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Collection by Olivia Martin

That Wood is on Fire: 5 Examples of Shou-Sugi-Ban

Shou-sugi-ban, a Japanese wood-charring technique, is emerging as one of builders' and woodworkers' favorite trends this year.

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Terunobu Fujimori's Charred Cedar House, completed in 2007, is clad in charred cedar boards, which have been treated with an ancient Japanese technique that seals the wood against rain and rot. Read our profile on the Japanese architect. Photo by Adam Friedberg.
Terunobu Fujimori's Charred Cedar House, completed in 2007, is clad in charred cedar boards, which have been treated with an ancient Japanese technique that seals the wood against rain and rot. Read our profile on the Japanese architect. Photo by Adam Friedberg.
At the client’s request the kitchen contains neither upper cabinets (Shino can’t reach them) nor an oven (they only used the old one once—to reheat a pizza). A modular Roche Bobois Mah Jong sofa adds a decorative flourish to the living area while maintaining as low a profile as the traditional Japanese furniture.
At the client’s request the kitchen contains neither upper cabinets (Shino can’t reach them) nor an oven (they only used the old one once—to reheat a pizza). A modular Roche Bobois Mah Jong sofa adds a decorative flourish to the living area while maintaining as low a profile as the traditional Japanese furniture.
Michael James Moran and Celia Gibson demonstrate shou-sugi-ban, a Japanese wood burning technique.
Michael James Moran and Celia Gibson demonstrate shou-sugi-ban, a Japanese wood burning technique.
In addition to charred wood siding—shown here in the cherry stain—Sett Studio can also add decking and landscaping.
In addition to charred wood siding—shown here in the cherry stain—Sett Studio can also add decking and landscaping.