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Temple's audition video would have been a great audition for Hustler, Penthouse or Playboy. Nice plot to get on the show though ,it worked. I hope your kids did not view it. Great reality series! Being a desinger myself, I really enjoyed watching the challenge for creativity each week.

Posted by Karen – September 13, 2006 1:41 AM

September 11, 2006

What a series!

Clive, you're a great TV host--knowledgeabale, but neutral. (And I love your current HGTV promos using orinary people, not taking your design suggestions, or you, too seriously. I can't help but smile every time I see one.)

David's courage of conviction is award winning in itself. I loved that he didn't add one spot of color to the glass house assgnment--that really would hve been smaltzy. David knows how to keep it simple.

I like the two designers returning for the final show--old freinds returning to hlep out the finalists. The program was more like sit-come, not the isolation of one talent. I found myself pulling for the people, not just their designs.

I liked Alice's personality--she could replace cutsie personality Candice Olson (trying to be actress) for me anyday.

What a great concept--tough assignments in very short periods of time. Bwst show of the summer. And what a grat time slot--what else was there on Suday evenings. I came across the series mid-stream, but caught up with repeats and watched the entire series several times.

Finall, David and Alice's designs may have been the award winners, but it's their terrific personalities that will make them real winner for life.

Now, your tougher assignment is yet to come. What concept do you come up with to outdo what you've just completed?! The only thing I missed is you didn't tell us the total vote counts (but I bet you tell your advertisers--as well you should!) I'm looking forward to your new show, David.

Congratulations, too, to the writers, director and producrs of the show. Keep up the great work.

Carol

Posted by Carol – September 11, 2006 3:39 PM

Design Star was a great change of pace . I watch alot of shows HGTV . Some of the shows were nail biters for me , setting on the edge of my seat and watching every second to see what they would do next .
Ramona was a bit too quirky and would have been better suited for "Trash to Treasures".
Joseph was gone before he could really show what talents he really had .
Teman and Teran worked better together than as individuals and seemed to be lost when they were split up for challenges .
Donna was too uppity and snooty for me . In the kitchen remodels she was not helping do any of the work. In both of them she was too busy shopping , sleeping in the van and running away from work . She was all about the money on the other shows I saw her in.
Temple was not the leader type and had great ideas for the kitchen remodel and worked hard , but just could not pull it together and had her sights set too high for the time they had to do the work.
Tym did ok with with what he did , but lets put some life on the walls and what was with the tv in the corner of the appartment . He is comfortable in his own skin from what I could see and kudos for that .
Alice is a down to earth , hard working , bubbly personality . Great designs , but in the end she should have done something other than a kids room . You can tell she does not have alot of experience with it . One good note on her kids room , the adult furniture touches , something the kids can carry from one part of life to the next .
David had great ideas all the way through and pushed the envelope . I would never have wanted to design an entire room from a pet store . Great ideas with the carpet . The red room was a bit oddly broken up for me . The final challenge was in one word AWESOME . Love it . Good luck in your future on HGTV , looking forward to your show .
Clive nice to see you , look forward to more shows of you with Lisa and the crew .

Posted by Dee – September 11, 2006 1:39 PM

I wish you all the best life has to offer you sweetie,you deserve it.your are very very talented GOD BLESS YOU .Ihope to hear more of your on your indeveres. All the best for you Sweetie BEST OF LIFE

Posted by Robim Clayton – September 11, 2006 9:03 AM

I missed the first episode, and I have been DYING to see that horrible plastered vacuum cleaner that Ramona did. My in-laws told me about it and I just have to see it. The only picture of it I saw on HGTV.com wasn't very good. If anyone has a better picture or can tell me where I can find a good picture, please let me know!! KTLyn430@aol.com

Thanks!

Posted by Caity – September 8, 2006 3:59 PM

Definitely David & Alice were the right ones for the final vote.
Design Star certainly takes each out of their comfort zone and real world decorating. It is awesome what they have accomplished given time & resource constraints.

I'm glad I did not see the first episode with David's initial introduction - it would have soured me on what is a delightful young man.

Alice is good, but predictable.
David is true original creative design and is the clear winner.

The judges are strong and fair. And, Clive, perfect-o.

Great show. First show I have enjoyed watching & re-watching. Also, it was so nice to see a show that the majority of the players were into co-operative competition.

So glad Vanessa was eliminated early --- her lack of talent didn't take long to uncover. Her personality---get some counseling young lady!

HGTV - Keep up the quality work.

Posted by Sue – September 7, 2006 10:52 PM

I am rooting for David because he has a natural talent.
I hope HGTV will not pair up him and Alice. That would not be fair to either one of them.
They each have their own individual talent but a Sherri and Matt they are not.
If anything, give them each their own show and see how the ratings go.
I wish them both luck but I think David's talent is far superior.

Posted by Eva – September 6, 2006 4:29 PM

In my opinion, David won this one hands down. He is so gifted and that is something that I believe can not be taught.
Ramona was just a joke and Joseph we never really got to see what, if any talent he had.
Temple did an awesome job with the "auto parts" room she designed.
Vanessa's 'beauty salon' room to me, was something a 5 year old could have done better.
Donna was good for shopping but I am not sure that is a talent.
The twins had great personalities (unlike many of the other competitors) and they were hard workers.
Tym is good with building things and I think he has some talent but not enough.
Alice, did not over impress me like David did.
She has talent but to me it is mediocore. Her final challenge was a real let down.
I have learned a lot from watching HGTV but I seen nothing 'creative' from her work. She went to the store and bought and used while David on the other hand, was extremely creative.
If Alice wins this, I hope she will lose the 'faces' she makes while speaking. Its hard enough to listen to her talking.
The judges did a great job and was very fair in their decisions. Cynthia turned out to be my favorite.

Posted by jan – September 6, 2006 3:45 PM

Unlike many "reality shows" this one has been both entertaining and a learning experience. While HGTV found a good initial group with all shapes and sizes, I was ac happily surprized that I didn't have to watch insecure squabbling and low class personalities that other shows seem to have just for viewer entertainment (NOT MINE! UGH!) The designers all really want to win this and had overall good sportmanship. Temple is beautiful and has some good talent, I think she needs to get much more individual. Something Tym has, as well as creativity, but he seems to have a time problem and a delagation problem that comesacrosss in a kind of persickity attitude. Alice is sweet and delightful and creative- but-push the box girl! Much More! David is a cutey and yes, could work in my home anytime with his shirt off- and what's wrong if he knows it? Just please don't push it! He is extremely talented and original ,and his designs encompass the whole better than many of the others. I wish GOOD LUCK to all the designers in their work! Thank you HGTV from a 30 year working artist and decorative craftswoman for a show worth watching.....

Posted by Jana – September 6, 2006 3:01 PM

Both David and Alice were and are fantastic..too hard to choose a winner. I think HGTV should use both of them on alternate weeks; then we would have the best of both worlds of design. I thoroughly enjoyed this show and watched many of the episodes more than once. Keep up the good work. David and Alice - you both were a joy to watch and I loved your rooms/designs.

Posted by Chris. – September 6, 2006 2:52 PM

Hi Clive and All...great show! I think Alice and David will be best TOGETHER. They each have their strengths, but are not professional TV personalities. Either will be good enough, but TOGETHER we, and they, will be best served. Thanks!

Posted by Kitty – September 6, 2006 1:51 PM

I did not have a chance to vote for the designstar
but i just want to say that from the beeginning of that competition David was the best....most creative
he has an unbeleavable sence of archetecture and design...he is a very talented young man.
I myself is an artist and went to school in Paris 3 decades ago at the Sorbonne and studied art...David should and have to win this competition...The other where BLA....
I hope you win David....!!!!

Posted by Denise Stahl – September 6, 2006 1:08 PM

I WANTED TO LET HGTV KNOW HOW MUCH I HAVE ENJOYED WATCHING DESIGN STAR, I HURRY BACK FROM CHURCH ON SUNDAY NIGHTS SO I CAN GET READY FOR THE SHOW.
FROM THE VERY FIRST SHOW, I TOLD MY SON AND HUSBAND DAVID WAS GOING TO BE THE WINNER! YOU GO DAVID !! I THINK HE REALLY HAS THE TALENT TO MAKE IT ON A SHOW OF HIS OWN. I'VE SEEN HIS TEARS,EMOTIONS,
AND BEST OF ALL HIS PRAYERS. I LIKE ALICE, BUT I CAN'T BELIVE THE ROOM SHE DID IN THE PARK. SHE HAS MORE TALENT THAN THAT.MAYBE SHE WAS JUST NOT SURE WHAT TO DO WITH A GLASS HOUSE. I LOVE DECORATING MYSELF, AND ENJOY CLIVE AND LISA ON SUNDAY NIGHTS ALSO. GOD BLESS YOU DAVID.

