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I am so glad that David won. His work is hands down some of the best design work that I have ever seen. It is a nice feeling when someone so humble but yet so gifted succeeds. I am looking forward to his show.

Posted by dan – September 10, 2006 10:49 PM

Until this episode, I had my reservations as to whether David could listen, plan and execute what a client was looking for. I no longer have to worry if that was a problem.

Bravo, David! Not only did you give the adults a sophisticated space as they wanted, you also addressed a charming, connected space for the children as was asked.

David is truly a very original talent. His designs are outstanding. He plans, deciphers and executes with finesse.

Alice is very talented. But she is more down-to-earth. David is very innovative, and that is what you want in a Deisgn Star. Also, as I said, he does listen to his client and does not have a prima donna attitude that it is his way or not at all.

I am very impressed with this young talent. Kudos! To David and HGTV for a new twist on design.

I have been watching HGTV since it first started and am pleased to see the venue change from some of the types of shows that are on now.

Posted by kitty – September 8, 2006 4:38 PM

I absolutely love the show! I just stumbled across it during a marathon and could not pull my self away! I am rooting for Alice but think that either winner's show will be great. Can't wait for season #2!!!

Posted by Michael E. – September 8, 2006 3:54 PM

On the very first day of the show (any show) of Clive . I do watch, I'm a great fan of him.)I watched and made my assessment like my profession (ICU RN). Team work, decision making, fast and appropriate ways on handling things. Time and decision is very important. David and Alice are both great, but Alice is very prdictable. Her presentation is great ! But that can be learned and the more you do it, the more you become better. David's work is very clean and organized. His artistic and design ways are different everytime. He is flexible and he decides quick and really decisive. He is a little bit uncomfortable on his first presentation, but who won't be ? Especially if you're not used to it, you know that eyes are watching you ? But the more he'll do it , especially he has A VERY GOOD MENTOR -CLIVE OF COURSE !!!, then he'll do great with his presentation just like his design. You can be a good presentor but if your designs are common, poeple will get tired of you. The "freshness and naivety of David will also help in the ratings of the show. Sometimes, "TOO MUCH" makes people get tired easily. I think, Alice is more for like acting show, she'll be good with that. David is more of a reality show.
That's what I liked with Clive, (BY THE WAY, I RECECIVED A CALL FROM HIM IN ANSWER TO MY EMAIL BECAUSE I'VE BEEN THROUGH TOUGH TIMES SINCE SEPT. 2005, AND WHEN I STARTED WATCHING HIM, I LIKED WHAT I SAW ;AND I WAS LITERALLY SHOCK, WHAT A DOWN TO EARTH PERSON!) As I said, I don't get tired watching Clive because he is very "natural", everytime I watch his 2 commercials ,where Design to sell will soon be 5 times a week, I can't help but laugh because his face shows and tells a lot to those 2 kids .
Okay, back to David and Alice, I like David's design, it's classy, and different.
Thank you and Good luck. Hope you'll win.

AND AS FOR MR. CLIVE , MORE POWER TO YOU !!! AND GOD BLESS YOU!!!!!!

Posted by Melba – September 8, 2006 3:27 AM

I resisted watching this show because I didn't like the melodramatic and (to me) unkind "Please leave the studio." And the early quarreling made me wonder if I'd accidentally tuned into "Elimidate." But as time went on, design overrode dramatics, and it became a treat to see what the top few would do. David has mastered the art of melding design and function, and somehow manages to make his personal contemporary style attractive to many tastes. That final zen bedroom needs to be preserved somewhere!

Posted by Charlotte – September 7, 2006 8:07 PM

I think this show is wonderful! David and Alice
were the perfect choices to become finalists!
As much as I like them both, I have to say that David is consistent in every project that he has been challenged to do! He is an artist, but he is a visionary. He walks in, thinks, chooses well and I have looked forward with how he surprises me week after week. I think he is great on camera! Anybody who doesn't snatch him up isn't into design.
His inner glow shines through week after week!
Confident and mature, unafraid of where he is going. I wish I could have voted for him at least three times and day!
What a refreshing talent! His results make him look like he has been doing this for many more years than he has.
God Bless Him and all of you.
Clive, you are an excellent host and your panel of judges are superb! Real people and not one person who lacked good taste and wasn't fun!
Most of all, they are respectful of others, even though people have to be elimanated. Bravo for that.

My Very Warmest Regards to all of you,

Bobbi (Roberta) LaForce

P.S. I hope that David wins, although who wouldn't love Alice?

Posted by Bobbi LaForce – September 7, 2006 12:25 AM

I watched the marathon this weekend. My husband and I were so impressed with David's work on the "bowling alley" room that we would consider hiring him. We believe he could use his creativity yet is a personable fellow who would infuse some more traditional elements into projects.

He does what we cannot do. Having lived in various homes from studio apartments to 50's modern to large properties, we really appreciate his work. There is an element of I HAD THAT SPACE! We also felt that his task was the most challenging considering the architecture and the multifunctions for a family with very young children.

Posted by life – September 6, 2006 11:32 AM

I don't get where the judges think that David is bad at hosting. I find it refreshing to see someone have enthusiasm and pride over what they created.

David by far had the more innovative room, with a uniquness that we all like in our own homes.

Posted by amp – September 6, 2006 10:05 AM

I have to admit it's been an extremely tough decision choosing between David and Alice. Both are extremely talented and while each different in their delivery of presentation, bringing their own uniqueness, they both get it right!

Quite agree with others who have posted my very same feeling, why not somehow use the both of them on the show, together or alternate weeks while still having the winner be the host and the other the co-host? Individually they're great designers and personalities, but together I believe they can rock HGTV and give Candace and Lisa LaPorta quite a run for their money. Hmm wouldn't that be interesting bringing in Candace and Lisa LaPorta for guest appearances separately or together?

Posted by Steve – September 6, 2006 6:48 AM

Having watched all of the episodes, it was heart warming to see that the three who treated everyone graciously and with respect ended up at the top - Alice, David and Tym. Altho, I felt Joseph was never given a fair shot because of Vanessa and her being less than truthful about who did what. I almost wondered if she was trying to set Joseph up for failure, figuring he would get cut because he was the team leader...I was thrilled when she was asked to leave and the same with Temple and Donna. Their constant need to argue certainly kept the camera on them, didn't it. I'd love to see David and Alice co-hosting a show. They work so well together and complement each other perfectly

Posted by Maggie Hakala – September 5, 2006 9:44 PM

I hated to see Tym go. I wish he had had some art on the walls, but I feel like he was restricted because of wanting to meet the client's wish to "have room to dance." Her room is to small to dance in. He was forced to purchase and arrange the furniture with her in mind. Also, he built a closet system that we never got to see. I love his attention to detail and utter competence. I also love Alice and David. Darn! I voted for each of them.

I commend the judges for being fair. I hate the sarcasm and cutting remarks on "Project Runway" and sometimes turn it off because it is so unkind. The "Design Star" judges were consummately qualified, dignified and still warm and pleasing. HOORAY!

Posted by thekatydid – September 5, 2006 8:07 PM

I think the final two should have been David and Tym, I loved what he did with the whole apartment. I didn't agree with the judges finding his design too masculine, it's not like she was a very feminine girl to begin with. Some women like spaces with what looks like a more maculine touch, but can be interpreted also as modern, with clean lines. I like Alice, but I feel she is very feminine and a girly girl, almost old fashioned, sometimes that's okay, but I find many more women are into modern sleek almost unisex design, like myself, so my vote is for David.

Posted by Carly – September 5, 2006 7:56 PM

David managed to overcome his stage/camera fright in a dramatic fashion, didn't he? If he wins, though, his show had better be on after the kids go to sleep because the less he wears of his shirt the more people across the country are going to drool! I agree, having him with Alice would be a great show and I hope whoever wins brings the other AND Tym back as guests. Tym has a certain something, maybe not enough to sustain a show on his own but enough to complement someone else's show.

Next contest, though, perhaps there could be some challenges that are of benefit to people like Ramona (although I didn't much care for anything she did and I'm sure she was on the show to allow someone no one liked to be thrown off the very first show.) Crafters and artists who don't design rooms or homes are as much a part of HGTV as interior designers and I would love to see someone get to do garden work or build, repair, or repurpose furniture. There are shows like that on HGTV already; why not let someone be a design star in that category?

Posted by gypsy – September 5, 2006 1:53 PM

get real! how could i choose between alice and david. they have two completely different styles and they are both good at their craft. so do us a favor and either give them both a show or better yet put them together. i think they would be great and their interactions a fun thing to watch. we would probably be surprised at the things we see.

Posted by martha – September 5, 2006 12:59 PM

Both David and Alice are so talented. I can't make up my mind who is the best because they both have special gifts. I agree that the viewers would benifit from having both designers presenting their very creative ideas. Tell David to keep his shirt on. We want to see his talent, not his chest.

