Earlier this year, we looked at modern exterior cladding ideas that have become increasingly popular in recent years. But beyond aesthetics, we’ve also noticed changes in how homeowners choose their cladding materials and designs. Fads certainly come and go, but what are the valuable trends and accompanying insights we’d continue seeing in the coming year? Let’s dive into cladding trends that’ll stay in 2026 and discover what homeowners will be seeking design- and material-wise.
1. Focus on minimalism
A lot of homes have now adopted minimalist styles in recent years. We see more pared-down exteriors. Less is more with muted colour and simple architectural features—all of which exude a serene yet luxurious vibe that many homeowners aim for.
As such, we’ve seen more monochromatic or neutral cladding pop up in local neighbourhoods. Light cladding brings a classic appeal that suits various architectural styles. On the other hand, dark coloured ones bring a more bold yet sophisticated vibe to a home. Though simple, these colours are considered timeless and can serve as an easily adaptable blank slate for new design trends that may come, making them a popular choice for modern house cladding.
2. Accents and contrasts
While many homeowners have chosen to exclusively clad their exteriors with plain white or black cladding, a number have also experimented with mixing and matching. We see more and more houses with exteriors using both light and dark cladding or pairing different cladding textures.
Using contrasting textures in exterior cladding can add a unique touch to a home. Meanwhile, placing dark-coloured cladding helps highlight architectural features. When strategically placed on sides that receive the most intense sunlight, light-coloured cladding can reflect the heat and reduce cooling costs.
3. Embracing the natural
Aside from sticking to black, whites, and greys, newer houses have also opted for cladding that has a natural look of earthy tones: browns, greens, beige, and so on. Warm and natural, this type of cladding gives off an inviting, cosy atmosphere.
We see more use of wood-coloured cladding that helps highlight the surrounding landscape. Houses that embrace a modernised version of the barn aesthetic have also become quite popular, and would continue to be so in the coming years.
4. Design functionality
More than just considering aesthetics, homeowners in 2025 have increasingly taken into consideration the functionality of their chosen designs, and we see this continuing as part of cladding trends in 2026 and even beyond.
For example, an increasing number are opting for vertical cladding in WA, especially those in areas that tend to experience heavy rains. After all, unlike the more traditional horizontal cladding, installing cladding vertically directs water downward. This prevents rainfall from getting trapped in between the panels, which could result in rot and mould if not addressed.
5. Sustainability & Energy Efficiency
With climate change happening and new local energy requirements being put into practice, a lot of homeowners have also grown to be more mindful of sustainability and energy efficiency when planning their home construction.
To reduce carbon footprint, as well as electricity bill costs, more are now prioritising building materials that are eco-friendly, with thermal efficiency a bonus. These are also now considered by many when choosing external cladding materials. Brands that commit to environmentally friendly practices have now become the top choice for many of our customers.
6. Longevity & Ease of Upkeep
In the same vein, homeowners and DIYers are prioritising practicality in their home construction projects. When it comes to external cladding, a number have shifted from traditional materials like timber to innovative ones like fibre cement. As the first line of defence against all external and environmental elements, external cladding needs to be durable and require little to no maintenance.
Cladding with added features like fire-, moisture-, and termite-resistance has also grown in popularity, as they prolong the structural integrity of homes while boosting curb appeal. We foresee that prioritising smart choices will continue to be a cladding trend in 2026, perhaps even an ingrained practice extending beyond external wall construction.
Why James Hardie is the best cladding choice for WA homeowners
When it comes to attaining durable protection while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of their external walls, James Hardie cladding has become the top choice for WA homeowners.
James Hardie fibre cement cladding is engineered from fibre cement, which, unlike traditional timber, offers the following benefits:
- Fire-resistance – suitable for up to BAL40 zones, depending on the product and installation
- Rot- and Moisture-resistance – perfect in maintaining structural integrity in WA’s wet and humid seasons, as well as coastal areas
- Termite-resistance – added protection against pests that thrive in WA’s temperate climate
- Thermally efficient – reducing home energy costs by keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter
- Low-maintenance – requires minimal upkeep aside from periodical washing, inspection, and refinishing
- Sustainable – made with eco-friendly materials and circular production processes
Backed with 25 years of warranty, James Hardie exterior cladding comes in various finishes and textures. Whether it’s a brushed concrete look you’re going for or a timber barn aesthetic, James Hardie’s fibre cement cladding can be adapted to suit your style or any cladding trends that may come in 2026 and beyond.
Design stunning exteriors that will last for decades to come
Have an upcoming home construction or recladding project? Build a timeless home that’s built to last with versatile, sturdy, and sustainable external cladding with Westgyp.
For more than three decades now, our family-owned business has been supplying quality building materials and supplies to homeowners, builders, and DIYers in WA.
We offer convenient delivery anywhere in WA and stock a wide range of cladding from trusted brands like James Hardie. Browse through our site or visit our Balcatta showroom to view our available fibre cement cladding designs today.