Big tech wants to put their eyes in your ears

President Trump signs a full and unconditional pardon for Silk Road creator Ross Ulbricht, who had received two life sentences.

Bluesky attracted many X users following the U.S. election in November. The decentralized social media platform has now grown to over 28 million users.

The 2015 Paris climate agreement is not the boogeyman that punishes the United States that critics such as President Donald Trump claim. But it hasnt quite kept the world from overheating either.The Paris agreement is a mostly voluntary climate pact originally written in ways that would both try to reduce warming and withstand the changing political winds in the United States.In his first hours in office, Trump started the year-long process to withdraw from the pact. Its the second time hes done it then-President Joe Biden had the U.S. rejoin on his second day in office.Once the withdrawal takes effect next year the United States joins Iran, Libya and Yemen as the only United Nations countries that are not part of the agreement.The U.S. withdrawal, while expected, triggered heavy reactions from around the world. Thats because the United States is historically responsible for the largest share of heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere, has been a leader in international climate negotiations and is the worlds largest producer of the fossil fuels that cause the problem in the first place.When the agreement was signed Dec. 12, 2014, then-President Barack Obama called it the best chance to save the one planet we have.What is the Paris Agreement?The main goal is to keep long-term global temperatures from warming 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial times and if not that well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees) by slashing planet-warming emissions from coal, oil and gas.The Paris Agreement is a framework, not a stand alone solution, said Mohamed Adow, founder of PowerShift Africa and a veteran climate negotiations observer. Tackling climate change is not a pass-or-fail scenario. The Paris Agreement was never a solution itself, just a structure for countries to take action. And in large part that is what countries are doing.It is a pact that is part of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which started in 1992 with the Rio Earth Summit. Technically, the Paris agreement itself is not a treaty so its adoption by America did not require U.S. Senate approval.Is it mandatory?It works as a binding but voluntary program. Every five years countries are required to submit a goal or plan for what it will do about heat-trapping emissions of carbon dioxide, methane and other gases. And those goals called National Determined Contributions or NDCs are supposed to be more ambitious every five years, said Cambridge University climate negotiations historian Joanna Depledge.The latest five-year pledges are due next month. Biden submitted a plan for the United States last month to reduce emissions as much as two-thirds by 2035 compared to 2005 levels. Countries can make their emissions targets less ambitious.The countries themselves decide what its in those goals with no punishment for countries missing goals, Depledge said.Every two years, countries have to report how much greenhouse gases they emit.The pact also says that rich countries, such as the United States, need to help poor countries decarbonize their economies, adapt to the impacts of climate change, and most recently be responsible in some ways for damage done by climate change.Last year international negotiations set a goal of rich nations contributing $300 billion a year to help poor nations with climate change. The United States disputes that the $300 billion goal is legally binding, Depledge said.How much does it cost the U.S.?No industrialized country is assigned a portion of the $300 billion.Historically, the United States has been criticized for providing less than its share of the global financial climate aid, given the United States history as a major climate polluter and it being the worlds largest economic power.Formally, there is no agreement on how much the U.S. should provide. However, our work on Fair Shares based on U.S. historical emissions and ability to pay finds that the U.S. contribution should be $44.6 billion per year, Mercy Corps climate lead Debbie Hillier said in an email.Last year, Biden announced that the U.S. climate aid to poor nations was up to $11 billion a year.How did it come to be?The 1998 Kyoto Protocol which Al Gore and the Clinton Administration helped forge called for mandatory emission cuts and was rejected by non-binding votes in the U.S. Senate. Then George W. Bush withdrew America from the deal.That eventually led to an agreement being fashioned in Paris in a way that didnt need U.S. Senate approval and was not mandatory. A bilateral agreement between the United States and China in 2014 paved the way for the agreement in Paris.One of the main reasons that countries are not legally required to actually meet the emissions reduction pledges they put forward under the Paris Agreement is because the Obama administration indicated that with the increased political polarization around climate change over the two decades following the Rio Earth Summit, obtaining 67 votes in support of the agreement in the U.S. Senate would have been