Within many cities around the world, we can see various displays of wooden architecture that use both simple and complex design to achieve brilliant constructions made from the sustainable and versatile material, timber.
Complementing such designs with protection and colour requires a specialist wood finish which will provide durability and high coverage, and in turn, longevity for the project. Osmo natural wood finishes are used around the world to protect interior and exterior wooden surfaces throughout the building industry in both residential and commercial applications.
Starting in Nagoya City, Japan, some 400,000 train passengers pass by the Kanayama Wood City Building on their daily commute to work. This cross laminated timber (CLT) high-rise is the first building in the Nagoya Wood City Concept, which aims to increase value and promote the use of wood and wood materials by constructing several medium-scale wooden buildings around the city centre. This development concept is modelled after the Wood City project in Helsinki, Finland and was proposed by Dr Daishi Sakaguchi of Nihon Fukushi University, who had studied in Helsinki. The exterior design features wooden louvers with varying lengths and depths, serving both aesthetic and functional purposes to embrace wood’s natural patination. These louvers are safeguarded against the elements with Osmo Natural Oil Woodstain in a bespoke colour, ensuring durability amidst wind and rain.
Over in Eastern France we step into history at the Buvette Cachat, a timeless monument in the heart of Évian. Designed by the visionary Jean-Albert Hébrard in 1903, this “temple of water” has been lovingly restored to its former glory by RL & Associés in Lyon. With over 3,000m² of intricate woodwork in Larch, Beech, and Fir, every corner tells a story of craftsmanship and heritage. Protected by Osmo Natural Oil Woodstain 702 Larch, its beauty is now both preserved and enhanced for years to come.
Ending in London, the capital city of the United Kingdom, where, located in the serene surroundings of Kensington Gardens, the Black Chapel Serpentine Pavilion stands as a monument to balance and contemplation. The pavilion’s impressive structure spans 201 square meters, with a 16-metre diameter and a 10.7-metre height, making it the grandest Serpentine Pavilion to date. The integral support of ATOL, a premier UK fire protection entity, ensured the wood’s safety prior to finishing with Osmo Garden Colour 7505 Jet Black. This brilliant water-based, low-VOC, weather-resistant, and UV-stable finish grants an elegant, opaque satin sheen to the exterior, encapsulating the pavilion’s aesthetic and protective needs.
With over 140 years timber experience, many look towards Osmo to offer the world colour and protection when building with wood. Search ‘Osmo Recommends’ and discover which product best suits your next project and contact the Osmo team for expert advice and wood-related knowledge. Osmo, Good for Wood.