HGTV Design Star

Thanks From Your Fan Favorite

Liz Gray — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 20:52:21 +0000

After more than 1.2 million votes, Kellie was the clear winner of this year’s Fan Vote and her own online show right here on HGTV.com.

Watch Kellie’s message to her fans, plus why she’s extra-excited to be this year’s fan favorite.

You’ll see more from Kellie soon — check back here for details about her online show!

What would you like to see in Kellie’s online show? Tell us in the comments below.

Watch Meg’s New Show Saturday at 6/5c

Liz Gray — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 22:24:44 +0000

Missing Design Star already? Get can’t-miss design tips and see amazing makeovers on our newest star’s show, HGTV’s Great Rooms, premiering this Saturday at 6/5c.

This week, Meg takes on Kim and Andy’s no-personality kitchen — and turns it into a “mo-ditional,” multi-functional kitchen, dining and bar space. Carpenter and host of DIY Network’s Kitchen Impossible Marc Bartolomeo joins Meg as the show’s full-time carpenter.

Go Behind the Scenes of Meg’s New Show >>

Your Design Star Fan Favorite Is…

Liz Gray — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:50:54 +0000

Drumroll please…this year’s Design Star fan favorite is…Kellie! Throughout the season, this mother of two from Edmond, Okla., won viewers’ hearts with her “warm contemporary” style and equally warm personality. Mark came in at a very close second.

Congratulations, Kellie! Check back here soon for updates about Kellie’s new online show.

Update: Thanks to all who voted for the Design Star fan favorite this year! We had more than 1.2 million votes total, and while Mark netted lots of votes towards the end of the competition, it wasn’t enough to topple Kellie’s lead.

One More Day to Vote for Your Fan Favorite!

Liz Gray — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:34:11 +0000

Want to see more of your favorite designer? There’s still one day left to help one Design Star contestant win their own online show right here on HGTV.com.

Mark and Kellie are in the lead -- who do you want to win Design Star fan favorite?

Mark and Kellie are neck-in-neck in the lead, but it’s still anyone’s game! Vote up to 10 times a day until noon tomorrow, then check back here to see who won out.

Vote For Your Favorite Designer Now >>

Ask the Producer: Design Star Finale and Meg’s New Show!

Liz Gray — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:04:10 +0000

Each week, Design Star producer Loren Ruch gives us the inside scoop on the show. After this week’s finale, he discusses the panel’s final deliberation. Plus, what you can expect from Meg’s new show HGTV’s Great Rooms.

It must have been hard for the design panel to choose between these two talented designers! What made them ultimately choose Meg as the winner?
It was an extremely tough decision because our design panel liked both Meg and Karl so much. In fact, the deliberation took nearly four hours! They reviewed all of the camera challenges and design challenges, and ultimately selected Meg as the winner. Meg and Karl had each won two challenges throughout the season, and then split the win in the tiny houses episode, so it was a very, very even competition all the way around.

What was it like for Meg to meet so many of the HGTV talent right after the win?
Meeting our HGTV talent was a huge moment for Meg. When she said “Oh my God, you’re all real,” it was a true ‘light bulb’ moment. She told me it was in that moment she realized winning Design Star was a life-changing event!

The original concept for the Meg’s series was Design Crimes. How did that idea evolve into HGTV’s Great Rooms?
If I’m going to be completely honest, HGTV’s Great Rooms is the same show as Design Crimes. Meg uses her criminology background to investigate the crimes in her fellow Chicagoans homes, and then redesign the spaces to be more beautiful. This may sound crazy, but I believe that there’s power in words, so instead of focusing on something negative (like the word “crimes”) I’d rather we focus on the positive (like “great”), which is why we changed it to HGTV’s Great Rooms. “Great” is a double entendre in the show, because not all of the rooms are true great rooms, but they are all GREAT!

When did Meg’s show begin filming?
Meg’s show started to shoot about three weeks after we completed production of Design Star. She needed to get working on her designs immediately following our finale. Honestly, she hasn’t slept much since we started shooting Design Star back in March!

Can you give us any clues about what we can expect from Meg’s new show? What did you think were the best on-set moments?
I can say this with 100 percent sincerity – I think that Meg’s makeovers in HGTV’s Great Rooms are some of the biggest and best makeovers that I’ve ever seen on our air. I truly believe that our viewers will be blown away by the level of talent she displays in this show. By the way, HGTV’s Great Rooms debuts Saturday at 6pm ET/PT – so set your DVR’s!! Learn more about Meg’s new show >>

Note: The picture is one of our entire crew – look at how many people it takes to get a show like this on the air! I want to take this opportunity to thank the best crew in the business, and the best viewers in the world…we love our HGTV fans!

David on the Finale: “Can You Handle This Moment?!”

Liz Gray — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 14:41:36 +0000

David dishes on what it was like to be in the elimination room while the judging panel deliberated. Plus, why his heart was beating “1000 times a minute” and what is “the golden ticket for fabulous.”

What did you think of the season finale? Did you think the right designer won out? Tell us in the comments below.

Emily: Your Life Will Change One Million-Thousand Percent

Liz Gray — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 14:41:12 +0000

After Emily congratulated Meg alongside members of the HGTV family, she remembers her winning moment was like as “the nostalgia pumps through her veins.” Plus, how Meg’s life will change and why she’s happy with the winner.

Emily and Meg develop an instant Design Star winner sisterhood and even says “If you need anything, call me!” See what else she has to say about Meg’s win:

Do you agree with Emily’s take on the competition? Tell us in the comments below.

Candice’s Recap: Design Star Finale

Candice Olson — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 02:00:37 +0000

This is it: the final challenge of Design Star. This was one tough time to be on the panel because both finalists were just so incredibly good. Instead of focusing on only this particular episode, we really thought long and hard about the entire season and all of their designs as a whole.

Karl certainly had us at “hello.” I loved his bonus room mural in the very first challenge in the designer’s loft. His white box challenge end product was a tasteful and lovely space, and his mosaic backsplash in episode three was gorgeous. The table-turned-wall-mounted-consoles in the bed and breakfast challenge were genius, and the Dream Kitchen Challenge, well, let’s just give the boy kudos for working with a difficult partner. He kind of lost his footing in the Wedding Challenge, but he did do a good job with the canopy. And the master bedroom in the HGTV’d Challenge — hello, beautiful custom headboard! His vertical bookcase Camera Challenge on The Nate Berkus Show made me literally applaud my television, and his tiny home was BIG on functionality. Which brings us to the last challenge: a five-minute pilot presentation of their own TV show concept, and one room in a client’s home to redesign. And Karl was fabulous on camera tonight. His pilot, “Inspired Design,” really captured his spirit and his love of art and architecture.

The room turned out spectacular — his concept was abundantly clear (his clients loved it) and what I loved was that he was beaming ear-to-ear during the entire evaluation. All of the contestants really grew as designers from day one, but Karl came into his own, hit his stride early on and the camera (and the viewers) truly fell in love with him. This one has a bright future for sure.

Meg had her share of ups and downs. Her custom headboards in the first challenge were a good first impression but then she completely fell apart in the white box challenge with her oddly designed space (which was also a bit creepy, I must say). Her dining room in episode three was clean and smart, but it wasn’t until the Bed and Breakfast Challenge that she truly won me over. I love “beachy” Meg. Her pegboard pots and pans wall in the Dream Kitchen Challenge was inspirational, and who could forget her class-act move helping Cathy in the Wedding Challenge? She fell back a bit again with a few stumbles in the HGTV’d episode but hey, she did have the two toughest spaces in the house (and her wall lanterns were great). Her “Look for Less” apartment was stunning and toppled her competition, and her tiny home was spacious and delightful. Meg was consistent on camera with her amazing energy and contagious smile. Tonight she decided to solve “Design Crimes” and let me tell you, this little powerhouse popped out of my TV screen.

From her space planning to her comfort with her clients, she gave the final challenge everything she had. Her room makeover was simply beautiful, and so was she.

The decision was a toughie but yep, Meg is the new Design Star. I can’t wait to see her fighting design crimes in homes across the country.

And lastly, I have to give a shout out to David Bromstad for being such a wonderful mentor this season. You truly shined, and I don’t just mean your outfit in the finale!

Sneak Peek: Finale!

Liz Gray — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 22:10:21 +0000

It’s Karl versus Meg as the designers face one last test: Do a makeover for a deserving family and create a TV pilot. Who will succeed to become the next Design Star? See exclusive scenes from Monday’s episode.

Who do you think will be the next Design Star? Tell us in the comments below.

Caption This: Episode 10

Liz Gray — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 18:00:52 +0000

It’s finale week, and Meg and Karl are happy together in the final two! How would you caption this photo from episode 10?

Ask the Producer: Episode 9

Liz Gray — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 19:16:00 +0000

Lindsey Weidhorn (Manager, HGTV), Loren and Genevieve goofing around with a cardboard cutout of Vern Yip on the set!

Each week we ask Design Star producer Loren Ruch our burning questions from the last episode. This week: What made the producers choose a tiny house challenge? Plus, what we didn’t see on the show.

How did you come up with the idea to do a tiny house challenge?
We really wanted to update and reinvent our Glass House challenge from previous seasons, and with the popularity of the tiny house movement, we thought that this would be a natural! A member of our staff had seen a coffee table book about tiny houses, and we were sold! The rest is history.

Did the tiny houses seem bigger or smaller than they did on TV?
Honestly, this depends on which of the tiny houses we’re talking about. Mark’s tiny house seemed really, really small in person because of the very busy argyle print pattern on the walls. However, Meg’s open foyer made hers seem much larger. I’d say that Karl’s felt like it was somewhere in between theirs in terms of perceived size.

What did the designers and carpenters struggle most with in the tiny houses?
The hardest part of the challenge was what you didn’t see — pouring rain during about 80 percent of the challenge! Battery Park was a big, muddy mess — and this wasn’t a nice cool rain, it was a warm, sticky, humid mess, where everyone was overheating. Not sure if you saw Mark’s shirt by the end of the challenge, but I was seriously afraid that he was going to end up dehydrated due to excessive perspiration! The other tricky part for the designers was working in such close quarters with another person (their carpenter) in addition to cameras following them. This was a very challenging challenge for many reasons.

It looked like the contestants had a great time with the HGTV and DIY carpenters. Were there any fun moments that didn’t make it into the show?
There were so many funny moments that didn’t make it into the show, but my favorite was when Mark and Carmen spontaneously started to salsa dance in front of their house! The chemistry all the way around was wonderful – and the carpenters added exactly what our designers needed at this point of the competition…motivation, talent, and the great attitudes.