challenging, said veteran climate analyst Alden Meyer of the European think-tank E3G.Has it worked?Last year Earth temporarily passed the primary Paris 1.5 degree threshold, said several of the global monitoring groups. And while the 1.5 degree goal is about a 20-year average, the overwhelming majority of scientists say the world is likely to eventually breach the 1.5 mark for good. The long-term warming is now 1.3 degrees (2.3 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial times.In 2015, Climate Action Tracker, a group of scientists, said the world was on path to 3.6 degrees Celsius (6.5 degrees Fahrenheit) of warming since pre-industrial times. Now the same group has the world on path for 2.7 degrees Celsius (4.9 degrees Fahrenheit).Experts call it a partial success, saying negotiators in Paris never figured that the agreement alone would be sufficient.Mercy Corps Hillier said that while reduced warming projections are far from sufficient, it is shows that the collective commitments under the Paris Agreement have made a difference.What does U.S. withdrawal mean?Once withdrawn, the U.S. can attend negotiations, but not be part of decision making.Theres little direct impact on domestic U.S. climate policy, but the decision may undermine U.S. credibility in climate diplomacy, likely reducing its influence in global environmental policy, said Scott Segal, a Washington lawyer who represents energy interests, including fossil fuel companies.Several experts say the United States will lose out on a trillion dollar plus renewable energy boom, leaving other countries like China to rule the green economy.The world is more likely to warm slightly more, said Climate Analytics and scientist CEO Bill Hare. The more the world warms the faster we will experience more extreme weather events such as flooding, extreme hurricanes, fire, weather, drought, and heat. The U.S. will not be exempt from such events.Science writer Seth Borenstein covered the 2015 Paris Agreement live. Follow him on X at @borenbearsRead more of APs climate coverage at http://www.apnews.com/climate-and-environmentThe Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.Seth Borenstein, AP Science Writer

Job review platform Glassdoor has complied its annual lists of the best places to work in 2025, including a list of the top 100 large employers and the top 50 small and medium-size employers in the United States.To create the list, Glassdoor drew from employee ratings and reviews submitted between October 2023 and October 2024 and looked at a mix of the quantity, quality, and consistency of reviews.The list of the best places to work for large (1000-plus employees) U.S. companies features 23 in the San Francisco Bay Area, seven in Washington, D.C., and six in New York City.Tech companies lead (26 companies), followed by healthcare and finance (nine each), with biotech and pharmaceutical companies (eight) next.Here are the top 10 companies from the list and their average rating:Bain & Company: 4.6Crew Carwash: 4.6In-N-Out Burger: 4.5Nvidia: 4.5Eli Lilly and Company: 4.5Microsoft: 4.5eXp Realty: 4.5The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: 4.5RLI: 4.5MathWorks: 4.4The list of best places to work for small and medium-size (under 1,000 employees) U.S. companies features 70% newcomers this year. The top four industries represented are tech (10 companies), healthcare (seven), construction, repair, and maintenance (six), and real estate (five companies).Here are the top 10 and their average rating:Parry Labs: 4.6Victors Home Solutions: 4.5Syndax Pharmaceuticals: 4.5GlideFast: 4.5Grow Therapy: 4.5Schellman: 4.5Life.Church: 4.5Saber Building Services: 4.5Everlight Solar: 4.4Planful: 4.4

Dezeen can exclusively reveal photos of the art deco-informed Apple Miami Worldcenter, the "first Apple Store with extensive use of mass-timber construction", which opens this Friday.Designed by Apple's in-house team, Apple Miami Worldcenter occupies a standalone pavilion that continues the aesthetic of previous Apple Stores while nodding to art deco architecture in Miami."We were inspired by softer, undulating surfaces and the articulation of mass found in the local art deco architecture to create a lighter, more dynamic result," Apple retail design lead BJ Siegel told Dezeen."In designing Apple Miami Worldcenter, we paid particular attention to the play of the light and shadow on all surfaces of the pavilion, sculpting the walls in and out while carving the base off the ground."Apple Miami Worldcenter opens this FridayWhile the curved perimeter roof and plaster walls are a nod to art deco architecture, the structure was constructed from mass-timber a first for Apple."Apple Miami Worldcenter is the first Apple Store with extensive use of mass-timber construction," explained Siegel."As a free-standing building with sizable spans, we wanted an efficient structural solution that could be sourced locally in the region and help reduce the overall carbon footprint of the project," he continued. "We worked with a mass-timber vendor committed to pursuing an FSC certification, ensuring that the wood was responsibly sourced and contributed to a significant embodied carbon reduction."The store was constructed with mass timberThe mass-timber structure encloses an open central space that is accessed from glazed entrances at each end of the building.This