Posted by linda – September 6, 2006 10:42 AM

From reading the most recent comments, I have to wonder if a portion of the people responding may be tending to vote for David because he's good looking man. And saying Alice's voice is bad has nothing to do with her design work (I'm southern, also, so there!). As far as I can tell, David's work is great but is pretty predictable. Most of his work that has been his alone has been very similar. Alice, in my opinion has shown a variety of styles. Her studio apartment was totally different from the "man cave." Shouldn't we vote on the designer instead of the appearance or sound of voice? Good luck, Alice!

Posted by Anne – September 6, 2006 2:13 AM

The final two are BOTH excellent! They appear to compliment each other both in design and presentation. I'd like to see them co-host a few shows.

Posted by June – September 6, 2006 2:12 AM

Seeing Ramona on this 1st show, I remember thinking, and saying out loud to my husband, that she HAD to be a purposeful distraction placed on the show to draw the viewers in. The producers of the show would most certainly have had designers more like the others they chose to be on the show and would never have had to think twice about whether or not to include Ramona on the show. She just HAD to be put there purposely, not only to add bizarre interest and "are you serious?!" shock value from the viewers, but also as an "easy" first elimination. I mean how obvious could it be that she would be the first to be eliminated? Definitely a plant for entertainment rather than a true candidate for her own design show.

So 'fess up, HGTV Design Star producers! You put her on there as an "easy out" didn't you?!

Posted by Karla – September 6, 2006 12:18 AM

I've been with you from the beginning and I must say that evey move does not suprise me.
Ramona ;it's to bad to have that kind of talent.
I thought the twins were very creative but had trouble coming across.
Vanessa so selfassured ;so me me me; that will never fly .
Donna the spending diva , Miss high society .I would have a hard time being in a room with her or watching her . Her attitude is that she is better than anyone else.
Temple : Miss Utah big deal ! I did see some things from her I liked ,but on the over all she is also a me me person ,not a team player.
Tym's designs are hard and cold and I think that most of America is comfortable, soft and very livable not Tym.
Alice I think she captures most of all what American women want their homes to stand for . She addresses things as a normal down to earth person .
I am rooting for Alice.
David , so much talent I think your talent tends to be more metro life style not Hometown Usa but you do have the stuff it takes . I would like to see you quit talking about your good looks . Those tatoos are not professional looking .
Clive great job always enjoy your style.
The judges were okay they are also very metro.
You could tell each week who was going to get the axe and I could tell who their favorites were.
Thanx for your time Good Luck to Alice and David you both deserve to Win in my Book!!!!!

Posted by Laurie – September 5, 2006 5:22 PM

What was up with Ramona? That lady was off her rocker!

Posted by andrew – September 5, 2006 5:14 PM

I think David's work is AWESOME.I think he would have a cool show.

Posted by andrew – September 5, 2006 5:08 PM

Loved the show and thought my favorite was Alice...until the kid's room.

What a disappointment. It's obvious that Alice has not been around children. I loved everything she did until this. She would be great on HGTV but in this challenge, David was the winner. David's room was so creative and he did a good job with the commentary.

Good luck David.

Posted by Pan Wimberly – September 5, 2006 2:16 PM

My comments are directed first to the judges. On the last edisode with Alice and David, the three judges made design-altering ctitique regarding both of their work.

David's lack of a "pop" color accent made his design a relaxing bedroom. The bed showed as the primary feature. I could have that design in my home and live with it for a long time.

Alice placed the beds at the end of the room. Usable for real life. Children need to enter their room to an area not assigned for sleep so they can enjoy other uses for the room and enter the sleep area at bedtime.

Kudos to Alice and David for planning usable rooms for those of us out here who live in homes that are used for living life.

It's very difficult to choose one winner. These two are so talented in design and in presentation.

Alice is so creative and her choices are focused on everyday living inside her creation. David is sensitive to the situation and creates an inspiring room.

Both know how to make a space a home.

I hate to choose. Overall, David does edgy things that I don't see on your other shows. Alice is sooo good; better that some of your other design host/hostesses.

My vote goes to David. Maybe you can keep Alice around too?

Posted by Jan – September 5, 2006 1:39 PM

I really enjoy the design star show, Ihaven't enjoyed HGTV since you took off Moderen Masters . Romona reminded me of trash to treasure part on designing cents. It still trash when its done. I think David has the most talent. I like Alice but her high pitch sound she makes drives me crazy.I couldnt watch her because I coundn't take the sound. Plus her work was stander nothing special. But I do think shes a stand up person. Works great with others

Posted by Mar Winston – September 5, 2006 1:03 PM

This is regarding the last episode. David's was excellent. Alice didn't show any creative skill. Plain beds, ugly drapes, preschool looking headboards. Boring. How she made it to the final episode is beyond me. If, David, doesn't win, it's rigged.

Posted by Pam Westphal – September 5, 2006 12:50 PM

While it would be nice if both David and Alice could win, I think David should. It's "easy" to go out and buy things for a room and put it together in an aesthetically pleasing way, but David doesn't just buy, he actually does design. Even if Alice is more comfortable in front of the camera, David is not too hard to look at. I think that with each viewing, he has become more relaxed. Lastly, the lighting fixture that Alice purchased hung too low. If you noticed, they had to crouch to walk or stand underneath it.

Posted by cathy – September 5, 2006 12:22 PM

David's design is so top notch!!!!, and I believe he will win. However, I think you should find a place for Alice also. She is also good and has a great personality! She's tons better that some of the people you've used before in various shows!

Posted by C.Adams – September 5, 2006 10:55 AM

I have very much enjoyed this inovative show. I would compare Design Star to the American Idol viewing. It was like sitting on the edge of your seat to see the performance of each designer and which of them remained for their next design challange. It was such a waste of time to hear all the whinning from Donna- grow up. She appeared to be a spoiiled brat. I very much enjoyed the episode "Wild card". David created his vision and I was amazed at how he used the different products. Fantastic job!! Both David and Alice are where they should be. Great success to you both.
Geri A. Troy, Il

Posted by geri alexander – September 5, 2006 10:13 AM

David should win. He's the best man for the job. Alice makes some bizarre faces and really doesn't have much appeal.

Posted by Sue – September 5, 2006 4:16 AM

HGTV,I love watching your show. I am not a designer,but I do think I have a good design sense, thanks to watching hgtv about 4 hours a day! I love trying to guess what the judges will think and have been right on so far. I realize there is alot of editing done for time, but I would like to see more deliberation by the judges, and to see why they make the decision they do. The episode with the non traditional design stores was the true test for these people, David is very talented with using things out of the original context, and Alice does have a great tv personality and a good sense of style so I have to agree with alot of the above comments that they both deserve a show or should work together.
I think Temple has potential to be a tv personality I think we will see her again! Tym has good skills,but needed to bring in the clients personality. The survivor of Katrina loves music and dancing, if he would have hung art work and had some accessories that portrayed her personality the choice may have been more difficult in the final two elimination.As for the rest of the crew that were eliminated, I was right every week with my guesses.
Now that we are down to the last two, I will have to choose David because he seems to have awsome design skills and has even come a long way in his in front of the camera like-ability. I love watching Alice but her glass house did not WOW! me as a whole. Sorry Alice but the curtain in the corners was what did it for me, This was your chance to shine and I think you should have thought more out of the box. In your defense I think if you were given more time I think you could have blown the roof off your idea. I also would like to see what Temple and Tym would have done in the glass house even if it is just a sketch! Cant wait to see who wins!

Posted by Lisa – September 4, 2006 7:44 PM

I have really enjoyed these episodes of designer star. I love designed to sell with Clive and porter. I have learned so far that my house is a mess. Nothing matches or even has a theme or anything. You are helping me and you do not even know me, but thanks a million.

Posted by janet – September 4, 2006 7:42 PM

Just a post script: I do think that whoever wins will be an asset to HGTV.

Posted by Donna – September 4, 2006 7:20 PM

I think the right 2 people were chosen in the end. They are both very talented and personable. It makes it very difficult to decide who to vote for . I think alot depends on individual taste. That is why, ultimately, I had to go with David, even though I think Alice is very talented and would make a good designer. I liked David's choice of what type of room to design. It is boyh calming and luxurious. Alice's room, while nice, tended to reflect her bubbly personality more than her design talent.

Posted by Donna – September 4, 2006 7:17 PM

I believe Alice deserves to win, because her design is more colorful and interesting than David's, although I like David. But I think Alice is just naturally more colorful and more at ease in front of the camera. This is a definite plus. America, please vote for Alice.

Alice, if you read this, "You go girl"!

David if you read this, I wish you well, you're a nice guy.

Posted by Rebekah – September 4, 2006 6:19 PM

Hated the show from the initial ads, but now I wouldn't miss it for any thing! The judges have done very well, and my 72 year old mind says David is the best! His designs are sophisticated, clean, timely, and workable. Alice is adorable, but don't care for her designs as a general rule. They would make a good team -- and would keep it even more interesting.

