Vertical timber cladding: project inspiration

2 min read


Vertical timber cladding arrangement is a growing trend among architects and self-builders. Often considered a more modern alternative to horizontal arrangements, vertical timber cladding creates the illusion of height, offering a sleek, modern aesthetic. These are some of the most interesting vertical timber cladding projects our teams have worked on to give you inspiration for your next project.

Vertical timber cladding arrangement

The arrangement of your cladding can affect the visual impact it will have. It can be used in both traditional and modern aesthetics. Two of the most popular arrangements are open rainscreen and board on board.

Open rainscreen

For a refined look, you may consider an open rainscreen arrangement. This project by Re-Format uses Scotlarch® coated in SiOO:X Light Grey for uniform weathering under the eaves. The clean lines and long vertical boards create an illusion of added height to the facade.

Scotlarch® vertical timber cladding arrangement, factory coated with SiOO:X Light Grey | Wendover Wood Cafe | Re-Format | Jim Stephenson Photography
Scotlarch® cladding factory coated with SiOO:X Light Grey | Wendover Wood Cafe | Re-Format | Jim Stephenson Photography
Scotlarch® board-on-board vertical timber cladding | Fergus Purdie Architect
Scotlarch® board on board cladding | Fergus Purdie Architect

Board on board

A board on board arrangement is perfect for rural projects. Russwood Scotlarch® is a popular choice for vertical timber cladding in board on board arrangements. Little Lindisfarne is a great example of this. The timber has weathered to a silvery grey shade and nestles into the local surroundings whilst the simple arrangement compliments the modern building structure.  

Vertical timber cladding creates interesting patterns

Using mixed widths can create interesting patterns on the façade. This project by Oberlanders Architects uses an open rainscreen arrangement which gives it a clean contemporary look, whilst vertical boards are laid in alternating widths adding a playful touch to the façade.

Scotlarch® sawn boards used vertically | Oberlanders Architects
Scotlarch® sawn boards used vertically | Oberlanders Architects

Temple Farm, pictured below, uses Russwood Thermopine® coated in SiOO:X Original with vertical fins. The arrangement of the timber forms a unique pattern that mimics the surrounding tree lines and creates a striking visual.  

Thermopine® vertical timber cladding Factory Coated with SiOO:X | Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society
Thermopine® cladding factory coated with SiOO:X | Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society

Combining horizontal & vertical timber cladding

Mixing horizontal and vertical timber cladding has created a feature of the window in this cottage designed by Loader Monteith Architects. Strone Cottage combined horizontal and vertical timber cladding throughout the extension creating textural interest between the buildings.  

Thermopine® Cladding (73x20mm) coated black | Loader Monteith Architects
Brushed Thermopine® Cladding in RW014 profile and coated black | Loader Monteith Architects

If you are considering using vertical timber cladding in your project get in touch with our cladding sales team who will be happy to advise.


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