space is filled with Apple's signature tables some of which are lowered for accessibility. It is flanked with oak framework that incorporates a pick-up area, Genius Bar, product shelving and a space dedicated to demonstrating the Vision Pro mixed-reality headset."The materials used throughout the design were chosen to limit their impact on the environment while creating an inviting space for customers," said Siegel."This includes biomass-based terrazzo flooring, a structural wood wall system, and a particular attention to comfort and acoustics."It contains a dedicated space for demonstrating the Apple Vision ProWhile previous stores have incorporated plants, often in large planters, Apple has surrounded the Apple Miami Worldcenter store with a densely planted public space. The roof, "described as a raised garden" is also covered with planting."Biophilic design has been part of Apple's design principles for some time now trees and plants, along with natural daylight, have always been important to our stores," explained Siegel.Read: Apple partners need to be "absolutely committed to transparency" says retail sustainability lead"Apple Stores have always strived to make a direct connection between the interior and the natural environment surrounding it," he continued."While in the past, this has come from primarily the use of interior trees and large glass storefronts, the climate in Miami offered a different opportunity, allowing us to embrace the lush landscape and gardens of South Florida to create a densely vegetated urban public space."The store is designed to demonstrate the brand's ethosAccording to Siegel, the store is a representation of Apple's values and its commitment to sustainability and accessibility."Our latest store designs are an expression of Apple's values through its emphasis on the environment, accessibility, and customer-centred experiences," he said."The building form is balanced between a precise architectural language and a softened, rounded shape embraced by the plant life surrounding it. Additionally, the roof has been planted as a raised garden, creating an additional facade visible from the adjacent towers, and completing the full integration of the landscape below."Recently completed Apple Stores include a store topped with a square dome in Kuala Lumpur, a store in London's Battersea Power Station and a store in Abu Dhabi surrounded with a stepped waterfall.The photography is courtesy of Apple.The post Apple unveils first mass-timber Apple Store in Miami appeared first on Dezeen.

At least 92 per cent of housing units in Gaza have been destroyed or damaged, according to data shared by the United Nations' Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) published a reported impact snapshot on 14 January, which stated that 160,000 out of 436,000 housing units in Gaza had been destroyed and 276,000 had been damaged in the Israel-Gaza war.OCHA sourced the data from Shelter Cluster, an organisation that coordinates humanitarian shelter in conflicts and disasters.OCHA reports 69 per cent of all buildings destroyed or damagedDisplaced Gazans have begun to return to the Gaza Strip following Israel and Hamas agreeing to a ceasefire on 19 January, the first phase of which is planned to last six weeks. Three women hostages were released from Gaza and 90 Palestinians were released from jails in Israel as part of the agreement.The recent war in Gaza was triggered on 7 October 2023 when Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.According to the latest figures from Palestine's Hamas-run health ministry, 47,100 people have been killed in Gaza in Israel's subsequent military campaign.Read: Forensic Architecture creates interactive map to show the "compounding effect" of attacks on GazaIn addition to 92 per cent of housing destroyed or damaged in Gaza, OCHA also published in its report that 69 per cent of all structures are destroyed or damaged.At least 88 per cent of school buildings have been damaged, according to the report, as well as 51 university buildings destroyed and 57 damaged."Closing the thermal envelope" immediate priorityYesterday, Shelter Cluster published guidance for Gazans returning to damaged homes, which stated sealing the building envelope should be the immediate priority."Given the scale of shelter needs across Gaza and the limited resources available, repair of damaged dwellings should prioritise closing the thermal envelope of essential habitable spaces in accordance with family size and, where feasible, restoring basic household water and sanitation services," said the organisation."The Shelter Cluster does not recommend high-cost permanent repairs at this stage, as most of the population lacks access to even the most basic shelter assistance, such as tents or tarpaulins.""Due to ongoing military operations and limited humanitarian access in Gaza, conducting damage assessments in safe conditions remains a significant challenge," it continued. "The presence of EOs (explosive ordinance) and debris and the recurrence of damage to previously assessed areas make it difficult to have a map of 'cleared to work' buildings."Photo by Mahmoud sleem via Anadolu.Comments have been turned off on this story due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter.The post UN reports 92 per cent of Gaza housing has been destroyed or damaged appeared first on Dezeen.

