Choosing the right exterior material is a pivotal decision for any homeowner looking to boost curb appeal and protect their investment. Cedar shake siding remains a timeless favorite because it offers a unique blend of organic warmth and rugged durability that synthetic materials often fail to replicate. Whether you are aiming for a classic coastal cottage look or a sophisticated mountain retreat, cedar shakes provide a textured, dimensional aesthetic that evolves beautifully over time. This versatile material can be left to weather naturally into a silvery gray or stained to preserve its rich, golden-brown hues. In this guide, we explore thirty creative ways to incorporate cedar shakes into your home’s exterior design strategy.
1. Natural Cedar Shake Siding
Natural cedar shake siding offers a warm and inviting look that works for many architectural styles. This material brings a sense of organic beauty to any property because of its unique grain patterns and color variations. When you use natural cedar, the house feels connected to the surrounding landscape. You can choose to leave the wood untreated to allow it to age gracefully over time. Most homeowners prefer a clear sealant to protect the wood from moisture while keeping the golden tone visible. This choice highlights the authentic texture of the shingles and creates a high-end look. It is an excellent way to add immediate character to a new construction project.
2. Weathered Gray Cedar Shingles
Weathered gray cedar shingles are a staple of coastal architecture and traditional seaside homes. This look is often achieved naturally by allowing the cedar to react with salt air and sunlight over several years. If you do not live near the ocean, you can use bleaching oils to mimic this iconic silvery appearance. The gray color provides a soft and neutral backdrop that pairs beautifully with white trim and blue accents. This aesthetic is very popular on Pinterest because it feels relaxed yet sophisticated. It captures the essence of a vacation home while providing a durable exterior that resists the elements. It is a perfect choice for those who love a lived-in feel.
3. Cedar Shake Modern Farmhouse
The cedar shake modern farmhouse style combines traditional textures with sleek and contemporary lines. Many designers are moving away from all-white siding and incorporating natural wood shakes as a focal point. You might see cedar shakes used on the upper gables or as a full accent wall alongside black window frames. This combination creates a striking visual contrast that feels fresh and current. The warmth of the cedar softens the industrial feel of metal roofing and dark hardware. It is a great way to make a modern farmhouse stand out in a neighborhood of similar designs. This approach adds depth and a high-end custom feel to the entire structure.
4. White Trim Cedar House
A white trim cedar house is a classic color combination that never goes out of style. The crisp white lines of the window casings, eaves, and columns provide a sharp contrast against the textured cedar shakes. This pairing enhances the architectural details of the home and makes the natural wood tones pop. It works exceptionally well for Craftsman-style homes and traditional cottages. The white trim gives the exterior a clean and polished look that balances the more rugged appearance of the shakes. Many homeowners find this look very easy to maintain because white paint is simple to touch up. It creates a bright and cheerful exterior that feels very welcoming.
5. Dark Stained Cedar Shakes
Dark stained cedar shakes are gaining popularity for homeowners who want a moody and sophisticated exterior. Using a deep espresso or charcoal stain transforms the traditional cedar look into something much more modern. The dark color highlights the deep grooves and textures of the hand-split shakes. This style looks incredible when surrounded by lush green landscaping or a snowy winter backdrop. It provides a luxurious aesthetic that feels very grounded and permanent. Darker stains also offer better protection against UV rays, which can help the wood last longer. Pairing this look with copper gutters or brass light fixtures adds a touch of elegance that really elevates the home's design.
6. Cedar Shake Gables
Cedar shake gables are a popular way to add visual interest to a home without siding the entire house in wood. By placing shakes only in the peaks of the roofline, you create a beautiful focal point that draws the eye upward. This technique works well on homes that use horizontal lap siding or stone on the lower levels. It adds a layer of texture that breaks up the flat surfaces of the exterior walls. You can stain the gable shakes to match the front door for a cohesive look. This small detail can significantly improve the curb appeal of a standard suburban home. It is an affordable way to get the cedar look.
7. Coastal Style Cedar Siding
Coastal style cedar siding is all about creating a breezy and light atmosphere that reflects the shoreline. This design often uses light gray or pale blue cedar shakes to evoke the feeling of the sea and sky. Many coastal homes feature wrapped porches and large windows that look stunning against the repetitive pattern of the shingles. The material is naturally resistant to the harsh conditions of coastal environments, such as high winds and moisture. Using cedar shakes in this context pays homage to historic maritime architecture. It creates a timeless look that feels perfectly at home on the water. This style is often accented with nautical-inspired lighting and natural stone pathways.
