The majority of our charred timbers are manufactured and supplied for exterior cladding, however, some orders are for interior design projects. With an extensive range of timbers, textures and colour finishes, we can supply charred timber to suit all project briefs.
Our premium Shou Sugi Ban® charred timbers have proven the ideal material to add deep hues, textured character and strong definition to various interiors. They have been used in small spaces, including hidden garden bars, exclusive restaurant dining and stylish boutique fit-outs.
In every style of interior design, the principles of space, line, form, light, colour, texture and pattern should deliver harmony, balance and flow. In this article, we explore how the colour, texture, pattern and form of charred timbers could be used in current design trends.
Interior Design Inspiration
When considering how charred timbers can work within hotels, restaurants, offices and homes, we like to research award-winning design. For this article, we’ve drawn inspiration from the SBID International Design Awards. With Interior Design, Interior Fit-Out and Product Design award categories, the finalists offer a showcase of contemporary design trends.
Looking through the finalists, timber is a regular feature in every award category. It adds warmth, structure, texture and a connection with outside spaces.
Many of the finalists have also incorporated dark wall coverings, furniture and fittings. This adds a sense of quality, depth and a touch of mystery to the interiors. Our ‘Kebony Minami no’ blackened timbers were selected to create this effect for Raby Hut, a Michelin Star restaurant in Darlington.
We see that our charred timbers could fit the bill for several interior design trends including:
- Biophilic Design
- Oriental Influence
- Sensitive Historic Renovation
Let’s explore these in greater detail.
Biophilic Interior Design
Biophilic Interior Design focuses on connecting us with nature. It is well documented that exposure to nature has a positive effect on our well-being. By bringing natural elements into our homes, work environment and social spaces, we can reap the benefits whilst indoors.
Biophilic design optimises natural light and exterior views. It also favours natural materials including timbers, stone and cork to add texture and design features to a room. The patterns offered in wood grain or cut stone provide unique detailing that no other home can replicate.
The UK pioneer of biophilic design is Oliver Heath. His practice has championed the concept of interior design having a direct influence on wellbeing. He prioritises the feel-good factor in the spaces we live, work or socialise in. When Oliver Heath designed his own home interior, he selected our Shou Sugi Ban® timbers for his bedroom.
In the SBID awards, Gilpin Spa Suites in Cumbria is a wonderful example of biophilic design. Natural materials, textures and tones create a relaxing sanctuary.
Oriental Interior Design
The influence of Japanese design has been strong in recent years. The simplistic beauty demands attention to detail and quality finishing reigns supreme. Oriental design is considered and respectful of tradition and craft techniques. A wonderful example in the SBID awards is Wanda Vista Chengdu.
If you are looking to add an authentic touch to your oriental style, look no further. Yakisugi charring of timbers is a traditional Japanese technique used to protect the wood from the elements, burrowing insects and moisture ingress. Our team have mastered this art and follow longstanding methods to create blackened wood with crackled, grained and smooth finishes.
Our Shou Sugi Ban® range also includes a contemporary twist, with a range of colour finishes that are used to create striking focal points in hotels, bars and boutique fit-outs. Visit our charred timbers page and check out a few options that have proved popular for interior design:
- Yukari Kõsui – a warming autumnal red tone
- Accoya® Tobu – a desirable dip into exotic seas
- Kiji – transforming deep grained Douglas Fir into a tiger-like finish
Sensitive Historic Restoration
Designing the interior of a historic home demands knowledge of the period and concepts that seamlessly connect the past and the future. Hotel Indigo Bath is a wonderful example. The listed buildings have drawn on the delights of Georgian interiors, with deep green walls, dark furniture and wood panelling, yet you don’t feel you are stepping into the past.
The timeless nature of enhanced grain charred timber lends itself to heritage restorations. The wood gives a nod to the past, whilst also appealing to modern tastes. Our charred timbers can be used to add a touch of high-end luxury. Are you looking for the ideal material to create dramatic headboards, feature walls or skirting boards?
Interior Design in Summary
Strong interior design shows a clear understanding of the space and how it will be used. The designer has to create the right atmosphere; evoking the desired mood. With vision and creativity, they need to work with set features and natural light to fulfil the design brief.
Although typically associated with exterior cladding, charred timbers add a premium material and quality finish to interior spaces.
For further information or to discuss your interior projects, please call Exterior Solutions on 01494 711800. We are happy to provide advice, samples and a quote.