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yes I agree with all of you about will the only thing he needed to change was the way he dress'es I am sure we all aree on that right he was the best but I feel in the top two between todd and kim I choose todd he is fun to watch and entertaining but so was sparkle josh who was my top 2 favs.I loved scott to I clearly thought robb was so stuck up and wicked nasty.My choice for a design team dream team would be will,josh{sparkles}scott todd and that sweet spanish lady now I like kim and being a loving person and doing unto others as i'd have them do unto me I felt kim was good and I liked her but my choice for 2 awesome hgtv design star shows would be WILL AND JOSH{sparkleS}.And TODD AND SCOTT these 4 got along with everyone and never butted heads with anyone and there designs were awesome now another show I would cast the beautiful spanish lady and kim.But all of you remember kim is black biraceial so you can't really say we would never see a blacl host or hostess but will is awesome did you all take note of will's email?

Posted by molly sutton – September 18, 2007 9:52 AM

Hello

Kim, you did it Congraulations!!!! Todd did very well, Will did also. But there can only be one winner. Best of luck to you Kim. What is your show going to be called, and when will it be aired? I hope they get rid of those 2 women judges I thought they were awful; especially Ms Rowley. Clive you are the greatest and I also love Lisa Porter she does a great job.

Don't take off House Hunters that is really fun to watch.

Once again Kim, best of luck to you, keep up the good work.

Maureen in Concord New Hampshire

Posted by Maureen – September 17, 2007 9:25 PM

Good grief, one would get the idea that Kim's winning meant the end of design as we know it. She won and Will didn't, get over already. Will and Josh J. will do just fine. HGTV will probably have them back in some capacity given their popularity. I'm happy for Kim. Her win gives hope to anyone deciding on a career change. I made one late in my 40's and I've never been happier. Good luck to Kim, Will, and Sparkle Josh.

Posted by poohloveshoney – September 16, 2007 11:45 PM

I agree that Kim is really sweet and talented; however, her designs do not excite me. If her designs are boring than I honestly believe that I would not watch her show. On the other hand, I love watching Todd each week. His designs are way out there. We do not have a designer like him. If he does not win, I hope HGTV or another network hires him. I know I will watch his show.

Posted by Chanel Turner – September 15, 2007 8:18 PM

The Design Star series this year was a total dissappointment for us. The only contestant who came close to the caliber of last year's contestants was Will.Not only did he have design talent he was a genuine person who listened to the client and designed for them not for himself. Todd is not only a joke in the design department he is a revolting pig. His comment regarding his "Hot wife" was an insult even though she may not have the intelligence to realize it. The only positive statement I can make regarding Kim is the fact that she has a nice smile. It appears that this entire series was a set-up from the beginning. Todd the non-designer was kept for his inability to put together anything other than a juvenile beachie room so that Kim would have an opportunity to shine in the last challenge. I choose not to vote because neither of the final contestants was worthy of a vote as even a beginnig designer much less a "Design Star". Could anyone imagine Kim in a competition with Candice Olsen? In fact Kim would loose against all of the loosers in last years series. Even the lady who plastered the vaccuum cleaner. At least she showed originality.

Posted by ralphjaned – September 14, 2007 5:37 PM

really looking forward to the new hgtv show deserving design with vern. so this show really apealed to me, will did such a nice job, tod did ok but kim geez what a mess she walked into. i live in a rual area so i'm more practical, so i would've done tile floor with a large area rug painted the ceiling and changed the ugly door and that creepy lite. the green was cool tho. good luck kim

Posted by colleen – September 13, 2007 11:53 AM

I think the judge’s decision to eliminate Will was an utter catastrophe. It was plainly obvious that the two women judges did not like Will, and the only person that stood up for will was Vern, however he got drown out. Secondly, Todd and Kim are a total waste of time, space, and energy. Will delivered consistently and put in more work than anybody, although he never got the credit (i.e. the wedding episode). Only thing Todd did was build a platform and break furniture, totally elementary.
Personally I think the judges (women) want Todd as personal BOY TOY!!! Todd, Designer No, Cabana Boy Yes. As for Kim, she totally irks me, yes she has personality but she is a decorator and not a designer. Personality gets you a long way...let see where her talent gets her. NNOOOTTT. Personally I think Will and Sparkle Josh should have their own show, the two work well together, and lets face Josh knows how to bargain basement shop. I love this dude. Design Star is a joke this year.