Whether you love or hate AI-driven generative design, the fact is that it's here, people are using it, and they're not going to stop using it. If you're an industrial designer, it's probably wise to understand the technology and its implications, and learn how to wield it.If you'd prefer to be guided through it by a safe set of hands, IDEO is hosting an "AI x Design Thinking Workshop Series" online."Join us for our live 3-part AI workshop series and learn how to harness the power of generative AI to enhance your idea generation, research synthesis, and prototyping skills. This practical workshop will help you understand how AI tools work and how to get the most out of them. It's a safe space for hands-on practice with different tools, techniques, and mindsets for using AI in your design thinking process. With a focus on how to get started using AI to strengthen your design thinking toolkit, you'll learn how to collaborate with AI to enhance your problem-solving skills and creative thinking."Geared towards beginners though it is, the series still aims to teach skills that, the firm says, "you can apply to your work immediately."The $250 course starts March 3rd and will consist of three 60-minute live sessions. They'll provide step-by-step demonstrations, provide a downloadable workshop and most importantly, show you IDEO case studies.If the schedule doesn't work for you, they also offer an on-demand, self-paced alternative for $300.You can learn more about the curriculum and download the syllabus here.

There are cameras for the masses, and then cameras for photographers. There are cars for commutes, and cars for automotive enthusiasts. Similarly, theres EDC (Everyday Carry) meant for the general populace, and then theres EDC designed specifically for people who need the right tool at the right time in the face of adversity. Every first responder will tell you that a faulty tool (or even the wrong tool) can sometimes be the difference between success and failure, life and death which is why the EDC meant for these situations needs to be engineered to absolute perfection. Ask first responders what their favorite EDC is and the most common name will be the Skeletool RX from Leatherman.Measuring about four inches long and tipping the scales at a mere five ounces, the Skeletool RX is a lesson in efficiency. Its stripped-down designcomplete with a carabiner clip and integrated bottle openermight initially give the impression of being too minimal. But spend a week with it, and youll likely change your tune. This tool is crafted for those who value simplicity and performance over frills, and it delivers that effortlessly. No unnecessary tools, no distracting details, nothing extraneous just sheer productivity in a compact, rapid-deploy package.Designer: LeathermanClick Here to Buy NowThe Skeletool comes in a few variants, the RX being one of them. Others are the standard Skeletool, designed for versatile everyday tasks; the CX, which features upgraded materials like DLC-coated stainless steel and a 154CM blade for added durability; and the Skeletool KB, a streamlined option that focuses on knife functionality with a built-in bottle opener. The RX, however, is purpose-built for emergency responders, with features tailored to critical, high-pressure situations. It includes a serrated 154CM blade with a hooked design for cutting through tough materials like seat belts or fabric with ease, as well as a carbide glass breaker for fast access in rescue scenarios. Couple this with the emergency red colorway and youve got yourself the perfect life-saving instrument for those who need split-second reliability.The blade is a little different from the kind youd find on other EDC knives. Made from 420HC stainless steel, its sharp, durable, and incredibly easy to deploy one-handed. Its unique edge helps with all kinds of cutting techniques, letting you effectively slice through everything from parcels to wood, paracord, and even seatbelts. The knife is big enough to handle slicing, cutting, and general utility tasks but compact enough to avoid being cumbersome. Its placement on the tool ensures its always at the ready, giving you a reliable edge in situations where youd otherwise be scrambling for a dedicated blade.The pliers, another essential feature, are no slouch either. Designed with needle-nose precision and a sturdy grip, they tackle both delicate and heavy-duty tasks with ease. Whether its tightening bolts or gripping small wires, the pliers hold up under pressureliterally. The inclusion of hard-wire cutters and regular wire cutters further adds to their