Posted by Carolyn – September 4, 2006 1:29 PM

I usually hate reality shows, but I like hgtv and surprised myself by really getting into Design Star. I am hoping David wins.

I really like Alice, she seems like a very nice person, a charming tv personality, and has talent but... it doesn't strike me as anything special or unusual.

I think that David would have a better show, his talent really shines through in new, creative ways that you don't often see in the real design world or on television.

I don't think people want to watch a show with a nice host but run of the mill design, they want to see a show that offers innovative ideas that will hopefully jumpstart their own decorating plans.

Posted by Lauren – September 4, 2006 11:24 AM

I would like to comment on Alice's children's room last night. The 'storage' she had in there is totally unuseable. How is a child suppose to access it? There was no step stool in the room; not to mention it is dangerous as it could fall on a child; and the toys in the lockers could topple out, creating another hazard. The gel stickers are choking hazards for small children when they fall onto the floor. There was no place for play, like a chalk board, lego table, there was nothing in that room that would cause a child want to stay in there or capture a child's attention or inspire his/her creativity.

Posted by Donitta – September 4, 2006 9:08 AM

Just finished watching the final episode. Have never wanted to watch the challenge shows but haven't missed one of these. I think David is the most creative of all ten and was glad to see his very polished presentation this week. I hope he wins because I won't watch Alice's show--her voice is like nails on a blackboard and she is tooooo girly cutsie. Her designs are plebian.

Posted by Lou Jurek – September 4, 2006 1:51 AM

this has been one of the best programs that I have watched and now with us voting on the last two is so very exciting. Maybe they should do the show together !!

Posted by Beverly Fillio – September 3, 2006 11:52 PM

Wow! Tough choice this week. I have never been a reality show watcher, but this has just been a terrific show. I was so glad to see that, for the most part--cases in point: Ramona, Vanessa, Temple--people acted with maturity and professionalism. Whoever America chooses, it will be a good choice because it truly came down to the best two.

Posted by Rian – September 3, 2006 11:42 PM

Would it be possible to have David and Alice on a show together or even their own shows with each hosting? They are so talented and have great personalities. We will all miss the one not chosen. Room by Room has two hosts and then there is Clive and Lisa. ;o)
That is of course if David and Alice would like to work together.
Design Star is a pure pleasure.
Thanks Clive.

Posted by Helen – September 2, 2006 9:33 PM

WOW... after Dancing W/the Stars..I thought i'd Never! watch Reality T.V again.After Kelly Monaco, Won Fair and square, and a Full grown CryBaby Man..w/ No Class, whined enough, to get T.V. to let him re-do it and Make them Give it to him Instead!! I Was Thru...
I'm SO glad I gave it another try! I have been as Emotional thru this also.Maybe more!! Since I am a Designer,and an,Artist..I do Murals,and what Romana did...was NOT a mural..That was Graffetti..
And whinning....well John, from dancing wts...has new Drinking buddies...send him Tym.and (Don't Blame Me Vannessa)...
And speaking of Blame... Vanessa(Hog all the Fame for the project)..#1 and Lie about the project #2...How about that, O' I had Nothin'to do w/ that blame...When she was the One who did it! I just wanted to reach thru the camera and slap her!(I would NEVER want a liar to Host a show for Televison)..I think their should have been an automatic Double elemination over that!
And DONNA...Whoa ..Don't get me started! I just plain could Not Stand that woman!..She was so Struck on herself,I had problems every time she stayed on!.. She was so jealous of Temple and it was so obvious..is was sickening,and she was suppose to be older,more mature,and professional..What a JOKE!! and the sad thing was Temple wasn't jealous of her,she was just trying to get her to do any!work, and get over herself and participate...and its a shame that it made Temple look bad in ppls eyes ,because it was just too appearant!..and I'm known to be Slow .. LOL
But as far as the (2 standing)....
Well I think it's just as it should be!!!
Good job Judges..I just think temple should have stood much longer that Tym.. I was Never impressed, w/ his style, and the way he whinned on Temple's Poject..about how long things take .. yada yada.. and He cost her time, And, production!... WELL... On his Last Project... HIS Carpenter... DID The SAME to him... The ONE He LET GO!!!.... I thought THAT WAS IRONIC..POETIC,Really....If I say so myself...
GOOD LUCK DAVID AND ALICE....MAY THE BEST WO(MAN)
WIN!!!!! : )

Posted by kimberly – September 2, 2006 8:19 PM

Well, down to the final two - the very best two. I feel David will win simply because he seems to be the most creative. The artist in him has brought something unique to each challenge. Alice is delightful and a solid designer, but I feel everyone wants that little something unexpected for a TV show which David can do without getting too crazy. He is adorable and fun to watch, and also seems to be a genuinely nice man. With all that talent he could come off arrogant, but he has never seemed over confident or acted prideful (like that witch Vanessa-YUCK!)

Anyway, best of everything to both Alice and David, as well as Tym, Donna, the Twins, Joseph and Temple. I sincerely hope all benefit greatly from their time on HGTV's Design Star.

This show has really been GREAT ENTERTAINMENT!!! THANKS!

Posted by Suzanne – August 29, 2006 7:48 PM

Ilove this show. It is the only TV show that I MUST watch each week. I am hoping David will win becuase his designs are the most unique and creative. He is also very hot- so that does not hurt!!

Posted by craig – August 29, 2006 10:46 AM

I'd like to see David and Alice co-host a new show. He has lots of pizzazz, she has lots of class. That would make a great combination in my opinion. I think you should give it a whirl!

Posted by dbf – August 28, 2006 1:59 PM

I can't believe Tym made it to the last 3. I've been a licensed interior designer for the last 34 years. His rooms are the kind I'm always asked to "fix". Is he color blind? All of the different greens didn't blend, and the blue rug was way too strong. Plus, he whined about not being able to accomplish the plans all of the time. A little more work and a little less whining might have made the difference in Temple's unfinished kitchen. Alice really seems to know how to read her customer. I hate to walk into a home and be able to tell which designer the homeowner hired. The home should always reflect the homeowner, not the designer.

Posted by Donna Oliphint – August 27, 2006 11:51 PM

Let's be clear--a big part of this show has to be just plain "likeability" on TV. All the creative design chops in the world can't save you if you come across as testy, sulky, or otherwise not likeable. Some talented folks have been eliminated because of that, and I think tonight Tym's problem was just that--maybe he looked relaxed, but let's face it--you wouldn't "live with" him for weeks and years of shows. The two finalists have the most of that going for them AND creativity, but frankly, one of the big problems I have with the show is the idea that a designer should also somehow be competent at construction or paint or the things that craftspeople do in reality. To me this is about (a) understanding the CLIENT and THEIR needs and wants and (b) applying your creativity TO those needs and wants to make them MORE than what they know they can be, then (c) organization and leadership to get the craftspeople to see things through and handle problems that inevitably come up along the way.

Throw in likeability, and you have a Design Star. I think the two finalists are JUST the right people and I'd have a hard time choosing between them. Can't wait for the finale!

Posted by Designer – August 27, 2006 11:07 PM

This is the first reality show that I have enjoyed and I find it fascinating. David and Alice both have great personalities for a TV show and their skills for design are high. I hope to see a little more interaction with a client and how their desires are carried out as opposed to a classroom exercise. As a designer I find myself looking forward to the show. Thank you & Good luck to all.

Suzanne

Posted by Suzanne – August 26, 2006 9:11 PM

Love the show. Sorry to see Temple go, but it was the right decision. I think Alice has stepped up and will probably be declared the winner.

When is Vern getting his own show?

Posted by deborah – August 24, 2006 3:13 PM

Really enjoy the show. It's a shame that all the footage has to be boiled down to 42 minutes because I feel like I'm missing a lot. The judge's comments are obviously edited and I wish that they were able to show more footage. I really didn't feel like I knew any of the designers until Week 3.

I wasn't suprised that Temple was voted off this week. I really like her designs but she lacks maturity and diplomacy, both of which are necessary to carry off such a show. She'd have contractors bailing mid-project with her unrealistic "It'll just take 2 minutes" attitude. She should have gone home last week when she presented the homeowners with everything they wanted, unwilling to consider that all her projects couldn't possibly be done on time and within budget. (As Alice said, you just can't expose a sub-floor in a kitchen. There's a reason you put non-porous flooring in kitchens. Think spills and stink.) Were she a designer in real life, she'd be sued and/or end up losing money on all her projects due to her lack of experience.

Donna just wasn't able to work under the confines of the show. It's obvious that she loves to browse around for the perfect accessory. You can't do that when you have 24 hours to complete a project. The judges are more focused on being innovative in a short amount of time and working with a very modest budget. Donna didn't have the inclination or time management skills to pull that off.