Posted by koko_naki – September 12, 2007 1:04 AM

After reading most of the comments, it's obvious that most viewers prefer Will's design. Please bring him back to TV and give him a show.

Posted by Dawn – September 11, 2007 7:20 PM

I disagree with the judges in regards to their choices of whom they dismissed from the show. They made some poor decisions and seem to be off balance themselves which HGTV should looked into for future judges. I think Todd and Robb have great imagination with solid judgement. It seems these judges overlooked the consistent solid design talent of not only Robb but others. Design Interior 101 needs to be revisited again by these judges and HGTV.

Good Luck To The Two Finalist!

Posted by DHS – September 11, 2007 4:44 PM

WHERE THERE'S A WILL THERE'S A WAY! WILL has once again stepped up giving a wonderful deserving paraplegic girl everything she wanted and then some! Will's room was wonderful, playful and most of all functional for her. Todd's room was very nice and, Kim's room was nice as well. Kim handled her problems with style and humor. I loved her comment regarding the mud being "Magical" in West Virginia. Todd was a bit out of shape about the hanging projector he wanted to put in his room however, that's the nature of the game when you're a designer. Obstacles are bound to happen it's how you handle them that matters.
This particular show really touched my heart and I sobbed like a baby when Will's name was called. WILL'S EXIT SPEECH WAS AS GOOD AS IT GETS!!! Will's departure was so profound and moving that it showed everyone watching (the judges too I hope) that HIS EXPERIENCE TRANSCENDED THE SHOW IT SELF! If you noticed Will got more out of this challenge than any TV show could give. I hope to see Will on an HGTV show because people of that caliber are rare indeed. If you are reading this HGTV Execs I think a show called "HEART & SOUL with WILL SMITH ~*~

Posted by Kaff – September 11, 2007 9:55 AM

I'm disappointed that Will was eliminated for all of the aforementioned reasons other bloggers have stated. I think Kim has a lot of big city spunk and I love that. As far as Todd goes, I think his designs are too off the wall and can't be related to. I also wish he would keep his shirt on for an entire show. What's that all about anyway ?????

Posted by Angela – September 11, 2007 1:50 AM

Todd needed to go along time ago. Robb was a better designer than him but was a royal jerk. Kim is good needs to step it up some. Will was ok also. It is sad to think these were the cream of the crop. What is this world going to do with skateboard ramps and spinning rooms everywhere?? Not everyone wants Todd's "OUT THERE" vision..Surf's down dude..............

Posted by Ronda – September 10, 2007 2:44 PM

I'm completely stumped. I don't know if I should vote for Todd or Kim. I think the real winner was Will. I'm totally amazed that he was cancelled after designing that gorgeous room for Bridgit. His design was by far the best of the three. In fact, everything Will has done has been top notch. The judges reasoning was because of his hosting abilities. I LOVE David, but he didn't have hosting abilities and he has been learning that. I thought will did much better on camera than Todd. I think the judges are going for the "pretty face". Todd's designs are just okay, as his hosting ability is not that great. Kim's design for the family in West Virginia was horrible. I could have done better. I cannot believe the judges let Will go. I just can't believe it! I don't know who to vote for now. I probably won't vote. It would be a slam-dunk if Will was still in the competition.

Posted by Linda Laverne – September 10, 2007 11:10 AM

this was by far my favorite episode. there are so many families and homes in america that need help, and listing to the average joe is a huge part of what they will need to do on their own show. i feel the best thing about hgtv is the impact it has on homeowners lives and improving homes across america. i hope on the new season they will make viewers homes part of the challange again.

Posted by dina gagnon – September 10, 2007 2:34 AM

These blogs are really getting crazy!!This is a t.v. show.Not a crucifiction.Stick with judging the contestants.And keep the blogs short and concise.How important do these bloggers think they are?? A big rouund of applause to LeighB.I agree with your choice of a design show.LETITIA

Posted by LETITIA – September 10, 2007 12:43 AM

I am really impressed with Will - as a designer and has a genuinely good person. Rob is Will's exact opposite !! However, tonight we all saw Rob as a much more humble team player. Rob has obviously received some wise advice on humility and being a team player. Thank you HGTV for giving Rob the opportunity to redeem himself in the eyes of your large fan base. I know Will will do well in whatever his future holds - he has the right attitude and a great deal of talent. As much as I love Todd's enthusiasm and "full throttle " mentality, I'm voting for Kim because she has great taste- whether she's decorating contemporary, Traditional,Chinese, or whatever...Her smile is genuine, and I would love for her to design ANYTHING in my house.

