Charred Lumber Performance: Eastern White Pine vs. Cedar and Other Species

The Treehouse at Harvard University (designed by Studio Gang) uses exposed mass timber to create a “climb-into-the-treetops” gathering space. Why wood? Because it offers warmth, structure, and sustainability — and shows how material choice matters. About the Project The “Treehouse” is a new 55,000 sf (approx.) conference and event facility at Harvard’s Enterprise Research Campus […] The post DIY Lessons from a mass timber treehouse appeared first on NELMA.

Why “grain popping” is emerging as a must-do step in wood finishing A design trend is quietly gaining momentum among architects, finishers, and DIYers alike: applying a prefinish water “pop” to open up wood grain and let the stain truly sing. The technique—often called water popping or grain raising—is becoming a go-to for richer, deeper, […] The post Grain Popping Emerges as Design Trend To Watch in 2026 appeared first on NELMA.