Posted by Sandra – September 5, 2006 12:04 PM

Posting late, but I'm sure I saw Tym's client on another HGTV show months ago where they redid a Katrina survivor apartment. Remona was a retread with HGTV, was this person? I remember because she reminds me of a friend.

Posted by Fran McD – September 5, 2006 9:35 AM

i 've been watching this from the very beginning and i really like both of them,Alice and David.But i'd love to see Alice win b/c she gave what clients want and that is THE most important thing in this business. The way she talks show that she has well educated and i love southern accent.Alice, you got my family vote.you are the winner.

Posted by amy – September 5, 2006 6:55 AM

I will personally be soooooo sad if David does not win, did you see how happy he was to be the final two? What a cutie :D And his talent is obviously the best to me!

Posted by Amber – September 5, 2006 3:06 AM

I think both Alice AND David have enough talent to have an individual show. They have different strengths and I can see a benefit to having each do 20 - 26 episodes and then we won't have to watch reruns so often. Why blow the benefit of those high summer ratings? Look forward to seeing the finale -- I'm voting equally for each because I don't want it to seem like I'm not watching, but I'm not convinced one is a clear winner over the other.

Posted by gidget – September 5, 2006 2:33 AM

Fantastic talent. I like the clean line and basic elegant simplicity of David's designs.

Clive and Lisa come back to D2S- please.!!!

Posted by Diana O'Connor – September 5, 2006 2:32 AM

I LOVE this show! I don't watch other reality shows b/c they are too far-fetched and unrealistic (after all, who wants to see someone eat bugs or swap wives just to make them look stupid?). This is so refreshing! I even watch the re-runs every Sat.! So glad to see Tym go - no true creative ability, annoying to watch, so full of himself, didn't take his client into consideration - he just seemed to want to get it over with.
Alice is sweet, pleasant to watch, BUT her style is bland, predictable and lacking creativity. Her glass room was poor - looked like a basic room for kids in a glass room!
David definitely got my vote - his Asian-zen glass room was outstanding! It didn't seem like you were in a glass room - perfect! And the basement room he did for that family is one I wish I had! He really listened to the family and gave them exactly what they hoped for.
Can't wait to watch next week! And Clive - you are an outstanding host.

Posted by Carol – September 5, 2006 1:40 AM

I don't usually watch reality shows, but Design Star has been a refreshing change. Clive is great, and I think David, Alice, and Tym were the best three designers and the most genuine of the group. They could make a great team for Design on a Dime or Designed to Sell. The three of them work well together and could be a big hit. They would be much better and more personable than the Chicago team (no charisma) on D2S. Maybe they could do a Designer's Challenge and the three of them could execute the chosen design.
I think David and Alice are equally talented and really can't decide between the two. I would give either of them carte blanche in my home, and Tym, too, for that matter.
I hope that for Design Star 2 you pick more real designers. Many of the students you have on Designer Finals could do a better job than some of the contestants you had on this series. And no more Ramonas, please! This series has been a real hit. Please note that Clive has a lot to do with that. Am I the only one who is bothered by the way HGTV replaces hosts? I find it very disconcerting that perfectly good hosts get replaced. Where is Rick Spence?

Posted by CJ – September 5, 2006 1:33 AM

Amazing how many people comment on David's lack of shirt - My impression is that he is comfortable working this way - not an option for Alice or Temple. Yes, a shirt and jacket look more professional for hosting, but while painting etc, let it go. I did not dwell on the shirt/no shirt issue, but on the work being done. I know a couple of people who started watching BECAUSE David takes his shirt off. :)

Posted by kat – September 5, 2006 1:02 AM

Clive- I started watching DS because you were the host, and stayed on even though I did not like the way Temple acted. I voted for David. Clearly, he considered the location and nature of the space in his design and did not just put furniture into it.
Clive- don't you and Lisa like working nonstop? Is that why we must suffer through the Chicago group's efforts? Please, please come baaaacck.
Linda Taylor

Posted by Linda – September 5, 2006 12:26 AM

I loved the show and can't wait until the next one. The only thing that I was disappointed with was the short time they were given to plan, shop, build and install. Is it really done on that short of a time frame on TV. I feel like we didn't get to see some of the early people really shine. Actually David and Alice are both good, but I don't know if they are good enough for there own show, maybe a gig on trading spaces to start. I have worked for 6 years as a designer/visual in a furniture store with 4 stores in the same town - so often the 4 designers were put together to work on a major projects. Despite the fact that we were all friends, when it came to getting the job done, "fur was flying". If you wanted to see how they worked with others, have them work with painters, carpenters, etc. Which brings me to the kitchen redo they all worked on together, they might have pulled it off if they had the proper crew to help them. Just cause your a designers doesn't mean you know how to do plumbing and hang cabinets. I'd would have like to see pictures of some of there working before the show too. What it was that made you pick them for the show!

Overall it was so much fun to watch, just seemed so unfair I really truely wanted to see each one best, and with the lack of time and help we never really got to see that. Often I just have to sit in a space and let it talk to me, and them the ideas start rolling - next show I hope you consider these things. I can't wait to see the star new show (David got my vote)!

Posted by Ms.B. – September 5, 2006 12:06 AM

Tym did a wonderful job on his final assignment. I expect we will see him in the future somewhere. Thank you Tym for doing a marvelous job on the aparatment. I really liked it!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by Cindy – September 4, 2006 10:23 PM

A rainy Labor Day offered me a chance to watch Design Star. The show is awesome and so are the designers! I have been really impressed with David's work and while Alice has a great personality, I think in terms of who puts together the best aesthetical and functional space is David. I've got lots of great ideas, especially from the first episode as I live in an older house that is narrow and faces similar design challenges. I've loved HGTV from the start and this is one of the best reality shows on television.

The idea of having both David and Alice host a show is a good idea but it would take away the goal which is the best designer gets their OWN show. Maybe the winner can have their own show and you guys spin off another one with the top two or maybe even some of the others coming back in special series segments. Bringing back eliminated designers to help on the glass room challenge gave a very personal touch to the show and allowed viewers to see that a special bond has been created beween the designers instead of bad feelings that have been echoed on other reality shows. Thanks for giving us inspiration! My best to both finalists.

Posted by Venus – September 4, 2006 8:38 PM

I hope David wins! His designs are always exciting, different. His passion for design comes through in his work. We need someone like David who will show creative ways of designing so we can reach a broader audience. Thank You David for your wonderful, artful works! It also helps that he has a wonderful attitude.

Posted by Sally – September 4, 2006 8:30 PM

David's rec room was ingenious, taking into consideration both parents and kids. Alice's room was wonderfully masculine for the soldier, but the "man cave" did not have anything for his wife and children. Tym's apartment makeover for the Katrina hurricane victim was awesome, but it looked like a showroom. The woman needed personal things in there to make it feel like home to her.

Posted by Deb – September 4, 2006 8:04 PM

Both David and Alice are talented designers. Each of them have their strength and weakness. As a host, I think that she's great on camera (eventhough I am not a fan of her accent), she's very charasmatic, charming, pleasant to watch on TV, also that she's very comfortable. In my humble opinions, I think David is a better designer than her, but he seems to be less comfortable in front of the camera than Alice. I wonder how America will vote...

Posted by Angela – September 4, 2006 6:14 PM

This show has been such fun. I was thunderstruck (that's like "gobsmacked," Clive) when Tym was voted off. If I had a designer doing my living room, Tym would have been the one I would have had the most confidence in. As to Alice and David, I love them both, but David is the one whose work has the true "wow" factor that most folks look for and I see him as the winner of the competition. He even wowed the judges and made them eat their words in that last presentation. You go, David!!

Posted by peggyB – September 4, 2006 5:24 PM

I enjoyed David and Alice's designs, but I do regret that Tym was eliminated. I think he should have just given a crowd-pleasing blast to the walls. That's not to say it's necessarily attractive, but the judges and TV tend to favor it. I think Tym tried to remain too true to principle and didn't pick up on the multiple cues previously provided.

Posted by Peter – September 4, 2006 2:48 PM

I'm glad David, Alice and Tym were finalists-I thought they all behaved with style and class during the shows. I do wish they had started with an individual challenge so we could get a feel for each designer's style and strengths/weaknesses from the start.

David's glass room in Bryant Park was wonderful-I prefer contemporary Asian design so liked his design better (especially the indoor-outdoor box idea which took advantage of the unique space.) Alice's design wasn't whimsical enough for a children's "Alice in Wonderland" theme room although I did like the chandelier!

