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Honka updated the round log for modern times
Honka, the world’s largest manufacturer of log homes, renews the look of the nostalgic round log by introducing a modernized ecological round log called HonkaDuoTM in 2009.
This slightly elliptical log, manufactured using a special process from natural pine, is even more environmentally friendly to produce. Unlike traditional round logs, it does not split or twist. Thanks to HonkaDuoTM, round logs can now provide even better insulation and increase energy efficiency, besides having a clearly modern look.
The HonkaDuo™ building’s insulation is enhanced by the corner construction, which is implemented using a ball notch, which is Honka’s original protected design for better energy conservation.
“Despite the growing popularity of houses constructed with square laminated logs, people still value the classic round log which is seen as a genuine, cozy solution. Besides Finland, round log houses are deeply rooted in the local building traditions in Russia and many Central European countries,” says Esko Teerikorpi, Honka’s CEO.
The unique HonkaDuo™ design is protected in the EU. Its cost is comparable to that of traditional round log.
Friend of the environment
The HonkaDuoTM ecological round log, developed at Honka’s Karstula factory, is produced by splitting a roughed-out log before drying. When they are dry, the halves are glued back together using environmentally friendly glue
According to Reijo Virtanen, Senior Vice President of production, the new HonkaDuoTM log is even more ecological to manufacture, because the drying process is much less energy-consuming than that of the traditional round log. HonkaDuoTM minimizes planing loss.
The reduced availability of heavy logs in Finland played a role in the decision to develop the new round log, says Virtanen. Also, the normal lifecycle of natural wood results in twisting and splitting, which no longer represents the consumers’ perception of what the wall of a high-quality house or holiday home should look like.
Contemporary design
The modern, elliptical design of HonkaDuo™ creates a slimmer profile than traditional round log and offers new vistas for personal interior design and modern architecture.
When interior walls are discreetly treated with a transparent varnish and lighting is designed with care, the round shape of the log really comes into its own. Old and new can combine to create a relaxed, modern style for a retro round log home.
“Wood and natural stone can be juxtaposed to striking effect. Different shades of color can be used for the walls and the floor to provide contrast. Personally, I like to use cool, fresh, maritime shades to furnish a modern round log home. Also white, back and shades of gray are well suited to accompany natural wood. In prints, go for clean-cut lines such as stripes or checkered patterns,” says Tupu Vainikainen-Länsisalmi, Honka’s interior designer, the woman behind Honka’s most recent successful housing fair designs.
Selecting durable furnishings made with natural materials to accompany round log walls creates a warm, enduring interior. The calm of natural wood is beautifully complemented by flax, cotton, felt and wool.
Further information:
Honkarakenne Group, Senior Vice President of production Reijo Virtanen, tel. +358 20 575 700, reijo.virtanen@honka.com
Honkarakenne Group, Brand Communications Manager Anne-Maarit Sepling, tel. 020 575 7819 or 0400 904 124, e-mail anne-maarit.sepling@honka.com