versatility, ensuring that even small tasks around the house or campsite are covered.On the end of one of its handles is the RXs its bit driver system. It comes with two double-sided bits stored snugly in the handle, offering four functions right out of the box. Got a loose screw or something that needs repairing? The driver system comes in handy, but one of the bits holds a surprising function armed with a carbide tip, this bit turns the RX into a glass-breaker that can easily shatter through even reinforced or toughened glass panels, making it perfect for emergency exits or evacuations. Leathermans upgrade packs and adapters also let you expand its capabilities like adding 1/4-inch bits or other add-ons.All its features included, the Skeletool RX still fits comfortably in your grip. Its ergonomic design, coupled with carbon fiber handle accents, ensures a comfortable grip no matter the task. The balance between size and weight feels deliberate, allowing for maximum control without any awkward bulk. Even the mechanism for opening and closing tools has a tactile quality thats oddly addictiveyoull catch yourself flicking it open and closed just for the sheer fidgety satisfaction of that smooth motion. Finally, a carabiner clip on the handle lets you easily string it to your backpack or belt loop for secure carrying and a deep pocket clip lets you slide the Skeletool RX into pockets and pouches for quick-access.However, the Skeletool isnt for everyone. Its focus on minimalism means it doesnt pack as many tools as some of its bulkier competitors. If youre someone who demands a full arsenal of gadgets in a multi-tool, this might feel limiting. That said, its design philosophy leans heavily on portability and daily practicality, so it never feels like its trying to be something its not. You can always enhance its functionality with additional bits, but even without them, it covers most of the essentials, making it perfect for its intended target audience of first responders and EDC enthusiasts who just need pure functionality in a small yet sturdy package.Click Here to Buy NowThe post The Ultimate Emergency Multitool: Why First-Responders Love the Leatherman Skeletool RX first appeared on Yanko Design.

Theres something undeniably chic about black in interior design. Its timeless, bold, and endlessly versatile, effortlessly elevating any space it touches. Whether youre aiming to add depth, create contrast, or bring a little edge to your dcor, black accents can do the job beautifully.And the best part? You dont need to go overboarda few thoughtful touches are all it takes. Heres how to weave black accents into your home, one room at a time. Lets explore 13 ideas on how to incorporate black accents into every room of your home to create a cohesive, stylish look.1. Make a Statement with Black LightingVisualizer: Shimaa YassinLighting is more than just functionalits an opportunity to make a statement. A black chandelier, pendant light, or sleek wall sconce can do wonders for your space. These fixtures grab attention without stealing the show, blending seamlessly with modern, minimalist, or even traditional designs. Imagine a matte black industrial pendant over your dining table or a glossy black chandelier in your entryway. The result? A room that feels curated and intentional, with lighting as the cherry on top. For smaller spaces, a black sconce beside your bed or above your bathroom mirror can add a touch of understated sophistication. When used thoughtfully, black lighting fixtures make your space feel polished and cohesive, as though every detail was carefully considered.2. Add Depth with a Black Accent WallSource: A House In The HillsA black accent wall might sound intimidating, but when done right, its pure magic. Far from making a room feel smaller, it adds depth and coziness. In a bedroom, a black wall behind the bed creates intimacy, while in the living room, it can serve as the perfect backdrop for art or shelving. The key is balancelight-colored furniture, textiles, or dcor can keep the space from feeling too heavy.In the living room, a black accent wall can elevate the entire vibe. If youre worried about it feeling too heavy, choose a wall that gets plenty of natural light or pair it with light furniture and airy curtains to keep the room feeling open Trust me, a black wall is the bold move your room might be missing.3. Define Spaces with Black Trim and Molding Image Source: RiversideBlack trim and molding can completely redefine a space. Picture baseboards, window frames, or crown molding painted in a deep, rich black. Its like putting a picture