The history of our carbonised reclaimed wood floors

This blog was originally posted on the Woodworks by Ted Todd website.

The history and heritage that enriches our reclaimed and antique wood is incredibly captivating. Knowing the provenance of a wood and the story it carries with it is part of what Woodworks is all about.

The wood in our Carbonised portfolio is a mesmerising melange of reclaimed wood and the ancient Japanese process of Shou Sugi Ban.

THE ORIGINS OF SHOU SUGI BAN

The traditional Japanese practice of Shou Sugi Ban dates back as early as the 1700s, though earlier examples exist. The process involves charring wood to provide a beautiful and long lasting timber. The technique was invented to prolong the life of the wood, making it resistant to fire, infestation and decay. The charred wood often featured on facades of rural Japanese homes, that were used to store valuables in need of protection.

In the 20th century Shou Sugi Ban became much less prominent due to the emergence of modern plastics and wood being in short supply, leading to an increase in cost. These factors resulted in the ancient practice becoming somewhat lost.

Architects and designers across Europe, North America and Japan revived the technique in the early 2000’s and the interesting characteristics produced by Shou Sugi Ban are once again being used for external and internal cladding in projects across the world.

INTRICATE PROCESSES PROVIDE BREATH-TAKING RESULTS

The process of Shou Sugi Ban is painstakingly intricate and the results left behind by Shou Sugi Ban give timber a beautiful, dark and distinctive patina, as if nature is expressing itself in the most captivating way. The texture and tone added to the wood using Shou Sugi Ban adds layers of interest.

With Woodworks, the process as always starts with the wood and we only use the finest antique elm and oak in our Carbonised collection. The reclaimed wood planks are treated entirely by hand by our expert craftsmen. The brushing process that takes place once the wood has been charred accentuates the wood’s grain and in different lighting bring outs the distinctive characteristics that Shou Sugi Ban adds to the wood.

Once charred the wood reveals clean lines that contribute towards the textural beauty of the wood. The charred layer is a natural way to ensure an enduring toxin-free finish.

WORKING WITH SHOU SUGI BAN

Although the technique of Shou Sugi Ban is ancient, the ebony hue of the carbonised wood can compliment the most modern of interiors.

Our carbonised reclaimed wood flooring is available in plank format, geometric patterns and complex designs. Whether you’re looking to make a statement with Shou Sugi Ban or have a wood flooring that blends seamlessly into your existing interior, explore our portfolio and find flooring destined to be adored for decades.

Shou Sugi Ban has an undeniable presence. If you’ve been charmed by our Carbonised wood simply request a sample and capture the magic of Shou Sugi Ban in your next project.