Prefab Dutch ‘Shou Sugi Ban’ House Features a Low-Maintenance Charred Timber Facade

The owners of this 1950's brick house in The Netherlands wanted to expand and create space for a new kitchen, cellar and dining area, but they didn't want a coarse rectangular volume, so they hired <a href="http://www.bytr.nl/" target="_blank">BYTR Architects</a> to design and build a practical, yet interesting space that would take advantage of the light and views. The <a href="http://www.bytr.nl/nl/projecten/maarn-shou-sugo-ban/particulier" target="_blank">Shou Sugi Ban</a> addition was built with prefabricated wall panels and recycled newspaper insulation, and the exterior is clad in charred wood that serves as a maintenance-free facade.

<a href="http://www.bytr.nl/" target="_blank">BYTR Architects</a>' <a href="http://www.bytr.nl/nl/projecten/maarn-shou-sugo-ban/particulier" target="_blank">Shou Sugi Ban</a> addition was envisioned as a sculptural form that accents the traditional architecture of the main house.

The volume and shape was determined by the interior functions, and windows were placed to provide light and views from specific vantage points.

A skylight at the highest point floods the kitchen with natural daylight, and a stretched window in the back provides a panoramic view of the garden.

The interior is bright white and spacious.

A poured concrete foundation was first built for the cellar and addition, while the wall panels were prefabricated off-site.

The walls are insulated with recycled newspaper insulation and provide 2x the level of insulation required by code.

The exterior is clad with <a href="http://pursuingwabi.com/2007/11/05/shou-sugi-ban/" target="_blank">charred timber</a>, which provides a completely maintenance-free facade without any sealers, coatings or finishes.

Model of the extension next to the original house.

Volumetric options.

The technique used to char the wood is called Shou Sugi Ban.