frame around your roomit highlights the architecture and creates a polished, tailored look.The beauty of black trim is its versatilityit works in almost any space. In a living room, black window frames can frame a view like artwork, while black baseboards give the room a sense of polish.Against light-colored walls, black trim pops, adding instant sophistication. Want to go even bolder? Pair black trim with dark, moody wall colors for a dramatic, cohesive effect.4. Modernize with Black Kitchen HardwareVisualizer: Amine BRAHIMIThe kitchen is one of the easiest places to experiment with black accents. Swapping out your old cabinet handles, knobs, and faucets for matte black ones instantly modernizes the space. Black hardware pairs beautifully with white cabinets, natural wood tones, or even bold, colorful cabinetry. Its subtle yet impactful, giving your kitchen that fresh, updated feel without a full remodel.If your kitchen leans toward natural wood tones, black accents add a contemporary edge while highlighting the warmth of the wood. Feeling adventurous? Try black hardware with colorful cabinetry like deep green, navy, or even mustard yellow.5. Anchor Rooms with Black FurnitureVisualizer:Saif El MasryIncorporating black furniture pieces into your space is a versatile way to embrace this bold color. From sleek coffee tables to upholstered chairs and bed frames, black furniture adds weight and presence to a room.A black leather sofa, for example, exudes timeless elegance, while a minimalist black dining table creates a modern and streamlined look. Meanwhile, a minimalist black dining table can set the tone for a modern, streamlined aesthetic, effortlessly grounding the space.Black furniture pieces dont just fade into the backgroundthey hold their own, creating a foundation that feels both striking and adaptable, whether paired with bold accents or softer, neutral tones.6. Warm Up with Black RugsSource: Amazon A black rug or throw blanket can ground a room and tie together its design elements. Black textiles provide a sense of warmth and coziness while adding contrast to lighter furniture or floors.In living rooms, a black area rug with subtle patterns can anchor the seating area, while in bedrooms, a black throw or bedspread adds a touch of sophistication. For a softer, more luxurious vibe, pair black textiles with plush materials like velvet, faux fur, or wool. The combination of rich textures and bold black tones creates a space that feels warm and elegant at the same time.7. Elevate Style with Black FixturesVisualizer: DIOUSS WORKSIn the bathroom, black fixtures like faucets, showerheads, and towel bars bring a modern and luxurious feel. Think sleek black faucets, elegant showerheads, and towel bars that add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the design. These accents create a striking contrast against white tiles or marble surfaces, emphasizing the clean lines of the spaceBlack fixtures are not only stylish but also durable, as many are coated to resist fingerprints and water spots. For a cohesive look, pair black fixtures with matching hardware and accessories. Accessories like soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, or a black waste bin can also tie everything together. If you want to take it a step further, consider adding black-framed shower doors or a black vanity for a seamless, designer-inspired finish.8. Black Ceilings for a Bold TwistVisualizer: Samaa ElZwawyWho says ceilings need to be white? Painting your ceiling black is an unexpected design choice that adds depth, drama, and a touch of mystery to a room. Its a bold move, but when done thoughtfully, it can completely transform the atmosphere of your space.The effect of a black ceiling is surprisingly cozyit creates a cocoon-like feel that can make larger rooms feel more intimate and inviting. Pair it with lighter walls and flooring to keep the room from feeling closed in, or go for a monochromatic look with dark walls for a moody, luxurious vibe.Dont limit yourself to just paint! A black-stained wood ceiling or black wallpaper with subtle patterns can add even more interest and depth. Whether youre designing a modern dining room, a cozy bedroom, or an edgy home office, a black ceiling is a daring choice that promises to leave a lasting impression.9. Add Drama with Contemporary Black Crittall FramesImage Source: homesandgardenBlack Crittall frames are like the little black dress of home designsleek, timeless, and effortlessly stylish. Whether you use them for windows, doors, or even as room dividers, they instantly elevate a space. Imagine a pair