Noka Lodge - Lincolnshire, England

Inspired by the vernacular of Japanese barn forms, Mills designed a gridded look that echoes the lantern-like patterning of Shoji panels. To create this texture while elevating the building above the resort’s other timber structures, many of which were already weathered, they required a timber product with a good deal of longevity. Abodo’s New Growth™ Feature Timbers proved ideal, offering high performance with a clear grade accentuating the structures architectural lines.

“I’m half Kiwi so I was aware of Abodo and the benefits of thermally modified timbers. I also know the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified forest area that Abodo uses,” Mills says.

Abodo Vulcan Cladding - Vertical Grain (RW167 Profile by Russwood) is used for all soffits and cladding, with Light Grey silicate coating creating a subtle, soothing aesthetic that is in keeping with the intentions for the lodge. Inside, light filled interior spaces are graced by warm timber ceilings and floors, with vertical timber screening creating a Japanese-style feature across the stairway.

As the timber is heat tempered, Vulcan cladding can withstand changes in temperature and differing moisture levels without warping or cracking, important for an area that experiences high rainfall. The silicate coating provides a silvery patina effect that replicates a natural, weathered wood appearance while protecting against discolouration. This will further develop over time with exposure to weather, lending a lasting, refined finish for Noka Lodge.

Despite coming into the project with the form already in place, Studio Mills have created their own stamp on this lodge through the creative use of this sustainably sourced timber cladding.

“We had to carefully coordinate the timber frame, window manufacturing and the cladding on a tight program,” says Mills. “Given the time restraints, everything was coordinated by drawings only, without site surveys, yet it all went in without a hitch.”