What questions do you have about the tiny house challenge or Design Star as a whole? As in the comments below — Loren may just answer your questions next week!

David on Episode 9: “Honey, Welcome to Television”

Liz Gray — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 14:51:47 +0000

David dishes on why Mark failed this week and who the mentor thinks could “sell anything to anybody.” Plus, who surprised him the most? Hear his from-the-set take.

Which finalist would you rather watch on HGTV? Tell us in the comments below.

Emily on Episode 9: “One Week Until We See Who Wins”

Liz Gray — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 14:50:06 +0000

Emily breaks down the tiny house challenge: Why she couldn’t choose a winner and loser, who she felt bad for and her favorite things about the final two.

Which tiny house was your favorite? Who are your rooting for in the finale? Tell us in the comments below.

Candice’s Recap: Episode 9

Candice Olson — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 02:00:06 +0000

After a few weeks away filming Candice Tells All, I’m back. I was so glad to return to the panel for such a fun challenge this week. I loved the look of surprise (and nausea!) when Tanika told the remaining three designers this week’s task was to design an entire home. OK, so the homes were less than 100 square feet in size, but the smaller the home the bigger the challenge and the more creative the designers have to be. We’re talking minimal square feet in which to design and create a stylish bathroom, kitchen, sleeping and living space. Putting things into perspective, my size 11 feet take up about 10 square feet alone, so just fitting Vern, Gwen and myself inside each tiny house” for evaluation was tight and tricky to say the least (“Great cologne, Vern.”).

Throw in not one but two camera challenges and yowza — this is a doozy of a challenge. Here’s how it went down.

As usual, Meg came roaring out of the starting gate with her infectious energy. Her “vintage Palm Beach” style was in all its glory with her bold green and yellow palette. Creating a foyer with the bathroom and closet in the entry was a brilliant use of space, and the floating bench worked wonders as a functional sitting (with storage under) area that kept the space feeling open and airy. I wasn’t, however, as much of a fan of her palette as my panel peers. “Meg’s green” was everywhere — in such an eclectic and personality-driven room, it bordered on monotony and predictability.

The Judges Tour Meg's Tiny House

However, the camera challenges were spot on. I’m glad to see that from week one all the way to week nine our little firecracker Meg kept true to herself and continued to let her personality shine in each and every challenge. She is funny, dynamic and, most of all, very real, and truly deserves to be in the finals.

Meg Poses in Her Tiny House

Karl is in it to win it. Other than the high contrasting colors that made a small space seem even smaller, I couldn’t find a whole lot wrong with his tiny house. His brilliant architectural eye has been his secret weapon in challenge after challenge, and out of all the designers, it’s obvious that he gives complete thought to what the assignment is as a whole.

The Judges Review Karl's Space

From broad concept right down to the final details, Karl is a smart, talented designer who truly deserves to be in the finals. His passion for what he does is infectious and comes across in front of the camera, where he now appears to be completely at ease. He’s a triple threat in this competition — knowledgeable, passionate, likeable, and the perfect opponent for Meg.

Karl in His Finished Space

Oh, Mark. That gorgeous Chiclets smile couldn’t get you through to the finals, and I have one word that did you in: belts. You’ve made a huge name for yourself in this competition with your amazing art installations, but this time, well, let’s just say you were caught with your pants down and we all know why. I would love to give you points for being inventive (or just being you) but this time I really can’t. The argyle pattern on the walls literally made me dizzy when I walked through the space. The home really felt disjointed — other than a cohesive color palette, and your usual smart styling, I was just left wanting more. I’m sad to see you go, but kudos to you for creating some of the most interesting and dynamic elements in this competition. You have a future ahead of you that’s as bright as your smile.

Goodbye, Mark

I also have to say that on my show every day is Hug Your Carpenter Day. Hotty-hot-hot carpenters Chip, Marc (with his GQ haircut) and spicy tamale Carmen also added a lot of fun to this episode. Cheers to you all for a job well done.

I can’t believe we’re down to the finale! My, how time flies when you’re having fun.

What did you think of the tiny house challenge? What questions do you have about episode nine? Tell us what you’re wondering about in the comments below — the Design Star producer will answer your most-asked questions on Wednesday.

Sneak Peek: Episode 9

Liz Gray — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 18:47:08 +0000

This week the final three face their toughest challenge yet: design an entire house in just two days. Who will succeed and who will go home? Watch an exclusive clip of the action.

Predictions: Who do you think will make it to the finale? Tell us in the comments below.

Caption This: Episode 9

Liz Gray — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 16:39:17 +0000

This week, the remaining three amigos take on their biggest challenge yet: They’ll each be designing an entire house! After all that work, Karl needs a breather…how would you caption this episode nine photo?

Ask The Producer: Episode 8

Liz Gray — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 19:17:00 +0000

The final four designers with producer Loren Ruch.

Each week, we ask Design Star producer Loren Ruch your most-asked questions from the show. This time, he tells us how long it takes to shoot the full season of Design Star. Plus, what were the best moments backstage at The Nate Berkus Show?

What happened to the decorated apartments after the designers finished with them?
Since these apartments didn’t belong to actual homeowners we returned all of the purchased items when the episode was finished. Of course, our producers alerted all of the stores in advance so they knew to expect them back. Some of the items that couldn’t be returned were donated or offered to residents in the building.

How long does the entire season usually take to film?
The entire season takes place over a 35-day period in early spring where we shoot back-to-back days, seven days a week. It’s a pretty intense schedule, but it’s incredibly fun — almost like summer camp, because we’re all in it together…from the designers to the design panel to Tanika and David! We only take four days off in the entire cycle, one of which is Easter Sunday.

What was it like for the designers to be on set at The Nate Berkus Show? Were there any fun moments that we missed during the show?
I think that The Nate Berkus Show was both the most fun and scariest challenge for our designers in the entire season! They were INCREDIBLY pumped about doing Nate’s show, but they also realized at that moment just how important the ‘camera challenges’ are – literally on par with the design challenges, because we’re looking for an overall Design Star. There were two fun behind-the-scenes moments: 1.) When all of the final four got to have their hair & makeup done. They felt like celebrities. You need to remember that they feel dirty, grimy, and sweaty for most of the series, so it was fun to be pampered! 2.) Meeting Nate on the set! He gave the designers a pep-talk moments before the show that really empowered them.

What was your favorite design element this week?
I have two favorite elements this week. I thought that Karl’s bookshelf was a ‘novel’ idea (pun intended!), and I also loved Meg’s wall treatment – the striped panels were quite beautiful and rich looking in person.

What do you want to ask Loren? Tell us your questions about Design Star in the comments below — he may just answer you next week!

David on Episode 8: “It Was Like ’80s Granny, Not-So-Chic”

Liz Gray — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 14:01:46 +0000

David dishes on the final four’s budget design challenge. Who “ignored him completely” and who was practically “peeing in his pants” backstage at The Nate Berkus Show? Plus, he breaks down the best and worst designs.

What do you think was the biggest disaster of episode 8? Tell us in the comments below.

Emily on Episode 8: “The Adrenaline Is Pumping”

Liz Gray — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 13:50:58 +0000

Emily dishes on how it feels to be in the final four. Plus, which remaining designer does she think has “big problems”?

Which designer are you rooting for? Which apartment was your favorite? Tell us in the comments below.

Candice’s Recap: Episode 8

Candice Olson — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 02:00:06 +0000

The final four with TV host Nate Berkus.

We’re down to the final four and after a double elimination last week, the designers really needed to give it everything they had. And this week had it all — the extremely tough challenge of designing a “Look for Less” apartment, plus a Camera Challenge that just so happened to be in front of a live television audience. Talk about pressure! The adorable Nate Berkus was on hand to offer his expert design knowledge, as well as his beautiful television studio.

The designers had a $2,500 budget to give a simply furnished apartment a high-end makeover. In addition to that, they would present a “Look for Less” tip to the live studio audience on none other than The Nate Berkus Show. Here’s how it went down.

Right off the bat, Karl went for his safe neutral palette, and I worried that his room would be boring. Have no fear — his space turned out beautifully. The one thing my lovely Karl always is: consistent. I can always count on his designs to be cohesive, and his vertical bookcases were brilliant. I love that he took a simple shelf and really gave it some thought. As Nate said, “What a novel idea!” Took me a while but I got it — ha! And look who finally showed up for a Camera Challenge. I feel like my baby bird might finally be ready to leave the nest.

Karl shows off his creative design conception: books as shelves!

Oh, Mark, my bearded beloved — what happened? As usual, your taste levels were impeccable, and your vintage picks were perfect in the space, but c’mon — empty walls? Any good designer knows that a room is not 100 percent complete until the walls are finished.

Unfinished walls in Mark's room didn't impress the judges.

So in my book (which will go on Karl’s fantabulous bookshelf), your room was only about 60 percent done. I hate to do it, but Mark, you get the “under-styled” award of the day. I think I need to get you a watch for your birthday to help with your time management issues. (You know I’m going to say it: eight-hour rope ladder, anyone?) And I’m not even going to talk about your desk lamp Camera Challenge; there’s a box of “Dear Mark, I covered my lamp in tin foil and it’s not looking so good.” letters parked on your doorstep.

Mark demostrates how to cover a lamp with "tin foil."

On to the girls. Meg, my sweet Meg — WOW! This challenge certainly had a clear winner. Her “moditional” room was sheer perfection: It was styled well and had a great personal touch throughout. Meg literally crossed every “t” and dotted every “i.” She really used her imagination to pinpoint exactly whom she was designing for. The striped wall molding was unique and extremely well executed.

Meg in her winning space.

Repurposing the coffee table was a perfect tip for her Camera Challenge, not to mention how comfortable she was in front of a live audience. The fact that this was the first room Meg designed completely by herself was icing on the cake. Gone was the frantic, rushed, down-to-the-wire Meg. It looks like someone found her Zen.

Meg on the Nate Berkus Show.

Oh, Kellie. What happened this week? This should have been your challenge. It seems our pint-sized pixie only made a pint-sized effort on her designs. The tablecloths — I mean curtains — were, well … Yes, beauty IS in the eye of the beholder, but what I was beholding was light years away from anything beautiful.

Kellie's tablecloth curtains were a failure.

The rug-upholstered stools were quite cute and I loved the splash of color, but unfortunately stools do not a room make. The evaluation panel was right on; from beginning to end of this task, we just didn’t see the adorable personality that we’ve grown to love so much over the past eight weeks. I was sad to see Kellie go. She was a wonderful competitor and truly a great designer along the journey.

Goodbye, Kellie!

