Shou Sugi Ban
Images courtesy of Uhuru. See the Hono Stool here.
Shou Sugi Ban (also called yakisugi or 'burned cedar') is a traditional Japanese wood preservation technique of charring wood to protect it. First begun in Japan's Okayama Prefecture during the 18th century, the technique's popularity spread because it protects wood from flame, pests and the elements for up to 80 years. In Shou Sugi Ban, wood is charred, cooled, cleaned and then finished with a natural oil.
Images and video courtesy of Uhuru. See the Hono Stool here.
We were delighted to come across Uhuru's Hono stools since they bare a striking resemblance to our Binchotan charcoal pieces. This New York-based design studio uses the Shou Sugi Ban method on reclaimed cedar poles, finishing their stools with a non-toxic, plant-based oil. See a lovely video of the process here:
Images courtesy of Uhuru. See the Hono Stool here.