Soil
Soil products incorporate the natural hues of diatomaceous earth. Using diatomaceous earth sourced from Akita Prefecture and Ishikawa Prefecture, they are available in five gentle and light colors: WHITE, BLACK, PINK, BLUE, and GREEN. These natural tones add a soothing and organic touch to each product.
The soil (ソイル) product line is crafted using traditional plastering techniques and materials, such as diatomaceous earth. Known for its excellent moisture retention and absorbency, soil maintains the unique breathable properties of earth while offering a natural, comfortable design that embodies the richness of nature. Safe for sensitive skin and highly recyclable, these products are gentle on both people and the environment. soil is a product that supports a sustainable future.
Sakan (Plastering)
Sakan refers to the technique of finishing walls and floors using materials like soil and cement with the use of a trowel (kote). The origins of this craft are ancient, with some accounts tracing it back to the year 645 (Taika Era 1), when a man named Koze Hatakai, who built an earthen wall around the imperial palace, was given this title by the emperor.
From the Azuchi-Momoyama period to the Edo period, the craft evolved into more advanced wall finishes like earth walls and plaster. The skills honed through history and tradition have been passed down through generations. In recent years, this technique has gained attention as an ecological way to create spaces, especially in light of concerns about sick house syndrome and environmental health.
Diatomaceous Earth (Keisoudo)
Diatomaceous earth is extracted from sedimentary layers formed by the accumulation of plant-based plankton that once lived in seas and lakes. It has a porous structure, with countless microscopic holes on the scale of micrometers (10^-6 m), which gives it excellent water absorption and moisture retention properties. Additionally, it has strong deodorizing and humidity-regulating qualities. One of its unique features is that it takes on different colors depending on the local climate and conditions where it is found.
The High Plastering Skills Supporting Soil by Isurugi
Isurugi, a company with roots in the plastering trade since the Edo period in Toyama, was founded in Kanazawa in 1917 (Taisho 6) by the fourth-generation craftsman, Han'ichi Isurugi. Since the Showa era, the company has participated in national projects such as the Osaka Expo, producing many craftsmen who have been awarded the "Excellent Skill Award" by the government.
After the Heisei era, Isurugi was involved in major restoration projects, including the rebuilding of Zuiryu-ji Temple (a national treasure in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture), the "Heisei Major Renovation" of Osaka Castle, and the restoration of Kanazawa Castle. They have also contributed high-level skills to modern architectural projects such as Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Dome, and Kyoto Station.
In recent years, since 2004 (Heisei 16), Isurugi has expanded into the design field, launching an art department and working on projects like Soil.