Vanessa came across as being way too cocky. From her first challenge to distancing herself from her team when they put plates on the wall, she bugged me.

Didn't really get to see much of either twin's style. I agree that Tyman's kitchen plan was bizarre. Put a drape over a fridge? I think HGTV did them a disservice by allowing them to be on together because they tend to meld together in my mind.

I cannot understand why Joseph let Vanessa talk her into only spending $1000 out of their $2000 budget on the Long Island cape living room project. For pete's sake, *I* could have done more with that room. I agree that he should have taken more of a leadership role.

Ramona was bizarre, from her bun hairstyle to her vacuum sculpture. She was such a duck out of water that I wonder if they didn't have any other qualified applicants.

The remaining three (Tym, Alice and David) all have what it takes to carry off a show, in my opinion. I like them all.

Posted by LisaR – August 21, 2006 6:04 PM

I thought that Episode Five was very revealing. I'm glad to see that David, Tym, and Alice are still in the running, because they all seem to be team players (which I feel is an necessary ingredient for a TV design star). I was glad to see Temple go. She does have raw talent, but her lack of ability to effectively execute a project that she designed should have gotten her eliminated in Episode Four. I do like Tym because I feel that he is realistic about what can be accomplished in a short period. However, I feel that he will be eliminated in the next round because he doesn't have the talent of the other two finalists. My early pick for a winner was David, but Alice's talent seems to come through more with each challenge. Also, she is extremely charming and is more comfortable in front of the camera than David so I'm not sure who will win.

Posted by Mary Fahrner – August 21, 2006 6:11 AM

I was so disappointed when Temple's show got canceled. She drove me crazy at first but then I realized that she was just keeping it real, and I have to respect a woman who speaks her mind. She made watching the "Design Star" interesting because you never knew what she was going to do, and she seemed versitile as a designer as well. Now I feel that I have no reason to keep watching. At first I really liked David, but now his designs are all starting to look and feel the same to me, and while I think Alice is sweet, her personality and designs really haven't spoken to me as, "bigger than life design star" the way Temple's did. Good Luck with the rest of the show HGTV, you've lost me on this one.

Posted by liz Hathenbruck – August 21, 2006 3:35 AM

Great show I thought it was so super spicy when I watched that plant Ramona argue over her icky
" Miss Utah". How ugly!!!! I almost gagged when I saw it, talk about gross! The family must have been having wishful thoughts when they agreed to have that on the wall, COME ON!!!the rest of the shows were okay Donna should go be the the next fashion junk collector. I enjoyed watching Temple get eliminated. Personally I hope Alice wins!!!!!!!! Tym and David can go bye bye hahahahahahahahahah!!

Posted by Christine – August 20, 2006 11:33 PM

I have my money on David - I think he is the most creative and will undoubtedly be the star of this show as well as a star designer among designers.

I'm 80 years old & I would love him to design my apartment to one of a solid, relaxing beauty to enjoy the rest of my life.....

Posted by Roberta – August 19, 2006 9:33 AM

I was watching the promos for this show with no intention of missing it until I went on vacation. I'm back now and reading up on all episodes because I don't intend to miss any more episodes and even plan to be on your future show's seasons!!!!!!!

Posted by Bonita – August 14, 2006 9:43 AM

How nice to have a new show that exemplifies what HGTV used to be - creating something rather wonderful on a finite budget. This follows the footsteps of the great shows - Design on a Dime, Designed to Sell, Decorating Cents, Sensible Chic. Seems all I have found for the past year is greed - I WANT kitchens, and baths, and multi-million dollar houses, and tech toys. Sorry, can't relate to that, and don't find it entertaining or enlightening. So about Design Star - Ramona HAD to be a plant - and glad to see Donna go tonight. She needs to go to QVC, since shopping seems to be her forte. Think David is extremely talented, and I think Temple is, too. Perhaps the lack of formal training is responsible for the time-management problems, but she certainly has the talent and ability to design. She also exhibited concern for what the homeowners wanted - not just what she thought they should have. Good quality in a designer, I think. Haven't really seen Alice shine yet, and Tym would be more likeable if he would spend more time figuring out how a plan COULD be accomplished, instead of spending so much time explaining why it CAN"T be done.

How great to see Vern again - wish he had a design show of his own - and Clive is the perfect host. Great show - hope there will be another one like it very very soon.

Posted by Dotty – August 14, 2006 1:47 AM

I have never gotten into any of the reality shows on television, but this one is the greatest. I look forward to Sunday nights to see what is next. So far I have agreed with the eleminations. I truly think that David has what it takes to be a designing star. The two blonds are rediculous and I'm hoping they will be eleminated on the forth episode. I hope there will be another show when this one finishes. Keep up the good work.

Posted by Jody Rowland – August 10, 2006 1:44 PM

I want to comment on the comment for this first episode.

I'd like to see a master and challenger contest as well. But give the proven experts 2 houses with same square footage and equal budgets with the same amount of time they are giving these people (11 hours) with the identical elements/features i.e. fabrics, a piece of furniture, an art piece or tiles.

Let's see if they can get it all together in that short amount of time. I think not.

Posted by Janice – August 10, 2006 1:16 PM

This show is OK, but I'd rather see a master and challeger contest like the kitchen stadium on the cooking channel. Give the proven experts 2 houses with same square footage and equal budgets and 1 month and challenge them with identical elements/features i.e. fabrics, a piece of furniture, an art piece or tiles. It is kind of cute to try to discover unknown designers, but I'd rather see well-known experts race to surpass their high standards in a format where good ideas can be developed fully.

Posted by Lynn – August 10, 2006 1:02 AM

Well, all I can say is these people make you appreciate REAL talent. Anyone can go to Bed, Bath and Beyond and pick out a throw pillow on their way to the paint store... and this is what we've got here. So far it's pretty mediocre ... except for Clive and the design judges... who most of the time, just look puzzled when they're not looking bewildered.
Maybe when enough are eleminated to the point where the individual gets to strut their stuff, we'll see talent?
I think Miss Utah and Donna were kept only because their tacky catfighting spices things up!
That's just irritating as hell...girls, you're being seen from coast to coast... At what point do you become embarrassed by your own behavior?

Posted by Pat – August 6, 2006 4:02 PM

Anyone want to take a guess of top three or winner? My guess, David, Alice and one of the twins. Anyone else have any thoughts that would agree or disagree?

Posted by Ben – August 4, 2006 11:29 PM

Rather than booting Joseph, you should have sent both of the quarrelling women; in my opinion, neither of them as what it takes to be a home designer.

Posted by c j madden – August 4, 2006 8:53 PM

Love this show! Love that Tym - his style is terrific! Clean, modern, sophisicated! Good decision to get rid of Joseph - too wishy-washy personality, but sawing that sofa was truly a mistake!!! I'm rooting for Tym!

Posted by Elizabeth Orbison – August 4, 2006 1:20 AM

I never saw the first episode. But from the second one, I thought Temple should go. She's really full of herself and not a good team-mate. Vanessa is an Ok designer, but also full of herself when she said she didn't do the stuff that the judges criticized. I think that Teman and Teran are the best!

Posted by Maya – August 4, 2006 1:18 AM

I agree that Alice is the one to watch! I was really impressed with how she defended Joseph's leadership abilities and how she took Vanessa to task for not standing up and supporting their team.

If Donna doesn't get the boot in week three, it should definitely be Vanessa who's sent packing! While Donna is disorganized, Vanessa is more than willing to take all the credit and isn't all that talented, in my humble opinion. That brown bedroom design was so two years ago -- far from cutting edge. And it was Vanessa who nearly ruined the clients heirloom table in week two; while Joseph saved the day by removing the paint, yet he's the one who gets the boot? How fair was that?

I'd never watch the Vanessa show, that's for sure!

Posted by elaine – August 2, 2006 1:49 PM

Ramona was on Trading Spouses. Here's a recap of the episode: http://www.realitytvmagazine.com/blog/2005/10/yonts_janturan_.html

Posted by elise – August 2, 2006 9:49 AM

My husband and I were surfing for something to watch when we came across the HGTV show. We really don't watch reality/eliminations shows but this kept our interest and was pretty entertaining. The look on the judges faces while watching the videos were priceless!!

I applaud all the contestants and I'm sure each person will consider this a valuable experience. No matter how they fare, each person is exposed to some wonderful opportunities that will no doubt enhance and elevate they're skills and knowledge. Everyone wins and they get bragging rights---how great is that!!!!

All in all, my husband and I enjoyed the show immensely and will continue to watch for the outcome. I would love to see Vern on HGTV in his own show and I just love Clive and DTS.

Good luck to the rest of the contestants and it was really sad to see Joseph go. However, I think Ramona was a plant and did a fabulous job. I never laughed so hard.