Only three are left. And now it’s time for them to design a WHOLE HOUSE. This should be good!

What did you think of episode eight? What questions do you have about the “Look for Less” makeover? Tell us in the comments below — the Design Star producer will answer your most-asked questions on Wednesday.

Sneak Peek: Episode 8

Liz Gray — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 22:28:58 +0000

It’s down to the final four! This week, the remaining designers must redesign a NYC apartment on a budget — and tell a live studio audience at The Nate Berkus Show how to do it at home. But will self-doubt wreck some designers’ chances to win their own show?

Predictions: Who do you think will go home this week? Tell us in the comments below.

Caption This: Episode 8

Liz Gray — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 17:31:06 +0000

This week, the designers have to think big in a small space: They’ll each make over a tiny apartment with a equally tight budget. So, what’s Mark so concerned about? Tell us your best caption for his photo in the comments below.

Ask the Producer: HGTV’d Challenge

Liz Gray — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 21:30:41 +0000

Kellie's Loft Bed

Each week we ask Design Star producer Loren Ruch your most-asked questions. This week: Did the little boy ever get his bunk beds? Plus, he dishes on how much the judges really see of the behind-the-scenes drama and how much the contestants get to talk to loved ones.

This week’s #1 questions was: Did the crew go back and do any updates after the HGTV’d challenge? Did the little boy ever get bunk beds?

Although we don’t usually go back to a location after the fact it has happened from time to time. In fact, we chose to do it a few weeks earlier in the bed and breakfast episode because the white floors weren’t sealed properly and didn’t ultimately reflect the caliber of work we’re looking to represent on HGTV. In this case of the bunk bed, we didn’t go back to the Bashkoffs’ home because they were happy with the makeover. Although Kellie’s bed wasn’t exactly what they had wanted, it was well-built and done with the best of intentions on her behalf. However, between you and me, I wouldn’t be surprised if they go out and buy a bunk bed on their own!

What was the couple’s favorite room of the house?

We recently received an email from the Bashkoff family and they told us that they absolutely love the master bedroom and the living room — and I would have to agree! I think that Karl and Mark both nailed this challenge. They also love the chandelier in the foyer!

Do the judges get any clues as to the dynamics and personality conflicts on the show? If not, why not?

They don’t, but this question has come up a lot, so it’s something I will really think about for next year’s show because it seems like our viewers are asking this a lot. In reality, there’s virtually no way for the design panel to know about the dynamics other than from the evaluation studio (where they can ask away with as many questions as they’d like). We have always chosen not to influence the panel in any way on their design-decisions by sharing personality issues that occur along the way. It’s very important as a network that we leave the decisions up to our expert design panel – and allow them to judge our designers on the camera challenges and design challenges. Since personality conflicts and dynamics are so subjective, I would hate for a producer to influence Vern or Gen by saying that someone is being “difficult” to work with, especially when there are two sides to every story. But since this question does seem to come up a lot, I promise to really think about it before we head into next year’s show – because your opinions do mean a lot to me!

From Annabelle: I am considering to try out for Design Star and have a question for you. If I am selected to compete, will I have any communication with my family? If not, could you explain why?

Hi Annabelle – we would love for you to try out for the show! Our designers do have the opportunities to Skype with their families a few times a week, but they are so incredibly busy that that’s about all of the free time they have. Also, in order to keep things fair, we ask that the designers don’t talk about the ‘show’ when they talk with their families. Instead they should focus their time just catching up with their spouses and children and enjoying good conversation. Get more information about Design Star audition dates and requirements >>

What questions do you have from episode seven or about Design Star? Tell us in the comments below — Loren may just answer you in next week!

David on Episode 7: Where Were the Bunk Beds?!

Liz Gray — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 13:08:35 +0000

David dishes on this week’s many design faux pas (missing bunk beds, anyone?). Plus, who was he most disappointed (and even “irritated”) by this week?

What did you think was this week’s biggest design disaster? Tell us in the comments below.

Emily on Episode 7: That’s What I Look For in a Host

Liz Gray — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 13:00:42 +0000

Emily wants a host that will be a friend…who do you think delivered that for her this week? Find out, plus who she’s rooting for even though the designs aren’t “blowing her out of the water.”

With only four designers left, who are you rooting for? Tell us in the comments below.

Candice’s Recap: Episode 7

Candice Olson — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 02:00:15 +0000

The Judges With Guest John Gidding

It’s our HGTV’d episode with guest panelist John Gidding (who I swear is the groom model for wedding cake toppers). I have to tell you he is not only better looking in person (impossible, I know) and an incredibly talented designer, but most importantly a true gentleman. I’m so glad that he’s part of the HGTV family.

Now, there’s nothing I love more than individual challenges, and this one was a doozy. The designers were given a humongous new house to work with, and while it was a touchdown for some, it was a major fumble for most.

Mark continues to wow me, and it’s not just the unbuttoned shirt/jacket combo he was rocking at evaluation. He had a huge space to tackle in the living room and dining room and he didn’t disappoint one bit — he is a woodworking master.

Mark's Naturally-Inspired Dining Room

The way he is able to visualize a room is one of the most valuable attributes of a successful designer. His mixture of woods and sophisticated furnishings complemented each other perfectly. And once again, his custom wall was a brilliant addition to the space. He has a perfect record in my book.

Mark's Custom Record Wall

Karl knocked my size 11 socks off this week and his win was well deserved. That master bedroom was one of the best transformations I’ve seen. He lucked out having John Gidding on the panel because his smart architectural details were certainly acknowledged and appreciated. The window extensions made a huge impact on the room, and as far as I’m concerned, that headboard was his winning ticket — subtle yet impactful. I loved the personal story behind the photos on the dresser, and that chandelier was the icing on the cake. Karl is proving to be a major force in this competition.

Karl's Masterful Suite

Meg, I totally feel for you this week. You had two really awkward spaces. Landings and foyers are transition spaces typically passed through en route to bigger areas. The challenge is to make them areas that are dynamic, as well as spaces you want to linger in longer.

Meg's Unfinished Landing

Design aside, I think time management may not be Meg’s forte and that has me a bit worried at this stage of the game. With so little geography to cover, these spaces should have been about one or two big ideas executed perfectly. The chandelier choice however, was bang–on, as was the wall of lanterns. I know they were crooked, but luckily they looked better on TV.

Meg By the Lantern Wall

Kellie, Kellie, Kellie. Design rule #1: Listen to your clients. A bunk bed is a bunk bed and a locker is a locker. They couldn’t have made the challenge easier for you — a 6-year-old told you exactly what he wanted! And you’re a fellow mom — you know as well as I do that when a kid says, “I want a bunk bed,” that doesn’t mean a platform bed. Maybe I was channeling my inner kid, but I think I could actually hear Mason’s voice whimpering, “Where’s my bunk bed?”

Kellie's Finished Bedroom, Sans Bunk Beds

Kevin’s family room was doomed when he focused solely on the mantel and not on the entire space. In true Kevin fashion, the mantel and fireplace came out great because they got all of his attention, but everything else suffered. The rest of the space was missing the big Kevin “pop” that we’ve grown to love. That sad ottoman on top of what looked like a placemat was the nail in the coffin for me. With so much importance placed on the fireplace, this type of seating around it is simply bad design. I love Kevin; his basic planning skills, not so much.

Kevin's Poorly-Planned Family Room

Which brings me to Leslie. OMG. I know her room was for a 2-year-old, but it looked like it was designed by a 2-year-old! Things were going in too many different directions. The makeshift hula-hoop curtain rod was bad enough, but that awful curtain was even worse. The judging panel was right — this was not HGTV-quality. So Leslie my dear, while I will miss your adorable personality, I’m afraid it was your time to go.

Leslie's Scattered Bedroom

Double eliminations are always hard to watch, especially this season with such good designers. Next week we get to spend time with the adorable Nate Berkus. Watch out, Mark: You’ve got some competition in the perfect hair department.

What did you think of episode 7? What questions do you have about the HGTV’d episode? Tell us in the comments below and the Design Star producer might just answer your questions on Wednesday.

Sneak Peek: Episode 7

Liz Gray — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:00:52 +0000

Design Star meets HGTV’d as the remaining six contestants transform a lucky viewer’s home. Will the homeowners love their top-to-bottom makeover, or will indecision wreck the reno? Watch a sneak peek of the action.

Caption This: Episode 7

Liz Gray — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 14:20:56 +0000

This week’s challenge is inspired by the new show HGTV’d, where ultimate HGTV fans receive a surprise once-in-a-lifetime makeover from one of the network’s popular designers. But the homeowners aren’t the only ones getting a surprise this week — how would you caption this photo of contestant Leslie Ezelle and mentor David Bromstad?

Ask the Producer: The Wedding Challenge

Liz Gray — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 14:24:56 +0000

Genevieve Gorder, Tanika Ray, Dina Manzo, Producer Loren Ruch, Vern Yip

Each week, we go behind the scenes of the show with Design Star producer Loren Ruch. This week, Loren shares how they found the bride and groom for the wedding episode and the skill set a TV designer really needs.

How did you choose the couple featured in the wedding challenge?
We hired a casting director to look for real couples who were already engaged, but willing to let up-and-coming designers plan their whole wedding reception! Of course, HGTV was happy to pay for the reception so that was an incentive, but it was a leap of faith to truly they let our Design Stars do everything from soup to nuts – and in my opinion, it turned out absolutely beautifully!

Did they really have the reception immediately following the shoot? Did the crew have to clean anything up or make changes after time for the designers was called?
You better believe it was real! That was one long day on set. The designers finished at about 6:00pm. We had the crew move the tools and equipment out of the way, and then Dina and our Design Panel had to walk through all of the spaces and make their assessments on all of the spaces. After all that, Tanika needed to reveal the room to the bride and groom!! From there, the caterers quickly loaded up the tables and the reception took place! I’ll never forget seeing a bus-full of guests pull up around 9pm (or later) to par-tay…and all this took place on a Tuesday night!!!! That said, it was a rockin’ event and everyone had a blast.

Did any of the elements look more impressive in person?
I always love that question! In my opinion the enormous standing mirrors behind the bar were gorgeous in person, as was Mark’s skateboard wall mural. I also particularly liked Kevin’s ‘groom’s den’. It was Brady Bunch meets Mad Men in the best possible way!

Why are these designers asked to paint, hang electrical, tile, build furniture etc., when real designers don’t do that stuff?
I beg to differ. Although these may not be tasks that you see designers do in your day-to-day life, they are tasks that are required by the majority of our HGTV hosts! I have personally witnessed John Gidding build incredible pieces of furniture and Emily Henderson paint her own walls on Secrets From A Stylist – so we may be asking them to do unusual tasks for the real world, but they are very usual for the life of a TV-designer.

