BUILD Architecture Awards 2024
BUILD Architecture Awards 2024
Martin Gottschlich
Nakamoto Forestry to be awarded
"Japanese Yakisugi / Shou Sugi Ban
Distributor of the Year 2024"
Nakamoto Forestry has been honoured as the “Japanese Yakisugi / Shou Sugi Ban Distributor of the Year” in the prestigious 2024 BUILD Magazine Architecture Awards. This accolade recognises the company’s unwavering commitment to traditional craftsmanship, sustainability, and its role in bringing authentic Yakisugi (also known as Shou Sugi Ban) to the global market.
Prestigious awards - First major prize for our European presence
Yakisugi, a centuries-old Japanese wood preservation technique, involves charring the surface of cedar planks to enhance their durability, fire resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Nakamoto Forestry has positioned itself as the world’s leading producer and distributor of this artisanal wood, blending tradition with modern innovation to meet the needs of architects and builders worldwide. The company’s dedication to upholding the authenticity of Yakisugi while adhering to environmentally conscious practices sets it apart in the industry.
This recognition by BUILD Magazine celebrates not only Nakamoto Forestry’s craftsmanship but also its ability to influence contemporary architecture by introducing Yakisugi to a wider audience. Over the years, architects and designers have turned to Nakamoto Forestry’s sustainably sourced and beautifully charred wood for projects ranging from residential homes to commercial buildings, enhancing spaces with the natural elegance and durability of Yakisugi.
Nakamoto Forestry’s win underscores the growing appreciation for traditional building materials that prioritise sustainability and aesthetics. The company remains steadfast in its mission to honour its heritage while addressing modern architectural needs, proving that tradition and innovation can coexist harmoniously.
This award is a milestone for Nakamoto Forestry and a testament to its leadership in the Yakisugi market. As the company continues to expand its reach and inspire the architectural community, it sets a high standard for excellence in sustainable and traditional building materials.
Great read! It’s impressive to see how Nakamoto Forestry is pioneering sustainable building materials with Yakisugi. This approach really brings a fresh perspective to modern architectural designs.
Quick question: how does the durability of Yakisugi compare with other preserved woods? I’m curious to know if the charring process significantly affects its longevity beyond aesthetics. Also, I came across some articles at sebbie.pl about modern uses of traditional materials in architecture, which might be interesting for further reading. It seems like there’s a growing trend in blending the old with the new, which is fantastic!
Thanks for the insightful post.
Dear Ludovic,
thank you very much for your friendly comment. Happy to assist in case of any further questions!
Regarding durability: increased durability of Yakisugi vs. untreated wood is obvious, however, compered to other preserved woods it is difficult and largely depends on local conditions, like weather side, local climate, constructive wood protection, etc. To our knowledge, there are no scientific research to compare Yakisugi with other preserved wood. But what is obvious, that our Yakisugi timber products are nit only beautiful, but at the same time durable, sustainable and maintenance-optional which make them an attractive choice.