8. Cedar Shake And Stone Exterior
A cedar shake and stone exterior is one of the most classic material pairings in residential design. The rough texture of the cedar shingles complements the rugged and solid nature of natural stone. Many designers use stone for the foundation or first floor and cedar shakes for the upper levels. This creates a balanced look that feels very sturdy and integrated with nature. You can choose stones with flecks of brown or gray to tie into the color of the cedar. This combination is ideal for lake houses, lodges, or traditional estates. It provides a rich and layered appearance that makes any home look more expensive and well-crafted.
9. Red Cedar Shingle Siding
Red cedar shingle siding is known for its beautiful reddish-brown hues and aromatic scent. Western Red Cedar is a premium choice because it contains natural oils that protect it from rot and insects. This specific type of wood has a very warm and vibrant look that stands out in any neighborhood. You can use a semi-transparent stain to preserve the red tones or let it turn to a deep brown over time. Red cedar is incredibly durable and can last for decades with the right care. It is a fantastic choice for those who want a high-quality material that offers both performance and beauty. The natural color provides a cozy and high-end feel.
10. Craftsman Home Cedar Shakes
Craftsman home cedar shakes emphasize the beauty of handmade details and natural materials. This architectural style often features wide eaves, exposed rafters, and thick porch columns that look perfect with cedar siding. Shakes are usually used on the entire exterior or as a major accent on the second floor. The texture of the cedar highlights the craftsmanship and structural honesty of the design. You can use earth-toned stains like olive green, deep brown, or ochre to stay true to the traditional Craftsman palette. This look feels very substantial and timeless. It is a great way to showcase the unique character of a historic or newly built bungalow.
11. Painted Cedar Shingles
Painted cedar shingles offer a unique way to get the texture of wood with a customized color palette. While many people prefer the natural look, painting the shakes allows you to match specific design themes. Deep navy blue, sage green, or even soft creamy whites are popular choices for painted shakes. The paint provides an extra layer of protection against the weather and prevents the wood from graying. This option is great if you want a uniform color across the entire house while still keeping the dimensional look of the shingles. It creates a very charming and polished exterior. Painted shakes are often seen on Victorian-style homes or modern cottages in the suburbs.
12. Cedar Shake Accent Wall
A cedar shake accent wall is a smart design move for contemporary homes that want a touch of warmth. Instead of using wood everywhere, placing shakes on a single projecting wall or the entryway creates a modern contrast. This works beautifully alongside materials like smooth stucco, black metal, or large glass panels. The accent wall becomes a piece of architectural art that defines the character of the house. It is a great way to experiment with the cedar look without committing to a full wood exterior. This approach is very popular for modern urban homes that want to feel more connected to nature. It adds instant warmth to a minimalist design.
13. Rustic Mountain Home Cedar
Rustic mountain home cedar designs are built to look like they belong in the forest. These homes often use thick, hand-split shakes that have a more irregular and rugged appearance. The heavy texture of the wood matches the scale of the surrounding trees and mountains. Staining the shakes in dark, earthy browns helps the house blend into the environment. Many mountain homes also feature large timber beams and stone chimneys that complement the cedar siding perfectly. This style prioritizes durability and a connection to the landscape. It creates a cozy and protective feel that is perfect for a weekend getaway or a permanent residence in a wooded area.
14. Victorian House Cedar Shingle Pattern
Victorian house cedar shingle patterns often feature decorative shapes like scallops or diamonds. These specialty shingles are used to create elaborate designs on gables or turrets. This adds a sense of whimsy and historical accuracy to a Victorian-style home. You can use different colors to highlight the patterns and make the architectural details stand out. The use of cedar shakes in this way shows off the versatility of the material. It allows for a high level of customization and artistic expression. This look is perfect for those who love vintage charm and want a home with a lot of personality. It creates a very detailed and interesting facade.
15. Cedar Shake Dormer Accents
Cedar shake dormer accents are a subtle way to add texture to a roofline. Dormers are small structures that project from a sloped roof, and using shakes on their sides makes them pop visually. This is a common design choice for Cape Cod and Colonial-style homes. The wood provides a nice break from the roofing shingles and ties in with other wooden elements like the front door. It is a cost-effective way to incorporate cedar into your home’s design. This small detail can make the upper half of the house look much more finished and custom. It adds a layer of traditional charm that improves the overall aesthetic of the property.