Note from Loren: Thanks for all of your great questions…keep ‘em coming! We only have four more episodes left this season!!

Have a question for Loren? Ask in the comments below — he may just answer you next week.

Goodbye, Cathy

Liz Gray — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 14:00:15 +0000

Despite the fact that her wedding was featured in “three national magazines,” Cathy’s drab tablescapes and un-romantic sweetheart table made the judges say “We will not be producing your show.” But she’s not going without a fight! See what she has to say about going home.

What do you think about Cathy’s exit interview? Tell us in the comments below.

David on Episode 6: “He Didn’t Even Hear Me”

Liz Gray — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:54:41 +0000

David dishes on which space was the “one of the last places” he’d want to hang out. Plus, who he thinks isn’t listening.

What was your favorite part of the wedding reception? What was your least favorite? Tell us in the comments below.

Emily on Episode 6: “It Was Weird, Dated and Over the Top”

Liz Gray — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:30:52 +0000

Last year’s winner Emily Henderson on the four things you need to have a successful reception (hint: not a sweethearts table) and why she can’t wait till next week.

What do you think are the essential elements of a wedding reception? What was missing from the designers’ 24-hour effort? Tell us in the comments below.

Candice’s Recap: Episode 6

Candice Olson — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 02:00:01 +0000

Guest judge Dina Manzo with the Design Star host and judging panel.

Here comes the wedding episode! And this week we’ve got the tough (but uber-glamorous) Dina Manzo. I’ve heard that she really knows how to throw a party, so that makes her the perfect panel member for this challenge.

The challenge: Create a beautiful wedding reception in 24 hours. This is a toughie to break down because it was a team challenge. However, there were definitely some standout moments of fabulousness — and then those not so stupendous.

I’m going to start with this week’s winner, because Mark continues to impress. After a glorious job on his kitchen last week, he came back with an imaginative skateboard wall design for the groom’s lounge. How does he think up this stuff? I really want to spend a little time in his brain and see what else is in there. Not to mention the fact that he was responsible for all the brilliant lighting in the space as well. Come to the front of the class, Mark: That report card has all A’s on it.

Mark's Skateboard Wall

Kevin, let me stand up and applaud you. You stuck to your guns and were in all of your kitschy-chic glory with the groom’s lounge furniture and accessories. Way to not bow down to peer pressure from Karl. But you got lucky, too — one wrong ottoman, and Mad Men could have turned into The Brady Bunch. Overall, nicely done. And I’ll pay you a dollar to stand on that chair and sing, “Three … three magazines” again. Thanks for the giggle. You’re like the best Sesame Street episode ever!

Kevin's '60s-Inspired Groom's Lounge

Kellie and Meg floated around the middle, but both were able to show their strengths, which was challenging considering everyone was working on the same space. The hanging canopy was beautiful. And, Kellie, you were so smart to know that bringing the color up to the ceiling was the right way to define the dance floor. (Yes, Karl does deserve kudos for the installation, even if he had to do his own shout-out.)

Orange Ceiling Decor and Glamourous Victorian Chandelier

The cake looked like a wedding cake should, the flowers were pleasant and I agree with Dina that the scaling was off on the centerpieces. But hey, that’s why you’re not florists. Meg adding flowers to Cathy’s sweethearts’ table when she could have let the bus back up over her was a class-act move. I vote Meg Most Valuable Player of the Wedding Challenge. Actually, Cathy could learn a thing or two about being a team player from Meg — or anyone else for that matter.

Flowers by Meg and Table Settings by Cathy

Moving to the back of the class: Karl, Karl, Karl, what happened to you, darling? Yes, you did a wonderful job with the hanging canopy, but it just seemed like your heart wasn’t in this challenge and you simply gave up. I know I just let Kellie and Meg off the hook for not being floral designers but your arrangements were pitiful. I think you just skated by on this one, so make me proud next week and bring it!

I agree with Dina that Leslie took a ride on the crazy train this week. That sign-in table was just c-r-a-z-y. When did Roman columns become Victorian or even Mad Men? And to top them with a tablecloth straight from Xanadu? Wait, I’m having roller-skating flashbacks from high school. Leslie, you always manage to create something beautiful that surprises me in a good way and this time you made some very odd choices. I know part of it had to do with Cathy’s constant badgering but I wish you could have gone to your happy place and found some inspiration.

Leslie's Sign-In Table

And finally, dear, sweet Cathy. I know you have been published in multiple bridal magazines (“Three … three magazines!”), but this just wasn’t your week. I completely agree with the panel that the sweethearts’ table was the low point of the room — and it was the most important part! It just didn’t feel special. It looked and felt generic, and, Cathy, you are anything but. This was your week to go but I’m sure I’ll see you in a national magazine soon.

Next week the designers are helping someone get HGTV’d. I can’t wait!

What did you think of the wedding challenge? What questions do you have about episode 5? Tell us in the comments below and the Design Star producer will answer your most-asked queries on Wednesday.

Sneak Peek: Episode 6

Liz Gray — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 18:16:57 +0000

This week, the designers switch gears to work on a group challenge: design a wedding reception in just 2 days! But the honeymoon is over for some designers…watch a sneak peek of the action.

Predictions: Who do you think will go home this week? Tell us in the comments below.

Create Your Own Dream Kitchen in 3 Days or Less

Liz Gray — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 14:00:15 +0000

Inspired by this week’s dream kitchen episode of Design Star? Spruce up your kitchen this weekend with our collection of 12 projects that can be done in three days or less. From this modernized kitchen chandelier to a DIY glass tile backsplash, give your kitchen a new look that even Vern, Genevieve and Candice would love.

Check out all our easy kitchen update ideas >>

What would your dream kitchen look like? Tell us in the comments below.

Special Guest: Dina Manzo

Liz Gray — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 21:43:00 +0000

For this week’s wedding-planning challenge, former Real Housewives of New Jersey star Dina Manzo will be the special guest judge. And it only makes sense: She’s a professional party planner and host of the all-new HGTV show Dina’s Party, not to mention she’s ridiculously glam (how much do you love that dress!?). She’ll judge the finished space alongside Vern and Genevieve to see where the designers wowed and where they dropped the ball.

Plus, stick around after Monday’s episode of Design Star for a sneak peek of Dina’s new HGTV show (the whole first episode!) at 10/9c.

Visit the Dina’s Party show page for more info about the show and a photo gallery of some of this season’s picture-perfect parties.

Caption This: Episode 6

Liz Gray — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 14:53:18 +0000

Save the date! This Monday at 9/8c the designers pull off a wedding reception in just 2 days. Cathy and mentor David Bromstad take a break from the planning action…how would you caption this photo from episode six?

Ask the Producer: Dream Kitchen Challenge

Liz Gray — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 22:24:36 +0000

Each week, we ask Design Star producer Loren Ruch your most-asked behind-the-scenes questions. This week, Loren shares the funniest moments from the shoot with guest judge Paula Deen. Plus, what really happens during the judges’ deliberation process?

What was it like being on set with Paula Deen? What was the funniest moment of the shoot?
Being on the set with Paula made me wonder, “Is it really fair to call this ‘work’? I’m having far too much fun to consider this part of my job!” She was a bundle of fun energy and kept the entire crew laughing from start to finish, especially during moments when she’d say things like “Cat Fight!” during a tense moment in evaluation. However, my favorite moment with Paula happened behind the scenes when I saw her looking very ‘seriously’ at her iPad. I thought that something important must have been happening to her at that moment, and I asked “Are you okay? You look concerned. Do you need anything?” She replied, “Darlin’, I’m not concerned about anything…I’m in the middle of a tense game of Angry Birds!” I started to crack up…and so did she. She’s a burst of fun, positive and insightful energy!

How long is the actual time the designers wait for the decisions and how much of their conversation while waiting is edited out? Have the judges ever been deadlocked about who to send home?
Excellent question! Deliberation can run anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours or more. During that time the Design Panel talks through the camera challenges, design challenges and any thoughts they have — and eventually come to a conclusion on their own. There have been disagreements on a particular decision from time to time, but they have never ultimately been deadlocked.

What happened to the kitchens after the challenge?

In a challenge like this (which took place in a studio rather than a real home) the items are either returned or donated. However, if we were doing a challenge at a real home, the homeowners get to keep all of the furnishings that were part of their makeovers.

With the next kitchen challenge, next time, could you do a challenge using a small kitchen done efficiently, incorporating lighting new counters ,eco-flooring and material choices and types so we can learn from the kitchen designs?
We’re in the very early stages of discussing challenges for next year, so I will definitely add this to our suggestion box. I think that it’s a wonderful, relatable and interesting idea!

Do you have a question for Loren about the inner-workings of Design Star? Ask in the comments below and he may just answer you next week.

David on Episode 5: ‘It Looked Like a Fast Food Restaurant’

Liz Gray — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 13:48:49 +0000

See which kitchen David thought was better suited for a drive-through than a dinner party. Plus, who was “steamrolled” and who was David “mortified” for?

What did you think of Meg and Kevin’s kitchen? Do you think the right person went home? Tell us in the comments below.

Watch Cathy’s Winning Camera Challenge

Liz Gray — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 13:46:31 +0000

Despite massive over-staging efforts that made Vern quip “Is there anything left in the grocery store?,” Cathy’s on-camera experience gave her the edge in this week’s Sears Kitchen Camera Challenge. Watch her winning video now.

Want more? Watch all the Design Star videos from this week.

Emily’s Take on Episode 5: “I’m Infuriated”

Liz Gray — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 13:24:46 +0000

See why Emily is infuriated by the judges’ decision. Plus, who isn’t getting her inspired and why Karl was right to let Cathy “dig her own grave.”

Do you think the right person went home? Tell us in the comments below.

Candice’s Recap: Episode 5

Candice Olson — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 02:00:15 +0000

The designers are surprised by a special guest...Paula Deen!

It’s time for the Dream Kitchen Challenge, so who better to step in as a guest panel member than my very favorite firecracker foodie from the South, Paula Deen. The designers were thrown into the frying pan with their most challenging task yet: Turn a totally empty space into the most utilized room in the house, the kitchen.

How did they do? Here’s my take on the action.

Last week’s winner, Meg, teamed up with Kevin, who barely skated by (who can forget those floors?), and these two had much to prove. Meg wanted to show that she rightfully earned her first-place status, and Kevin was eager to overcome his next-to-last-place finish.

Kevin and Meg in their industrial kitchen.

