Timber cladding is a popular choice in our projects because it is a natural, low-carbon material that offers a wide variety of finishes, textures, and patterns. We often enjoy using black timber cladding, as seen in our Court House project.

Of course, black timber isn’t to everyone’s taste. Many clients are drawn to the warmth and character of natural timber cladding. There are several options available, and here we’ve outlined a few we have used in previous projects.

Western Red Cedar
Western Red Cedar is a timeless, naturally durable choice. It requires no treatment and will weather to a beautiful silvery-grey. Examples of this can be seen in our Cedar Extension and Bath Extensions

Siberian Larch
For many years we specified Siberian Larch, but since the war in Ukraine it has become unavailable in the UK. It was used on our Canopy Extension, Sailcloth House, and Bridport Cohousing CLT.

As an alternative, Russwood now offer Architect Select Larch, a carefully chosen European larch that closely resembles Siberian Larch. We currently have a project underway using this material and look forward to sharing our experience soon.

Sioo:x Treatment
When left untreated, timber cladding can weather unevenly depending on sun exposure and overhangs. South-facing elevations often fade to pale grey while shaded elevations can weather to a darker colour. To achieve a consistent silver-grey, cladding can be factory-treated with Sioo:x. This adds 25–50% to the cost and around six weeks to lead times, but produces an elegant, even finish. Our Bridport Cohousing project shows how effective this treatment can be.

British Larch and Douglas Fir
Locally sourced timbers such as British Larch and Douglas Fir provide more affordable and sustainable options. With more visible knots, they create a rustic look that feels authentic and grounded. Our recently completed project clad in (below) Douglas Fir demonstrates the warmth these timbers can bring.

There are many other species and finishes to explore. At Barefoot Architects, we guide our clients through these choices to ensure the cladding reflects their values, complements their design, and weathers beautifully over time. With the right approach, timber cladding can create a building that feels timeless on day one and even richer with age.

Do you have a project in mind? We’d love to help you. Get in contact with us or sign up for an Initial Design Consultation to find out more.