My favorite show was the apartment color challenge although none was as sophisticated as I would have expected for a New York City apartment-some great art prints, ethnic fabrics, etc. would have really made the spaces special. (Though they may not have had those shopping options-if not, WHY did they bother to set it in a shopping Mecca like NYC?) A deeper yellow would have been less girlish, adding different tones of blue and green would have added more interest, etc.

The dream room makeovers needed more time-I know designers have limited time and budget but JUST ONCE I would have liked to see their BEST work without so much emphasis on time limits. I expected the man cave to have the male's ideal Big plasma TV and either a game/poker table or even a small pool table but was disappointed in Alice's choices considering her $10K budget. I think Tym should have gotten extra time or an extra assistant due to the incompetent carpenter-just to be fair. David's room was nice but I don't think it was his best work.

Good Luck to all-I think these talented designers should be seen again...maybe a guest shot on another show.

Posted by Liz – September 4, 2006 11:56 AM

Tym is absolutely great & I loved his room, but in this particular instance, I would have tried to recreate the colors and flavors of New Orleans. Not that I have ever visited or cared for the city, but my heart goes out to those who loved it and lost it. Bet this lady would have enjoyed a purple and lavender background with liberal doses of hot pink and yellow, mardi gras beads and posters, jazz memorabilia, etc.

Posted by CG – September 4, 2006 6:14 AM

Oh my God, this one is sooooooo easy!!! Thank God too, because if it wasn't so obvious, I would feel bad and wonder,..but there is NO DOUBT about it,... David is absolutly, positively, utterly and completely the more talented designer. He is the obvious winner, and deserves to have a show. I would watch every week, and not just because he's cute either! Alice is sweet, but honestly, that kids room was her worst work yet. How boring, plain, and white. No creativity or wow at all. Kinda looked like a kid designed it in fact, to tell the truth. David, however, utterly "rocked it" as Vern said once, ...and he has consitently done so for the entire show.What a creative, soothing, inspiring room. A true work of art by a true artist. I hope America sees beyond shirts or no shirts, accents or no accents,...and votes for the true TALENT,...and that talent is definitely DAVID!!!!!!

Posted by Rachel – September 4, 2006 2:54 AM

The glass houses were wonderful challenges, and the Asian style choice was perfect for making the "glass room" part of the design instead of ignoring it (though the glass "dots" sort of did that too---too bad we couldn't see these rooms at NIGHT all lit up the way they were, too--next time we should evaluate both day and night looks, huh?)

Now...I think these are by far the two best of the 10 contestants who began the series. Each has style, ability, and charm. But there is, to me a difference between CHOOSING things and CREATING things, and in this I think David clearly excels and overpowers all the others we've seen. Being a designer is more than being a good shopper, because shoppers deal in bits and pieces of the puzzle, whereas a designer has to "see" the whole picture in their head and then make it happen. That's what David is able to do--see the vision, keep true to it in execution, and create a complete "whole" instead of a "sum of its various parts."

Lastly, I really think there are two major flaws in the show that could/should be addressed next time: First, expecting designers to have the skills of craftspeople is unfair and in a way distracting from evaluating their abilities. What a designer has to do is know how to TALK to and GUIDE and DIRECT craftspeople--whether carpenters, painters, stonemasons, fabric people, whatever--to know ENOUGH about those disciplines to get what they need out of the experts who actually execute the projects. Putting somebody inexperienced in fine craftsmanship--a lifelong learning task in and of itself--on the spot and under a time gun is unfair, and really not what the skillset we should be looking for in a design star consists of.

Secondly, the "skill set" of presenting and dealing with the camera is a whole talent in and of itself. In fact, look at Clive--he is the consumate host even though he's NOT a designer himself mostly because he knows not only how to bring humor and his natural charm to the table but because he's there to ASK the right questions and POSE the right situational challenges to make the DESIGNERS and, on D2S, the homeowners, too, The STARS. Well....our Design Star competitors need to do THAT, not just talk smoothly or look relaxed, though that helps. That's why I found many of the judges gushing comments about Alice not particularly accurate nor their earlier disses of David's skills particularly relevant. Judging them on a "standard" of hosting/presenting isn't the point: it is if THEY give THEIR vision coherently and interestingly and draw the audience into their though processes--just like HGTV's great designer-hosts (I'd list Candice, Debbie, Kenneth, and Michael among the best) do.

Great show, great people, and yes, they both deserve shows and lots of design work out of this. I think you can tell I'm voting for David, but I like Alice and am glad they are the finalists. Thanks HGTV!

Posted by Dan – September 4, 2006 2:19 AM

David's design was so great, I hope all his fans don't take for granted that he will win. Remember to vote, so that HGTV will get the right design Star!

Posted by Di – September 4, 2006 2:07 AM

David rocks!!! I look forward to his own Tv show on HGTV.

Posted by Merlyn – September 4, 2006 12:56 AM

I think that Tim should of gotten a chance to redo his or something, because all his carpenter seemed to think about getting done is getting "fried chicken"

Posted by Megan – September 4, 2006 12:37 AM

I would never be able to choose between David and Alice--they counterbalance each other very nicely. I'd love to see them have a show together.

Posted by TK – September 4, 2006 12:21 AM

I have loved watching Design Star since the first episode. Alice, David, Tym and Temple's designs stood out. But, the winner is going to host their own show and, although I think David is very creative, his designs are like several other shows already on HGTV. Quite frankly, I get tired of watching the same male designs...his look alot like Kenneth Brown's. Innovative, but nothing myself nor many people I know would put in their own home. I have watched design shows for years to get ideas for my home. David's designs appeal to young, South Beach-like people...sorry ladies, but don't admire his body too much, obviously not your type.
I would LOVE for HGTV to have a few more shows that appeal to everyday people. I love Alice's designs because she deals with practical and very beautiful design, things that people would actually do in their home. I love David, but Alice gets my vote.

Posted by Ann – September 3, 2006 11:22 PM

Hi Clive! Ok, just FINISHED watching the Final Show & Voting! Before I tell you WHO I voted for, let me tell you what a DIFFICULT time I had in making my final decision! I had predetermined that I would vote for ALICE, after the end of last week's episode. Then I saw David's space in the glass house......I WAS BLOWN AWAY! The simplicity, charm, sophistication that shone in David's space awed & amazed me! Now that's NOT to say that I didn't LOVE Alice's space. .Because I TRULY DID!! Alice made me want to be a little girl again with the wonderful color & adventure I felt from her space. The colors, the fabrics, the overall comfy feel that her room evoked made me want to just run into her space & jump on those twin beds! Having seen both final products a HUGE dilemma now faced me....WHO DO I VOTE FOR NOW??????? Well, it took a little bit of time & thought, but in the end I CHOSE ALICE. Overall, Alice was the better designer. More importantly, Alice was the better Host. I TRULY felt like Alice was talking ONLY TO ME when she showed us all her room. David's presentation was quite GOOD but Alice?s shone bright like a beacon !! If you folks were SMART, you?d put the TWO of them TOGETHER for your new show! They work quite well together & truly seem to enjoy each other's company. The combination of their talents would no doubt give HGTV a BRAND NEW HIT!!! Think about it....What have you got to lose? NOTHING!....But you DO have ALOT to GAIN!! Congrats to Alice & David and to YOU , HGTV for such a fascinating Show!!! Keep up the good work!

Posted by Jan Santos-Thorp – September 3, 2006 10:47 PM

I love David's designs, and have been rooting for him since I'm from Sarasota ( ie.Ringling Art School ) But David and Alice together have such a connection on camera, they would make a great team. But if only one, David all the way!

Posted by Mary Jane Cosden – September 3, 2006 10:40 PM

I second the comment to give Alice + David a show together. They get along GREAT, they complement one another perfectly, it's a show I'd love to watch - a show hosted by both sexes - the feminine unstructured Alice with the warmth and charm and the clean modern design (and carpentry skills) of David.

I pick both!!!

Holly

Posted by decor8 Holly – September 3, 2006 10:07 PM

Everyone's room was great. However, David's room out shined the others. Alice's "man-cave" did look like a very relaxing room for someone to come home to and have a cigar, BUT...the soft-looking comfortable (cloth) couches are going to smell like a horrible nightmare!!!

Posted by Roxy – September 3, 2006 10:06 PM

I can't decide! I love both David and Alice, why can't they be co-hosts? If I had to choose it would be David, but I loved all 3 final designers. I was sad to see Tym go, but glad you brought him back for the final episode. I can't believe you brought Temple back to help! omg! How awful for Alice to get stuck with her! If I could have my wish it would be to have David, Alice and Tym have a show together.

Posted by Karen – September 3, 2006 9:26 PM

I love Alice!!! I like her style. Even thought David is cutting edge I don't think he can do a traditional room. By far the last two are the most talented. Thank you for dumping Temple. She refused to listen and promised to much to the couple with the kitchen. I agree with another writter that HGTV should have provided the couple with the complete kitchen that they were promised. After all that is what Temple offered them and why they choose her design. That did not get the full package. Shame, Shame.

