Embracing the two-tone timber cladding trend

2 min read


As the use of timber advances beyond traditional, single-colour applications, two-tone timber cladding is rapidly gaining popularity. This innovative and visually striking way to clad a building has many aesthetic benefits. In this blog, we will discuss contrasting cladding, with thoughts from Architectural Liaison Technician Fraser Hourston. We’ll explore why two-tone timber cladding is becoming a favourite amongst architects and designers, and discuss how it can be effectively used in your projects.

Black and white two-tone cladding on the Preston mains project.
Preston Mains | Thermopine® with RAL 9005 and SILA Select® with SiOO:X Original | Lewis and Hickey Architects | Paul Zanre photography

1. Visual Interest and Depth

Two-tone timber cladding introduces contrast and complexity to building exteriors, breaking up monotonous facades and adding a layer of visual interest. By combining different tones, designers can create patterns that catch the eye. This technique is particularly effective in monochrome colour schemes, such as black and white cladding, as pictured here – which creates a highly distinctive, stylish look.

“The combination of two differing timber tones can create a  bespoke look to your design, making the cladding feel unique to your project” – says Fraser, our Architectural Liaison Technician and cladding expert.

2. Highlighting different architectural features

Two-tone timber cladding can accentuate certain elements of your building, drawing attention to specific features such as windows or doors and edges. This method allows for a personalised touch, and emphasises the buildings unique aspects of design. Two-tone cladding is an effective way to produce either an obvious or subtle contrast between various sections of a project, while maintaining a balance of uniform materiality.

Black and white monochrome cladding on the James Jones Office.
James Jones Office | Scotlarch®with SiOO:X Original and black coated timber cladding

Expert View

Two-tone timber cladding allows for a high level of customisation, enabling designers and architects to play with contrasts, colours, orientations, and even species to achieve the desired aesthetic.
Image of Fraser Hourston Fraser Hourston Architectural Liaison Technician
Private home pictured featuring two tone timber cladding.
Private home | Thermopine® coated black and SILA Select® coated in SiOO:X Original | Nigel Rigden Photography

3. Versatility and customisation of two-tone timber cladding

One of the most significant features is versatility, designers can experiment with multiple wood species, oils, paints, and finishes to achieve the desired look. The possibilities are endless, and with Russwood, the wide range of products and colours assure you will find something to match your design vision.  

For example, pairing a black paint coating with a lighter SiOO:X coating as pictured here with our Thermopine® and SILA Select® can create a striking contrast, while using entirely different products. This versatility allows for unique combinations that can suit both modern and traditional architectural styles.

4. Modern approach on a traditional material

Two-tone timber cladding merges modern design sensibilities with traditional materials. It provides a contemporary twist while maintaining the sustainability benefits and natural appeal of wood. This technique can also help address fire performance requirements, making it suitable for various building regulations and standards.

Two-tone timber cladding can be an excellent way to work around a project’s fire retardant requirement. If certain faces require treatment with Burnblock®, an alternate certified profile or species may be chosen to highlight the visual difference and create a striking two-tone look,” explains Fraser.

Overall, it’s easy to see why two-tone timber cladding is trending in architectural design, offering visual interest, versatility, and a modern twist on a traditional material. It allows for high levels of customisation, and enables designers to create unique and striking exteriors.

moxon office pictured with two tone timber cladding using Thermopine with RAL9005 and SILA Select with SiOO:X Light Grey.
Moxon Office | Thermopine® with RAL9005 and SILA Select® with SiOO:X Light Grey | Moxon Architects | Timothy Soar Photography

To enquire about two-tone timber cladding, contact us today. Our experts are ready to help you bring your vision to life with innovative and bespoke cladding solutions.


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