ranchwood™ Artisan Along the Susquehanna River

Stone & Cedar Harmony: A Pennsylvania Modern Craftsman

Perched on a Bluff Overlooking the Susquehanna River Defining the western border of Lancaster County, the Susquehanna River is a storied natural landmark. Perched on a bluff overlooking this recreational treasure sits a stunning new family home that reflects the dramatic, steep-banked beauty of the riverlands that bridge the gap between the region’s rugged rocky outcrops and refined modern living.

Professionally installed by S&M Siding Roofing & Siding, this Washington Boro, PA residence captures a Modern Craftsman aesthetic, blending natural stone wainscoting with the warmth of genuine Western Red Cedar. The design utilizes Montana Timber Products’ ranchwood™ Artisan collection to create a multi-textured facade that feels perfectly at home against the river valley backdrop.

PROJECT DETAILS

Location: Washington Boro, Pennsylvania

Contractor: S&M Siding Roofing & Siding

Product Line: ranchwood™ Artisan

Species: Western Red Cedar, Select Tight Knot (STK)

Photographer: Ben Sauder

PRODUCTS & APPLICATIONS

The project utilizes a sophisticated two-tone palette from the ranchwood™ Artisan series, featuring “Homestead” for the primary siding and “Dusk” for the trim and accents to create intentional depth and contrast.

DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS

Material Harmony: Stone paired with Artisan Homestead and Dusk

A defining feature of this Modern Craftsman exterior is the interplay between masonry and timber. The natural stone isn’t relegated to just the foundation; it features prominently at the entrance, protective wainscoting, and with two full-length chimneys. This vertical stone element dramatically anchors the home’s riverfront elevation, creating a powerful visual connection between the earth and the roofline.

Cedar Siding with Textural Depth: The “Raked” Look

To add character to the facade, the homeowners selected a Raked texture for all Cedar siding components. This distinct milling process creates a dimensional surface that catches the sunlight and emphasizes the natural grain of the Western Red Cedar, enhancing the home’s rustic appeal without sacrificing its clean, modern lines.

Strategic Dormer Details, the upper-level dormers are clad in 1×6 and 1×8 Ship Lap siding finished in the lighter Homestead color. This choice draws the eye upward, breaking up the home’s massing and providing a bright contrast against the dark metal roof and window trim.

Envelope Design Requirements -> Eco-Friendly Performance

Located on an exposed river bluff, the home must withstand wind, moisture, and intense sun. The siding is pre-finished with Seal-Once, a non-toxic, low-VOC waterproofer. It penetrates deep into the wood to protect against water ingress and UV damage while remaining safe for the family and the sensitive river ecosystem.

THE RESULTS

This Pennsylvania family residence is a testament to the versatility of Western Red Cedar in Modern Craftsman design. By pairing the earthy, weathered tones of ranchwood™ Artisan Homestead, S&M Siding Roofing & Siding helped create a family’s dream home that feels both grand and grounded perched high above the Susquehanna River. 

Whether viewed from the driveway or the river below, the home stands as a beautiful addition to the Lancaster County landscape—a durable, natural retreat designed to last for generations.

GALLERY