Posted by Dianne – September 3, 2006 9:16 PM

I am a big fan of HGTV in general, with favorite shows being Candice Olsen, Debbie Travis and Kenneth Brown, I got hooked on this show along with House Hunters. Although, I believe Alice has a smoother delivery on camera, her designs pale in comparison to David's. David can be taught the ins and outs of being a host but Alice's talent wouldn't draw the fan base you may be looking for in a design show host.

Posted by John – September 3, 2006 8:26 PM

I think David and Alice are evenly matched. Alice actually worked a somewhat disadvantage having to lift that large cabnet last week. Although her carpeter was puffing more than her.

Actually , I think it should have stopped at last week's show and each give a a show.

Posted by Phillip Jones – September 3, 2006 7:42 PM

Cast my vote for Alice.
As a parent I find her designs refreshingly family friendly. I do not need off the wall ideas for my home. I do think David is talented. I would like both of them to keep their clothes on as this is a family show and I want to focus on the designs and how they can help me make my house a pulled together home. As for accents, It's American sea to shining sea I find Alice's accent as charming as a New York accent and her sweetness is clearly honest and charming.
One reason I vote for Alice has to do with the overwhelming number of shows already dealing with modern stainless steel type decorating. Down to earth hominess is a much needed element in your HGTV lineup.
Go Alice!

Posted by Fran – September 3, 2006 7:31 PM

I have been thinking about Tym's design and feel that he missed out on such a great opportunity. His client was from the south -- where beautiful traditional old-world design reigns as king! One look at Veranda magazine and a designer would know what a southern lady would love to have! Yet he chose to give her an Ikea-inspired space, non-descript and masculine.
I would love to design a room for this woman. I would give her a bedroom draped in a blue or black toile fabric with matching comforter or duvet and lots of throw pillows and cushions on the bed. A four poster bed, a Queen Anne writing table and chair.
Whether she came from a home as grand as this or not is not the question: The question is what she would want, what she is familiar with, what she may have dreamed about in her life before Katrina. This is a southern lady used to southern charm and southern style!
Unfortunately, I think only Alice would have given this very deserving woman a room that would have been truly comfortable and 'at home' for her. David would have also given her a modern space. In fact, I think that is all David knows how to design, just like Vern. What about us traditionalists? Ikea? Never in a million years! Give me Baker or Henredon or Ethan Allen or Drexel anytime!!! I'd even settle for the inexpensive copies at Bombay. I am sure both rooms could have been done in a beautiful traditional and timeless style for under $10,000. I know I could have done it!

Posted by Barbara -- – September 3, 2006 6:06 PM

DAVID CAN TAKE HIS SHIRT OFF DURING ALL HIS SHOWS IF HE LIKES!!! lol....

If a girl was wearing a tank top, no one would say anything, but because a guy wears a tank instead of a tee-shirt, now all these men are saying "keep the shirt on?!" oh well...

I would love to see alice and david have to trade styles for the final challenge. like alice needs to decorate in modern and david in traditional... I think it would be great fun, and would really show if either could accommodate a client that specifically asks for a particular style!

Posted by Debbie – September 3, 2006 5:34 PM

I can't help it, I am rooting for David! He can get used to being on TV real easy, but his creativity is something Alice simply does not have. David is gifted, period. I will be so bummed out if David loses. He is so sincere, and genuinely wants to please people. I have never in my life watched a reality show until this one and I am totally sucked in. And Alice needs to stop flaunting. Yes she has a great body but I bet she will get votes solely from cleavage. Ok, David takes his shirt off, but thats what men do. Both of them should stay covered up I guess. I sure hope David wins this. I'm counting the hours til the show is on tonight.

Posted by Roxane Martindale – September 3, 2006 4:39 PM

Has it ever occured that David & Alice should "tie" on the last segment? They would be adorable as co-hosts to a new show. They could counter-balance each others strong/weak points. I think they're cute together!! They'd be a good team!

Posted by EMILY J HAYS – September 3, 2006 4:09 PM

Hello again. I wish I'd had the chance to comment before this, but just now had a moment. Ah well.
Tym, thank you for the time you gave to your client. I know you had to divide your budget between two rooms. That was more difficult than applying the whole to one room. At the same time you are being judged by the "King of $1K Design". That was a lot to live up to but I do believe you gave your client a great shell to put her stamp on.
David, your room was very well thought out. I thought there was plenty of storage for the children's needs. The playarea was convenient to the stairs so the kids would not be too tired to play when they got downstairs. I did think the art area was still too dark, but that may have been the camera as well. It was a basement and dismally dark down there. As sweet as it was though, I'm sorry David, I still didn't think it was anything to write home about.
Alice, you proved you understand the mind of the Mid-Southwestern man. These men don't want to look out the windows,if they want to see outside "they'll go outside". This room works for the client because 1. You've got a "dad" chair, requisite for a man cave. 2. You've got a nap couch, another requisite for a man cave. 3. You've got a chair with an ottoman, that serves the purpose of "dad" chair or nap couch. Add to this an affordable LCD TV that can be viewed from all angles and the fact the man doesn't have to leave the room to get a beer, THAT'S a man cave. BTW did no one notice there were windows to the side of the seating that people could look out of?
Yes Alice you still have my vote.
Clive, I love you and I love this show as much as chocolate. Unfortunately, I forsee diet withdrawal upon the end of the show.

Posted by a.d. volpe – September 3, 2006 2:44 PM

Just couldn't keep quiet after reading that "..when she (Alice) opens her mouth she sounds uneducated." I am so tired of the ignorance of people from other sections of the country judging anyone from the south as being stupid! We are not!!! Bet Alice's degrees are superior to those of the ones looking down on her because of her southern accent. For those in the know, her accent is cultivated and demur. A perfect southern belle who has been educated twice over, she lends a degree of warmth and culture to her obvious design talent.
I was torn about for whom to vote. Now I've decided to choose Alice to make my small vote for the victims of prejudice everywhere. (And that carpenter who victimized poor Tym? I've met him a thousand times over wanting to teach this uppity woman a lesson or two for trying to give him directions!)

Posted by Connie – September 3, 2006 9:42 AM

I have really enjoyed watching this show. It has kept me up at night trying to determine what I would have done in the rooms. I am so glad that Alice and David are in the finals. They seem to be the most talented. Either of them would do a good job. Please do not complain about the way Alice talks. There are a lot of us in the South that sound just like her. It is not a sign of being uneducated or unprofessional just a regional accent. When I travel in the North I have a hard time understanding what people are saying because their accents are so pronounced. Sorry, I did not mean to be offensive. Good luck to both of them.

Posted by Edna S – September 2, 2006 9:09 PM

I was sorry to see Tym go. I thought he was the voice of reason on the show, and was interesting as a presenter. I like his New York appartment design and feel we have lost a designer who would have brought inovative ideas to HGTV.Go Tym! You would have had my vote. From a not so young viewer.

Posted by bonnie – September 2, 2006 8:43 PM

Let me just say I love this show, I hope it stays around for a few years. Being a designer myself it's fun to see how different designers interpet a space. I do however disagree with most people on this blog, yes Alice SEEMS very nice and sweet but something tells me she's not the little miss picture of perfection that the she portrays. As for talent she has a good eye but in my opinion she's no match for David and definately not a DESIGN STAR. David should win this competition hands down, he proved that when on I believe it was episode three he designed an incredible room shopping at the pet store! Let's not forget Alice was part of the team that cut up the sofa, put little tacky plates on the wall, and had crazy little seatings in that big room. David is innovative, quirky, and a natural star. The people that want Alice to win probably voted for George W Bush-They believe anything. One more comment The Alice and David show? NO NO NO NO NO! It's DESIGN STAR not DESIGN STARS.

Posted by Tasha – September 2, 2006 8:06 PM

I don't know how to pick, this is hard. Of course, David is the best designer and the last room was not totally contemporary, it was an updated traditional, good to see he is not all ultra-modern. Both he and Alice can follow through well on getting things finished. I liked Tym on screen, he really impressed me after the finalist had to present their work on the air, he drew me in each time, he should definetly be on TV although I can tell he does not like to paint!
I agree with many, I want a trio, Tym, David, and Alice, can't you see it now them playing off each other and Alice and David teasing Tym, Tym and David teasing Alice and Alice and Tym teasing David, I see the whole show in 3-D in my head already, fun, diverse, creative and informative. As for the twins I could not believe they had masters degrees in architecture, they could not even dress well, I was shocked when I saw their bios, I thought they were someone they picked up on the sales floor of a department store or Toy store.

