杉焼
Yakisugi, derived from the Japanese words "yaki" (burn with fire) and "sugi" (cedar), is a traditional method of charring the surface of cedar boards to preserve them.
A BRIEF HISTORY
Architects and designers in the Western world are increasingly incorporating the deep charred aesthetic achieved through the centuries-old Japanese technique known as Yakisugi. Originally used as natural cladding and weatherproofing for Japanese buildings since the early 1700s, this technique has been employed by the construction industry to enhance the strength and durability of wood.
In the Western world, Yakisugi is commonly referred to as Shou Sugi Ban due to a mistranslation of the compound word. The misinterpretation occurred when the word was read with a mix of Japanese and Chinese pronunciation, leading to the synonymous use of Yakisugi and Shou Sugi Ban.
Interestingly, Yakisugi was considered provincial until the 1970s and was primarily used for farm buildings and traditional villages. However, the revival of this ancient technique can be attributed to contemporary architects like Terunobu Fujimori, renowned for his Yakisugi House.
AESTHETIC APPEAL
The resurgence of Yakisugi is currently a prominent trend in modern architecture, with its application extending to both exterior and interior designs. This technique offers the opportunity to achieve various effects depending on factors such as wood species, burn intensity, texture, and finishes. These variations serve to highlight the natural beauty of wood grain in a distinctive way. Yakisugi's bold aesthetic makes it a perfect choice for walls and floors in rustic and contemporary spaces alike. Furthermore, the surface design of Yakisugi wood enables seamless blending with different materials and finishes, providing endless possibilities for creative combinations. This technique is particularly well-suited for applications and designs that require the captivating character of wood with an added touch of intrigue.
PRACTICAL BENEFIT'S
Surprisingly, the process of surface carbonization through Yakisugi strengthens the natural material rather than causing damage. By removing moisture from the wood, it becomes harder and more durable.Additionally, the charring process renders the wood more water-resistant by closing the timber pores. This natural darkening method is environmentally friendly, as no chemicals are used in Yakisugi flooring, resulting in low VOC levels that are safe for both people and the planet.
As a fully sustainable solution, Yakisugi floors can be fully recycled at the end of their life cycle, just like our Woodworks Carbonised collection.
charred to perfect
We only use the very best new, reclaimed, and antique woods for our MODERN INNOVATION. Woodworks Carbonised collection. Creating Yakisugi surfaces is incredibly challenging, but our artisans assure that each piece is carefully charred to perfection. Once charred, the wood is cleaned and treated with natural oils and lacquers to create a dramatic visual style and unique tactile feel.
Carbonised now features an ever-evolving collection of burnt and weathered tones for floors, interior cladding, and other decorative surfaces. Choose from the natural wonder Cinnabar, inky black Zircon, ethereal white Pearl, and piquing pink Garnet – all of which are new arrivals in the Yakisugi world.
Traditionally, Cypress wood – which can be found in Japan in abundance – was used in years gone by. However, our new timbers are created using the very best European Larch, chosen for its strength and durability. These striking statement showpieces may have historic roots but are set to be a future design classic.
View our Carbonised floors at our New York showroom, Suite 408, 200 Lex or contact us to order a free sample.
