Benii Black
Benii Black
Charred + Brushed + Coated
Traditional charred Yakisugi (Shou Sugi Ban) Japanese cedar, Brushed and black-coated for a deep, durable finish
Product Overview
Benii Black is the coated black variant of Benii Clear. Brushing reveals warm sugi grain while a breathable protective coat produces a consistent, rich black tone and improved durability for high-traffic interior and exterior applications. Finished in Melbourne for colour control and quality, Benii Black gives a modern, time-honed appearance with reduced maintenance compared with uncoated char finishes.
Key Features
-Brushed Yakisugi (Shou Sugi Ban) char that retains subtle grain and crackle shading
-Sustainably sourced Japanese cedar (sugi)
-Breathable black coating for colour stability and enhanced surface durability
-Deep, consistent black tone with low‑sheen, textured finish
-Finished and colour‑matched in Melbourne for reliable results
-Reduced surface dusting and improved cleanability for high-traffic zones
-Spec‑ready profiles for cladding, battens and feature linings
Use Cases
-High-traffic interior feature walls, lobbies and commercial fitouts
-Exterior cladding and refined facades where a deep black aesthetic is required
-Entryways, porches and public spaces needing durable, low-maintenance finishes
-Privacy screens, battens and shading devices in exposed locations
-Balconies, pergolas and external joinery in moderate exposure zones
-Feature joinery and panelled linings requiring a consistent black tone
profiles and dimensions
(mm)
Specifications
Our boards are supplied in two profiles, tongue and groove or shiplap.
Species, thickness and length are the same across both; only the cover width differs:
- Species: Cryptomeria japonica (Japanese cedar / sugi), density 350 to 420 kg/m3
- Board width: 140mm total. Cover width 122mm for tongue and groove, 129mm for shiplap. Use the cover width for take-off, not the 140mm face.
- Thickness: 21mm
- Length: 3,930mm
- Serviceable life: 30+ years
- Moisture content: 14% or lower at installation
The low density that makes sugi easy to handle and quick to install is the same property that gives genuine shou sugi ban its character. It is a cladding board, designed and milled for the wall.
Installation Tips
Always include a ventilated back cavity (min 20 mm), stainless steel fixings (use 316/A4 in coastal zones) and leave a 6–10 mm expansion gap to accommodate seasonal movement. Pre-finish cut edges with the supplied breathable hydrophobic coating and avoid non-breathable sealers; expect recoats roughly every 2–3 years in coastal exposure and 3–5 years inland.
Request a coated sample or the full technical spec sheet via studiotsukuru.com.au.
FAQ
Unlike deeper-charred profiles, Benii has a lighter brush finish, giving it a smoother and more understated look while keeping the durable charred character of Yakisugi timber. It is available in original or custom dark tone colours and can be installed with or without coating depending on the desired aesthetic.
Benii is versatile enough for prestige residential builds, architectural facades, minimalist interiors, and refined wall treatments. It is suitable for vertical or horizontal installation on exterior cladding, interior feature walls, soffits, railings, and pergolas.
Pre-coated boards feature a breathable hydrophobic cream that resists UV damage, moisture, and dirt build-up. When installed without oil, Benii will develop a natural patina over time; re-oiling can be done later to maintain or enhance the colour. Regular gentle cleaning is recommended to preserve its refined appearance.