Posted by Lajoya – September 2, 2006 7:53 PM

Love this show! I've been reading through the comments and find them very interesting. For those of us who aren't as knowledgeable about design as others - could someone clearly distinguish the difference between a decorator and a true designer. It would be great to understand such subtleties, especially on the eve of the final vote. Someone please enlighten us. I at least find the subject fascinating.

Posted by Dana – September 2, 2006 7:47 PM

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider letting the two finalists co-host a show. They'd represent a terrific combination of design styles and expertise. It would be a shame to pick between two obvious WINNERS!

Posted by Suz – September 2, 2006 6:21 PM

Very tough choice between Alice and David. Tim did a remarkable job with handling the problems with carpentar. Temple was always back stabbing someone and didn't even respect the judges comments and her work or problems she had with Donna. Vanessa and Ramona didn't belong on this type of show. Joseph took a very bad hit for a lot of things Vanessa should have never done. Wish the best of luck on such a great show and to all the designers in future work.

Posted by Terry – September 2, 2006 3:50 PM

Can you stand one more posting about this last show? I came in late on this one.... missed the show due to being out of town.
Had to catch the rerun to bring myself up to snuff.
I do think all the designers did a good job on their rooms.
Tym as everyone said, got a bumb rap with that looser of a carpenter. I found it puzzeling that the shows producers did not check out this bozo better. Tym did not have the time to jack with him, and I do not think his note was out of place. He had other things to do, and waiting around for a carpenter who does not show up on time, or does not have proper equipment, is counter productive. Nothing rude about it...after all, the carpenter was rude from the get go, so why does anyone think he deserved better?
Over all, I liked Tym's space, though as usual, he had no art on the walls, which took away from the over all look. A few bright lively peices would have made all the diffirence in the world. Still sad to see him go, though I think the right choice was made. I think he will do well because of his exposure to this eperiance.

Davids basement room was da bomb! With the time given, I think he did an awsome job. Some mentioned the kids table and safty factors, but with more time, he could have fine tuned those details. The proof of his success with his room showed in the home owners reaction.
I beleive his artsy abilities give him the edge on creativity, as well as his ability to build his own creations. His personality is showing better each week, and I think he would come across as warm and genuine on a show of his own.

I still like Alice as a designer. She is more practical and real with her efforts. Not everyone can create their own art, so what Alice does is doable for anyone wanting to use her ideas.
Still in all, I did find her room well done, however, it did give the imnediate impression of not being much diffirent from the original room until you looked at the details more. We viewers do not get to see the rooms well enough to pick up on the details via a quick shot like you would if you were there in person. It was a rich inviting space over all.
In real life, a designer would have more time to fine tune and think out their plans than our contestants do. Considering the time crunch, it was a very good effort.
Alice is a good all around designer with a practical realistic bent. Even though she was not comfortable with a "man cave" challange. People said she was not out of the box with her room, but in most cases, it is all about real life furniture, paint, and decor. She does rooms you can live with for a long time.
As for her accent, it does not grate on my nerves. I think it is charming, and at least you can't say she has a generic accent. Kind of like you Clive. ;~)
It is going to be hard to pick who wins. The next show is going to be a make it or break it contest for our designers. They both better put the WOW factor into their work this time around.
At this point that will be the deciding factor for me, because I think they are neck and neck for a show of their own.
Kudos for the producers of this show! Can't wait for the next go around next season.

Posted by Barb – September 2, 2006 12:23 PM

What a show!! I started off being for David, but Alice just kept getting better and better. I think she was a bit nervous to begin with but has gotten over it and she SHINES! I think her accent is charming and she seems like someone I would want to have as a friend. Her style reminds me a bit of Lisa LaPorta, and I love her! I won't be disappointed if David wins, however, I would like for him to keep his shirt on! (I'm just glad Temple is gone. What a fake!)

Posted by Tracey – September 2, 2006 12:10 PM

I am a long time fan of HGTV. I have been watching each episode of Design Star and am enjoying the real anticipation, cooperative effort and extraordinary talent of each designer.
My personal preference has been David because of his creativity, authenticity, TV presence and charm. His work is wonderful and his smile lights up the screen. I hope that I will see him hosting his own show on HGTV.

Posted by Bonnie M. – September 2, 2006 11:10 AM

David is the true interior designer whom I would love watching on a weekly or daily basis. He has quick innate solutions that are feasts for the eye. He has the sweetest spaghetti eye smile with a dear personality that I could watch over and over. Nothing against Alice (other than she is a good non-innovative decorator), but I cannot take her syrupy Southern drawl for more than a minute. Please don't put that on a long-term show! I'll hardly watch it.

Posted by jane – September 2, 2006 11:09 AM

Hello Clive. Lovin' the show! I've watched them all. There are two things that have bothered me. I agreed with Vern that the Kitchen re-design could have been accomplished in the time allowed. My husband and I have been in the Cabinet business for many years. Tym didn't know what he was talking about when he said tearing out and installing the cabinets was so time consuming. Framed cabinets are quickly installed. They could have ripped out the old cabinets in about an hour and installed the new cabinets in the time it took to prime and paint the new ones. I thought Tym was negative thru that whole show and his green room design was terrible and again, looked unfinished. His Katrina Victim room was very manly and as a woman, it would not have appealed to me. Too bad he had a lazy carpenter, but why no art on the walls? Secondly, Alice has a lovely southern accent,a lot of class and seemed to listen to her client. The comments that her southern accent makes her sound unintelligent makes me mad. She comes across very intellegent and articulate. David's designs are very artistic. I think he is an artist all the way and extremely creative but not necessarily an interior designer. I would hire him to paint a mural or do art work but I would personally feel more comfortable with Alice decorating my home. She also presents her work well and has charisma on the camera. Hey Alice, I would love for you to decorate my mountain home on one of your shows. God Bless!

Melanie

Posted by Melanie – September 2, 2006 5:36 AM

I just watched the promo for Sunday's show. What's up with the matching tank tops??? Equal footing of some sort??

Posted by Beki Burton/ Beaumont, Texas – September 2, 2006 2:38 AM

I've had David as my choice since the "star" introductions. We find ourselves smiling the entire time he's on screen, even when he's just standing there listening to others. He has a gentleness and calm spirit that seems to emanate. His playfulness is relaxing and so refreshing. In a funny way even the "nervousness" that's been referred to by some viewers as well as one of the judges, comes across as real . . . something that's easy to relate to which makes him more approachable.
In response to one of the earlier comments by a viewer: Designers should challenge us to view ourselves as well as our environment with fresh eyes, opening ourselves up to ideas that create and often surprise us with new kinds of beauty and life experiences.
Even though the pettiness and unprofessionalism demonstrated by a few of the contestants was a disappointment, once those persons were eliminated the concept of the show was very enjoyable! We're excited about this season's conclusion and looking forward to Season #2!

Posted by Karen (and Friends) – September 2, 2006 1:55 AM

Clive:
I've written before,but don't see my remarks posted to the site. I just want to say that I can't leave my seat on Sundays & think that the show is a fabulous hit! I'm so sorry to have seen Tym go. He was GREAT as a designer,but not too great as a host. He might have grown into it,however. Your TWO remaining designers are PERFECT! They've shone initiative & talent from day ONE! I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE LAST EPISODE SO I CAN VOTE! Keep these types of shows coming! Great work!!!

Posted by Jan Santos-Thorp – September 2, 2006 12:14 AM

I just started watching this tonight! Does Clive fly around in the helicopter checking on the designers on every show???

Posted by Gina – September 1, 2006 11:51 PM

I wasn't surprised by Tym taking a walk at the end of this week. Am I the only person in America who spent more time looking at that guy's hair than at him??? Holy cow, someone take a hedge trimmer to that guy's hair! In between David and Alice; I think David has better designs, but Alice is much better on camera. More relaxed, very charming, and much easier to watch. Her designs are really nice, but nothing exciting, nothing that really pushes the envelope. I would love to watch a show with both of them; Alice could learn to get away from her furniture showroom design style a little bit more, and David could learn to be more comfortable with the camera. My prediction is that America is going to go with David...just a gut reaction!

Posted by Amy – September 1, 2006 10:37 PM

To Deanna...I think you are very observant. Until you mentioned it, I hadn't thought about why Tym's carpenter was so uncooperative, but I think you are right. This had to be so frustrating and obvious to Tym, as well. I feel bad for him.

Posted by Nancy – September 1, 2006 10:15 PM

I loved loved loved David's room! He had the biggest challenge with the long narrow dark room. His designs are always inventive and a surprise. The children's play area was terrific! Those kids are probably having tons of fun with it! David's use of the fireplace as an entertainment center was terrific. The color scheme was great -- colorful enough but also designed with kids in mind. His presentation is refreshing because of his enthusiasm.

Tym's room this week was actually better than most of his other work. I really like the way he designed the bedroom. Was a little confused by the livingroom especially since the couch was facing away from the TV. With all the furniture pushed up against the wall it looked like a mish mosh.

