Archetech Issue 44 2019 | Page 145

The design brief for the property’s interior was to create a suitable space for both artists to utilise for contemplation and work away from any distractions. Renowned architects Atelier Oslo created a ruin-like structure within the home which comprises an open-plan living space, kitchen, fireplace and a micro-mezzanine level. The grid- like Kebony wood frame works in conjunction with the long glazed walls to scatter sunshine into the house and provide a natural, calm environment for the owners to enjoy in all seasons. Developed in Norway, Kebony’s revolutionary technology is an environmentally friendly process which modifies sustainably sourced softwoods by heating the wood with furfuryl alcohol - an agricultural by-product. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall, the softwoods permanently take on the attributes of tropical hardwood including high durability, hardness and dimensional stability. Kebony’s ability to withstand all weather conditions made it the ideal material for the exterior cladding of the island project. Thomas Liu, Architect at Atelier Oslo commented: “We were blessed with this project brief which enabled us to create a property that we are immensely proud of. Kebony is the perfect choice for this project because it is suitable for the window frames as well as the sunscreen structure. We are incredibly pleased with the final result which we hope will continue to provide a serene setting for our artists.” Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony added: “Kebony is delighted to have contributed to this beautiful island house. We are particularly impressed by its unique grid frame, which has been skilfully designed and would love to revisit this project as the wood adopts its silver-grey patina”. www.atelieroslo.no/ KEBONY’S ABILITY TO WITHSTAND ALL WEATHER CONDITIONS MADE IT THE IDEAL MATERIAL FOR THE EXTERIOR CLADDING OF THE ISLAND PROJECT.