What ’ s Old is New Again : Charred Timber
FABULOUS FUNGI While we ’ re all accustomed to the health benefits of mushrooms , the root structure underneath the hearty plant shows real potential as an interior material with a range of net-positive uses . The fermented and treated form of the root is already being used as a packaging substitute due to its insulating and water-resistant properties , all with no added chemicals . Inside the home , architects and interior designers are already looking to companies making finishes and fixtures out of the material .
This Grow Pendant lamp , a simplified version of the MushLume cup light series , is grown , not manufactured , from mushrooms . Combining mushroom mycelium with local hemp , the natural , sustainable and biodegradable lampshade is grown over the course of four to 10 days , after which it is molded and dried . The mushroom material is naturally white and may take on golden tones over time . ( grown . bio )
What ’ s Old is New Again : Charred Timber
This sustainable design practice started off in Japan in the Edo period ( 1603-1867 ) and is also often called “ shou sugi ban .” Charred timber cladding is extremely durable and resilient as a material — it can resist flames , ward off insects and can become waterproof through carbonization .
Delta Millworks began burning wood in 2000 , beautiful textures and grain patterns achieved by taking torches to timbers and boards to preserve it . In a world where intense weather , fire and climate change continue to impact the strength of built environments , the heavily-charred surface of the board makes the wood fire retardant as well as resistant to rot , insects and decay . In 2022 , the company ’ s hyper sustainable Mojave Thermally Modified Wood won Architectural Record ’ s annual “ Best Architectural Products of 2022 ” in the Building Envelope category and received an Editor ’ s Choice special mention . ( deltamillworks . com )
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