Secret Sources 2007

An importer of exotic hardwoods, Rare Earth has a loyal following among architects, but that doesn't mean it's off-limits to you. From its 60,000-square-foot production facility in Michigan, the company imports such species as bubinga, bocote, teak, and tigerwood and uses them to manufacture flooring and flooring accessories, inlays, and stair parts. Most of the wood comes from sustainable, managed forests. Traverse City, Michigan; 800-968-0074; Rare Earth Hardwoods