From Guest Blogger James Bolosh, Vice-President of Event Programming
THIS IS WHEN IT GETS TOUGH!
It always gets a little tense this late in the game. I remember first season when Temple went home – I didn’t agree with the judges’ decision at all. Temple was one of my all-time favorite Design Star finalists and I was crushed. And who could ever forget Robb Mariani from season 2 and Mikey V. from last year? We always wish them all the best and hope Design Star has a positive impact on their careers.
Moving on to your questions:
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From Guest Blogger James Bolosh, Vice-President of Event Programming
I loved this episode and I think we’re starting to get a clear picture of the unique talents each of our designers has. Working with kids is both fun and daunting, and I think most of them met the challenge head-on. With that said, Jason’s placemat wallpaper was a bummer. And I completely disagreed with the judges on Torie’s room; I thought it was the ultimate dream pad for Carina. I loved the name treatment on the wall and thought the space plan was right on. But obviously I don’t get a vote. And we have to give props to Antonio – when all he had to work with was “ham.” He created a great space. It’s getting down to the wire and next week is another first: creating an outdoor room. I was there on the shoot and it was hot, hot, hot outside. There’s lots of drama next week, so stay tuned for a whole lot of fun!
Now on to your questions. Tomato Queen wanted to know who cleans everything up (brushes, hallways, etc.)? Fair question. We have a crew that comes in when time is called on the challenge and cleans up the spaces and fixes any problems. Our goal is to always leave the homes in better shape than when we arrived. Now the actual challenge room is exactly as the designers left it when time was called. This is a competition and those rooms are considered off limits until all the “afters” are shot.
On to some other questions:
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From Guest Blogger James Bolosh, Vice-President of Event Programming
Hello, Design Star fans. A big “thank you” for watching and for all your comments on my blog. As always, I selected a few to answer and also picked one from Tomato Queen (maybe my favorite screen name ever) on the Design Star message boards to answer.
TQ wanted to know why the designers can’t use their cell phones on this show but could on HGTV Showdown. Well, that’s an easy one. Design Star is, of course, about great design, but it’s also about good communication skills. Once the designers arrive on location, they cannot have contact with anyone. This is a serious competition where someone will win the greatest prize on TV, their own show on HGTV. That means we’re extra cautious about anyone cheating, and that’s why there are no cell phones. What if there is a family emergency? Well, the executive producer of the series always sleeps with her cell phone, and if there is any sort of situation that would warrant their immediate attention from their family, she is on it immediately.
Then why is it okay in Showdown? Another easy answer: two different shows. And besides winning bragging rights, there are no other stakes in the competition. Cell phones only add to the fun.
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From Guest Blogger James Bolosh, Vice-President of Event Programming
Hello friends!
Garages were a new challenge for us this year and they proved to be especially tough in Los Angeles. Flooring was a much bigger issue than anticipated due to earthquake damage. With that said our designers rose to the occasion and I think both homeowners benefited from their talent. Who wouldn’t want their garage to be tricked out like these? Not sure why Dan, Nathan, Lonni and Tashica didn’t put a new door on the space but Design Star is all about making choices.

I have to say that I’m going to be a little sad to see Tashica go.
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From Guest Blogger James Bolosh, Vice-President of Event Programming

The big white room challenge was this week, and let’s hear it for Dan! His room was amazing. It reminded me of fall, and after how hot it’s been in Knoxville this summer, I’m ready for the change of seasons. Nathan’s room was pretty cool too. It’s hard to beat how creative his orange chandelier was. And Torie’s wallpaper art and charcoal rug — so clever.
I’ve also heard a lot of chatter about why Tashica didn’t get eliminated last week. Well, she was not the team leader, and while she fell down on her responsibilities, history has shown on Design Star that the team leader takes the heat for their crew.
As promised, I’ve chosen a few questions to answer — hope these help to clear up a few things on your minds.
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From Guest Blogger James Bolosh, Vice-President of Event Programming
Hello, Design Star junkies!
Every week I get lots of questions on my blog. So this season I decided the best use of this forum was to give you, our avid viewers, the answers you’re seeking firsthand. Send in your questions and I’ll choose a few each week to address head-on.
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From Guest Blogger James Bolosh, Vice-President of Event Programming
What a location this year. It was every bit as spectacular as it looks on TV! I always love sharing some little-known facts, so here we go.

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You’ve probably heard Design Star is headed to Hollywood this year, but have you seen the incredible house they’ll be staying in? We’ve got a sneak peek for you!

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