Alices mancave was nice but boring. Predictable. Yawn. Her voice grates on my nerves and I really don't think I could sit through 1/2 hour of her squeakiness.

Posted by Tracy – September 1, 2006 9:37 PM

This show is called "design star" NOT "design presenter" - if this show has credibility David should win. David is the one who shows innate talent and creativity and he can do regular designs and fantasy-art designs that are inspiring - he's capable of star quality work. And he has charisma that makes you enjoy watching him. Alice is of average talent, and she does designs most people can do - she's boring and lacks charisma - plus her voice isn't very pleasing to the ears - she's not a "design star"

Posted by silvershadow – September 1, 2006 8:52 PM

Hi, Clive!

Love the show. The final two turned out just as I expected. Can't wait to see the final show.

The new ads for Designed to Sell are sensational! And I love the new team in Chicago.

Can't wait to see the new Design Star show, especially the "behind the scenes" preview.

By the way, will we get to see Alice's day on the In Style shoot? That would be super!

Best wishes to all -- contestants, judges, and you, Clive!

Karen R

Posted by Karen R – September 1, 2006 7:45 PM

I agree with Cat. I would like to see both David and Alice show 1 room that each of them would do with their own style (so that the room would be done 2 different ways). I think that would be original, and interesting - and show that there's not just one right way to design!

Posted by Lianda L. – September 1, 2006 6:38 PM

My disappointment is with Clive. I just loved his puns, and how friendly and personable he is on Designed to Sell. But on this show, it seems like he's imitating these other "reality shows" - (which honestly, I don't watch) - or Donald Trump. I don't like the way he treats the "losers". Why can't people be nice? Especially since all of the contestants are just doing the best they can - it's not like they're bad people, why should they be dismissed like that? I would like to see a different attitude on the show!

Posted by Lianda L. – September 1, 2006 6:36 PM

I am only a teen wanting to become a Designer But I think that Alice and David would make a great show together they both have such agreeable personalities

Posted by Lyndsay – September 1, 2006 6:23 PM

I think that David should win. I think his laugh is very refreshing and all his designs have been 110%. He stands above the rest.
I agree about the other women being catty. I am so glad to see the "good guys" finish the race! Good luck,David.

Posted by Betty – September 1, 2006 6:20 PM

Tym was a nice guy but his designs were too plain, too unfinished looking, ie, no artwork on the walls in the New York apartment. It didn't look as though a designer did the room. It felt too do-it-yourself IKEA. His carpenter was the worst...lazy and uncooperative! Alice is very sweet but her room had too much furniture and I was bored. David's designs are always exciting and stunning. I look forward to seeing what he will do. His rooms are polished, finished beautifully and aesthetically pleasing. David should be the winner...WITH OR WITHOUT HIS SHIRT ON!

Posted by Lori – September 1, 2006 4:06 PM

Love Alice - her room looked good, but PLEASE, most of us could have put that room together. DAVID, DAVID, DAVID or DAVID AND ALICE.

I'm in Alaska time, which is one hour behind Pacific. Will our votes be counted?

Posted by M in Alaska – September 1, 2006 4:05 PM

Great show with so much excitement. I wish David and Alice the best. I do feel the true designer was eliminated last week, Tym. What a classy guy! Perhaps the show should be called "Decorator Star" since that is what the judges are looking for--the most decorated room; not the best designs.

Posted by sunshinemommy – September 1, 2006 2:35 PM

While I agree that Tym was the correct choice to be 'cancelled' - I wasn't 100% sold on David and Alice's efforts.

I agree that Tym didn't take his client's tastes into account, and I found his spaceplanning lacking. He seems to put emphasis on such subtle details that aren't apparent, like different paint colors on the insides of the window openings that are going to be covered by window treatments - who's gonna see that on TV??? Then he ignores the big empty walls, and leaves the bed with only one nightstand in the far corner, but nothing for his client to use on the side of the closet side of the bed where she really needs a light and a place to put her book, clock, etc. - What were you thinking Tym???

I feel bad that he had a loser carpenter tho - he may have performed better with a better worker - but given his previous work (particularly the Green Room) I doubt it.

Alice really did a nice job w/ her den, but I agree that the focus should have been turned outward rather than inward. The glare from all those windows is gonna make watching that TV miserable - wondering why she didn't do a cozy sectional sofa in the corner with her leather chair and find a creative way to suspend the TV in front of the windows? Her room had nice touches, but seemed more suited to what the wife wanted than the husband would want except for that great chair.

David really pulled it off. He was creative with his use of space and innovative with his use of built-ins, materials and color schemes - particularly within the play space which seemed to pull the outdoors in with his 'tree' and bright colors. His only failing was the microwave stacked on top of the mini-fridge in the corner behind the table - it looked like an afterthought - not integrated into the room in any way at all.

Looking forward to seeing the conclusion this weekend Clive - would have liked to have been in Manhattan to see this (and David's arms!)

For those of you kvetching about missing the show cause you're on vacation, etc. - there's always TIVO, Reruns and the inevitable "DesignStar Marathon"...
;-)

Posted by BEP – September 1, 2006 1:54 PM

DAVID! DAVID!! DAVID!!!...GO! GO!! GO!!! KICK ALICE'S BUTT!!!!!!! YOU GOT MY VOTE, YOUR TALENTS ARE UNSURPASSED!

Posted by ROBIN – September 1, 2006 1:53 PM

Both Alice and David are extremely talented. Both have great personalities, glorious smiles and come across as extremely genuine. I would really hate to see either lose. But if I have to make a choice it will be Alice. She does beautiful rooms and remembers that real people have to use them (the flat screen TV, gorgeous leather chair, refrig in the armoir, and warm colors in the man cave) She has class and a great presence. Her accent is adorable and she is not a carbon copy of any existing HGTV hosts. Plus she has a natural calming way of presenting. David definitely has flair and talent. He definitely has a long successful career ahead of him, and he is adorable. But he reminds me a little of a couple of other hosts in some ways. I wish them both lots of luck.

Posted by bigfan – September 1, 2006 1:42 PM

I don't speak on race very often but I wanted to know if anyone else got the unfortunate impression that perhaps Tym's carpenter was less than enthused about helping Tym because the room was for an African American. Many of you will find this silly but I found his comment about getting some "fried chicken" for lunch very unusal. I am just wondering if there was anything done behund the scenes to support my suspicions or if there were other issues that we didn't see in the show.

I think both David and Alice are good. But David seems to have a little more edge! Good Luck David!

Posted by Deanna – September 1, 2006 1:07 PM

I have truly enjoyed watching each episode of Designstar. The talent from the final four is remarkable. I sensed early in the show that David would be in the finals. He has a great flair in creating something dynamic. Alice has a sweet personality that draws people to her. I felt that Tym's rooms in episode 5 and 6 both lacked artwork on the walls. This left the rooms feel somewhat incomplete. The grass on the window sill was a great touch that added some warmth to the room. I think that David should win because he does offer a bit of more drama to his designs. The other designs do come across as traditional work that could be done by anyone. Once he (or Alice) wins, it would be great to see Tym, Temple and the 2nd place winner be guests on the new show. I was also impressed to see how the 4 final contestants became friends and displayed sadness at the loss their friend experience before the celebrated thier own victory. This has been been true sportsmanship.

Love to watch HGTV and enjoy watching Design to Sell, Debbie Travie, Divine Design and Get Color.

Posted by Larry – September 1, 2006 12:57 PM

I'm sad to see Tym go, he seems such a nice guy.
I think Alice came through with what her
client wanted. I loved he design. David did
agood job also. I just want him to put a shirt
on and keep it on.
Alice has my vote. Her strengths are what a designer should have.

Posted by Sue – September 1, 2006 11:50 AM

My family has really enjoyed Design Star. Unfortunately, we won't see the Sept. 3rd episode. Why would HGTV schedule this important show on Labor Day weekend? Everyone I know is going on vacation or camping. Around here, no one watches TV on Labor Day weekend. I won't even have access to a TV on Sunday. What a disappointment!

Posted by Debra – September 1, 2006 10:33 AM

I hope David wins. Alice looks like a TV host but when she opens her mouth she sounds uneducated. Her designs are nice, but David has more creative ideas. The best decision the judges made the entire time was to drop Donna. She came across very phony. All she wanted to do was mock everyone else behind their backs and go shopping. These are not characteristics of a host, they are more like characteristics of bored/self-focused person. I think Temple would have come across better if Donna was not always looking for fault. The others followed suit on the kitchen remodel and questioned her on every step.

It will be interesting to see who wins.

