It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Thousands of families across the world are decking the halls with boughs of holly in anticipation of the holiday season. While the majority are decor novices, we think members of Tau Sigma Delta likely have the best looking houses on the block!

Founded in 1913 at the University of Michigan, Tau Sigma Delta is the only national honor society that recognizes architecture and design students. While the organization was originally for landscaping and architecture students, Tau Sigma Delta is now “inclusive of upper level undergraduate and graduate students in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Architectural Design, Landscape Architecture, Visual Arts, Planning, Decorative Design, Interior Design, Industrial Design, and all the allied arts of Architecture.”

According to its website, “The Society recognizes intellectual achievement, effort, and initiative, as well as leadership and character. The prize of membership acknowledges undergraduate and graduate students who attain high scholastic standing in their field.” Tau Sigma Delta awards excellence in design through three medals -- Gold, Silver, and Bronze:

• Gold Medal Award: Honors practitioners in the field and represents the organization at large
• Silver Medal Award: Awarded to professionals “with a record of distinction in design” by individual chapters
• Bronze Medal Award: Given to students “who have distinguished themselves in design and is elected by the student membership of the chapter.”

There are currently 52 chapters and 19,000 members nationwide. You’ll recognize these top-achieving students on graduation day by their gold and white honor cords.

Are you a member of Tau Sigma Delta? Is decorating and design work your favorite pastime? Let us know in the comments!