The ambition behind this project was to create a sustainable, highly insulated home with a strong architectural identity. While timber-frame construction and prefabrication provided the technical foundation, it is the façade that ultimately defines the character of the house.
With Takamatsu by Zwarthout | Shou Sugi Ban, the design gains a powerful and contemporary expression. By charring and brushing the Douglas fir, a distinctive façade surface is created in which the natural grain remains clearly visible. The deep black appearance, rich texture, and subtle tonal variations accentuate the clean architectural lines and create a striking contrast with the light-coloured façades and traditional roof volume.
Takamatsu is more than an aesthetic choice. Inspired by the traditional Japanese wood-charring technique, it offers a durable façade solution with a unique and characterful appearance. The Douglas fir used for this project originates from FSC®-certified Dutch forests, contributing to a lower environmental impact. As a biobased material, wood stores CO₂ throughout its lifecycle, making Takamatsu not only an architectural statement but also a responsible material choice.
By combining expressive design with sustainable sourcing, Takamatsu aligns perfectly with the ambitions of future-proof architecture. The result is a façade that delivers both visual impact and environmental value, responding to the growing demand for circular and biobased building materials.
The “Paradox.” Burning wood to protect it.
It sounds contradictory — but it’s brilliant.
At ORGA, we’re big fans of biobased materials that truly prove their worth. Take our collaboration with Zwarthout | Shou Sugi Ban, for example. By charring wood using the centuries-old Shou Sugi Ban technique, a natural protective layer is created — without the need for paint or chemicals.
The result is a façade with character, built to last for generations. In the three recent projects, we’ve seen how it creates a robust, timeless appearance, while simultaneously contributing to refined, high-quality architecture.
Less maintenance, and a building that only becomes more beautiful with age.
That, to us, is what truly future-proof design looks like.
“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.