Posted by Cassie – August 1, 2006 4:05 PM

Where have I seen Ramona before? She was on a different reality show wasn't she? Anybody know?
Thanks,
kelli

Posted by Kelli – August 1, 2006 4:28 AM

Never watch reality shows except The Next Food Network Star. Love HGTV and have watched both episodes so far. Happy to see Romona gone. Am absolutely sure she was a "plant". Really feel the wrong choice was made by the judges when they eliminated Joseph. Maybe he would have been cut later, but the one that should have been eliminated was Vanessa. After Alice, Vanessa and Joseph agreed that all three would the blame for the heirloom piece, Vanessa stood up in front of the judges and mouthed "It wasn't me". That's clearly not standing together. Vanessa is a very unlikable person.

It seems to me that the whole objective of the show is to get people to watch the new show after the designer is picked. Now I know for sure that if Vanessa is choosen, I will never watch her show. Is she talented? You sure couldn't tell by "her" (since she likes to take credit for everything) design in the 2nd episode.

Donna and Temple - if it wasn't for Vanessa, they should be the next to go.

So sad for Joseph. I guess because he was the team leader he had to be the fall guy. What a shame.

Posted by Julie – July 31, 2006 5:24 PM

I throughly enjoyed the show.
I however was amazed at the lack of organization and people skills. When taking command of the finacial situation one would also think that this person would have a plan on how to budget with a simple plan and spread sheet so as each team put in there request for there plan the monies alloted would be tracked to there plan allowing for guidance and staying on track within budget. A simple excel spread sheet would handel this which could run through out the program. Also there seemed to be many emotions that were running a bit out of control. They should be quick to learn that this is a competitive business and one must have the people and mangerial skills along with the design ability to compete. Maybe we will see more of these type skills as time moves on. I feel the winner will be the one who can get there arms around the entire situation using there people skills, budgeting, and planning skills along with there design ability. There seems to be a lot of room for improvement in all areas of all designers.
Vern and Clive good to see more of the two of you and it will be enjoyable to learn more of the rest of the design judges.

Posted by Joel L. Daggett – July 31, 2006 9:10 AM

I rarely watch reality shows but I love Hgtv so I gave it a shot. It was Excellent! I was very entertained. I thought the judges were very fair and gave constructive critisms. I am going to watch the entire series.I can hardly wait.

Posted by Michelle Bailey – July 30, 2006 11:22 PM

Wow !!! I hated to see Joseph go..., but I have already decided that I will not watch a show with Vanessa as the designer. She lacks the "like-ability" factor. I don't care how great she thinks she is. Take Note: It is about design not divas or drama....,

Posted by Deb – July 30, 2006 11:04 PM

Most of it has been said before, but ...

How refreshing to see a reality competition where the judges all treat the contestents (no matter how they responded) with respect! Truely a show worth watching.

Posted by T.J. – July 30, 2006 9:15 PM

I'm looking forward to Teman & Teran's new HGTV show! They have what it takes to keep me watching on a regular basis: strong talent, TV presence,personality and good taste. Vanessa also has talent and good taste, but I don't believe she's got what it takes for TV.

I think the concept of two Afro-American twin brothers who(though different)complement each other would be that "magic" element that sets their show apart from the rest.

Possibly the name of their show could have something to do with white walls (as they mentioned in their audition video). Ya know,LOTS of renters & homeowners dwell in homes with white interiors!

My prediction is this: If HGTV doesn't snatch these guys up, another network will!

Posted by Edie in Hesperia – July 30, 2006 7:17 PM

It is quite apparent from all the comments above that everyone thinks "teamwork" and "team player" are an integral part of the overall show, so therefore I have one thought on that regarding Ramona, "when someone is "off in their own element it is quite helpful in that situation for everyone to explain the concept to that person in no uncertain terms, but with tact and a pleasant demeanor. I felt it would have been more "gracious" of the players to have not been rolling their eyes and laughing at her, instead they should have, for all of their sakes, have positioned her on a project that she could have successfully pulled off. The overall objective should be met, even while attempting to position yourself to be "the winner". That to me would have shown some personal style on the part of the team as a whole. I compliment those that took the knocks (paint missing) and no money without blowing their cool. My thoughts are this: 1) The team as a whole should have put Ramona in a position where the mural and vacuum cleaner would not have been a problem, as a team they should have positioned her in a place where she would not have been in a position to be painting murals and vacuum cleaners. Vanessa, shame on you, a team player always states "With the help of the team, WE accomplished this, I contributed greatly to the xxxx, and believe I exibited xx attributes, but the team as a whole helped pull this together.

While the bedroom area may have been well designed, I don't feel that the theme complimented the NY atmosphere, I would have expected something a bit more plush and polish for the space, that pattern would have been more suited to a country house in my own personal opinion. Wrong fabric, wrong pattern.

The worst piece of work was the crumpled up curtains, was that the fabric, or was someone to lazy to hang them in the shower and attempt to get out some wrinkles ... (hint NY has lots of dry cleaners with expertise)...

The outdoor space was a valiant attempt with no money, but a water feature was needed in that space and a few ferns would have made a world of difference for under $25.00.

Apologies for the book...
One more note, I did not think the couch and fur were appropriate for the "audition", this is not Larry's house...

Just my thoughts -- welcome yours.

Posted by Bre – July 30, 2006 12:15 PM

I'll never understand why reality show contestants don't keep their audience in mind when they do their challenges. Maybe if they had had more time they could have looked at their front room and said to themselves "What would Vern say?" At which time they would halve the tchotchkes and rip down the stupid curtain on the stairs. Ditto the guys on the patio, though I thank them for allowing the vacuum cleaner statue to stay, since the horrified look on Vern's face was the funniest scene of the show.

Not that I think that everyone should design in Vern's or Cynthia's or whoever's style, but geez, you don't want to get booted the first week, and when you're designing in a group for the whole cast, you need to do a bit more planning. Oh, and paint the walls.

Posted by Katy – July 30, 2006 11:40 AM

I was seeing the commercial for this show on the regular networks and I kept seeing this guy that looked familiar but I couldn't place him until I watched his aution tape and saw his last name. David Bromstad!!! I know you way back when we were little tykes in youth group at CEFC in New Hope, MN. You look WONDERFUL!!!! I hope you win it all! I remember you saying this is what you wanted to be when you grew up and here you are ALL GROWN UP!! You are soooooo talented!! I didn't catch the first show but I'll be sure to watch from now on. Everyone on here needs to know that David has the best heart in the world -I'm completely serious! He has a GIFT! Congratulations so far and good luck- my friend.
Denise Book, MN

Posted by Denise Book – July 30, 2006 2:06 AM

I really do think That Romona was the right choice and while Vanessa was a tad Bossy She did ask for her team mates opinion before perchusing the pillows or altering the design and she was one of the only people willing to take charge which is important also I do think she was being fair in taking some credit and she did give David his due for the srt work So Ill be withholding judgment on her just yet but all and all I think HGTV has a very good show going for them

Posted by Colleen – July 29, 2006 10:24 PM

Great show. Trial by fire is exciting. My wife and I are HGTV junkies, especially Clive and Lisa LaPorta, so this show really floats our boat.

How about some information on Clive? Background? What does his home look like? Did he do any of it?

Posted by Bob McCray – July 29, 2006 9:22 PM

Good show that caught my interest right away. It helped that Clive and Vern are part of it.
There are personalities that came out right away and personalities that will show up better as time goes on.
Ramona was no surprise other than you wonder how she even got on the show in the first place. She was a good "weird" factor as far as being entertaining. When she plopped that glop on that vacum cleaner I was floored. If I had been one of the other contestants I would have heaved it out the door and told her to join the real world. She was not a team player.
Her mural was a joke and detracted from the room.
The other deisgners should have put their foot down and told her to quit monkey farting around.

Like others here, I agree the boys did a good job on the patio as far as walling it off for privicy. They showed talent for making lemonade out of lemons. They also seemed to work well together.

The parlor was a flop. It had a disjointed look instead of a warm inviting feeling. My first reaction was yuck to the placement of the couch. It was too big for the space and the prom dress material made me cringe.

Venessa shows real talent, but she rubs people the wrong way. You want to turn people on with your design, not turn them off with an "it's all about me" attitude. She may be the nicest person in the world, but she really needs to work on her personality and how she comes across to everyone.

I am really waiting to see some of the other designers begin to show their talents, personalities and abilities more.
Hopefully as the show progresses, we will see some of them begin to stick up for themselves, and it will look less like an accident waiting to happen.
Donna really bit off more than she could chew when she took over the money. I agree that she should have divided out the money all at once instead of peice meal handing it out as needed.

The judges were right on with their picks of the good,the bad, and the ugly. A little more constructive suggestions need to be made by judges. Such as what would have worked better instead of the prom dress drapes.

I will be following this show to the end.

