Could there be a natural material as sustainable and lovely as bamboo? In fact, there is something out there even more eco-friendly, called Kirei board. Kirei (“Ke-rai”) is a Japanese word which translates roughly as “Clean” and “Beautiful”.
Kirei is manufactured from reclaimed agricultural fiber from the Sorghum plant grown around the world for food. The stalks of this plant are usually burned or thrown into landfills after harvest. By using them in the production of Kirei Board, this material is removed from the waste stream, reducing landfill need and air pollution, while giving rural farmers a new source of revenue from a previously unused waste material.
Not only is it efficient and good for the environment, but Kirei is extremely strong, lightweight, and durable – not to mention beautiful – with its unique organic grain pattern. Kirei can be used in just about anything: from floors, to walls, to furniture. I first spotted Kirei at ICFF, in this beautiful Iannone:Sanderson coffee table.
The Kirei company specializes in Kirei board, but is also working on developing other sustainable, non-toxic building materials.
I don’t know if you have ever been around such boards, but when this was introduced to me at Brooklyn Designs a couple of years ago, I found the sweet smell of old booze overwhelming (much sorghum is used in the production of alcohols, like whiskey). Loved the look, but felt like I was in an old bar. Hopefully they’ve worked that major kink out.
Can you get me more info about this material as a wall paneling/wainscot?
Is there a local rep in Columbus Ohio, as well as Miami, Fl?
Thanks,
Lou
Cool idea!
Thanks for this info
aloha from Switzerland
fox
Hello-
Thanks for the good words about Kirei Board. Kirei Board is distributed inthe NorthEast US by Bettencourt Green Building supply http://www.bettencourtwood.com
Love reading your blog, anyway I took a look at their dealer list. None listed for the NorthEast. Applications look great though.