Posted by Jenny – September 1, 2006 1:53 AM

I am not a realty show fan,but you got me hooked with this one. I am an advant watcher of HGTV and truely enjoyed this series. I think both of the contestants have what it takes to be the next design star. Becasue there could only be one I would pick David becasue of his personality. He seems to fit in well with the other designers on other shows like Candice Olson and her perky attitude. That would be funny if you added him to her show, he would fit in well with the others.

Posted by Maria – September 1, 2006 1:25 AM

I have so enjoyed this show! Tym is so personable. He would be a real asset on TV. I do understand why he was the one who left. His design was too masculine. He seems like a nice guy. He is talented I wish him well. David did a good job. He is very talented. I liked his use of space and the kid's area. I think Alice would be the best Design Star. She is so talented and personable. Yes, she designed the room using the wife's thoughts, but in a sense it was the wife's gift for her husband. I suspect her husband won't be coming into the room to look out the window. The room was a stretch for her and she did a great job.

Posted by Teresa R. – September 1, 2006 12:45 AM

Both David and Alice have gifts. David's is for classy design with a splash of memorable style in each room. Alice is equally talented as a designer sans splash, but equally tasteful. She really shines in front of a camera. I think they balance each other well and wish that they could share a show together. Since that doesn't appear to be possible, perhaps we, the audience, need some instruction from HGTV on how their talents should be weighted in our decision. If designing ability is more important, I would say that David should win. If tv personality should win, then Alice is your gal. They're both terrific! And I hope they both have a great future in television.

Posted by Jan G. – September 1, 2006 12:36 AM

I love this show. I know most it seems on this blog are voting for David. I Love both Alice and David, they both have talent and are very real people. From the beginning they were both the most kind and respectful of their fellow contestants. (Tym too) This impressed me, how could the other contestants handle a real desgin job with all the drama, lies and snickering. It seemed so silly and unprofessional. Especially the girl from Jersey, she wins the wants it the most catigory, but at what cost and how much personal humiliation are you willing to put yourself through?
I would just like to point out something as people vote. I always notice on HGTV that many if not most of the designer lean toward a ultra modern, minimalistic design style. I think that David has an amazing eye for design, but just because he choses modern decore more than Alice does that make him a better designer? I don't think so, many if not MOST of the people watching HGTV can not properly translate modern design into their old home, or ranch home or suburban new construction. I think Alice relates more to her audience, although Davids theatrical type childrens rooms, and use of color is stimulating. Is it ultimatly useful to the average viewer? Someone sugested that Alice could possibly be the next Candice Olsen, I think so. Some may question, but I don't see how any of us could possibly see the full range of their talent from this platform alone. Just some thoughts, I like David, but I think I will vote for Alice!
Good Luck~Jen

Posted by Jen – September 1, 2006 12:25 AM

It is so refreshing to watch a show where "nice guys and ladies" finish FIRST! David, Alice, and Tym showed class and integrity all through the episodes, in addition to having great talent. I would have stopped watching had the whining ladies continued on. I am so happy to see genuinely positive, confident, and talented individuals win. This is the ONLY reality show I've ever stayed with. Congratulations to all involved.

Posted by Ann Albers – September 1, 2006 12:20 AM

I think over - all David is better of the two. His ideas are refreshing and different. Even though he seems a bit excited when he does his presentation, It makes me smile. I think he would be great as a design star.

I have to mention. I think that Alice needs to cover her chest more. I would've liked to have seen more of the design.

I haven't missed an episode. Love it!

Posted by Cindy J. – September 1, 2006 12:18 AM

This certainly has been a nailbiting ride! It's anyone's guess who might win, but I think I am for Alice so far. I hope her style and charming personality shine brightly on this last challenge!

Posted by Pennyfish – August 31, 2006 10:45 PM

There have been many comments about the lack of "feminine" touches in Tym's room. What would you suggest he should have done that you are reasonably sure the client would have liked? Not all women want the same things!

Posted by Ruth (kruhkacz) – August 31, 2006 10:44 PM

Decorating is my great passion. I have greatly enjoyed watching the series and even found myself designing the same spaces.
I love to watch Designed to Sell and Clives humor is what makes the show.
I believe Alice has the greatest artistic potential. David is fine, but Alice was great personality.

Posted by Sharon – August 31, 2006 10:41 PM

I would looove if David and Alice co-hosted a show. David is bold and colorful, while Alice is more airy and wispy. Being that they get along so well, they could make a really great team.

I had decided that I wasnt going to vote, because I like them both. But I don't want David to go. He decorates like I would want to, and he's just so fun to watch!

Posted by Kristen – August 31, 2006 9:52 PM

I watched the Desgin Star episode this evening. I was puzzled by comments of two judges. Vern told Alice that it was "hard to distinguish if she was trying to cater to what the client's needs are or if it was her own style." In my experience, any designer, worth her salt, would &
should most definitely cater to the needs of the client, but do the design with more panache than the client might do on her own. Judging by the
family's response, Alice definitely achieved that goal. Also, one of the female judges commented, "I like it, but it doesn't surprise."
For a talented judge to say, "I like it" is sufficient praise for any contender. A designer need not necessarily "surprise." Great taste is always wonderful!
In reading comments from bloggers who question the painting of the window trim, I would like to state that the ceiling was left as totally stained wood, as was the floor, although Alice did diminish the "rustic" look at the homeowner's request. All colors chosen were in earthtones, which is usually what men want. All woods were dark stained, also manly.
In looking at the room plan, Alice had very limited options. There was no solid, uninterrupted wall at all. The room appeared to be a "sunroom" addition to the house. Her longest wall was a half-wall, which also included double patio doors, and a large third window. Perhaps one of her chairs was a swivel chair.
David is appearing more sincere and less self-praising, which appeals to me. I was very touched that there were tears in his eyes, when the winners were announced after this episode.
I agree that David and Alice would be good co-hosts. Their talents compliment one another.
Together, they could meet any challenge from the
most contemporary to completely classic. I think
that Alice's accent is charming. After all, we
don't criticize Clive for having a dialect different from standard, American mid-western.

Posted by sara – August 31, 2006 9:35 PM

I think David would be a better choice to host a show. He has a great personality and his designs are wonderful--I loved the family room from this past show. Alice would get on my nerves after a while--her poor posture and sqeaky voice really get to me. I don't know if I could watch an entire show of her's without hitting the mute button!

Posted by Cathy A – August 31, 2006 9:35 PM

I really enjoyed episode 6. I was a little upset at Tim and thought he should have taken better controle of his carpenter than he did. He was very smooth in front of the camera but a little confrintation makes a better show than to allow your carpenter to be the most interesting part of your show.
Alice is not a really great Design Star she is to silly at times and on camera she is really bland at times. I really enjoy watching David he has a great camera quality but really does need to get more comfortable on camera. I am really glad to see Vern back on the air. I really miss his shows. I took insperation from his rooms on trading spaces and really became unaffraid of color. Thank you Vern.

Posted by David – August 31, 2006 9:16 PM

Clive, you are the most charming and genuine host I've ever had the pleasure of watching. Even your commercials are great tv viewing!

I have an idea for HGTV- why don't you replace that other team of D2S with Tym, David and Alice? It would be a welcome move!!!

Love the show, love the final 2 (and Tym, too!)- we can't wait until Sunday night! I have no idea who we'll vote for, both are very talented, and seem to be genuinely nice and down to earth people...what a tough decision!

You Rock, Clive! Oh- and btw, if you ever need an east coast team, I'm Donna, and my daughters name is Shannon. Really- and we'd love to meet the west coast Donna/Shannon team!

Posted by Donna – August 31, 2006 8:55 PM

This has been a great series! I look forward to it every week. I even watch the reruns on Saturday!

My one concern has been the time limits that have been placed on each design and the absence of ongoing consultation with the various "clients." I'm glad that in the last two espisodes carpenters were provided. The kitchen fiasco troubled me because the designers had to do everything themselves and they were designing a real space for real clients. In the "real world," designers and clients would work together (Like Kenneth Brown does on "Redesign").

I'm looking forward to Sunday's show. Since the beginning, I've been "rooting" for David. I can't wait to see what will happen and I'm excited to get the chance to vote.

I am also looking forward to seeing the winner on his/her new show.

So. . .when will Design Star 2 begin?

Posted by Carol – August 31, 2006 2:30 PM

The online voting is interesting. Tym, are you watching? America loves you.

Posted by Nancy – August 31, 2006 1:18 PM

I definitely agree with many people here.
why don't they cohost a show together? put a little twist on things!!

however, i don't agree with some people about kenneth brown. His designs are all so predictable!!

Posted by Regina – August 31, 2006 10:45 AM

My husband is not a HGTV fan. But this show he is watching with me + kids. All my family loved this show. Our favourite design star (or will be)is DAVID. He is very creative. I think he is the best. Alice is ok. Our vote for David only.

