We chose to go with Hardy cement board and batten siding on the majority of the house with horizontal siding as accents. We really preferred the looks of the board and batten vs. painted full brick. We were given two options in siding - Hardy cement board or a wood siding. I can't speak for what is the "best" option between the two, but my husband is a fireman, so the obvious choice for him is the one that won't burn. #newconstruction #farmhouse #craftsman #siding #boardandbatten