High Desert Retreat

The project features CUSTOM shou sugi ban FSC®-Certified acetylated modified wood across both the exterior and interior cladding, creating a unified material language that carries throughout the residence. The continuous use of charred modified wood reinforces the architectural concept while delivering exceptional long-term performance in the demanding high-desert environment.

The exterior utilizes a burnt and wire-brushed finish that accentuates the wood’s natural grain and creates a richly textured surface that changes beautifully with shifting desert light. Inside, the same material introduces warmth and visual continuity, balancing the home’s exposed concrete and steel with the natural character of real wood.

Engineered through Accoya’s® patented acetylation process, the wood offers outstanding dimensional stability, resistance to insects and decay, and exceptional durability despite the region’s extreme temperature fluctuations. Enhanced by the traditional shou sugi ban charring process, the dense carbonized surface further improves weather resistance while allowing the material to develop a graceful patina over time. FSC®-certified and backed by a 50-year above-ground warranty, charred Accoya delivers a high-performance solution that combines sustainability with enduring architectural beauty.