Simply put, modern exterior cladding is changing how we view architecture.
Although many companies are providing exterior cladding solutions, Lumber Plus stands at the forefront with a range of products that promise not just to transform but also to enhance the facade of any building.
If you’re interested in discovering various modern exterior cladding ideas to improve your home or building, keep reading!
What’s Exterior Cladding?
Exterior cladding (also called the facade) serves as the skin of a building that has both protective and aesthetic qualities.
It shields the structure from weather elements while also defining its visual appeal. Modern advancements have led to a variety of materials used for cladding, including wood, composites, and more, each with unique benefits and challenges.
Latest Trends in Modern Exterior Cladding Ideas
In the dynamic landscape of modern exterior cladding, there’s a noticeable shift toward materials that blend aesthetic appeal with functional benefits:
- Thermowood® is a standout, with its thermal modification process that enhances stability and moisture resistance, which is suitable for a range of architectural styles.
- Composites are gaining traction and are lauded for their ability to mimic wood’s natural charm while eliminating upkeep concerns, which makes them a smart choice for contemporary designs.
- Hardwoods like Ipe and Cumaru are increasingly favored for their natural durability and rich, timeless beauty that is ideal for creating inviting outdoor spaces.
By adopting modern trends in exterior cladding, we envision a future where style and function work together to shape our spaces and improve how we interact with the architectural environment.
Cutting-edge modern Exterior Cladding Solutions from Lumber Plus
Lumber Plus offers an array of modern exterior wall cladding ideas:
Thermowood®
Thermowood® is a superior cladding material due to its thermal modification process, which enhances its natural properties. Lumber Plus offers Thermowood® Ash, Pine, and Ayous.
Although all three options are excellent cladding options, our Thermowood®️ Ayous received a Special Mention at the Architizer A+ Awards, during which less than 5% of projects were chosen to receive awards.
It’s also worth noting that our beloved Thermowood® Ayous has been awarded the 2024 Sustainable Product of the Year by Green Builder Media.
As a result, these awards recognize Lumber Plus’s Thermowood® Ayous as a leader in architecture and highlights our commitment to exceptional design and performance–something only an original, high-quality material can achieve
Here are some of the benefits of using Thermowood®:
- Thermowood’s thermal modification process enhances its stability, which makes it resistant to warping, moisture, and decay, ideal for harsh weather conditions.
- It gains an attractive finish similar to exotic hardwoods while remaining eco-friendly and chemical-free.
- Lightweight and easy to install, it reduces construction time and cost.
These properties make Thermowood® an excellent option for those seeking a reliable, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing cladding material
Composite
Lumber Plus’s composite cladding solutions are designed for maximum durability, and to resist fading, staining, scratching, and mold. This makes them a low-maintenance option for modern exterior cladding that is capable of withstanding various environmental conditions, and with 4 different styles to choose from, there’s no compromising on aesthetic quality.
Norx®
Norx® cladding is a forward-thinking solution in the realm of sustainable building materials that combines style with exceptional functionality. It boasts:
- Norx® cladding features advanced technology for enhanced resistance to environmental factors and mechanical damage.
- It’s eco-friendly, composed of 95% recycled materials, and offers a 30-year warranty for lasting durability and color retention.
- Designed for versatility and ease of installation, Norx® supports various architectural styles. It includes unique elements like GroundGuard™ Technology and soft rubber capping for additional protection and comfort.
Norx® cladding is a practical and durable option for both indoor and outdoor applications, requiring little to no maintenance while elevating almost every setting.
Plus, Norx comes in a variety of collections with different textures and colors, such as:
- Rome (Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi, Navona)
- New York (Empire State, Brooklyn, Rockefeller)
- London (Mayfair, Hydepark, Oxford, Big Ben)
- Los Angeles (Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice)
Tropical Hardwoods
Lumber Plus’s hardwood selection is distinguished by its durability and visual appeal. This makes it an excellent option for exterior cladding. There are a variety of profiles available, including square-joint, v-joint, nickel-gap, shiplap, and louver.
Here’s a summary of their key characteristics:
Sucupira
Known for its exceptional durability and beautiful dark color, Sucupira is increasingly popular as a cladding material. Its dense structure and resistance to decay make it an ideal choice for exterior facades by offering a blend of longevity and aesthetic appeal.
Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Renowned for its exceptional durability, Ipe can last over 70 years, which makes it an ideal choice for long-lasting construction projects. Its resilience to weather and pests contributes to its high demand in outdoor applications.
Cumaru (Brazilian Teak)
This robust wood offers a dynamic color spectrum that ages beautifully from deep red to silver, which adds to its aesthetic value. Its strength and visual appeal make it a popular choice for diverse cladding projects.
Jatoba (Brazilian Cherry)
Jatoba is celebrated for its striking reddish-brown color and high durability. Its hardness and appealing grain pattern make it a premium choice for those seeking both strength and beauty in their architectural designs.
Garapa
Known for its golden color and decay resistance, Garapa is an excellent cladding material that provides a warm and inviting appearance while also maintaining structural integrity and longevity.
These hardwoods from Lumber Plus combine functionality with natural beauty, to ensure that cladding projects not only stand the test of time. They also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the structures they adorn
7 Modern Exterior Cladding Ideas
Using modern cladding materials in architecture can greatly improve a building’s look and function. Here are some design ideas that use the benefits of modern cladding materials, including Thermowood®, composites, hardwood and horizontal and diagonal designs:
1. Vertical Cladding with Thermowood® Ayous
Make structures look taller and more modern by using durable Thermowood® Ayous in a vertical setup, which creates a sleek, tall, and elegant look.
2. Mixed Material Aesthetic with Norx®
Combine Norx® with contemporary materials like glass or metal for sophisticated contrast and highlighting architectural lines.
3. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transition with Thermowood®
To smoothly connect indoor and outdoor spaces while keeping a consistent look, use versatile and durable materials like Thermowood® or composites.
4. Two-Tone Ipe Design
Implement a visually striking facade by combining different shades of wood, or combining wood with brick or stone to add depth and character to the exterior.
5. Thermowood® Eco-Friendly Modernism
Highlight sustainable Thermowood® cladding for modern, environmentally conscious designs that appeal to green living standards.
6. Innovative Use of Space and Texture
Use cladding materials for outdoor ceilings, privacy screens, or as part of multi-functional spaces to showcase versatility and innovation.
7. Norx® Horizontal Harmony
Horizontal installations of Norx® creates a serene, integrated appearance that is perfect for expansive visual landscapes.
Revolutionize Your Modern Exterior Cladding with Lumber Plus
Choosing the right cladding material is crucial for achieving your architectural aspirations while ensuring durability and sustainability.
Lumber Plus offers a diverse range of cladding solutions designed to meet these needs. With our comprehensive selection, you can easily find a material that aligns with your design, vision, and supports environmental responsibility.
Contact us today to find out more!