Posted by Barbara – July 29, 2006 11:20 AM

OK... enough about Ramona, Vanessa, and the patio guys. You need to watch Alice. She is an amazingly talented young woman. I've had her in my own home, and have been very impressed with her fresh ideas. She is a beautiful lady - inside and out, and I believe that if you pay attention to her, you will find that she is capable of being the next design star.

Posted by Rhonda – July 29, 2006 10:27 AM

Clive,
You are great and I agree with the comment about missing you on "Designed to Sell." It was super to see you hosting another show.
I enjoyed the show, but was extremely disappointed in the final products. If these are designers, I hope they show us more professionalism and design expertise, or I will not watch their future HGTV show. I am usually a very positive and upbeat person, however, I was totally unimpressed with any of the designs these supposed "experts" came up with - I could have done a better job than they did, especially with a budget of $7500. They should have been a lot more creative and methodical in their planning and budgeting. I do understand that 24 hours to design an entire house is an extreme amount of pressure, but in a big city and the resources available to them, they could have come up with something better. Heck, if they can do it on TLCs "Trading Spaces" and other similar shows, then these guys and gals could have come up with something better. Thanks for allowing me to ramble and get my feelings off my brain. I promise that next time, I will be more positive.

Amy
True Texan and Future Designer

Posted by Amy – July 29, 2006 10:14 AM

I forced my husband to watch the show with me and he ended up enjoying it as much as I did. Sadly, whoever allowed Ramona into the group to begin with set her up for the early departure...she would be better off in some 'hippy' artist community and I can not imagine anyone paying her to plaster an old vacuum and call it a statue. As for her total fabrication on the group agreeing with the mural choice, perhaps a neurologist?
The rest of the designers had their eyes opened and it will be interesting to see who gets big(ger) heads and who takes the constructive criticism to heart.
Clive, as always, a joy to see you on TV.
Vern, wow, you always seem so nice on TV but you called it like it was with the vacuum and the weird hanging material that blocked those lovely stairs. Glad to see you have some spice to go along with all that sweetness.

Posted by TLG – July 28, 2006 7:05 PM

I would have liked to keep Ramona around for a few epsodes just to see how the others delt with her.They let her have too much influennce where it did not belong.

Posted by Doreen – July 28, 2006 3:13 PM

I fortunately caught in the show as it was rerun this week and enjoyed it very much. I do have some comments about the messages posted here.

Many of you are quick to say things like, "It wasn't right that Vanessa took all of the credit" etc. Actually she didn't take all the credit. What she said was that she had a hand in every decision which I believe she probably did. She was literally the only designer on the show who seemed to have the initiative to get the ball rolling. You could tell that she was that kind of person from the very beginning of the show as the contestants filed into the room and she played "hostess" making introductions and drawing details out of the others. I also was careful to note that when she went out on a scouting trip, she took pictures of things she saw and liked. Now what do you think she did with those pictures? Sat in a corner and stared at them by herself or perhaps she solicited the opinions and approval of the others on her team??? If she truly were not a team player, she would not have bothered taking those pictures, she would have just gone ahead and purchased the things she liked when she saw them. Remember these reality shows depend heavily on editing to make the contestants appear less likable and thus more competitive.

Yes the bedrooms were the best rooms, but they also were the easiest. After all they started with the furniture already there! All they had to do was add some colorful bed linens and a little paint on the wall to look "decorated." The other rooms were literally blank canvasses with no furniture, thus much more difficult challenges.

Ramona did need to go. She's way too much of an individual to survive on a contest such as this. However, I thought that even though her mural was in poor taste, it looked a heck of a lot better than that fabric draped across the beautiful stairs. And the idea of a mural was a good idea to fill such a large, intimidating space. Too bad she didn't pull it off. The couch is that awful front room was a good buy.

I wish that HGTV had given us a rundown on how the money was spent. It would have given me a better idea of who actually transformed their space with the most success.

Good show. I'll continue to watch.

Posted by ncamy – July 28, 2006 2:48 PM

Almost didn't watch this program though I am a notorious hgtv-junkie; however, once I started I had to finish the whole program. I am usually adamant about avoiding elimination shows. I found that this show interesting, engaging and well-worth the time. I am glad to see Ramona gone, I was quite perturbed and irritated with Donna and Vanessa was way too arrogant for her own good. But maybe this show is just a little scripted and engineered to catalyze some interest initially.

It is still a goog show but the behavior of the aforementioned people does not jeehah/jive with some of the info posted here about them.

Oh well and anyway, it doesn't really matter since I will be tuning in Saturday evening, no matter what. jgr

Posted by jonna – July 28, 2006 3:59 AM

As many before me stated, I mainly tuned in on this one to quench the long drought from the last time I got to see Vern at work! Plus I'm a major fan of Clive's also(Hope he'll still do a Designed To Sell now and then, I like the new team too but miss Clive and the original team. It works for Design On A Dime! I like the different approaches with the same set of ground rules.)
Anyway back to the subject at hand! I really enjoyed the show a lot more than I expected to. While I agree that Ramona was the right choice to be the first to go,it's for different reasons than I've seen expressed here. The whole point of this concept as I understand it is to find a person with design talent and star qualities.(Hence the name!) I don't recall seeing anywhere in the advertising that it would be exclusively for interior design. What we are looking for is someone who is extremely talented,personable,
imaginitive,and has the ability to"work & play well with others" as my grandson's report card says! The winner is going to have to work with a crew behind the scenes and I can't see anyone making it very far if they are a primadonna before the show even gets started!!
Hopefully HGTV is listening to all those saying they won't watch a program with a person who behaves the way several of the contestants have been. I don't want to just pick on one or two specificly, I think they all need to be reminded that they won't start out with an unlimited budget(No beginner ever does) and they are looking for people with ingenuity and the ability to make something out of very little, and make you like them in the process. Thats the basic underlying theme of almost every program on HGTV and thats their winning formula! These people have time to make the necessary changes in themselves it's just a matter of seeing who recognizes that as time goes on. Time will tell!!
Meanwhile give Vern a real show of his own for pete's sake!!!! I love his contributions here but, he's the only "DesignStar" who DESERVES his own show. The rest of these people will just have to EARN theirs. Sorry for writing a book but their was a lot to be addressed!

Posted by jomama – July 27, 2006 11:57 PM

I liked the first episode, and after watching a re-run, I have decided that Ramona's artistic talent would better be expressed as an art instructor. She would not do well working with school age children as her ethics on telling the truth are non-existent, but her view on the definition of art being in the eye of the beholder is definitely correct. She might work well in a liberal arts college or contemporary art studio.

It was almost as if she didn?t see the big picture of the design of the room and only saw the art of whatever she was designing. Although I don?t think her work fit in the setting in which she placed them, I do think she might succeed in the field of contemporary art. Someone on the show said her mural might work well somewhere that has beauty pageants, like the Miss Utah headquarters (if one exists), and I agree. I also feel her vacuum art has a place. After all, a couple of years ago when I was chaperoning a field trip, some students asked me what "that bunch of metal" was doing in front of a building in downtown Washington, D.C. I agreed that it wasn?t something I liked, but explained that it was art. The kids couldn?t believe that ?art? could repulse them so much. But isn?t that part of what art is all about, stirring our emotions?

Even with the designs of the rooms, the emotions on this board have ranged from appreciation for the flow of a room to a ?what were they thinking?1?? expression of shock.

I haven?t decided who will win yet, but I sure hope that I my busy schedule will allow me to watch the next episodes, or at least see the re-runs.

I agree that Vern should have his own show. His designs were always elegant with a classy contemporary feel. I especially enjoyed it when he designed furniture. I would love to see a show where he does more of that.

Posted by Karen – July 27, 2006 11:46 PM

Since I am an HGTV addict (that's what my family tells me) I was anxious for this new show to begin. I wasn't disappointed. I know I can trust HGTV to do a great job.

(I was very disappointed with "Wickedly Perfect", which aired on another network last year).

I agreed with the decision re: Ramona. I read the bio's of all the contestants. I am waiting to see some more shows before I decide on a favorite.

Clive- I watch "Design to Sell" and I am happy to see you are on this show too!

The judges did a great job.

I hope the format remains the same and no one turns into a "Simon Cowl".(sp?) I don't think it's necessary for a show like this.
However, I do like a little "twisted" humor, and it seems as if Clive is the right man for the job!!! :^)

My friends and I can't wait for Sunday night.
Thanks Clive and HGTV

Regards,
Jude/HGTV and ME

Posted by Jude/ HGTV and ME – July 27, 2006 10:42 PM

Clive, I love you...but lighten up! You did not seem as relaxed as you do on DTS. I agree with most everyone about Ramona. I wonder about the contestants' prior experience...shouldn't they have some educational background in design? I guess including non-design participants makes it all the more 'amusing' to see what happens.
Looking forward to the next show. Oh...I didn't see Vanessa's audition video, but she really does need to acknowledge that she is part of a team. It would be great to see more team collaboration on the next episodes...too much was left out.
Thanks for finding yet another way to watch good television!

