Ready to see your home’s style reach new heights?
Let’s jump in and discover ideas that might just surprise you.
Ready to Break the Mold with Shape?
Shake siding isn’t just for the plain walls you pass by every day! You can get creative by using them on angular turrets, gentle curves, or even playful geometric extensions to set your house apart.
Have you ever thought about how much visual rhythm a wall can bring to your curb appeal? Here are some inspiring shapes you might want to experiment with:
- Curved Bay Walls – Add softness and sophistication without losing personality.
- Sharp Gables – For a modern twist on classic architecture, use shakes to highlight pitches and peaks.
- Unexpected Angles – Make a statement by layering shakes over offset planes or asymmetrical surfaces.
I once worked with a client who was nervous about adding shakes to a rounded entryway, but the end result? A truly visually playful facade brimming with character.
This is your invitation to make a bold move—because your home deserves a touch of architectural drama!
Discover the Enduring Beauty of Rustic Shake Siding
Few things exude a sense of home like natural wood shakes weathering gently in the sunlight. Each shake tells a story, and that sense of timeless appeal truly elevates an exterior—no matter its size.
If you yearn for cozy, cabin-like feel that feels both welcoming and unique, rustic shakes might be just the thing. These beauties age gracefully, acquiring a patina that whispers of years gone by. In fact, they pair effortlessly with stone walkways or lush greenery, pulling the look together like an artist with a palette.
I recently helped a family who wanted their new addition to blend into their old-growth trees. By choosing unfinished cedar shakes, lightly oiled for durability, we created a serene retreat that felt rooted in tradition—while still being low-maintenance. It was delightful to see how proud they were, watching their children race around the new porch, feeling like they were on vacation year-round.
Did you know that different stains and finishes can dramatically affect the mood—rich walnut for drama, light gray for a beachy escape, or clear oil for pure, unfiltered nature?
Rustic shake siding doesn’t just look good—it gives your home an heirloom quality that invites everyone in.
Textures Collide
Why settle for monotone surfaces when you can introduce contrast and visual delight? Mixing materials—like shakes with sleek brick, rugged stone, or even crisp metal—brings a wonderfully layered look to your home.
I once helped a couple combine warm red shakes with cool slate accents, and their entryway became the talk of the neighborhood!
Layering shakes against other textures gives your facade that “collected over time” vibe.
Have you played with unexpected combinations yet? Try mixing textures and let your creative side roam wild!
Shake Details That Steal the Show!
Sometimes, it’s the small touch that brings a home to life. Adding shake details to just your gables or the entryway can create a big impact—far more than you’d expect! The best accents don’t shout; they invite you in with a friendly wink.
Ever wonder why the front of some homes just seems to “pop”? Shake details are often the secret! I once worked with a client who wanted their porch to feel both unique and welcoming. By adding shakes just above the door, we created a charming focal point that made visitors smile before they even rang the bell.
It’s easy to overdo it, but restraint makes the effect more powerful. Try accenting just one area for maximum visual delight.
Add Texture with Irregular Shakes
Looking for instant texture? Irregular shakes deliver. Their lines are never quite straight, lending a truly dynamic appearance that draws the eye and keeps things interesting. I adore the organic feel—why settle for ordinary when your walls can tell a story?
This is the detail that makes a home memorable.
Why a Shake Accent Wall Makes a Difference
If you’re dreaming of a true focal point on your home’s exterior, a bold accent wall with shake siding is a wonderful solution. It draws the gaze, adds contrast, and gives your home real personality. Even if you’re working with a modest space, the right wall treatment can change an entire façade.
I once helped Nina and her family transform their patio retreat by adding shake siding to one outside wall. They wanted a spot that felt cozy, inviting, and just a bit whimsical—something to frame their outdoor gatherings. We chose warm-toned shakes, and suddenly their everyday patio became “the nook” everyone gravitated toward.
Not sure where to start? Here are a few great spots to consider for a shake accent wall:
- The garden-facing side of your home
- Beneath a covered porch or deck
- The backdrop for an outdoor seating area
A well-placed accent wall doesn’t just enhance—it transforms.
Let the Light In: Why Windows are Your Home’s Best Friend
There’s something truly transformative about welcoming more window light into your home. It’s not just about the view or aesthetics—it’s about the way sunshine pours into your space, making even the coziest corners feel fresh and alive.