16. Bleached Oil Cedar Shingles
Bleached oil cedar shingles provide that classic "weathered gray" look immediately after installation. If you don 't want to wait years for the sun and rain to change the wood' s color, this treatment is the perfect solution. The oil contains a small amount of gray pigment that settles into the wood grain. It protects the cedar while giving it an elegant, sun-bleached appearance that is very popular in New England. This finish looks very clean and uniform compared to natural weathering. It is a great choice for homeowners who want a coastal vibe in any climate. The resulting color is a soft, silvery gray that looks beautiful with dark green or black accents.
17. Traditional Cape Cod Cedar
Traditional Cape Cod cedar homes are iconic for their simple shapes and shingled exteriors. These houses are usually built with a steep roof and a symmetrical facade that looks best with natural or gray cedar shakes. The shingles wrap around the entire house, giving it a cozy and unified appearance. This style of home is designed to be sturdy and weather-resistant, which is why cedar is the preferred material. The repetitive pattern of the shakes adds a sense of rhythm and scale to the small structure. It is a timeless look that feels very nostalgic and comforting. This aesthetic is a favorite on Pinterest for its simple and clean lines.
18. Cedar Shake Siding Black Windows
Cedar shake siding with black windows is one of the top trends in modern home design. The dark, thin frames of the windows provide a sharp, industrial contrast to the warm and organic texture of the wood. This combination makes the house look contemporary and high-end. It works well with both natural and dark-stained cedar. The black windows act like a frame for the view inside and outside, adding a sophisticated touch to the facade. Many homeowners choose this look for new builds to ensure their home feels current. It is a bold design choice that really pays off in terms of curb appeal and modern style.
19. Vertical Siding With Cedar Shakes
Vertical siding with cedar shakes offers a unique twist on the traditional horizontal layout. Mixing vertical board and batten on the lower levels with cedar shakes on the upper levels creates a dynamic and tall appearance. The change in direction of the lines adds visual interest and breaks up the monotony of a large exterior wall. This technique is often used in modern rustic and transitional designs. It allows you to play with different shadows and textures depending on the time of day. Using cedar shakes in specific sections helps to define different parts of the home’s architecture. It is a creative way to use wood to enhance the building's shape.
20. Staggered Edge Cedar Shingles
Staggered edge cedar shingles feature uneven bottom edges that create a more rustic and hand-crafted look. Unlike straight-edge shingles, which are perfectly aligned, staggered shingles overlap in a way that looks more organic and random. This style is perfect for cabins, cottages, and homes that want a less formal appearance. The uneven lines create deeper shadows and more texture on the walls. It gives the home a lot of character and makes it look like it has been there for a long time. This is a great choice for those who appreciate the natural imperfections of wood. It adds a cozy and relaxed feel to any exterior design project.
21. Straight Edge Cedar Shake Siding
Straight edge cedar shake siding provides a clean and orderly look that is perfect for traditional and modern homes alike. Each shingle is cut to the same length, and the bottom edges form a perfectly straight horizontal line across the wall. This creates a sense of symmetry and balance that many homeowners find appealing. It looks very polished and is often used on high-end suburban residences. Straight edge shakes are easy to install and provide a consistent texture that isn't too overwhelming. This style works beautifully with formal trim and structured landscaping. It offers a classic aesthetic that will look good for decades without going out of style.
22. Cedar Shake Entryway Feature
A cedar shake entryway feature is an excellent way to welcome guests with warmth and texture. By using shakes only around the front door or within a recessed porch area, you create a beautiful focal point. The wood provides a soft and natural contrast to stone or brick steps. You can stain the entryway shakes to match your front door or keep them natural for a rustic feel. This design choice makes the entrance feel more substantial and inviting. It is also a practical way to use cedar in a high-visibility area while keeping costs down. This small touch of wood can completely change the vibe of your home's front facade.
23. Contemporary Home Cedar Siding
Contemporary home cedar siding often uses smooth, clear cedar shakes to create a minimalist and high-end look. In modern architecture, the goal is often to highlight the beauty of the material itself. These homes might feature large flat planes of cedar mixed with glass, steel, and concrete. The warm tones of the wood prevent the modern design from feeling too cold or sterile. Shakes in a contemporary setting are often installed with very tight joints for a seamless appearance. This style is very popular in urban environments and for luxury retreats. It showcases how a traditional material can be reimagined for the 21st century with great success.