Overall, this kitchen was successful, a functional layout flavored with industrial elements, especially Meg’s smart pegboard pots and pans wall and the tool cart storage chest — both brilliant elements that really drove home their chosen look.

Meg's pegboard-turned-pot rack.

However, the cluttered styling of kid games and papers makes me feel like Kevin needs a time-out in the naughty chair; unfortunately yet conveniently, it’s close by. The choice of a bar-height stool for a counter-height table would surely make even Suzanne Somers’ Thigh-Mastered legs feel like they were being pushed through a pasta maker — yeeeeouch!

Kevin's cluttered kitchen nook was a little too kid-friendly.

I’ll bet Karl was having flashbacks to the Room Repurpose Challenge when he was paired with Cathy this week. Actually, I think this worked in his favor because he already knew her unique approach to working as a team. She definitely puts the “I” in team — it really isn’t there but Cathy says it is, so it is. The two seemed to start out on the right foot, but this kitchen had the good, the bad and the over-styled. Karl did make an excellent call changing up the paint color, but admitting his inspiration was Buffalo wings and celery sticks seems a bit contrived. Frankly, the orange enhanced the warm tones of the wood cabinets — ‘nuff said.

Karl and Cathy in their finished contemporary kitchen.

OK, let’s talk styling, Cathy’s self-professed forte. I think the overboard use of food props resembled more of an all-you-can-eat salad bar than a contemporary kitchen. We need to see more creativity and restraint from Cathy going forward. Kudos to the fact that the bones of the kitchen were good; you both have a genuinely good eye and it shows. Not to mention Cathy’s spot-on camera challenge. She’s a pro, which both helps and hinders her. I can’t help but envision her one-woman show: “News, weather, traffic and Cathy’s design tip of the day coming up after the break.”

Kellie and Mark are simply in it to win it. This country kitchen had all the right ingredients for success — Paula loved it more than butter and that’s saying a lot.

Mark’s tilework was gorgeous (and yes, I agree it would have been great on both sides), but I loved that he at least found a way to finish off the space. The cabbage candles were a last-minute, unexpected touch that proved that a simple idea, executed well, can be simply great.

Kellie turned cabbages into candleholders.

Kellie is not only a designer but also a mom and I felt that really helped her in this competition. She completely understands the needs of a busy family and her table and seating configuration were aesthetically and functionally spot-on. Mark’s light fixtures personified a country kitchen in the best possible way. This dynamic duo is high on my favorites list.

Leslie and Tyler teamed up again and their kitchen was less than appetizing. They seriously needed about three more days to come together.

In her usual way, Leslie added great shopping elements like the chandelier, but Tyler, come on — if you know you’re under the gun time-wise, at least start your tile backsplash on the most important wall, the one behind the sink! A better choice would have been to ditch the wall detail (which didn’t work anyway) and focus solely on the backsplash because it would have been beautiful. And that purple bench — let me count the ways. Unless you’re 8 years old or a size 0 (anyone, anyone?) you aren’t fitting nary a cheek on that bench. Not to mention — purple? Even Prince would be nauseated.

In the end, I think the panel made the right decision in sending home Tyler. Although if Cathy hadn’t been so strong on her camera challenge, I think that she may have been the one sent packing, perhaps with a year’s supply of groceries from this challenge as a consolation prize.

And Paula Deen, get my Savannah peach cocktail ready — I want to come hang with you!

What did you think of episode five? What questions do you have about the Dream Kitchen Challenge? Tell us in the comments below; Design Star producer Loren Ruch will answer the most popular queries on Wednesday.

Sneak Peek: Episode 5

Liz Gray — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 22:27:58 +0000

The designers’ test this week? Build a kitchen dreamy enough to butter up guest judge Paula Deen. But for some of the designer pairs, it might just be a recipe for disaster…

Watch the sneak peek, then tell us your predictions for episode five.

Predictions: Will Cathy’s team go down in flames (again)? Will Mark and Kellie get it together? Who do you think will go home this week? Tell us in the comments below.

Roundup: Top Moments From Episode 4

Liz Gray — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 22:19:40 +0000

Karl, Meg and Mark in their winning room.

From hilarious quips to genius designs at Spring Lake Inn bed and breakfast, catch up on the top moments from Design Star episode four.

Vern called Karl, Meg and Mark’s room the “most impressive one he’s seen in six seasons of Design Star.” Do you agree? See the before-and-after shots.
The judging panel thought Tyler made a faux finish faux pas with the fireplace. What do you think?
Emily’s getting attached to some of the finalists — find out who her favorites are.
Kevin “Pop of Color” Grace and Cathy “Global Perspective” Hobbs almost hit divorce court — see the best captions of their partnership-gone-wrong.
Producer Loren Ruch revealed that crews went back to fix Kevin’s disastrous floors. See the rest of his behind-the-scenes dish from episode four.
David admitted that he was “so disappointed” by one of the contestants. Find out who.
Someone who loved “graphic elements” went home. See the eliminated designer’s biggest regret.
Candice recapped all the action — read her take on episode four.

What was the best moment of episode four? Tell us what you think in the comments below.

Caption This: Episode 5

Liz Gray — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 20:17:45 +0000

Who better to guest judge the Dream Kitchen Challenge than Food Network star and furniture maven Paula Deen?! You’ll get to see which kitchen Paula thinks is the tastiest on Monday at 9/8c, but until then, how would you caption this photo of the queen of Southern cooking?

Think You’re The Next Design Star? Apply Now!

Liz Gray — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:57:15 +0000

Emily, David and Antonio edged out the competition...are you next?

While the season six drama is unfolding, we’re already on the lookout for the season seven Design Star cast! Think you have what it takes to be the next Design Star? Open casting call dates in cities around the country start next week, or submit your application and audition video online for your chance to work alongside Emily, David, Antonio and the rest of the star-studded cast of HGTV hosts.

Ready to apply? Here’s what you need to know.

Read the official rules and eligibility requirements before applying.
Complete the Design Star official application.
Upload your audition video online or attend an open casting call in a city near you:

DC Open Casting Call
Date: Tuesday, August 9th, 2011
Time: 10am- 2pm
Location: The Westin City Center
1400 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
Email: DesignStar7DC@gmail.com

Las Vegas Open Casting Call
Date: Sunday, August 21st, 2011
Time: 10am- 2pm
Location: The Westin Casuarina
160 East Flamingo Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89109
Email: DesignStar7Vegas@gmail.com

LA Open Casting Call
Date: Saturday, August 27th, 2011
Time: 10am- 2pm
Location: Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel
2500 North Hollywood Way, Burbank, CA 91505
Email: DesignStar7LA@gmail.com

Austin Open Casting Call
Date: Friday, September 9th, 2011
Time: 9am- 1pm
Location: Hyatt Regency Austin
208 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX 78704
Email: DesignStar7Austin@gmail.com

Charlotte Open Casting Call
Date: Friday, September 23rd, 2011
Time: 10am- 2pm
Location: Hyatt Place Charlotte/ City Park
4119 South Stream Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28217
Email: DesignStar7Charlotte@gmail.com

Boston Open Casting Call
Date: Saturday, September 24th, 2011
Time: 10am- 2pm
Location: Lenox Hotel
61 Exeter St at Boylston., Boston, MA 02116
Email: DesignStar7Boston@gmail.com

Miami Open Casting Call
Date: Saturday, October 1st, 2011
Time: 10am- 2pm
Location: Miami International University of Art & Design
1501 Biscayne Blvd., Ste.100, 2nd Fl Atrium, Miami, FL 33132
Email: DesignStar7Miami@gmail.com

NYC Open Casting Call
Date: Monday, October 3rd, 2011
Time: 9am- 12pm
Location: Sutton Place
1015 Second Ave., New York, NY 10022
Email: DesignStar7NYC@gmail.com

Get more information about casting dates and requirements here.

Ask the Producer: Episode 4

Liz Gray — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 15:41:27 +0000

Vern Yip, Genevieve Gorder, Producer Loren Ruch, Kathy Ireland, Tanika Ray

We caught up with Loren Ruch, the show’s producer, to get answers to your most-asked questions from Design Star episode four, including: What happens to the eliminated designer after judging? Plus, learn how the crew scouted the B&B location and what the designers do on their days off.

How did you choose the bed and breakfast location for this week’s challenge?
Once we decided we wanted to do a B&B episode, we hired a location scout to scour a 2 hour radius around New York City to find the perfect property in need of a makeover. The minute he found the Spring Lake Inn, we knew we were in luck! The innkeepers were wonderful, and completely accommodating about allowing our designers to do whatever they wanted to the rooms. In the end, the Spring Lake Inn got a total transformation (including what Vern Yip called ‘the best room he’s seen in six years of Design Star’), which will hopefully be beneficial to them in garnering new business!

What happens to the eliminated designer right after judges’ panel? Is the outside-the-judging room footage really the goodbye?
The post-evaluation goodbyes in the Designers’ Lounge that you see on TV are truly the last times the designers see their eliminated counterpart. We whisk the eliminated designer back to the apartment to grab his/her suitcase and then put them up for a night in a hotel before sending them home the next morning.

Were the challenges filmed back-to-back or did the designers have days off to regroup?
It’s a pretty grueling process, to be completely honest! We shoot our episodes back-to-back, but there are four days off scattered through the entire shooting process – one of them which happened to be Easter Sunday this year. On their days off, the designers hang out at the apartment, cook for each other, work out and get haircuts, etc. They are not allowed to leave the property because we don’t want them to do any research for the show, so they really just use the days to regenerate and hang out together! Even the hairdresser came to their apartment so that they wouldn’t need to leave.

Is there a particular challenge that the crew has particularly enjoyed? What is your favorite Design Star challenge?
What a fun question! I think that weather has a lot to do with which challenges we like best/least. This year we dealt with a lot of rain, so anything ‘indoors’ was preferable to outdoors. I have to say my very favorite is this upcoming week’s Kitchen Challenge with Paula Dean. She had the entire crew in stitches, and my mouth literally hurt from laughing so much. Plus, the makeovers are FANTASTIC!! Additionally, working with Kathy Ireland on the B&B Challenge was pretty amazing, too. She was such a ray of light and positive energy that you couldn’t help but be happy around her!

What behind-the-scenes questions do you have for Loren? Ask in the comments below and he may just answer you next week.

David on Episode 4: ‘Such a Big Disappointment’

Liz Gray — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:38:31 +0000

See which B&B room David was most disappointed by. Plus, get his scoop on coaching the designers and what you didn’t see on the show.

Which room were you most disappointed by? Which one wowed you? Tell us in the comments below.

