How We Executed a “Random” Cedar Cladding Layout | Comox Owner Built Net Zero Home Support
From a distance, the build looks simple — two minimalist boxes wrapped in yellow cedar. Look closer, and you’ll notice what seems like a random layout of board and batten siding. But what looks organic at first glance is actually a carefully designed 14-step repeating pattern.
This pattern was created by @humennydesign as part of his Net Zero home close to the Comox shoreline.
The goal was to achieve a natural, balanced look — one that would quietly blend into the coastal landscape over time.
The challenge: Execute a complex pattern efficiently, and make it feel effortless for our owner builder client.
To create a cladding layout that felt organic and balanced — without symmetry or repetition — our client, owner-builder Kelvin Humenny of @humennydesign, developed a 14-step board and batten sequence. Varying widths, offset joints, and no visible rhythm gave the siding a quiet complexity that holds up from every angle.
This pattern needed to wrap across both buildings — a 950 sq ft coach house over a workshop, and a 2,600 sq ft main home — while keeping the layout consistent and the execution clean.
To make it work on-site, we needed:
A clear system to keep the pattern intact across elevations
A workflow that allowed us to move steadily, especially at height
Tight communication between cutting and install
And craftsmanship that could handle repetition without slipping on detail
Setting up for flow.
From the start, we split up responsibilities to create a steady rhythm on site. With a three-person crew — B, I and G - the founders of B.I.G. Timber Contracting — we each took on a dedicated role. One would focus on cutting and layout, while the other 2 handled installation, working from multi-level scaffolding.
Each of us had a laminated copy of the 14-step pattern to keep things consistent.
Establishing this made a big difference in keeping the work smooth and coordinated, especially as the pattern repeated across the building.
Cut ahead for steady installation.
We started with prep: cutting boards to length in batches and stacking them in the order of the 14-step sequence.
Each board size had its own pile, arranged to match install flow.
Nothing fancy — just consistent.
Because of the site slope, we ran everything long and trimmed to grade after install with a track saw. It was cleaner and more efficient than trying to pre-angle every piece.
We worked in roughly 10-foot sections, passing boards up by hand and sliding them into place.
Finding a flow state.
Once our systems were in place, the install found its rhythm.
With clear roles and all three of us working from the same 14-step reference, things started to click.
Boards were cut in batches, passed up in order, and installed in 10-foot sections.
The cut station stayed a few rows ahead. The pattern repeated. And before long, the whole process took on a kind of momentum.
It was repetitive work — but in the best way. When everything’s dialed and the team’s in sync, the work is extra satisfying.
There’s something grounding about moving through a set pattern, one board at a time, knowing each one is part of the bigger picture.
Getting there took upfront planning and a lot of communication — but once we hit that flow state, it carried us through.
The details you don’t see.
Some of the most time-consuming parts are the ones that disappear once the job’s done:
Bug blocks installed behind each board to prevent nesting
Stainless steel nails used instead of galvanized — because the cedar is untreated and would otherwise stain
Offset joints maintained throughout so the pattern stayed visually balanced
These kinds of details aren’t flashy, but they’re part of what makes the whole system hold up — visually and structurally.
Architecture in collaboration with nature.
The board and batten layout on this project wasn’t just a visual decision — it reflects a deeper philosophy behind the whole build.
As a certified Passive House designer, Kelvin Humenny approaches every decision with performance, simplicity, and site in mind. The 14-step cedar pattern brings softness and variation to the façade through layout alone — no stains, paints, or added finishes. Leaving the siding untreated allows the cedar to silver naturally over time, helping both buildings blend into the surrounding sand, beach grass, and shoreline.
That same thinking extended to the home’s structure. Both buildings were constructed with SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) to meet Step 5 of the BC Energy Step Code and achieve Net Zero performance. Our team at B.I.G. Timber handled the SIPs install — and thanks to a precise install process and airtight attention to detail, the home tested better than Passive House standards for air changes per hour.
Every step of this build was designed to collaborate with nature — not just visually, but functionally. It’s a project that pairs thoughtful design with disciplined building — and we’re proud to have been a part of it.
What our client says about B.I.G. Timber Contracting:
Last spring we hired B.I.G. Timber Contracting to build our new house and coach house in Comox, and we couldn't be happier with both the end results and the entire process along the way. Their skill, efficiency, and attention to detail from start to finish meant everything went smoothly and stayed on schedule and on budget, from laser straight foundation and framing, to perfect execution of a complicated siding pattern and other complex architectural details. They have extensive experience with the entire process from foundation to fine finishing and they are all around great guys. I would highly recommend them to friends or anyone with a project of any size.
Kelvin, Comox
Carpentry for Owner-Built Net Zero Home
Foundation, SIPs Installation, Siding
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Are you an owner builder needing carpentry support to make your vision a reality?
Installing a pattern like this requires careful, detailed work that relies on good systems, clear communication, and a team that understands what you’re trying to achieve.
If you’re an owner-builder with a clear vision and need a crew who can bring it to life, tell us about your project today.