Have you ever noticed how a room seems to breathe when the light shifts through the day? I once helped Linda and James brighten their snug living room by incorporating a set of tall windows and a few clever mirrors on the adjacent wall. The difference was remarkable; their favorite nook became a spot where morning coffee tasted better and evening reading felt somehow brighter.
If you’re dreaming of an airy and open feel, try these tips to maximize natural light:
- Combine different shapes—think about adding a transom or clerestory window above your main frames for a bold look.
- Choose window placements that frame your outdoor greenery, drawing nature inside with every glance.
- Don’t shy away from expansive panes—these are your shortcut to a fresh perspective.
Let the sunlight become your favorite décor element!
Blending In, Beautifully
What colors do you see when you step outside your door? Take a moment to really soak them in.
When you choose siding that matches the landscape, you create natural harmony between your home and its surroundings. It’s a gentle way to let your house blend in beautifully with the world outside. Sometimes, the best design decision is simply to notice what’s already there.
Evoke the Ocean’s Calm with Coastal Shakes
Imagine stepping onto a sun-warmed porch, the scent of salt in the air and the soothing palette of sea glass and driftwood all around. That’s the magic a coastal-inspired home can bring. Using light gray shakes that recall the subtle, sun-faded hues of weathered wood is one of my favorite ways to capture this mood.
Recently, I worked with Sarah, who wanted her child’s nursery to feel like a peaceful retreat by the shore. We chose a calming palette of light grays and gentle blues, soft textures, and airy fabrics. The result? A space that feels as serene as a quiet morning tide. Even if you’re miles from the beach, careful shake color choices and a few thoughtful accents can fill your home with that restful seaside energy.
Why Synthetic Shakes Might Surprise You (In a Good Way!)
Have you ever wondered if you could get that natural cedar look without the constant upkeep? Synthetic shakes make it possible—they’re crafted from durable composite materials that convincingly echo the warmth and texture of real wood, but they’re built for the long haul.
Many homeowners ask me: “Will synthetic shakes feel fake up close?” Honestly, I love seeing the surprise on their faces when they realize just how authentic these new materials can look, even under close inspection.
Here are three reasons why synthetic shakes might just be your smartest siding move:
- Low Maintenance: Unlike traditional wood, you won’t be sanding, staining, or worrying about rot. A quick rinse is often all it takes.
- Eco-Friendly: Many synthetic shakes are made from recycled content and help conserve natural resources.
- Weather Resistant: They stand up to harsh sun, wind, and rain without warping or fading—talk about peace of mind!
I once worked with a homeowner who was hesitant about using anything “artificial” on her beloved cottage. After installation, she admitted she couldn’t tell the difference from real cedar—and she adores the easy care routine. If you’re weighing your options, give synthetic shakes a closer look. Your weekends (and your paintbrush) will thank you.
Conscious Living
When choosing exterior finishes, I always look for that special blend of style and sustainability. An eco-friendly shake not only protects your home but also treads lightly on the planet.
Ask yourself: “Does this product leave a positive mark on the world?” Check for recycled content, responsible sourcing, or certifications. It’s a responsible choice that brings peace of mind.
The most beautiful homes are the ones we feel good about—inside and out.
Bring Out Your Home’s Playful Side!
Why settle for ordinary when you can embrace a little whimsy? Consider shakes in pastel hues—think lavender, mint, or peach—that instantly create a home that feels cheerful and unique.
A few years ago, I encouraged a client to try a bold color on her exterior shakes. She was hesitant, but after the first season, she was delighted by the friendly comments from neighbors and the way her house seemed to “smile” from the curb. Unexpected colors spark joy and show off your personality.
Why not break the mold? Try a paint swatch on a hidden panel and see how it looks throughout the day. Your home’s story is yours to tell—make it a memorable one!
13. After Dark: How Lighting Makes Shakes Shine
Ever noticed the magical effect that light has on a home’s exterior after sunset? Sensible lighting does more than just banish the dark—it reveals the depth and grain of your shake siding, turning your home into a welcoming beacon. The right fixtures can bring out both warmth and architectural detail you might miss in the day.
If you want to make a night and day difference, consider experimenting with these exterior lighting options:
- Uplighting: Place fixtures at ground level to cast dramatic shadows and highlight the texture of your shakes.
- Wash lighting: Subtle, gentle light spread across broad siding areas to create a soft glow.
- Accent lights: Use them to spotlight entryways or lovely corners for instant curb appeal.
I once worked with a client named Denise who always felt her entryway lacked charm after dusk. With a few strategic uplights and a splash of amber wash lighting, her shakes came alive—guests now routinely linger by her glowing porch, basking in that inviting atmosphere.
