Ive done bit of looking around now too, as I will be building a garage/workshop this fall. I am considering this look -
Shou-Sugi-Ban.
I think if accented with natural unburnt cedar you could make for a very interesting look. Bigtime can you explain more about what you mentioned with the community or home association? When you want to do stuff like this what kind of approvals do you need? Is it a building permit? I am new to the exterior game.