of black-framed glass doors separating your living room from your dining area, letting natural light flow while adding a bold architectural element.Theyre versatile tooperfect for modern, industrial, or even traditional homes. Pair them with soft sheers for a touch of elegance or leave them unadorned to let their clean lines take center stage. The clean lines are versatile enough to complement almost any design style, from industrial lofts to cozy cottages.10. Make a Statement with Black Doors and WindowsVisualizer: Yaroslava ShpiakinaBlack doors and windows are a simple but powerful way to transform any space. A black front door makes a bold first impression, exuding elegance and sophistication. Inside, black-framed windows or interior doors add instant depth and character.The contrast they create against lighter walls feels fresh and dynamic but never overpowering. They can work in almost any style of home, from a cozy farmhouse to a sleek, modern apartment. To balance the drama, use soft fabrics, warm wood tones, or natural textures to create a more inviting atmosphere.To keep the look cohesive, consider tying in black accents elsewhere, like in light fixtures or furniture. And dont be afraid to mix materialspairing black frames with brass hardware or adding sheer linen curtains creates a layered, sophisticated look.11. Industrial-Style Living Room with Black AccentsVisualizer: Tawfik AbdelmonimIf youre drawn to that effortlessly cool, urban vibe, an industrial-style living room with black accents is a great choice. Think black metal coffee tables, vintage light fixtures, and dark leather furniture set against raw materials like exposed brick or concrete.The beauty of this style lies in its texturesadd cozy throws and soft rugs to balance the harder edges. Oversized black-framed artwork or industrial shelving can add even more personality. Its a look thats bold but still feels inviting, the perfect mix of comfort and edge.A black-framed mirror leaning against a wall or a vintage trunk repurposed as a coffee table can give your living room a sense of individuality. With its bold contrasts and unpretentious charm, the industrial style paired with black accents is as timeless as it is effortlessly cool.12. Built-In Black Shelves for Style and FunctionVisualizer: Nataliia IsBuilt-in black shelves are the kind of design feature that turns heads while staying practical. They create a bold focal point in any room, whether youre styling a living room, office, or even a hallway.Against a light or neutral wall, black shelves offer striking contrast and make whatever you displaybooks, plants, or decorative piecespop. To keep the look balanced, mix in lighter items like white ceramics or woven baskets.LED strips or recessed lights under the shelves can highlight your displayed items while adding a warm glow to the room. Pairing black shelves with metallic accents, such as gold or brass bookends, creates a sophisticated vibe, while natural elements like wooden sculptures or greenery lend a softer, more inviting touch.13. Classic Charm of Black and White TilesImage Source: Full Circle CeramicsTheres something undeniably timeless about black and white tiles. Whether its a checkerboard floor in the entryway or a herringbone backsplash in the kitchen, this pairing feels both classic and fresh.Black and white tiles are bold without being too loud, making them a perfect choice for almost any room. Want a retro vibe? Go for large checkerboard tiles. Prefer something more subtle? Try a smaller, intricate mosaic pattern. To keep the look warm and inviting, layer in natural elements like wooden cabinets or brass fixtures.The beauty of black and white tiles is in their versatilitythey allow you to experiment with textures, colors, and dcor elements without overpowering the space. Whether you style them with antique brass fixtures or minimalist black hardware, they remain a timeless, stylish choice that always feels just right.Finishing NotesAt Home Designing, were all about helping you create spaces that feel stylish, functional, and uniquely yours. Black accents are a powerful tool in any designers arsenal, and theyre easier to work with than you might think. So why not take a bold step and experiment with a little black magic in your next design project? Whether its a statement piece of furniture or a simple black-framed mirror, the results can transform your space into something truly spectacular.For more design inspiration and tips, explore our collection of expertly curated ideas at Home Designingyour go-to source for turning your house into a home youll love.