It’s incredible how lighting unlocks the natural beauty of shake siding.
14. Board Meets Shake: Unexpected Harmony
Pairing shakes with board siding isn’t just stylish, it’s smart design. Combining textures adds a sense of dimension and invites a bit of visual play to your facade.
I once helped Tom and Rita blend rustic shakes with crisp board panels. The result? A layered exterior that feels both classic and fresh.
15. Which Era Inspires You?
Craving that classic storybook charm? Blending shakes with ornate trim creates a look that’s not only timeless but brimming with character. Victorian styles, especially Queen Anne and Folk Victorian, come alive with detailed brackets, friezes, and spindlework paired against the rich texture of shakes.
For one client, Melissa, we chose delicate gingerbread trim to accent her shake-clad porch. Every guest now comments on the unique, old-world feel—it’s truly a home with a sense of history.
There’s something uniquely heartwarming about stepping up to a house that honors the past.
16. Classic Cottage Charm That Warms the Heart
There’s something undeniably inviting about a cottage wrapped in crisp white shakes and darling shutters—it feels like a fairytale come to life.
Classic cottage exteriors are all about gentle details and a sense of cozy welcome. To bring this look to your home, focus on textures and subtle flourishes that evoke a bygone era while still feeling fresh. Think white shake siding, playful window boxes overflowing with blooms, and an inviting front porch that begs you to linger. Before you update your facade, consider these essential elements every cottage deserves:
- Charming shutters that frame your windows and offer a pop of contrast
- Natural wood accents for warmth and authenticity
- Arched doorways or vintage-style lighting for an extra touch of magic
Even small changes can turn a plain exterior into a storybook retreat.
I once worked with a client who longed for “the heart of the countryside” reflected in her home’s exterior. Together, we layered soft whites, added scalloped trim, and chose delicate antique hardware—her guests never stop commenting on the charm.
A classic cottage look isn’t just about style—it’s about making every arrival feel like a hug.
17. Try This Two-Tone Siding Twist
Looking to add depth? Try pairing two complementary shades of shake siding for a subtle, custom look that always draws the eye. Choose one shade for the main body and another—slightly lighter or darker—for the gables or trim.
Sometimes, a slight twist is all it takes for a home to feel truly original.
18. Unleash Personality with Colorful Shakes!
Who says your home’s exterior has to whisper softly? A bold deep blue, a burst of sunflower yellow, or even a moody teal can transform basic shake siding into a true statement. Colorful shakes radiate personality—you’ll never have to worry about blending in with the neighbors.
I once helped a client who was wary at first, but we settled on a lush, peacock blue for her bungalow. She tells me it still brings a little jolt of joy each time she turns into her driveway.
It’s amazing what a splash of color can do to turn an ordinary house into something remarkable.
19. Craft a Modern Look
If you’re dreaming of a home exterior that feels fresh, current, and endlessly inviting, consider the magic of straight-edge shakes. Their crisp lines create a sense of balance and simplicity that instantly says, “Here lives someone with vision.”
Unlike traditional, slightly uneven shakes, these straight-edge shakes lend themselves beautifully to a minimalist design. Their uniformity is visually calming, letting your eye rest rather than dart between distractions. When paired with sleek windows, subtle trim, and carefully chosen colors, the effect is truly transformative.
I once worked with a client who wanted to turn their cheerful cottage into something bolder. By updating to straight-edge shakes and reducing decorative clutter, their home truly stepped into the modern era.
Less is more.
Want to get that ultra-modern curb appeal? Start here:
- Embrace neutral tones like charcoal, soft gray, or crisp white for your shakes—they serve as a gentle backdrop for everything else.
- Coordinate hardscaping features, such as a concrete walkway or simple gravel beds, to echo the sleekness of your siding.
- Keep landscaping unfussy: opt for sculptural grasses, tidy shrubs, and just one or two standout planters for the “cherry on top.”
The result? Architecture and landscape working in harmony. When every detail is intentional, your home becomes not just a building, but a statement.
20. Contrasting Roof and Shakes
Looking for a way to make your home’s exterior truly pop? Try pairing dark roofing with lighter shakes for a striking contrast. There’s something so dynamic about shadow meeting light—it adds instant drama and dimension.
Contrast isn’t just for artists—it’s for curb appeal, too.
Think about the mood you want to set. Dramatic contrast can make your entryway feel inviting and bold, especially when you echo these hues with accents like planters or house numbers.