Emily’s Episode 4 Take: Dear Future Design Stars…

Liz Gray — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:22:18 +0000

Since she’s “been there, done that,” last season’s winner Emily offers advice to this year’s contestants — including something they should never, ever attempt on the show. Plus, see which designers she’s getting attached to and which she can’t wait to see sent home.

What do you think? Which designs were you most impressed by? Which were you underwhelmed by? Did you think the right designer was sent home? Tell us in the comments below.

Candice’s Recap: Episode 4

Candice Olson — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 02:00:51 +0000

This week’s challenge took our designers to the Jersey Shore and the home of the Spring Lake Inn. This time, the gorgeous Kathy Ireland stopped by to lend her design expertise — this woman definitely didn’t get the memo on aging! The challenge: Turn old-fashioned bedrooms into up-to-date spaces. Once again, the designers were paired up. I love when that happens because it’s so interesting to see how well they work together — and often, how well they don’t.

Meg, Mark and Karl joined forces on the large suite. Talk about a dream team! They had a great time working together and it certainly showed in their cohesive, beautifully detailed room.

Karl, Mark and Meg In Their Finished Sitting Area

This this was one of the smartest, best-designed and well-executed spaces in six years of Design Star. Meg’s contribution to the room was bright, bold, beachy and perfectly “Meg.” Her fantastic use of color helped to finally show her true colors and I really like what I see. She has absorbed everything the panel has been saying to her.

Meg's Amazing Bedroom Nook Makeover

Karl is definitely rising to the top as well. His wall detail was so clever and his table-turned-wall-mounted consoles will surely see all of America karate-chopping their old nightstands in half.

Karl's Repurposed Coffee Table

I’m not sure I quite shared Vern’s excitement about Mark’s rope ladder. I do think it shows a meticulous work ethic. However, spending eight hours creating a rope ladder — well, all I know is that somebody probably didn’t get their knot-tying badge in Boy Scouts.

Mark's Rope Ladder

Leslie and Tyler were paired up and what a match made in heaven this was. Leslie wowed with her repurposed carpet artwork — loveeeeeeee it! And Tyler’s chairs worked perfectly in the room.

Leslie and Tyler's Finished Space

The faux fireplace treatment, however, was a stinker. These sorts of finishes need to look authentic to be successful; simply trying it isn’t enough. More importantly, a good designer knows when something isn’t working and adapts. I don’t think Tyler was “feeling” his “faux,” but he kept going. Simply painting the washed-out whitewash and sanding the finish back to reveal a bit of the original finish would have given the fireplace the rustic, casual character he was after.

Tyler's Fireplace Faux Pas

I loved their individual touches, but as a whole I think the room was a bit dull. I just wanted a bigger WOW factor — more color, texture, some kind of a statement or point of view — so then it could have been as exciting as Meg, Mark and Karl’s room. Overall it was a success: a good room, just not a great one.

Personality powerhouses Cathy and Kevin were a team on the third bedroom. Let’s start with Kevin’s floor. The bad thing about it? The finish scrapes off easily. The good thing about it? The finish scrapes off easily, making this milky, mucky mess of a floor at least easy to fix (but still inexcusable). Combine that with Cathy’s uninspired moldings and matchy-matchy style and this room was a total snooze-fest. Again, this pairing was proof that when working as a team in this competition, you need to truly be united. If your working relationship is a red-hot mess your end results will surely reflect it.

Cathy and Kevin in Their Finished Space

Bret and Kellie did the last room. Brett’s headboard design puts the hard “C” in comfort — youch! Aesthetically speaking, I think it was just as painful, as the white squares looked like primed canvases screaming out for color, pattern and texture. In bedrooms the headboard is the element with which to make a statement. Where Brett could have been the hero, well, frankly, he blew it.

Bret and Kellie's Misguided Headboard

However, there were some nice elements in the room: The bird chair was brilliant and their space plan worked beautifully. But Kellie, no more kindergarten artwork. Ever since this show aired my 5-year-old and 7-year-old have been begging me to invite you over for a play date. They’re great kids but as a designer I don’t think that’s where you want to be.

Bret and Kellie In Their Room's Sitting Area

Meg, Mark and Karl’s room was a “suite” success and Meg was a shoe-in for the win. I kept waiting for the real Bret to show up to the competition. I know he’s in there, but unfortunately it was too late and he was sent home. Kevin’s rise and fall showed us that each week it’s anyone’s game. Next week is the Dream Kitchen Challenge. If the past years’ competitions are any measure, the process of creating the Dream Kitchen can prove to be a designer’s worst nightmare.

What did you think of episode four? What questions do you have about the bed and breakfast challenge? Tell us in the comments below; Design Star producer Loren Ruch will answer the most popular queries on Wednesday.

Episode 4 Sneak Peek

Liz Gray — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 13:05:22 +0000

This week, the designers head to the Jersey Shore to make over a tired bed and breakfast. Get a sneak peek of the drama right here, then tune in for all the action Monday at 9/8c.

This week’s group challenge brings trouble from the start for more than one cluster of designers. See which ones in the clip below.

Predictions: Who do you think will go home this week? Tell us in the comments below.

This Week’s Must-Read and Must-Watch

Liz Gray — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 21:19:33 +0000

This week, the remaining Design Star hopefuls faced both their first homeowner challenge and guest judges Robert and Cortney Novogratz, hosts of HGTV’s new show Home by Novogratz. Miss something? Catch up on the drama with our weekly roundup.

Did you miss Design Star this week? Watch the full episode.
See before and afters and behind-the-scenes moments from this week’s challenge.
Producer Loren Ruch answers your top questions from episode three.
Candice recapped the best and worst of episode three. Do you agree with her take on the highs and lows?
See why David Bromstad described this episode as a “hot mess.”
Last season’s winner Emily Henderson counts down the most notable moments from episode three.
Kellie is in the lead this week in the fan vote, with Cathy at a close second. Do you agree? Vote to give your favorite designer a shot at an online show.

What was your favorite design from episode three? Whose personality did you love and who got under your skin? Tell us in the comments below.

Caption This: Episode 4

Liz Gray — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 15:57:32 +0000

This week, the designers head to the Jersey Shore, where they’re challenged to make over an outdated bed and breakfast. Cathy and Kevin are paired up this week and their personalities clash from the start. How would you caption this photo from episode four?

Ask the Producer: Your Episode 3 Questions, Answered

Liz Gray — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 15:55:42 +0000

Loren (far right) pictured with the Design Star host, judging panel and guest judges Cortney and Robert Novogratz.

We caught up with Loren Ruch, the show’s producer, to get answers to your most-asked questions from Design Star episode three. Get his behind-the-scenes take after the jump.

Do the designers have advance notice as to what the camera challenge will be, or do they have to come up with a concept on the fly?

The designers have absolutely no idea what the camera challenges are (or the design challenges for that matter) until Tanika shows up and tells them — it’s exactly as it appears on the show! Sometimes she’ll alert them about what David Bromstad may be looking for in the camera-challenge, but other times it’s a complete surprise to them until David shows up!

How different do the finished rooms look in person than they do on camera?

What a great question! Most of the time a room looks bigger on TV than in person, and color definitely “pops” more on television than when you are in the space! And, I can say with confidence that a bright room always looks better on camera than a muted one. From this episode, I thought that Kellie, Kevin and Leslie’s room turned out so fabulous because it had all of those components that look great in-person (smart space plans, good quality materials, etc.), and also on-camera (Leslie’s bright artwork, Kevin’s clever office, Kellie’s fun use of color, etc.).

Q. Karl’s backsplash looked so professional on the show; was it as great in-person?

You bet it was! It was the first time in Design Star history that one of our designers not only made his own mosaic tiles, but also finished the entire process including grouting! It was quite the feat, and the panel members were super-impressed!

What behind-the-scenes questions do you have for Loren? Ask in the comments below and he may just answer you next week.

David on Episode 3: ‘It Was a Hot Mess’

Liz Gray — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 18:03:21 +0000

David dishes from the set on which room was a total disaster. Plus, see what David was embarrassed to show the homeowner.

See David’s reaction to this week’s rooms below.

What do you think was the most cringe-worthy moment of episode three? Tell us in the comments below.

Emily Talks Episode 3: 5 Standout Moments

Liz Gray — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 18:01:36 +0000

Emily tells us the top five things that she loved (and hated) about episode three. Plus, find out which designers committed a cardinal design sin in Emily’s book.

Watch as Emily counts down the biggest wins and red flag from this week’s challenge:

Do you agree or disagree with Emily? What was your favorite and least favorite moment of episode three? Tell us in the comments below.

Candice’s Recap: Episode 3

Chelsey Bowen — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 02:00:17 +0000

I’m still out shooting Candice Tells All, but don’t worry — I’m still watching! This week, the stars of HGTV’s Home by Novogratz, Cortney and Bob Novogratz, came by to give their perspective on our designers. This challenge was the most important one yet: working with actual clients in their homes. The designers were split into groups and assigned two rooms in two separate houses. The assignment: Give some old rooms new life.

First up was the Callegaris’ house. Leslie, Kevin and Kellie took the basement, and Doug and Mark took the living room. The Callegaris asked for a living room that would suit large family gatherings, with plenty of comfortable seating but still have room to dance. Right off the bat it was obvious that Doug and Mark were not working cohesively. It was shades of Doug and J from episode one’s loft challenge, and their lack of teamwork showed. From their disagreement over wall color to poor furniture choices and a complete lack of passion in general, the only thing they did as a team was throw the challenge away.

Their living room was ridiculous from top to bottom. Nothing about it matched, and all of the furniture was pushed up against the walls. Just because a family asks for a “dancing space” doesn’t mean you need to set up the room for a full-time dance party. Doug really dropped the ball on furniture selection, and his accent-wall color choice was even worse. Mark fought him on it, but should have firmly put his foot down. His wood wall was clever, but he should have spent more time with Doug to make sure the other 80 percent of the room looked as stylish as his wall.

Leslie, Kevin and Kellie’s basement had some wonderful elements. Leslie is starting to show that she thinks like a “mommy,” which is a good thing. That collage with the children’s handmade drawings was clever and really added an important personal touch to the space; I know viewers are going to want to try that for themselves. Kevin’s family-friendly office corner was kitschy and chic, just like him. I loved that while it was functional, it was still classy and had great elements of design. And Kellie — smart girl tackling those boring structural columns to make an island. Creating that space in the center really worked and, overall, the entire room did look like one designer created it instead of three. Mark and Doug should take note.

