“Gen” is a Yakisugi product made by first charring cedar boards, then removing the charred layer, and finally applying a black coating.

The development of Gen was prompted by feedback from customers who had used “Misugi,” a Yakisugi product with the charred layer removed. Some customers asked whether it would be possible to reduce color fading over time.

In an effort to improve weather resistance, various approaches were explored, including the development of products finished with oil-based wood stain coatings. However, these attempts did not achieve the level of durability that was desired.

During this period of trial and error, Yoshifumi Nakamura, a well-known Japanese architect, approached Kyoei Lumber while working on the ITAMI JUZO MUSEUM, with a request to create a Yakisugi product in a calm, subdued black tone.

In response, and with the cooperation of a paint manufacturer, repeated adjustments were made to both the brushing process of the Yakisugi surface and the color formulation. Through this process, a water-based coating was ultimately developed that balances refined color expression with consideration for the environment.

Initially, repainting every three to five years was anticipated. However, the finished product demonstrated sufficient weather resistance to maintain its appearance with repainting approximately once every ten years.
As a result, Gen became a product that combines environmental consideration with a practical and accessible cost profile.