24. Lake House Cedar Shake Exterior
A lake house cedar shake exterior is the ultimate choice for a home near the water. The natural wood blends perfectly with the surrounding trees and the reflection of the lake. Many lake houses use a mix of cedar shakes and large windows to maximize the view. The material is durable enough to handle the humidity and moisture found near bodies of water. Choosing a medium brown or gray stain helps the house feel like a part of the natural landscape. This look is very popular on Pinterest for its peaceful and scenic vibe. It creates a perfect setting for summer vacations and relaxing weekends with family and friends.
25. Cedar Shake Garage Siding
Cedar shake garage siding is a wonderful way to make an attached or detached garage look like a deliberate part of the home's design. Often, garages are overlooked, but adding cedar shakes can turn them into a stylish feature. You can match the shakes to the main house for a cohesive look or use them as a standalone accent. This is especially effective for carriage-house style garages with wooden doors. The texture of the shakes adds a layer of quality to the entire property. It improves the overall value of the home by ensuring every building on the lot is finished with high-quality, attractive materials.
26. Blue House With Cedar Shingles
A blue house with cedar shingles is a vibrant and eye-catching combination that feels very fresh. Whether you use a deep navy or a soft slate blue, the cool tones of the paint look incredible next to the warm brown of the cedar. This pairing is often seen in coastal regions but works well anywhere. You can use the blue for the main siding and the cedar for the gables or the front porch. The contrast between the two colors creates a dynamic look that is full of personality. This is a great way to make a statement while still using traditional materials that have a lot of lasting power.
27. Gray Siding Cedar Shake Accents
Gray siding with cedar shake accents is a very popular neutral palette that feels modern and sophisticated. Using light or dark gray lap siding on most of the house and adding cedar shakes in the peaks or on dormers creates a beautiful layered effect. The natural wood provides a pop of warmth that keeps the gray from looking too flat or boring. This is a safe yet stylish choice for many suburban neighborhoods. It appeals to a wide range of tastes and looks great with almost any color of roofing or trim. It is a balanced design that feels both current and very grounded in traditional style.
28. Cedar Shake Siding Metal Roof
Cedar shake siding paired with a metal roof offers a high-contrast look that is both durable and stylish. The sleek, industrial surface of the metal roof complements the rough and organic texture of the wood shakes. This combination is often found in modern mountain homes and updated farmhouses. A dark bronze or black metal roof looks particularly stunning with natural or gray-stained cedar. This duo is built to last, as both materials are known for their longevity and weather resistance. The mix of materials creates a custom, architecturally designed look that stands out. It provides a sense of rugged elegance that is very appealing for modern residential exteriors.
29. Cedar Shingle Porch Ceiling
A cedar shingle porch ceiling is an unexpected and charming way to use this material. While shakes are usually on the walls, placing them on the ceiling of a covered porch or veranda adds a cozy, cabin-like feel. This looks beautiful when viewed from the street and provides a warm atmosphere for those sitting on the porch. The texture of the shingles overhead creates a sense of enclosure and quality. You can stain the ceiling a light golden color to reflect light or leave it natural for a rustic look. This is a unique design detail that shows a high level of attention to detail and craftsmanship.
30. Scalloped Cedar Shingles
Scalloped cedar shingles, also known as fish scale shingles, are a decorative option that adds a vintage feel to any home. These shingles have rounded bottoms that create a beautiful scales-like pattern when installed. They are most commonly used on Victorian homes, Queen Anne cottages, or as a decorative accent in gables. The unique shape creates a soft and playful texture that is very different from standard rectangular shakes. You can paint them in bold colors to make the pattern pop or stain them for a more subtle look. This is a fantastic way to add historical charm and a touch of artistic flair to your home's exterior.
Conclusion:
Cedar shake siding is much more than just a building material; it is a design choice that brings soul and character to a home. Throughout this guide, we have seen how its versatility allows it to fit into modern, traditional, and rustic contexts with ease. Whether you choose to let it weather naturally or apply a bold stain, the result is always a home that feels high-quality and connected to nature. Investing in cedar means choosing a material that grows more beautiful with age. We hope these thirty ideas have inspired you to consider the timeless appeal of cedar shakes for your next exterior renovation project.
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