Posted by lee – July 27, 2006 10:33 PM

I hope Clive reads these posts, because the fans have a lot of good ideas. But there needs to be some constructive criticism, too.

The first 2 or 3 minutes of Ramona had me reaching for the remote. I watched the entire show to see what the other designers could do. Several of them claimed to be professional designers, but some of the rooms ignored basic design principals. The exploding-prom-dress curtains made the space smaller by cutting out the openness of the stairs. Such a comment would have been more helpful to the designers and the viewers. Was such a comment left out?

There were too many first-show jitters on the part of the artists. I think most of them claimed to be professionals. I was appalled at the lack of people skills exhibited by many of these designers. They should already know how to work and play with others. I did not want to watch a bunch of what appeared like amateurs trying to cobble together a design. Start with a less daunting task. Let them get their show legs before such a challenge. The fumbling and bumbling detracted from the show; definitely not up to HGTV quality.

Another concern is that since there is only going to be one winner, why emphasize group work? It was interesting but I hope future episodes let each designer showcase their skills. You just can't do that in a group or pair.

I think the show has the right idea but needs much better editing. It just wasn't up to the quality I have come to expect from HGTV.

I suggest that you don't need a joke like Ramona. She detracted from the show and added nothing I could find. For me, she almost turned the show into a joke. She may have the soul of an artist but doesn't know beans about design. If she is trying to make a living from her trash art, I don't see how she does it.

Finally, there should be better lighting on the set. I felt at times like I was watching a bad home video. HGTV can do much better.

I'm going to watch a few more episodes, but I'm not sure I'll keep watching. HGTV is all about viewer education. If I want just entertainment I'll watch another show. Yes, I'm a teacher, and how do you get this thing to make paragraphs?

Posted by Anita – July 27, 2006 9:49 PM

I found the show very entertaining, particularly being taped in New York City. I enjoy Clive always. I think Ramona's departure was a good thing, no talent whatsoever. Are they really sleeping in those itty bitty beds?

Posted by CYNTHIA – July 27, 2006 6:33 PM

Loved the show but was pretty disappointed in the designs. Thought if they got that far they could come up with more original ideas. The shower curtain was pretty awful and while I liked the bedroom best I did not care for Vanessa who tried to hog all the credit. Her room while the best was not spectacular and I am quite sure she did not do it all herself. Hopefully she will see the show and realize how awful she sounded.

Posted by Sue McEvoy – July 27, 2006 4:34 PM

Clive,congrads your sense of humor is awesome and I am so happy for you Hgtv had the smarts to utilize your talents......Lisa is lucky to have such a wonderful friend and I look forward to celebrating your success with you. WENDY

Posted by wendy – July 27, 2006 12:06 PM

As an HGTV junkie, I had high hopes for this show. I am a big fan of Joseph and Tim -- "The Patio Boys" -- and think that Vanessa needs to cool her jets. It will be interesting to see what challenges come up next for this group. I certainly hope they'll be able to go back and fix some of those horrible mistakes -- the parlor and that ghastly shower curtain thingy! And the whole issue with the money...I hope that's resolved because obviously Donna has no clue. I would like to see more of the "hands on" work. The way the show is edited now makes it very choppy and hard to follow. Can't wait for next week!

Posted by Annette – July 27, 2006 10:35 AM

I just wanted to add one thing. I thought the worst room was actually the parlor. Whoever (Donna?) decided to cover the stairs with the aqua fabric should be the next one to go. That single move completely obliterated the architectural beauty of that room. To me, the single detail of adding that drape over the staircase was even worse than Ramona's mural (which was bad) and her "vacuum sculpture" (which was worse).

Posted by LA – July 27, 2006 2:28 AM

I liked Joseph and Tym a lot! I can't wait to see what they have to offer on future shows.

Posted by LA – July 27, 2006 2:05 AM

Hey guys,

I am a long time friend of Vanessa's and she is honestly a very nice person. She is not arrogant...she is confident. She is an extreme hard worker. She has had her own business since the age of 20. She continues to go to school despite her success, she is super ambitious and still has a loving relatinship with her husband and pets. She has plenty of talent and it was evident in the show. Give her a chance, it was only the first show. How can you make such cruel judgements about someone you saw on t.v for about 45 minutes. She has a huge heart and loves her job. Don't forget we don't get to see all that happens behind the scenes. I am very proud of her! I will support her 100% because she deserves this shot.

Posted by Zoila – July 27, 2006 12:19 AM

Don't usually watch reality shows. The only one I watched faithfully was the Next Food Network Star. I usually watch a couple of networks. Love design shows.
Glad Ramona is gone. It's too bad she doesn't know how to make treasures from trash. Maybe she should have watched some HGTV before getting on this show.
Vanessa needs to grow up.
Donna needs to be more of a team player. She wanted to manage the money, she should have made sure that everyone got what they needed before anyone left to do their shopping.
Hopefully the other designers will speak up more and let their personalities come out.
It will be interesting to see how the individuals are teamed up in future shows and what sort of challenges they will have to face. Hope they have a chance to show their individual style preferences and also how they interpret future client's preferences. Hopefully they will do more planning and discussing on future episodes. This is what I enjoy on other HGTV shows.
Love Clive and Vern. Was glad to see the judges being so thoughtful and kind.
Looking forward to more good HGTV.

Posted by Debbie – July 26, 2006 9:52 PM

Great show! I hope the editing improves so things aren't so disjointed in the future.

Don't be too hard on Temple. She is beautiful and uses it to some extent, but who wouldn't if they had that much?! Hopefully her ability will enable her looks to be an additional asset rather than a primary crutch.

I HAVE to think that Ramona was selected just to have someone to kick off the first episode without losing any really good people. What a nut!

It was SO good to see Vern! I loved him on Trading Spaces and would never miss an episode if he was one of the designers. I agree with many others that he should have his own show.

I liked most of the other designers. I was overall disappointed with the quality of the designs, but I think the outside factors was a large part of it and future episodes with more time will showcase their talents more.

I know what people are saying about Donna, but I think she is every bit as good looking and sexy as Temple. Beauty in two generations! :)

Posted by Matt – July 26, 2006 8:23 PM

Enjoyed the show. Agreed with the judges booting
Ramona off - no class! The others are rough but will do better. The patio was great considering the
lack of funds. Looking forward to the next one.

Posted by Joan – July 26, 2006 7:31 PM

I thoroughly enjoyed the new design star show.
Ramona is in her own little la-la world so I agree she should have been first to be canned and the guys should have put their foot down and said no to that hideous vacuum. Vanessa does not seem to be a real good team player- taking all the credit. What an egotist. She should be next to go. And Donna may have some talent for design, but her room was bad and not giving anyone money unless they asked was a BIG mistake.Perhaps we will see different sides of people with future episodes.

Posted by NANCY – July 26, 2006 6:54 PM

I really enjoyed the show, but couldn't believe someone like Ramona was even chosen. I read she's from another reality show. Is that true? Didn't like the Beauty Queen insult. Liked the fresh new bedrooms, but it was pandering. Obviously playing to Vern. Reward the designers for doing their own thing: self designed, not a box cake. Colors went well in bedrooms, but it was follow this design, not a design of their own. Loved the patio. Looking for more of that originality. Especially since they were cash and time challenged. Please have someone else divide the money. Hated the shower curtain on the stairs. Cheers to Clive on his new show. Sharon

Posted by sharon – July 26, 2006 4:52 PM

Great show. Am excited to watch anything with Vern and/or Clive.
Glad Ramona is gone and agree that Vanessa needs to reign in her arrogance and self grandising.
Can't wait for the next episode.

Posted by NLG – July 26, 2006 3:32 PM

I loved the show I am a true fan of all HGTV shows and this one looks like a great one.
As far as the talent that was chosen for the show, I enjoyed the true creative vision of those like David,Teran, Vanessa,Tym and Joseph they were outstanding you can tell they all have some sort of formal Design traning.
As for Vanessa, the prize is for one designer to obtain their own show and she is doing what all reality show contestants do going for the gold.

Posted by Diana – July 26, 2006 3:15 PM

I'm looking forward to future episodes of Design Star...it's always intriguing to see how people with different styles will design a space.

I have to agree with most of the posts about:

Vern: He's terrific and should have his own show!

Ramona: Must have been a plant. I can't imagine that her work was taken seriously.

Vanessa: Talented, but arrogant, with a harshness about her; if her lack of teamwork and grabbing all the credit continues, she shouldn't be considered as the Design Star. I wondered if her teammates said anything to take some credit themselves? Maybe that part was edited out...

David: Great contribution to the orange and brown bedroom!

Tym and Joseph: Considering their lack of funds, they did a great job with their space (aside from the garbage art, courtesy of Ramona).

Donna: What WAS she thinking in the parlor and who made her queen of the money?