Posted by Saba – August 31, 2006 9:58 AM

This is the first reality show that I have enjoyed. I tuned in after the first two episodes but had the chance to see them all last Saturday. From the beginning I thought and still do think David is an acceptional designer. He seems to have a personality that would make you feel comfortable and at ease. Alice is also a great designer and so far expressed herself extremely well as a TV host. I wish both could be on together what a complement to each other. David has that special talent which I have seen in every episode. Good luck from a designer.

Posted by Suzanne – August 31, 2006 8:56 AM

What is going on with the online voting? Tym was way behind David and Alice, the other day. Today Tym is now a little over 600 votes under David. If Tym's style is so bland, why the turnaround?

Just curious.

I hated to see Tym go. He has a fantastic future ahead of him and I wish him the very best in his future.

I hope if David wins he will be required to wear a shirt during the taping of his show.

Posted by Brenda – August 31, 2006 7:57 AM

I have truly enjoyed Designstar! Clive, you are a pleasant host, on both of your shows and your are a true gentleman.

While Alice and David have successfully gone on to "win" the latest challanges to become the final two, I believe that it was too soon to start eliminations on the first show. However, in saying that, I'm afraid that poor Ramona was out of touch with reality never mind design! The whole concept of letting one person handle the money for the group was a mistake. I think Donna got carried away with her own designs and what she needed for herself with little regard of her fellow designers. We, the viewers, saw the bickering with Donna and Temple. In my opinion, they should have been voted off immediately! Let's face the truth, they were on the show to compete for their own design show with the other contestants, not to act childish and take away attention from the people who had a real desire to make a career for themselves. In the real world, no employer would have tolerated such behavior.

I understand that networks have time restraints but I think some of the other earlier contestants have great talent and we didn't have the chance to showcase such talent!

Clive, you and Lisa Laporta make an adorable team on D2S! I agree with the majority of the folks that the new team has to GO!!!!! I realize you and Lisa are busy people but please talk to the producers about doing all the D2S shows!!

Good Luck to Alice and David on Sunday!

Posted by Katherine – August 31, 2006 5:07 AM

Definitely the right 2 made it to the finals, thank goodness. David has shown more creativity and artistic vision, but as Vern said, you're designing people's actual homes, not a set on a tv show. So Alice's livable, comfortable designs are ones you actually want in your own home. So difficult to decide! I can't wait for the finale! And yes, the new D2Sell crew is nowhere near as good as the Clive/Lisa team. Not bad, but simply no charisma. And why doesn't Vern have his own show? He is awesome - absolutely the only one I would allow carte blanche in my home. All my friends agree. Remember the horrible Doug Brown? The ultimate example of the arrogant "I'm a DESIGNER, you're the lowly homeowner, why should I care that you actually have to live in the space?" nightmare designer-as-tortured-artiste. Maybe he and Ramona are related.

Posted by Lizz – August 31, 2006 12:32 AM

Hi Clive...loving the show..I completely agree with the 2 finalists. Great job, judges. I really do hope David will win as I would love to see him on every week and see more of his work. Also please let HGTV know that the voting on HGTV web site can be cheated (easily!). I hope this is cleared up before voting for the final winner as it would be a shame for that to be decided unfairly.

Posted by Vicki – August 31, 2006 12:18 AM

This was the first "reality" show that has ever "caught" me. First & foremost let me thank you for leaving the sleazy back stabbing, hurtful tactics out of the show. The reason I got caught up was, I saw talented people being challenged. Judges being truthful, and tough without the mean & nasty tactics employed on so many other shows.
The last pair David & Alice will be a tough pick, but I'm leaning twoard David at this time.

Posted by wendy – August 30, 2006 11:51 PM

David's work is that of an artist, innovative and exciting, and sometimes unusual.
Alice's work is by the book and boring. She is a sweet person and most likely very good for the normal household, but none of her designs stick in my mind.
David however has the potential to be another Kenneth Brown. If Alice could be another Candice Olsen, I would vote for her. I have to go with David.

Posted by Suzanne – August 30, 2006 11:35 PM

Sometime around the point when the program was down to the final four contestants, after watching the show from the start and seeing how each person did in their relative contests... and how they came across on TV... I came to a conlusion. I think it would make an AMAZING program to have Dave and Alice do a show TOGETHER! And now that they are the final two contestants, I think that is EXACTLY what should happen!

Posted by JayK – August 30, 2006 11:27 PM

I think David is very artistic, but his language is not professional enough, using words like "sucks" and "retarded" show a lack of class.
Alice gets my vote, talent and class, rolled into one.

Posted by mom – August 30, 2006 10:05 PM

Another great show! All along, I've been rooting for Alice, and I'm thrilled to see her in the final two.

But I have to say, I'm liking David more and more. I thought his basement rec room was really different for him, with no modern "circle art" in sight, but great use of the space, a wonderful kid's area, and it really fit the client's needs. I was very impressed with the room. And I think David's getting a bum rap on his hosting abilities. Yes, he's a little quirky, and very energetic, but I kind of like that. In this last challenge, I found his excitement really infectious and uplifting. It made me smile and really buy into his room.

That's not to say I didn't like Alice's room as well. As usual, she did a lovely job, and she is wonderful on camera.

This last challenge is going to be incredible. I can't wait to see it!!!

Posted by DJ – August 30, 2006 9:08 PM

Wow, reading the comments presented, I can't believe how petty everyone is about Alice's accent. She is a genuine southern belle! I also can't believe what a big deal everyone is making out of David. And, I'm shocked there weren't more comments about Tym.

Now my take on everything!... I personally didn't think that Tym "looked" the part of a host, but had no problem with his designs. This last show really got me irritated because his so-called "carpenter/helper" was definitely an idiot. He certainly did not help and as far as I'm concerned, he really prevented Tym from doing his best. His room was neutral, but well thought out. I really felt sorry for him.

Okay, okay... everone thinks David is gorgeous. He's not bad looking, but I think he's full of himself. He is good at his designs, but he's somewhat predictable too. Are people really looking at his designs or are they just looking at "him"?

Alice's room designed for men wasn't, in my opinion, very manly at all. Why she painted all the woodwork white is beyond me. She could have changed the rough wood and still kept a dark color.

After all this babbling, I do like the show a lot and would like to see all of the final three again. Thanks, Clive... how awful do you feel when you have to say "your show has been cancelled"?

Posted by Paula – August 30, 2006 7:02 PM

For someone who has sworn off "reality tv", I am hooked on Design Star. Out of the 2 finalists, I I am more impressed with David's abilities and capabilities. The difference between David and Alice is that one can truly design while the other displays (quite competently). Alice has agood sense of colour (I love her Tiffany Box Blue room) but I wish she had more ingenuity when it comes to designing an interior. She has mainly provided criticism about how things have taken shape during previous projects rather than injecting some constructive criticism and stood up more for decisions (eg. wooden floorboards in the kitchen are not good...couldn't she have informed Temple sooner about the choice or what about the plates on the wall with Vanessa). I may be totally off the mark bt Alice strikes me as someone who can be two-faced.

True, David, is slightly rusty with presenting but it's not something you become unconsciously competent about overnight. I look forward to seeing David's designs every week as they are unique and do have the WOW factor. His designs and execution of them make up for his self consciousness - I don't even notice him talking when I am mesmerised with what is on the screen. (And his six pack is quite nice to look at too) I really hope he wins.

Posted by Cheryl – August 30, 2006 6:16 PM

Hi,

Really got hooked on the show. Totally agreed on the final 3. It could have gone either way for me. Was sorry to see that Tym had the additional challenge of the worthless carpenter. David and Alice didn't have to deal with anything like that. I'm leaning towards Alice but will wait for the final to see who does what. Both are talented and I'm sure either would do justice to my favorite tv network. Good luck to both. And Tym, check out the opening on DIY. It would be great to see a fellow Ft Wayne-ite make it big. You would be the next in a long line .......much talent to be had here.

Posted by Pam – August 30, 2006 6:10 PM

A few people brought up the safety issue in the basement rec room, I'd like to comment: We raise 3 of our grandkids. One child is blind, one does not have good coordination, and one is still a wee thing. I would not want a round table. The children can't seem to keep paper drinks, elbows, or anything on it. Has anyone ever heard of rubber bumpers? You can also use things around the house to pad corners. I could not imagine a better designer for kids than David. Should we all be so fortunate as this couple. Thanks for the show. It is awesome. I'd like to see all of the last 3 have guest appearances on other shows.

Posted by sara gindin – August 30, 2006 5:48 PM

Great show! Haven't missed an episode and can't wait to see what the final challenge will be. Personally, I love David and think he is by far the most creative designer of the 2 . He is a doll!
Alice's voice is SO annoying!
Just a thought: for season 2 perhaps one of the judges could be a viewer; an ordinary person from the publi