Siding styles this year are all about clean lines and texture that gives the house some character. Most of the time, what works best comes down to the shape of the home and the kind of weather it gets. If the materials are tough and the look fits, everything just works. These are some of the modern siding ideas we keep running into on job sites right now.
Clean, Straight Lines Are Taking Over
Modern homes use clean lines and simple shapes. More homeowners now ask for smooth lap siding or vertical panels. HardiePlank lap siding is still a great option, but we’re seeing more interest in HardiePanel vertical siding. It gives homes a taller look and adds more detail. We also use trim to break up the walls and make the siding look neat and custom.
Texture and Contrast Are Key
Many people want their homes to look more interesting. One way to do this is by mixing siding styles. Some use smooth panels on the front and wood-look siding on the sides. Others add small areas with board and batten, stone, or metal. This mix adds detail without making the home look too busy.
Trending Colors: Bold and Balanced
Darker Colors Are on the Rise
Dark blue, charcoal, and black are some of the top requests we get. These bold colors look especially sharp with white trim or wood accents. James Hardie’s Iron Gray is one of our most popular colors because it gives homes a strong, modern presence.
Neutrals Still Work, With a Twist
That said, classic colors like white, beige, and gray haven’t gone away. Homeowners are pairing soft neutrals with dark window trim or natural wood soffits to keep the design from feeling flat. It’s a safe option that still feels fresh.
Vertical Styles Like Board and Batten Are Popular
Board and batten siding is one of the best modern siding ideas for homeowners who want vertical lines without going too far outside the box. It’s clean, simple, and works well on both new builds and updated ranch homes. We often use it on gables or bump-outs to break up wide walls.
Outdoor and Indoor Spaces Are Blending Together
As homeowners invest more in porches, decks, and outdoor kitchens, we’re helping them choose siding that connects everything visually. Using the same color or material on both the home and outdoor features creates a unified look. We also use matching trim and soffits to help windows and doors flow better between indoor and outdoor areas.
Performance and Efficiency Still Matter
No matter how stylish siding is, it needs to hold up in all four seasons. That’s why we often recommend fiber cement siding. It stands up to moisture, pests, fire, and extreme temperatures. We’ve worked with other materials before, but nothing beats James Hardie when it comes to long-term durability in our region.
Homeowners Want Low Maintenance and High Value
Choosing the right material is about more than color. Wood siding can look great at first, but it takes a lot of work to maintain. Vinyl is lower maintenance but may not last as long or look as sharp. Fiber cement gives you the best mix of style, strength, and low upkeep. It’s why most of our clients stick with it once they understand the benefits.
Matching the Style of Your Home
The best siding design fits your home’s shape and setting. A modern farmhouse might look better with board and batten, while a split-level could use clean lap siding with modern accents. Our team walks you through what will look best with your roof, windows, and neighborhood. We help you find a style that looks custom without needing to rebuild your whole exterior.
Why All Star Recommends James Hardie for 2025 and Beyond
We trust James Hardie because it performs well in the Chicago area and looks great doing it. Their ColorPlus® Technology gives homeowners long-lasting color with less upkeep. We’re a trained Hardie contractor, and we take time to install it right. That means proper flashing, gapping, and finishing. When your siding is installed properly, it lasts longer and protects your home better.
Want to talk through modern siding ideas for your home? Schedule a free consultation with All Star Window & Siding, and let’s find the right look for your home together.
