For a cheaper, faster and possibly easier option, take a look at this for some inspiration. The lighter colour of the walls may reflect more light and be a stand out feature of your home. Click on the link and scroll to the image of the polished timber floor with the timber wall and ceiling. Polished timber floors with timber wall paneling

Yes, our harsh Australian environment does hammer our external finishes but if exposed timber is coated with a good quality finish initially ( i recommend 4 coats minimum ) then an ongoing maintenance coat every couple of years, your timber can still look great many years down the track. People just need to understand if you want that beautiful natural timber look you have to put time in to maintain it.

Hi Hannah, This is looking great, how exciting. The material you choose would depend on you budget as well as the look you're after. There are quite a few options you could consider here. Hardwood timber cladding looks amazing with Monument and black but it's also high maintenance and expensive, you could consider Aluminium Timber look cladding as an alternative to this which is low maintenance but can also get costly. This looks great running both horizontally and vertically. Board and batten always looks great on gabled ends and also looks amazing painted black or white. If you're going to paint this cladding dark be sure to paint the soffits as well. Or space your battens nice and close for that very contemporary look. Finally Linea Weatherboard is always a classic winner. I hope this helps make your decision a little easier Jade.

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