Next was Christina Scano’s house. Tyler and Meg took the dining room, and Cathy, Bret and Karl tackled the entertainment room. Cathy set out to do all of the shopping while Bret and Karl did the demo. Good for them for standing up for themselves and demanding they do some of the shopping to showcase their own style. (Mark should take note.) The room had definite high points and low points. The high? Karl’s gorgeous mosaic backsplash. This is the first time in Design Star history that someone has started and finished such a beautiful tile project — and to think that he even broke all of the tiles himself is so admirable. That really showed us who he is as a designer, and I love that he broke out of his perfectly painted mold (even if his camera challenge was about doing graphic lines on a wall). Bret’s area was just sad. The furniture looked like it belonged in an office, not a home and, again, he didn’t give us that “edgy” side he keeps promising. And Cathy — we know you’re a great shopper, but this is not “Staging Star,” this is Design Star and you need to start designing! Ditch the “all neutral, all the time” and start having fun! Okay, but I did dig that coffee table — I’ll give you that.

Tyler and Meg’s dining room was really pretty. It was really pretty. Did I say it was really pretty? Because that’s pretty much all I can say about it. Tyler’s wall was inventive and made a statement and Meg’s refinished hutch was smart, but I wanted to go in and throw some trinkets on the table and family photos on the hutch to give it some personality. The space looked generic and I agree with the panel — it just didn’t look personal at all. But, it looked really pretty.

Kevin definitely deserved to win because that shelving was fabulous. I’m also giving Karl an honorable mention because maybe he’ll come do that mosaic tile in my house. Unfortunately, someone has to go every week and this time it was Doug. That paint color was just unforgivable.

Next week we’re headed to the Jersey Shore and the designers will have another chance to step up their game.

What questions do you have about the episode three? Ask in the comments below; the Design Star Director of Programming, Loren Ruch, will answer the most-asked questions on Wednesday!

Sneak Peek: Episode 3

Chelsey Bowen — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 19:30:22 +0000

The remaining 10 designers face their first homeowner challenge when they have to give old rooms a new lease on life. Tune in this Monday at 9/8c.

Bret, Cathy and Karl have a power struggle from the start. Will their room be a success?

Episode 2 Roundup

Chelsey Bowen — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 14:00:01 +0000

This week, designer Thom Filicia joined Genevieve and Vern on the judging panel for the iconic white box challenge.

Did you miss Design Star this week? Watch the full episode.
Candice recaps the episode’s best and worst moments.
David Bromstad shares behind-the-scenes details.
Emily Henderson wasn’t ready to see J go.
Q&A with Design Star producer Loren Ruch
Kellie took the lead this week on the fan vote. Vote to give your favorite designer a shot at an online show.

Caption This: Episode 3

Chelsey Bowen — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 13:30:03 +0000

Bret and Karl prepare for their third challenge: giving old rooms new life. How would you caption this photo from episode three?

Q&A With Design Star’s Producer

Chelsey Bowen — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 18:56:46 +0000

Loren Ruch and Tanika Ray in front of the 5 Pointz Aerosol Art Center, where they shot the White Box Challenge.

We caught up with Loren Ruch, the show’s producer, to get answers to your most-asked questions from episode two. Get his behind-the-scenes take after the jump.

Why was Tanika chosen as the new host?

Tanika was a natural choice to host HGTV Design Star because she is OBSESSED with HGTV and has extensive background as a host (you may have seen her on Extra). I thought she was going to faint when she met Candice Olson for the first time, and she has also become fast friends with Genevieve and Vern. She has a great attitude, positive spirit and is a lot of fun to work with! I can honestly say that we have one of the most fun sets on television. There’s a lot of laughing, joking and camaraderie.

What was the budget the designers had to work with?

For the White Box Challenge, each designer had $1,200 in cash to work with. We also gave them tools and paint, so they didn’t need to pay for those.

If Mark’s room hadn’t won, who do you think would have won the white box challenge instead?

It was actually a very, very long deliberation because the panel was having a hard time deciding between Mark, Tyler and Kevin. Everyone ultimately agreed that Mark’s room was the most avant-garde, but Tyler was a very close second.

I missed the show! Will it air again?

Watch us Saturday at 5pm ET if you missed this week’s show!

What questions do you have for Design Star’s producer? Tell us in the comments below and Loren just might answer them next week.

David on Episode 2: My Favorite Challenge

Chelsey Bowen — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 12:38:15 +0000

Mentor David Bromstad dishes on his favorite Design Star challenge: the white box rooms.

Watch to see why he hates to hear the word “nice.”

Want more Design Star? Watch all videos from episode two.

Emily’s Vlog: Not Ready to See J Go

Chelsey Bowen — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 12:36:16 +0000

Emily agrees that Mark had the best design of the night and thinks Tyler’s chair belongs in a gallery.

See why Emily wasn’t ready to see J go.

Want more Design Star? Watch all videos from episode two.

Candice’s Recap: Episode 2

Chelsey Bowen — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 02:00:17 +0000

I may be busy shooting Candice Tells All, but I’m still keeping a close eye on Design Star! This week, extraordinary designer Thom Filicia came by to lend his style expertise to one of my all-time favorites: the White Box Challenge. It killed me not to be there. This time, the designers were each given an identical room and asked to transform it using only restaurant supplies. They were told specifically not to create functional spaces. This challenge is a great opportunity for the designers to really express themselves by thinking unconventionally (which can prove to be difficult for even some of the best designers).

I love that the first thing Tyler did was immediately get rid of all of the furniture in his room. He wasn’t afraid to think on a broad scale, and clearly understood that the challenge was not about function — it was about thinking outside the box (no pun intended). His idea to use 400 water bottles as a piece of furniture, and then turn it into a light source was stellar. In fact, I know just the spot in my house where it would look fabulous.

Design Star isn’t just about showcasing the designers; it’s also about the designers having the ability to utilize takeaway information from the panel. And Kevin did just that. Last week, we told him what we wanted to see, and this week he totally delivered. That butcher-paper wall was creative, chic and beautiful. On the downside, that wall feature was so imaginative that it actually trumped the rest of the room. I only wish he had been that risky with all of his decor.

Mark’s ode to his grandfather and the Air Force was imaginative and inspirational. His design was touchingly personal and at the same time extremely well executed. The “flying futon” was a showstopper, and his vivid use of color in the wall mural captured the symbolism perfectly. From his comfortable camera challenge to his brilliant design, he hit the nail right on the head. Or rather, his missile hit the target!

Meg, Meg, Meg … She was in trouble before she even started. Knocking the coffee table over at the last second was the least of her problems. The coffee wall shadows were innovative in theory, but they (and the rest of the room) were so poorly executed that it was hard to see past all of the missteps. I felt for her — there is nothing worse than having a vision and not having the ability to complete it.

Cathy’s spice mosaic floor reminded me of Julie’s “feather” floor from last season. It was obvious that she spent much of her time on it, but unfortunately it didn’t spell success. I have a feeling it might have smelled better than it looked. Her plate design on the wall was interesting, but it was way too controlled, much like Cathy herself. In both episodes so far, she seems on the brink of letting go, but then quickly pulls herself back. When she was declared safe this week, it was actually the first time she showed her vulnerability. If she brings that emotion into her designs next week, she might just find herself on top.

Leslie’s space was a perfect example of why I always say, if you’re going to do something, do it all the way. Her use of words on the wall was genius, but she quit before the finish line. I really wanted her to carry that edgy look through the entire room.

Bret’s room kind of, well, bombed for me — it needed a bigger wow factor.

And Doug didn’t show us who he is, he showed us Keith Haring.

With the exception of his take-out container light fixture, Karl played it pretty safe.

Kellie’s footprints and side table were great, but in the end Mark’s room was head and shoulders above the rest. He won this challenge hands down.

J’s room lacked inspiration, and it seems so did J. When David asked her if her fire feature was going to be in the center of the room, she should have taken it as a hint. She gave up and it showed, so it was her time to go. The White Box Challenge is the time to really “wow” us, so those who didn’t had better knock it out of the park next week.

What questions do you have about the episode two? Ask in the module below or in the comments below; the Design Star Director of Programming, Loren Ruch, will answer the most-asked questions on Wednesday!

Sneak Peek: Episode 2

Chelsey Bowen — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 21:00:31 +0000

No Design Star season is complete without it: the white room challenge! The 11 designers get the chance to truly show off their individual design styles this Monday at 9/8c.

See what last-minute mistake Meg makes. Will she be able to recover before time runs out?

Episode 1 Roundup

Chelsey Bowen — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 16:30:55 +0000

We’re one episode in and one designer down. After tackling a New York City penthouse, some stood out, others will need to work hard to impress the judges at the next challenge. Catch up on this week’s top moments.

Did you miss Design Star this week? Watch the full episode.
Candice recaps the episode’s best and worst moments.
David Bromstad shares which room was the biggest disappointment.
Emily Henderson disagrees with the judges’ assessment of the first designs.
3 questions with Design Star producer Loren Ruch
Cathy and Kellie have been neck-and-neck all week over at the fan vote. Vote to give your favorite designer a shot at an online show.

Go Behind the Scenes With a DS Production Designer

Liz Gray — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 13:00:45 +0000

The view from the Design Star penthouse.

Ever wonder who chooses and designs the spaces for each episode? So did we, so we asked our frequent contributor Brian Patrick Flynn, who also happened to be a production designer for this season of Design Star, to give us the inside scoop.

Head over to Design Happens, our daily design blog, for Brian’s behind-the-scenes take on episode one.

For more insider info, catch our interview with Design Star’s producer, Loren Ruch.

Who’s Your Favorite Designer So Far?

Liz Gray — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:57:34 +0000

Which Season 6 designer is your favorite?

You know the old saying: There’s no second chance for a first impression. So, who won your love after episode one?

Did you secretly love Blanche’s tea light holders? Were you wowed by Cathy’s camera presence (and Emmy awards)? Impressed by Leslie’s coffee table pick? Loving Karl’s jungle-inspired paint job?

Tell us who you love (or who you don’t love) so far and why in the comments. Plus, vote for your favorite designer — the winner will get their own show right here on HGTV.com.

Caption This: Episode 2

Chelsey Bowen — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 13:30:58 +0000

The designers are gearing up for their second challenge and one of our faves, the white box rooms.

How would you caption this photo from episode two? Tell us in the comments below.

3 Questions With Design Star’s Producer

Liz Gray — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 15:42:42 +0000

Design Star host Tankia Ray, producer Loren Ruch, David Bromstad and HGTV art director Chris Moore.

