27/02/2022
In the third installment of this series, I would like to show you a few japanese traditional crafts and techniques that have been inspiring me since my days in university:
1. Wood scribing is mainly used in the construction of wood structures and it involves facing the wood construction element (a pillar, in this case) to perfectly fit the surface of the Stone it is resting on. This method helps minimize moisture and insect infestation to the structure. It also has the added benefit of being sustainable, flexible and great looking!
2. Most traditional wood structures are realized from elements prepared on site by craftsmen with hand tools. Joinery is made with hand saws, chisels & planers on site, and the human touch is clearly visible in the finishing of the structural elements.
3. Yakisugi (or shou sugi ban) is a traditional Japanese method of preserving wood, particularly used for facade wood paneling and wood structural elements likely to come in contact with water. This type of finish has recently entered mainstream Wester Europe market, as an alternative to mineral and or oil based finishes. It is also a natural pest and fungal detergent, wile looking extremely good 😊
So why the fascination, you might wonder... Aside from being centuries-long tried and tested techniques, they all have in common the human touch aspect, the craftsmanship and patience that show true care and dedication. No matter how large or small the structure, the individual chisel bite is clearly readable, the brainwork behind each joint is breathtaking, and the ingenuity in the way local resources are used- are all truly inspiring!
