Burnt Wood – Global Architectural Trend

The Japanese invented this technique hundreds of years ago, calling it “shou sugi ban” or “yakisugi”.

The idea is to burn the surface of wood to a varying degree of char. An important influence in modern exterior timber cladding design, the blackened effect is achieved through a process involving the use of an open fire to leave timber with a charred, blackish finish. Abodo use industrial blowtorches to replicate this effect.

The charred surface can be left completely untouched, can be heavily or lightly brushed, and can be sealed with a clear coat or oil. This charred surface is then decay, insect, weather, UV and fire resistant – but most importantly, aesthetically unique, striking and beautiful.

Charred, or blackened timber is now trending in exterior cladding design and is achieved in different ways. When used for multi-depth cladding, it simultaneously conveys rustic charm while accentuating the contemporary lines of a structure.

Abodo has developed prototypes of charred Vulcan and charred Tundra with great success, and will be developing these products for release as part of their cladding range.