The traditional Japanese technique of burning cedar to naturally create a rot- and insect-resistant outer layer is called shou-sugi-ban. And as with many Japanese approaches to the built environment, it is not only purposeful but it is beautiful:
No sticky, smelly, off-gassing sealants here! No paint job to redo every few years. Just a beautiful blackened (and slightly shimmery silver) surface. We love the hint of mystery in such a dark building material and find that this technique works rather suitably for primitive to ultra-contemporary styles.
As seen up top, shou-sugi-ban is suitable for the small (an outdoor garden bench), to the large (an entire house), and everything in between (a backyard shed).
Images: Edmund Sumner via Dezeen, Mueller Carpentry, Materia Designs
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It's certainly beautiful. I have a feeling this technique does not conform to my city's fire code.
@quincyscott: you can verify with your city, but - in terms of fire safety - it's no different from standard wood siding. In fact, charring often protects the wood (depending on its thickness).
we're putting this on a new residence in portland - i'm so excited!