Zwarthout | Shou Sugi Ban makes exclusive burnt timber for architects, private individuals and contractors. We use the Shou Sugi Ban burning technique to give the wood a distinctive look. For example, we can create black Douglas fir wood by burning the wood. Besides having a unique appearance, black douglas wood creates a fire-retardant charcoal layer and is resistant to insects and moisture.
The Shou Sugi Ban technique dates back to the 18th century. In Shou Sugi Ban (‘burnt cypress’), softwood is burnt on one side by binding three planks together into a chimney and lighting a fire at the bottom.Today, we combine this ancient tradition with modern techniques. In our workshop in Leersum, we passionately and lovingly burn black Douglas fir in our own oven. The wood is fired piece by piece by our fire masters.
We have black Douglas fir in three different varieties. Our charred variant is called Naoshima. Noashima has an irregular, characteristic pattern, which shines beautifully in the sun. The black charred layer ages over the years and then acquires a beautiful patina (weathering). This is in keeping with the Japanese philosophy of Wabi Sabi, which embraces the beauty of imperfect.
Our two brushed varieties of black Douglas are Shodoshima and Takamatsu. Shodoshima has a beautiful flame pattern. After burning in the oven, the wood is brushed and post-treated. The robust and lively grain structure is clearly visible, and shines beautifully in the sun.
Takamatsu a special, fine linear structure and a classic, understated look. Also after burning the wood in the oven, the planks are brushed and post-treated.
As indicated, black Douglas fir has a fire-retardant charcoal coating and is resistant to insects and moisture. Our wood is therefore a sustainable choice. In addition, the wood we use comes from demonstrably sustainably managed forests. The biodiversity and vitality of these forests is closely monitored. For every tree we use, a new tree is replanted.
This replanting is done locally as much as possible: near Leersum, and partly in France. Our suppliers, including the Forestry Commission, also replant trees for every tree we use. So all the wood we burn and use is replanted!
Are you looking for black Douglas fir for exterior wall cladding, for example? Then you have come to the right place. In addition to black Douglas fir, we also offer other types of wood. Each one unique in its kind. Are you curious about our collection? We would be happy to send you a sample box.
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.
