At first we were contacted by the architect but went on finalizing the details directly with the clients who are a splendid couple. Despite the time difference, we had several phone conversations as -like sushi- every information is even better when is consumed fresh.
All the important matters were communicated in English and the jokes in Italian which was very natural...
The project is new construction, a refined minimalist residence.
They were looking for hinoki lumber to build doors, cabinets, the stair and even the kitchen counter.
Here are two pictures of the bold knotty hinoki ofuro.
- size: L1615mm x W800mm x H715mm (ext. dim.) 610mm (deep) -
We were quick in building the tub, but it took time to assort the lumber for the cabinetry and fixtures. Wide sections of hinoki are becoming rare and we wanted to assort a lot of top grade material, with stable knots and uniform quality.
Then, the wood needs to be kiln dried to fulfill the phytosanitary requirements of the swiss forestry department.
We asked the client to wait one extra month and they were very nice and understanding.
over 10m3 of knotty hinoki planks up to 70mm thick and
one cubic meter of knotless hinoki lumber in 3 meters length fit miraculously the container...!
We are looking forward to post here an update of the completed project!!
Kobe Kazamidori chapter
japan@bartokdesign.com