guests, let cedar’s subtle grain and rich tone set the mood. For one client, a young family hoping to create a gathering spot for neighbors and friends, I suggested pairing their cedar siding with lush potted ferns and a pair of oversized rocking chairs. The result? Not only did their entry exude character, but their porch quickly became the heart of weekend gatherings and early-morning coffee chats. Consider adding layered lighting—soft lanterns or string lights—to showcase cedar’s warmth even as the sun dips below the horizon.
After all, isn’t the *first impression* of your home worth a little extra love? Whether you’re dreaming of an afternoon with a book or welcoming a parade of friends, cedar’s durability and beauty will make sure you’re set for seasons to come.
14. Natural Cedar with Bold Trim
Few combinations are more striking than the bold trim against the natural grain of cedar siding. The vivid contrast draws the eye and elevates the entire look of your home.
Why not let your trim color say something about your style? Choose a crisp white for freshness, a deep charcoal for drama, or even a pop of color if you’re feeling adventurous. Contrast is your friend here.
Make your house stand out in the best way.
15. Cedar with a Touch of Vintage Charm
Do you ever long for a home that tells its own story? Mixing cedar siding with vintage details is a beautiful way to give your exterior a sense of history and character.
*Infusing your home with a bit of vintage spirit is easier than you think.*
Here are a few charming vintage touches you can include:
- Antique-style lanterns or wrought iron sconces (for one of my clients, we installed a pair of brass carriage lights that glimmered at dusk, instantly evoking old-world charm)
- Decorative corbels or gingerbread trim beneath porch eaves
- Salvaged hardware, like unique door knockers or old-fashioned mail slots that hint at stories yet untold
When you combine timeless cedar and thoughtfully chosen accents, you make your home truly stand out. Sometimes, a simple nod to the past is all it takes to create a sense of history that welcomes you home.
Some styles never fade—they just grow more beloved with each season.
16. When Modern Cedar Meets Natural Stone Accents
Blending modern cedar siding with the timeless beauty of stone isn’t just a style move—it’s a way to invite harmony between your home and the landscape. This combination has a knack for feeling both sleek and warmly inviting at the same time.
I once worked with a young family who dreamed of a home that felt like a sanctuary. We layered rich cedar planks with understated grey stone—not only did this amplify their curb appeal, but it gave each room a sense of grounded elegance. The light danced beautifully on the stone in the mornings, while the cedar infused the facade with organic warmth all day long.
Have you ever noticed how natural materials just “click” together? That’s visual harmony in action. Pairing these textures makes your home stand out, yet feel rooted—a rare and delightful effect.
Modern doesn’t have to mean cold.
Incorporate vertical or horizontal lines to play with light, and don’t be afraid to let the natural variations in wood and stone shine.
Painted Cedar: Stunning Contrast
A bold splash of color on your cedar siding can completely transform your exterior.
Why not break the mold? Painting cedar in a fresh, unexpected hue instantly adds personality and draws the eye. This is for homeowners who aren’t afraid to be a little daring—making sure your home gets noticed in the very best way.
Why Choose Dark Cedar?
There’s something undeniably captivating about dark-stained cedar. It brings a sense of drama and sophistication, turning the ordinary into something extraordinary.
Here’s why dark cedar might just be the bold move you’re looking for:
- It amplifies architectural features, making clean lines or unique shapes pop against the landscape.
- Dark tones hide imperfections and weather beautifully over time—great for busy families or high-traffic settings.
- It sets a mood: Moody, serene, a touch of mystery—it’s all in the finish you choose.
When I helped a client achieve a moody exterior with deep charcoal cedar, the transformation was remarkable. Their neighbors stopped by just to get a closer look!
Dare to go dark—sometimes, a little drama is a wonderful thing.