I would love to see more of the teams' planning process...how did they choose to work together, how did they divide their duties, etc. The editing seemed a bit disjointed. I hope that the front parlor will be rearranged in future episodes...otherwise, many designers will have bruised thighs from running into the angled sofa!

Posted by Sue Hodge – July 26, 2006 3:10 PM

I thought the show was great. I think Ramona's mural was not only tasteless, but an obvious knock at Temple. Who wants a mural of a beuaty queen on the wall? And the vacum cleaner? WTF? Anyway, I am surprised that Vanessa got away scot free from her remarks. I was hoping someone would put her back down to reality. Yes she found the pillow that determined the color scheme for one room, but they were still a team and the old saying says, "There is no I in team."

Posted by jennifer – July 26, 2006 2:52 PM

I ran into the show on the website and watched because I am a mural artist and am just starting in my studies to become an interior designer. I am curious about other people's solutions to creative problems and since I have some experience here this show intriques me. I thought all efforts were good. The "parlor" was not to clearly thought through in my opinion. It needed to be more thought out in terms of function instead of "bling." As for Romona, well I paint murals and it is obvious that she has never painted one for someone else in her life. In a million years I wouldn't just blow a client's input off just to make MY statement. That I save for painting on canvas and perhaps Romona should have too. I can't even comment on the whole vaccuum cleaner thing. She was there because it is good TV....or is it?

Posted by lisa – July 26, 2006 2:27 PM

I enjoyed the show and will continue to watch it faithfully; however, I can't understand the lack of planning. I am not a designer, but here are the steps that I would have taken to start the project:

1. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of each of the designers. (Vanessa, of course, would not think that she had any weaknesses.)
2. Take a tour of the rooms to assess the design problems in each and to determine which rooms might require more budget to solve the problems.
3. Meet to determine which designers' skills would be most useful in solving the problems of each room.
4. The design team for each room would devise a design plan, including individual responsibilities, and a budget for that room.
5. The money is divided appropriately, and the designers go to work.

This whole process would not have to take more than two hours--time, I believe, that would have been well spent.

Prior to the show, I viewed the auditions and personality profiles of the designers. I really wanted to like Ramona, and I am sorry that her personality on the show did not match her personality in her audition and her profile. Nonetheless, in my opinion, the decision to "cancel her show" was the correct decision.

I have to say that I was really put off by Vanessa's arrogance. Her arrogance was evident in her audition and her profile, but I attributed it to her youth and was hoping that she would be different on the show. How dare she take all the credit for a team effort! Teran and Dave, you should have called her on that one on camera--but it shows class that you didn't. She needs to be put in her place. If Vanessa should win this competition, I will not watch even one epidsode of her show, and I will probably even boycott HGTV altogether--even though it is one of my two favorite TV stations--for supporting such arrogance with a show.

As for you, Clive, and the judges, you are handling your jobs with class and style. I appreciate the delicate way that you deliver criticism. Judges, your facial expressions when you saw the mural and the vacuum cleaner were priceless! I think that my husband and I enjoyed those as much as anything else on the show.

And Vern, you have always been my favorite designer. When you were on Trading Spaces, I watched the show religiously. Now, I see it only now and then. Your design style is exactly the style that I would love to have throughout my home, and I only wish that I could afford to have you design all my rooms--but our limited budget won't permit it. Living in a house designed by you would be absolute heaven! (And, no, I do not know Vern personally, nor am I related to him!) I have never seen a room that you have designed, Vern, that I didn't absolutely love.

Posted by Judy B. – July 26, 2006 1:17 PM

Great show! Clive, you're wonderful, as usual.
Glad Ramona is gone. She was a total joke, and completely dishonest. Vanessa needs to stop taking all the credit. She may have come up with the design but she certainly had help and input from the others. She's too arrogant. Donna should be gone next. The parlor was the absolute worst design I have EVER seen. The guys did a great job on the patio with what they had to work with. It is going to be a very interesting show and I'm really looking forward to next week!

Posted by suzzi – July 26, 2006 1:04 PM

What's going to need to happen in the subsequent episodes is for each designer to find his/her own voice. It was clear that there were some dominant personalities in the first episode and the others were too polite/intimidated to do anything about it. I'd like to see the guys come into their own more in the next episodes.

We're also going to need to see who has the ability to create "something out of nothing". Those with the physical skills of sewing and building are going to have the edge over the ones who depend on local stores. It's true that designers don't have to make their own products, but in a show like this where money is tight (or withheld by a competitor), ingenuity is going to count for a lot. The patio guys did a great job, although why they allowed those sculptures of Ramona's out there is beyond me. Maybe they were just too short of funds to fill the space with anything else.

Ramona can definitely call herself an artist; she's right, it's all about personal opinion. However, a DESIGNER is something different. She is the one who doesn't get it. If she couldn't work with her teammates, God help her future clients. I felt really sorry for "Miss Utah" being made fun of in such a tacky manner with that mural, especially when EVERYONE voted for a different picture! If Ramona truly didn't understand that, it's time for an intervention.

Posted by SoCalPam – July 26, 2006 1:53 AM

I had been watching HGTV for a couple hours,was just going to turn it off when Clive came on with Design Stars. What a Great show! It really drew me in, but I have a question:

I am curious to know if there was a kitchen sink or eating area in the 3 floors of this NY townhouse? Did they just choose not to show it as it would be one of the most expensive areas to update?

It seemed to me that the 2 men who did the patio area did the most to change what they had to work with and had a vision of a welcoming gathering space. They had a table to set food on at least.

I can believe that New Yorkers might not have kitchen space but I can't believe that the designers chose who to work with and which room but didn't settle on how to divide the money before they went shopping.

Posted by RJ – July 25, 2006 11:27 PM

The TV show did not really do a good job showing how out of touch with reality that Ramona really is. I should know because she was at my house for eleven days during the filming of Wife Swap. I hope that she had learned something from being on that show, but it stillo seems that she always thinks she is right and everybody else is wrong. It is true that we all have our opinions, but when you are the only one with an opinion you need to take a long hard look at yourself and think.

Posted by roy – July 25, 2006 3:55 PM

I wish HGTV would give Vern his own show!! I loved him when he was on Trading Spaces. He became my favorite designer on the show. He's creative, talented, charismatic, and more!

As far as the design show is concerned, I hope in future episodes, that more time is spent showing how each person and/or team completes their project and not just the end results.

Posted by Christine Maloy – July 25, 2006 3:35 PM

If you missed the show, there are a bunch of recaps here at the site:

Recap
http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/pac_ctnt_988/text/0,,HGTV_22056_38690,00.html?vidID=http://wms.scripps.com/hgtv/DEID/designstar/101-asdjaeri/64315.wmv&caseNum=23

Ramona's Exit Interview

http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/pac_ctnt_988/text/0,,HGTV_22056_38690,00.html?vidID=http://wms.scripps.com/hgtv/DEID/designstar/101-asdjaeri/64323.wmv&caseNum=25

Enjoy!

Posted by Charity – July 25, 2006 1:39 PM

I enjoyed the first show. I too agree with the booting of Ramona. However, I do understand why she was on the show. They mentioned at the beginning that they have designers from all over the country and they have their own styles. I liked how they chose someone who has her sense of style(although I don't agree with it)because it added variety. Yes, Ramona's style and approach was out there, but there is a segment of the population who gets it, albeit few and far between.
Kudos to the patio boys Joseph and Tym for getting done what they could since Donna didn't leave them any money. They need to reign her in. She could've cost them their chance at staying.
The designers need to keep their eye on Vanessa. She seems pretty egotistical and her taking all the credit for the bedrooms and not sharing it with her team should raise a major red flag to everyone. Unfortunately, (like most reality shows I watch) I found someone to cheer against.
Great show! Looking forward to next week.
Oh yeah, David's hot!!

Posted by Collin – July 25, 2006 1:28 PM

I don't know how I made home fromthe coast in time but would not have missed the show, I think the I know this would be a great way for us would be decorators to start our own parties,Never watch reality shows felt they were boring but now that we have a show for all us HGTV addicts we can have parties ( which we can cook & decorate for) while we gather to watch and judge. Thank you judges, Clive and whomever came up with the idea, Such fun for us and such a fabulous opportunity for someone, Please give Vern his own show. I can use something in his designs everytime.

Posted by Gay – July 25, 2006 11:09 AM

I'm sorry I didn't have the opportunity to watch the first show. After reading everyone's comments, you can bet I won't miss the next show.

Posted by Linda – July 25, 2006 8:30 AM

Ramona was just weird. She had nothing to bring to the table and got what she deserved, the boot. I think the bedrooms at least looked like a design team had done them. The patio was fine. but I would not have paid for anything else that was done in that house. I kept thinking of the design on a dime gang and how they subjugate their individual egos for the room as a whole.... If staying on the show demands that you work as a team, then they