you're right, it could be very cool. I would bring in some warm cedar siding, keep some of the gray, and bring in some black. look at these photos to get an idea. Landscaping will also play a huge role in bringing in the look you want.

@mindshift Unfortunately the cedar is pretty damaged from woodpeckers, especially around the back. The house was left vacant for years and while the interior was protected the exterior has left to the elements. I'll take some closer photos when i get a chance. I'm leaning towards trying to salvage the cement panels- they really are unique.

@Beth I've been looking at very similar material/color schemes, I love the dark accents and that crazy pop of color in your top image. We're having a hard time reconciling new materials with the existing, like I love the horizontal cedar but not with the current cement panels. Maybe I should mock up some options in photoshop.

I meant replace them, not refurbish them. get some cedar or redwood siding and apply the proper wood preservative.

why don't your like the cedar w/the cement panels?

yes, see if you can do some mock ups

some other pics for ideas. this one has that decorative concrete like yours

maybe consider doing a stone veneer? to me, the wood siding just makes these homes,,,,dramatic trim and colors and the landscaping. so unique.

I ahve a 1956 ranch it has siding and stucco the kind with the bits of glass in it , is that what you have because that is not cement board but actual stucco done on a wire mesh with cement and the stone imbedded into it. It is not easy to make seamless repairs to FYI Ilove the idea od the cedar and dark gray

Wonderful ideas, thank you. The cement/rock panes are about 1.75" of solid cement on some kind of backer board, no mesh. I hadn't run across the equitone before- very cool products.