Ever wonder what really happens on the set of Design Star? We caught up with Loren Ruch, the show’s producer, to get answers to three of your most-asked questions from episode one. Get his behind-the-scenes take after the jump, plus watch a Loren from HGTV’s Facebook page.

Do the designers have to live in the rooms they design?

Great question, and the answer is definitely “no”. In reality, the women designers share rooms with the other women and the guys share rooms with guys – so, as an example, even though Meg & Tyler designed a room together doesn’t mean they both get to sleep in it. And one more thing that people find interesting is that the combinations change as designers start getting eliminated from the show…so if a bed opens up in a two-person female room, one of the designers from the three-person female room may move into it mid-season to keep the rooms from feeling lopsided.

How many hours a day are the designers on set (or on camera)?

The designers are virtually on camera 24 hours a day – no joke! We shoot our challenges for about 12 hours, and then we shoot them in their apartment for approximately two to four hours in the early mornings and late evenings. The other hours are spent sleeping – we want the Design Stars to be well rested since the tasks are so labor intensive.

Everyone was also very interested in the coffee table that Leslie used in the great room. Where did it come from? Also, did it have a rubber odor?

I, too, LOVED that coffee table that Leslie found! It was from a store called Montauk Sofa, and you can find it on the front page of their website. It had no odor, whatsoever, and was truly a piece of art. Best of all, it had an incredible amount of storage (as you saw when Kellie was able to lie flat inside of it) – which is really important, especially in New York City, where closet space is at a minimum!

Missed Loren’s live Facebook chat? Watch it all here right now:

What questions do you have for Design Star’s producer? Tell us in the comments below and Loren just might answer them next week.

Emily’s Vlog: Unforgivable Tea Lights

Chelsey Bowen — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 12:56:26 +0000

See where last year’s winner Emily Henderson disagrees with the judges. Plus, the biggest disasters of the night.

Watch for Emily’s insight into the best and worst of the season premiere.

Want more Design Star? Watch all videos from episode one.

Did you agree with the judge’s decisions? Tell us in the comments below.

David on Episode 1: The Highs and Lows

Chelsey Bowen — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 12:56:20 +0000

Mentor David Bromstad shares what he thought about the contestants’ first designs. Who committed major design don’ts and whose room was the biggest disappointment?

Which designers made the worst mistakes? Watch for David’s from-the-set take.

Want more Design Star? Watch all videos from episode one.

What do you think the biggest design faux pas of the night was? Tell us in the comments below.

Candice’s Recap: Episode 1

Candice Olson — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 02:00:38 +0000

Design Star Judges Candice Olson, Genevieve Gorder and Vern Yip

Visit the Design Star blog every Monday after the show for Design Star judge and Divine Design host Candice Olson’s recap of the episode’s best and worst moments. Read her take on the season premiere, then tell us what you thought in the comments below.

It’s a new season of Design Star, and you know what that means — 12 designers are ready to show what they’ve got and win their own show on HGTV. And let’s just say, this isn’t a group of wallflowers. For their first challenge, the designers were asked to pick a partner to make over six rooms in their own living space. It’s always fascinating to see who pairs up, and this time was no exception. Here’s my take on the episode one action.

Surprisingly, Cathy and Leslie partnered up on the great room to great success. What could have been a disaster in mismatched personalities turned out to be a pretty cohesive room and early evidence of two very strong and unique design sensibilities. Cathy did drop the ball big-time on the uncomfortable, poorly executed banquette. (I think I still have indentations in the back of my thighs.) But Leslie chose a fantastic coffee table and, overall, their room showed great promise and I can’t wait to see what they do individually.

Leslie's tire-tread coffee table was a highlight of the great room.

Meg and Tyler struggled a bit with their bedroom. They made wonderful use of color and fabrics with their custom headboard, but unfortunately their bookshelf and poor accessorizing left much to be desired. It was as if they were making a meal with only half of the ingredients. I wanted to see a lot more from them, but luckily their intention shone through and they were both safe from elimination.

Tyler and Meg's purple bedroom seemed unfinished, but showed potential.

J and Doug were the last two designers to pair up and it seems like maybe they weren’t instantly drawn to each other for a reason. J has a clean aesthetic, and knows what she wants — which is exactly the opposite of whatever Doug wants.

Doug and J spent much of the competition at odds with competing personalities and design styles.

It’s too bad that her headboards were so amateurish; I was much more impressed by Doug’s use of contrast in such a small room. His choice of the bold patterned wallpaper and large mirror to add depth to the space was one of my favorite overall moments in the penthouse.

Doug's bold focal point was the highlight of the small bedroom.

Bret and Kevin paired up and can I just say — tangerine orange in a bedroom? The color orange is said to induce hunger, so instead of “relaxing” I would probably sit in that eye-popping room eating.

Bret and Kevin's bedroom had too many mixed messages.

They’re lucky we ultimately made them both safe this week due to a few smart choices in the space, because that suitcase on the bed was certainly tempting us to let Kevin go as he was the one who placed it there.

Kevin (and his suitcase) were safe this week.

Kellie and Karl’s bonus room was more than a bonus, it was my favorite room of all! They worked seamlessly together and did a fantastic job planning the space, and it showed. Everything they chose for the room was smart and savvy; from Kellie’s teeny-tiny nook to Karl’s beautiful mural, they hit a major home run. Karl called it right — he said he wanted to win the first design challenge, and he did.

Kellie and Karl's bonus room popped with color and personality.

What can be said about Blanche and Mark’s bedroom? They had a brilliant plan, but, truthfully the only thing that showed a finishing touch was Mark’s luxurious head of hair. I was disappointed with this room. The tea-light holders on the walls looked like doilies and the framed wallpaper had hints of potential, but they totally missed the mark with terrible execution. I did like Mark’s bookshelves, but, again, all the beauty was lost because they were unfinished. Sadly, one has to go every show and this time it was Blanche.

Blanche's wallpaper panels and Grandma-esque tea lights weren't enough to keep her in the competition.

The White Box Challenge is next. I can’t wait to see what the designers do with their spaces!

What questions do you have about the episode one? Ask in the module below or in the comments below; the Design Star Director of Programming, Loren Ruch, will answer the most-asked questions tomorrow! Plus, live chat with Loren on our Facebook page Wednesday at 12:30 ET.

5 Reasons To Watch Tonight’s Design Star Premiere

Liz Gray — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 19:02:15 +0000

Just in case you don’t already have a reminder set for the Design Star season premiere tonight at 9/8c, here are five reasons to tune in.

1. Chat Live With Last Year’s Winner During the Show
Live tweet with @HGTV during the Design Star season premiere! Join season five winner Emily Henderson (@em_henderson) and special guest hosts from @Ruemagazine for a star-studded Twitter party. Follow the action with the hashtag #designstar.

2. Meet all 12 New Designers
You’ve read their bios, browsed their portfolios and voted for your favorite — right? Now, meet the designers for the first time and choose which one(s) you’ll root for this year.

3. Marvel at the Designers’ NYC Digs
This season of Design Star is set in the Big Apple, which means the 12 hopefuls get to stay in an urban-chic pad with killer views! Get a glimpse of their awe-inspiring living space in tonight’s episode.

4. Get Design Advice From Our Biggest Stars
Acclaimed HGTV interior designers Genevieve Gorder, Candice Olson and Vern Yip return to judge the competition. Get their take on why spaces work and why they fail (along with some priceless commentary), then use their expertise to make your home Design Star-worthy.

5. Spend the Evening (and Every Monday) With David Bromstad!
You know him. You love him. The Color Splash host and Design Star season one winner is back to mentor the contestants all season long. Plus, get his behind-the-scenes take from the set right here every Wednesday.

What’s your favorite part of Design Star? Tell us in the comments below.

Sneak Peek: Season 6 Premiere!

Liz Gray — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 21:57:22 +0000

Count down with us: The season six premiere of Design Star is a mere three days away! Curious what’s in store for the designers? Watch our sneak peek to get a taste of the week one drama.

Watch to see what mentor David Bromstad asks the designers to do in their very first challenge.

Who will stand out and who will go home? See how it starts on Monday, July 11 at 9/8c.

For even more inside scoop, live tweet with @HGTV during the Design Star season premiere! Join Emily Henderson (@em_henderson) and special guest hosts from @Ruemagazine for a star-studded Twitter party. Follow the action with the hashtag #designstar.

Caption This: Episode 1

Liz Gray — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 23:13:36 +0000

We’re warming up for the Season 6 premiere of Design Star ( Monday, July 11 at 9/8c) here at HGTV HQ, and so are this season’s contestants — especially designer Leslie Ezelle.

How would you caption this photo from episode one? Tell us in the comments below.

Design Star Goes Mobile

Liz Gray — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 21:05:18 +0000

An all-new season of Design Star premieres in just 5 days! We can’t tell you which designer’s show is first to be canceled (you’ll have to wait until Monday, July 11 at 9/8c), but we will reveal something else: You can get a taste of this season’s content right now on the HGTVtoGo app.

Download the free app for your iPhone or iPad to see a sneak peek from the premiere, plus meet all 12 hopefuls and browse the designs that earned them a spot on the show. Then check back every week to stay up to date with recaps from Candice and the inside scoop from Emily and David, plus watch full episodes and flip through behind-the-scenes photos.

Download the HGTVtoGO App Now >>

Want more Design Star? Get to know the contestants and vote for your favorite hopeful, then tune in Monday, July 11 at 9/8c for an all-new season.

Meet Our New Design All-Stars

Chelsey Bowen — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 21:07:44 +0000

Meet the new cast of HGTV Design Star! Check out their bios and see the designs that earned each a spot in season six.

Plus, check out our fan vote, where you decide which rising star gets an online show on HGTV.com. Vote up to 10 times a day for your favorite designer.

Design Star Season 6 Premieres July 11

Chelsey Bowen — Thu, 19 May 2011 21:10:18 +0000

HGTV’s top-rated reality competition, HGTV Design Star, returns for a dynamic sixth season on Monday, July 11 at 9/8c. Acclaimed HGTV interior designers Genevieve Gorder, Candice Olson and Vern Yip return as judges and will be joined by special celebrity guests throughout the series.

We also have two familiar HGTV faces joining the cast this year. Tanika Ray, host of the new series HGTV’d, will also be hosting Design Star, and winner of season one David Bromstad comes back to mentor the new contestants.

New host, Tanika Ray

Mentor, David Bromstad

Check back soon! We’ll be revealing the new cast of competitive, creative designers.

Your Fan Fave: Dan Faires

Chelsey Bowen — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 21:34:27 +0000

Fan favorite Dan Faires shares what’s coming up for his new online show.

What would you like to see on Dan’s show?