Japanese Charred Timber Finishes
THE BLACKWOOD PROJECT
OUR RANGE OF SHOU SUGI BAN CHARRED TIMBER FINISHES
Shou Sugi Ban (yakisugi) is the traditional Japanese technique of charring timber to improve its durability. The resulting carbon layer gives the wood a distinctive texture and a blackened surface, enhancing aesthetics alongside protection.
At The Blackwood Project, we blend traditional techniques with modern infrared technology to create three distinctive Shou Sugi Ban finishes catering to a variety of architectural designs.
Whether you're drawn to a traditional Japanese timber finish or seeking contemporary character, our charred timber styles deliver a unique aesthetic that elevates residential and commercial projects.
Sumiyaki.
Traditional full-charred wood. Dark, moody, and textured.
Sumiyaki, the traditional Shou Sugi Ban finish, showcases the original char of timber cladding. The 100% UV-proof char surface repels water and slows photodegradation, requiring minimal maintenance.
We char the timber at 1060°C, immediately spritz it for tempering, and apply a comprehensive coat of oil on all sides. This locks in soot, preventing black residue from rubbing off and extending the char's life.
While Sumiyaki charred wood naturally erodes over decades, reapplying oil every 5-7 years ensures prolonged durability. The gradual reveal of the beautiful grain beneath ultimately transitions the timber to a Kindai finish.
Kindai.
Charred and smooth-brushed. Grain-exposed for an embossed surface.
The highly popular Kindai finish features a smooth texture that accentuates the wood grain’s inner beauty while carrying a subtle embossed pattern from the remnants of the char.
We achieve this Japanese timber finish through a deep charring process, followed by vigorous brushing with a high-speed quad-head brushing unit. By factory-coating Kindai boards with a transparent or black oil stain, we enhance the wood’s lifespan and showcase its beautiful grain.
As the UV-protective char layer has been removed, you should reapply a colour stain every 3-5 years to maintain the dark brown appearance. Alternatively, you can let the colour gradually fade to a Hikari finish.
hikari
Charred 2x brushed. Highly textural, light colours
Hikari offers a distinctive textural finish and striking contrast, achieved through a single intense burn and double-brushing process.
The second brushing, performed with a specialised head, intensifies the timber’s texture, restores its natural colour, and cleans any residual charcoal. Some timbers retain distinctive black ridges along the grain, adding contrast and a touch of sophistication.
Accentuate the wood’s natural beauty with coloured stains or natural oils every 3-5 years.
Hikari
WESTERN RED CEDAR
[ example ]
Hikari
TMT PINE
[ example ]
Hikari
TEMPLE WOOD
[ example ]
Pika Pika
NORWEGIAN SPRUCE
[ example ]
Choosing the right Japanese timber finish
Thanks to the technique’s durability and weather-resistance, Shou Sugi Ban is ideal for interior and exterior settings—use it for cladding, feature walls, and beams. The distinctive appearance of our yakisugi timber finishes adds character to any project.
Finish
Sumiyaki
Kindai
Hikari
Colour
Pitch black.
Darker than original timber.
Reminiscent of the original timber colour.
Texture
Alligator skin-like char surface.
Smooth surface with embossed pattern of grain and char.
Original grain clearly visible
Maintenance requirements
Low maintenance; oil every 5-7 years or let fade to Kindai finish.
Oil and reapply colour stain every 3-5 years or let fade to Hikari finish.
Oil and reapply colour stain every 3-5 years to maintain appearance.
Recommended wood types
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Accoya
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Alto
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TempleWood
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TMT pine
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Japanese cedar
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Blue gum
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Siberian larch
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Siberian larch
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Accoya
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Western red cedar
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TempleWood
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Japanese cedar
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TMT pine
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Lawson
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Cypress
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Californian redwood
Siberian larch
Accoya
Western red cedar
TempleWood
Japanese cedar
TMT pine
Lawson
Cypress
Californian redwood
Oiling requirements depend on timber type. You can supply your own timber, or we can source quality timber from trusted suppliers.
Technique
Traditional charred wood treatment in Japan. Charred under intense heat.
Charred and brushed once with a high-speed quad head brush.
Charred once and brushed twice with a specialised head.