The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1529376
VUE ON | FASHION HISTORY Shou Sugi Ban House was born from a vision to create a sanctuary outside of the everyday, and guided by a belief that each person walks a unique path to wholeness. ey set out to establish an innovative experience that blends global wellness philosophies with state-of-the-art practices – programs that merge wellness, culture, and science. Shou Sugi Ban House takes inspiration from Japanese culture and an appreciation of Wabi-Sabi principles, in ethos and design. Its point of view reflects a considered way of living that honors minimalism, and a deep respect for the natural world and its healing properties. Before the property opened, the Main Barn endured an electrical fire soon aer the property was purchased. e fire was reminiscent of the Shou Sugi Ban technique: an ancient Japanese weathering method which involves charring a wood surface, scraping it down, and then oiling it to make it more resistant to fire and decay. e team was inspired by the idea of transformation and a quote from the 17th century poet and samurai Mizuta Masahide: "Barn's burnt down, now I can see the moon." Each of the spaces at Shou Sugi Ban House were designed with consideration for the effect upon the occupants and the aim of nurturing sustainable and holistic experiences. Collaborators with ties to the community include RLW4 for construction and furniture, Orsman Design for lighting, arborist Julian Kohl of Coastal Arborcare, and Araiys Design for site planning. New York City-based Studio Lily Kwong, who partnered with Topiaris of Lisbon, Portugal was brought in for the landscape design (Lily's résumé includes landscape projects with Grand Central Terminal and e High Line), Elena Colombo of Fire Features for the property's sculptural firebowl, and Anthony Chase Studio for artisanal wall finishes. TRANQUIL AND SUSTAINABLE DESIGN e property boasts two Hamptons architectural vernaculars – renovated old barns and modern beach cottages – which have been cohesively integrated. Winding pathways, reflective pools, fountains, and a landscape inspired by the local dunescape and Japanese gardens, allow guests to connect with the natural world around them. Shou Sugi Ban House has solar energy, geothermal heating and cooling systems, and structured water filtration. 28 VUENJ.COM