A modern take on shou sugi ban

Shou sugi ban, or yakisugi, is an ancient Japanese art of treating wood with a flame to make it more waterproof and rot resistant. Thermory’s Ignite range turns the concept on its head, replicating those traditional advantages and adding in the unique benefits of our expertly heat-treated wood to bring it into the modern age. Ignite cladding panels emulate shou sugi ban’s gorgeous singed look, while our state-of-the-art thermal modification process gives the wood even greater levels of durability and rot resistance.

An ancient tradition brought up to date 

Shou Sugi Ban, also known as Yakisugi, is a traditional Japanese wood preservation technique with origins in the 18th century. It involves charring the surface of wood to make it more durable and resistant to weather, pests, and fire. 

These days, using fire to protect wood is still hugely popular all over the world. And although it works – and the finish is undeniably attractive – technology has moved forward significantly since the technique was first perfected in Japan. 

Traditional shou sugi ban involves carefully burning the wood’s surface with an open flame, then cooling and brushing it to reveal the unique charred texture. In contrast, Thermory Ignite uses a controlled heat treatment and embossing process to create a similar aesthetic without the mess or residue of soot. 

Why is shou sugi ban so popular these days?

Shou sugi ban is trending right now, and with good reason. In addition to the improved durability and attractive appearance of the wood when treated with this technique, it gives any wall a striking and unconventional look.

Ignite black timber cladding

Bold look of black cladding

Black cladding is definitely having a moment when it comes to creating striking facades. It is considered a traditional look for many houses in Belgium and Netherlands, but it also has become architects’ favorite for creating modern buildings both in urban and rural areas. It instantly adds depth and unique charisma to a building, making it stand out from the crowd.
Designing with black timber cladding
charred wood cladding

Organic pattern

Shou sugi ban adds to the bold color trend with its unique pattern of charred wood. Even if the building is architecturally minimalistic with simple lines, the organic pattern of shou sugi ban brings the façade to life and adds interest to the eye. Using organic patterns and natural materials is a good way to incorporate biophilic design elements.
The six elements of biophilic design
Black timber cladding

Versatility

Shou sugi ban complements a range of architectural styles, from minimalistic to rustic, and pairs well with materials like glass, concrete, and metal.
Bomarsund Visitor Centre, Thermory Ignite cladding, Architect Daniel Andersson, Photographer Christoffer Relander

Sustainability

Many appreciate the natural, chemical-free preservation method and the longevity it brings to wood surfaces.

Thermory Ignite: a modern evolution 

At Thermory, we’ve taken inspiration from shou sugi ban and applied our advanced thermal modification technology to create Ignite—cladding that delivers the look you love, with performance you can trust. 

Ignite cladding boards are made from thermally modified spruce. It is an excellent material for exterior applications as Thermory’s thermal modification gives spruce the durability class 1, meaning it will resist rot and decay for over 25 years.  

How Ignite Differs from Traditional Charred Wood: 

Applications and Design Inspiration 

Where can you use Ignite? 

Ignite’s versatility allows you to bring the beauty of shou sugi ban to nearly any project, indoors or out. 

Ignite by Thermory

Ignite by Thermory

An ancient cladding tradition with reliably modern performance. Ignite combines the stunning look of yakisugi with superior strength and durability all the way to the core. Compared to the charred wood surface, Ignite cladding boards have a significantly longer maintenance interval.

Related posts

modern extension on a brick house in London

Why retrofit with wood?  

The most...

Thermory Benchmark thermo-ash cladding

9 beautiful facades with vertical timber cladding 

Contemporary...

ignite by thermory black wood cladding

Designing with black timber cladding

From minimal forest cabins to bold urban residences, black timber cladding has emerged as a defining element of modern architectural design. Its striking,...

ignite by thermory black wood cladding

Top 3 reasons to love the Ignite by Thermory

The eye-catching black Thermory Ignite cladding provides a bold look, while also offering the stability and durability that Thermory is known...

Thermory Benchmark thermo-pine mix and match cladding

Choosing the right timber cladding

Finding the best solution to clad buildings is important for several reasons – as well as defining the look and feel of your design, it also has a major...

Thermory Benchmark thermo-pine mix and match cladding

Inspiring Exterior Wood Cladding Ideas

Natural wood can be used in many different ways. The beauty and versatility make wood unequalled building material. As both an interior and exterior design...

Thermory_Benchmark_thermo-pine_decking_D45J 26x118_PaCS_private house_Tallinn Estonia_photo credit Allan Leppikson - Reval foto

Chemical-free wood surfaces in the home

Home is where the heart is – a place where the whole family can feel safe and warm. The building materials you choose should enhance this feeling and...

Thermally modified wood

Thermally modified wood – what is it?

Thermally modified wood, often referred to as thermowood, is real wood enhanced using only heat and steam to improve its durability, dimensional stability,...

Thermory Pine cladding

How sustainable is wood?

With rising concerns about climate change, the world community’s responsibility to reduce our carbon footprint rests with each and every individual and...

Thermory Benchmark thermo-ash decking and cladding, Maidla Nature Resort in Estonia

Wood in Architecture: Trends for 2022

In 2022, the global megatrend of sustainable architecture and building practices will continue. Architecture trends influence the choice of materials both...

Let’s bring your vision to life

Have a question or a project in mind? Whether you’re exploring materials or planning your next big idea, we’re here to help. Send us your enquiry and a Thermory specialist will get back to you shortly with the answers, details, or guidance you need.

"*" indicates required fields

Enquiry details

Which products are you most interested in?
Please describe your project, including which materials you’re interested in and an approximate quantity you would need.
Drop files here or
Max. file size: 2 GB, Max. files: 5.

    Personal information

    Please note: Thermory supplies exclusively to our official distributors and does not offer direct sales to private customers.

    Country*
    By submitting your data and message to us, you agree to our processing of your personal data in order to respond to your enquiry. You can learn more about our principles governing data processing in the Thermory's privacy policy.

    * These fields are required