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Black Buildings

Terunobu Fujimori's Spooky Glam Charred Wood Houses

— September 8, 2009 — Art & Design
Japanese architect Terunobu Fujimori is renowned for his surreal structures made out of traditional materials like charred wood. His coal house and charred cedar wood house, known as Yakisugi, use a traditional preservation and finishing method that creates a distinctive black coating. Fujimori's creations are both whimsical and folkloric, modern and yet traditional and represent his interest in the architectural history of his native Japan.

Implications - Current society is consistently saturated with excessive imagery that, at times, can be overwhelming. Designs that are simplistic provide relief from the otherwise oversupply of graphics. Companies should consider how the design of their product must be effective yet never intimidating to the point where consumers ignore it all together.
Trend Themes
1. Simplistic Designs - Opportunities for companies to develop minimalist and visually soothing designs to provide relief from excessive imagery.
2. Architectural Tradition - Opportunities to incorporate traditional materials and preservation methods in modern architecture for a unique and cultural aesthetic.
3. Whimsical Structures - Opportunities for architects to create surreal and playful buildings that merge modern and folkloric elements.
Industry Implications
1. Product Design - Opportunities for product designers to develop visually effective yet uncomplicated designs to cut through the overwhelming imagery in the market.
2. Architecture - Opportunities for architects to explore incorporating traditional materials and preservation techniques in their modern architectural projects for a distinct and culturally rich aesthetic.
3. Construction - Opportunities for construction companies to specialize in building whimsical and unconventional structures that capture the imagination of modern architecture enthusiasts.
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