New horizontal siding would be the best choice..........Hardie Board siding which is actually a cement fiber mix comes pre-finished in colors and is guaranteed to last for a long time (not sure how long)

the landscaping will definitely be done. there is absolutely none here. we just moved in 6 months ago. the garage addition starts next week. then the exterior updating which is what i am addressing here, and the final phase will be landscaping. I am looking for ideas on the exterior home updating/design. thank you!!

You have an interesting house! But it definitely needs curb appeal. And more than a change of colour. I like the vertical siding but the diagonal siding is dated. I would replace the diagonal siding with vertical siding pieced in to match. I like the idea of black framed windows as mentioned by others. I also like the cream colour of paint as shown by Melissa R. I find the bubble skylight looks under scale for the space it’s in. If possible increase the size and choose a skylight that has straight lines and looks more architectural. I find the bit of roof that kind of overhangs the skylight at the very top is very distracting and serves no purpose. I would cut it back

The cedar siding has not been stained for many years. Woodpeckers have pecked holes in the siding. This is my new husband's home. The remodeler we hired has suggested a wood product that can be painted versus repairing the siding which is faded, and is in need of repair. Am open to any ideas. Project will be done in the Spring plus extensive interior remodeling, including a screen porch/deck, new kitchen, etc. Thanks for your comments. Will upload pictures. Have just had several large, dead trees cut, so will also need extensive landscaping--big project. Thanks for your input.