For the new Blue Bricks headquarters, Het Landhuis, one clear goal was set: to create a fully biobased office building. The design vision of architecture firm BAS1S was straightforward, a timber building that convinces both aesthetically and functionally. The CLT structural frame, wooden window frames, and façade cladding together form a warm and cohesive whole in which wood takes center stage.
For the façade, the architects sought a black cladding that would strongly contrast with the light-colored thatched roof and wall sections. The choice fell on Takamatsu charred and brushed wood that combines a bold, refined appearance with a high-end finish. Thanks to this natural charring technique, the wood grain remains visible while the material gains a robust, deep-black character. The interplay between the dark Takamatsu façade and the light thatched surfaces creates a contemporary balance between craftsmanship and modernity. Varying board widths (100, 150, and 200 mm) add a lively rhythm and dynamic line pattern to the façade.
Beyond aesthetics, durability was equally important. The façade needed to be low-maintenance and wear-resistant, non-staining, and resistant to impact and scratches. Takamatsu meets all these requirements: a biobased façade material designed to stand the test of time.
“We recently replaced the potted decked timber on our farmhouse in the Beemster region with Shodoshima semi-gloss from Zwarthout l Shou Sugi Ban. With special planks 25 cm wide, it looks great on a farmhouse. A very beautiful product and great service from Zwarthout l Shou Sugi Ban!”
”We chose Yoroi for several reasons. First of all, we like the Japanese classical technique used for burning the bamboo. Due to the burning technique Shou Sugi Ban, Yoroi has a fire class B and is maintenance-free. Finally, the black charred bamboo is a regrowable material and aesthetically matches our design perfectly.”
”As a gardener, it is an honour to work with such beautiful traditional products.
The delivery times are also great and you get friendly service.”
We have put together two Zwarthout | Shou Sugi Ban sample boxes: one for interior design applications and one for façade cladding.
That way, you can experience the attention, care and love we pour into each piece of wood yourself. And, of course, the beauty and exclusive looks the various textures have to offer.
