Shou sugi ban is actually an ancient Japanese way of finishing wood that has been around for many years, however, you may have noticed that it’s making a surge in Western design. We talk about shou sugi ban, what it is, who it benefits, and why it’s shaking up the design world now for its utilitarian use.

Black History Month may fall on the shortest month of the year, but you can still do your part to educate yourself and make a step forward towards inclusion by understanding the history of Black individuals in our country and the oft silenced contributions they made (and continue to make) in our society. We’d like to do our part by highlighting some of the Black interior designers in our industry.

These wonderful voices can add their own particular flare to interior design. Some may have an aesthetic comparable to well-known white interior designers, and others may have their own particular style. Let’s embrace what each person has to offer, and celebrate Black excellence in interior design during Black History Month. Give these fine folks a follow on social media — you won’t regret it!

What makes a home spooky and creepy? Is it the architecture? The landscaping? The torrid history? The lack of light? Its proximity to a cemetery? Whatever it is that gives a house an eerie feeling, we wanted to share with you some of the creepiest, spookiest houses in the world for you to enjoy (from a non-haunted distance) this Halloween season!