West Coast House

Exterior Suyaki Cladding

Halland County, Sweden

Project Overview

Nestled in the serene coastal landscape in Halland County on Sweden’s picturesque west coast, this Suyaki house embodies the harmonious integration of contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship. The residence is a striking example of architectural restraint and natural materiality, thoughtfully designed to complement its rural and maritime setting.

The house features a steeply pitched roof clad in natural thatch, a nod to regional building traditions, offering both aesthetic charm and excellent insulation. This is paired with a façade finished in Suyaki—charred wood cladding produced through the ancient Japanese technique of Yakisugi (or Shou Sugi Ban). The blackened timber not only delivers a dramatic visual contrast to the soft tones of the surrounding meadows and sea, but also ensures durability and low maintenance, resistant to fire, pests, and weathering.

Large, triangular and rectangular windows punctuate the dark façade, framing expansive views of the surrounding landscape while allowing ample natural light to pour into the interior spaces. The geometric simplicity of the structure is enhanced by the vertical rhythm of the timber cladding and the clean lines of the architectural form.

A generous wooden deck wraps around the house, seamlessly extending the living space outdoors and inviting residents to enjoy the tranquil environment, whether it’s views over wildflower-dotted fields or the distant ocean horizon. Minimalist outdoor furnishings and potted greenery reinforce the project’s understated elegance and connection to nature.

This West Coast Suyaki project is a compelling example of how modern sustainability principles and traditional materials can coexist beautifully. It speaks to a growing appreciation for tactile, enduring architecture that feels both grounded in its place and forward-thinking in its execution.

Yakisugi product used in this project:

Cladding:
Suyaki | Shiplap | 145mm width

Prefinish:
Natural oil | ebony | two coats

Product Code:
S14-732

Application:
Residential Exterior

Project Volume:
255 sqm

Architect:
Sarah Schoberleitner

Date:
2023

Photographer:
Morgan Ashely Göranson

"The West Coast House is situated in the Swedish coastal landscape between the sea and the golden fields of oat, wheat and rape seeds. It is designed to blend naturally into its surroundings while withstanding the harsh Swedish coastal climate. To achieve this, Yakisugi Suyaki (Shou Sugi Ban) was chosen as the primary façade material due to its durability, resistance to moisture, and low maintenance requirements. The charred wood surface provides protection against extreme winds, salt-laden air, and humidity, making it an ideal choice for long-term resilience in a demanding environment. Its dark, textured finish is visually striking while also echoing the traditional Swedish svarttjära (black tar) façade material, allowing the building to integrate seamlessly into its natural setting. Designed to a low-energy standard, the house is built with eco-conscious materials and features a timber frame construction with cellulose insulation and a thatched roof. The space and structure are planned for longevity and adaptability, ensuring they can accommodate different uses over time. Natural light plays a key role in the design. Large openings in the façade and roof allow daylight to enter, strengthening the connection to the surrounding landscape in every space of the house. A wind-protected outdoor area extends the living space toward the sea, providing shelter while maintaining an open relationship with nature. By using Yakisugi Suyaki for the façade, the West Coast House meets both aesthetic and functional demands—offering a durable, low-maintenance, and sustainable exterior that supports a long-lasting, flexible living environment "