The Japanese technique of preserving/antiquing wood called shou-sugi-ban is used to develop Chroma wood panels, available from Architectural Systems Inc. The collection includes deep saturated hues and color highlights and is offered in cypress, redwood and yellow pine species in random length planks.

INFOGRAPHIC Four steps to doing Shou-Sugi-Ban The process is surprisingly direct for SHou-Sugi-Ban. Here's how to do it.

The artisanal charred woods are made in the United States and can be used for interior and exterior use.

Boards are 1 inch thick and 6 inches wide. Random lengths of 8 to 10 feet are offered. Finish is semi-transparent UV-protected stain. Standard construction is tongue and groove, with custom fabrication available.

Minimum orders are 250 feet minimum, with minimum orders of 500 square feet for custom colors. Materials can also contribute LEED points. See Architectural Systems, www.archsystems.com.