Posted by Gwyn – September 10, 2007 12:38 AM

Great show tonight HGTV!! Restored my faith in judges and the show!!! I was especially happy to see Will and believe it or not, I was happy to see Rob also. Both Will and Rob did an excellent job assisting Kim and Todd. They are all good designers with amazing talent. For me, Ms. Kim had the best design tonight; and my vote went to her! Kim took constructive criticism from the judges and made the transition and it paid off!She is a very classy and hardworking designer. I felt Todd should have listened to the judges; Todd's room was cool; but he missed it again--who wants to get out of bed and step right into a kitchen? It is bad design; and with that said; the design of Kim's rooms are the ones that truly rocked! Hurry up Sunday night--come fast! I am so looking forward to the final show to: (1) witness the New Design Star winner announcement; and (2)see the return of all designers and to hear their final comments. Whoever wins--I will be watching your new show!! God bless you.

A loyal fan,

Ann of RB, FL

Posted by PATRICIA ANN SNIPES – September 10, 2007 12:10 AM

I've said right from the start that Will could LEARN to be a host. His designs and professionalism were by far the best. As long as we do have Kim and Todd at the end, Todd can't seem to get past being a surfer dude. I'm not sure I could watch a whole 30 minutes of him on a show. He's just too hyper for me. David, from last year, is pretty laid back and I enjoy his Color Splash. I think Kim would be a nice host and decorator, but I'm not sure she has the design capibilities that are required. I don't think I would hire her to re-do an entire kitchen that involved replumbing, moving a wall or anything of that magnitude.

Posted by Barbara – September 9, 2007 11:24 PM

I agree with others who felt Will was the one who who should have his own show. He showed himself to be the best designer, and he and Josh Sparkle were the most likeable of the whole group. Their exit interviews showed both to have class. I can't imagine wanting to watch a show with either Todd or Kim hosting. Neither one of them listened to the clients and delivered what they wanted and needed, as Will did. I will watch Design Star tonight because I am curious but really don't care whether Kim or Todd win. Will is the real winner, in my mind.

Posted by bjks – September 9, 2007 8:50 PM

I don't know yet whether I'll bother to watch the last episode or not. I'm definitely not voting. How does anyone really even know IF what we vote will really be the winner? For all we know, we're "told" that America voted for ... and they won, but how does anyone know for sure. I pretty much only watch HGTV or did. But, now, I'm not so sure I want to continue watching anything on the station. Of course, it doesn't matter whether they get votes or not or what the viewers think. They'll do what they want to do in the end. Isn't this the way of the world -- in corporate America and with everything else? I think that anyone who thinks that these votes -- whether they are write in or call in -- are tabulated and actually used are only fooling themselves. Sorry to be so cynical.

Mariajuan, you are entitled to your opinion of Todd and his designs as are the rest of us. I personally don't like his designs or his personality or anything about him.

Posted by Elaine – September 9, 2007 8:01 PM

My wife and I watch the show for ideas we can use in our home. Can you use a skateboard ramp, broken furniture, rugs that highlight dirt? Somehow the show has lost it's focus on Design and explaining it in an entertaining way. I think the judges ought to have their show canceled. A new set with better personality would help next year's ratings if you recover from this one. We will not watch the final episode and will ignore next season if the same judges are returning.

Posted by Norman Steele – September 9, 2007 3:26 PM

Just trying to understand why some are afraid of the strength of Todd as a designer? he's a wonderful designer and that is all that counts; plus everything he does is an awesome show to watch - and this is what we should get when we watch an HGTV tv program isn't it? Its a DESIGN STAR, not the more alike us host!!!!!
Let the fun begin!
Maria J.

Posted by Mariajuan – September 8, 2007 11:20 PM

Anyone can do regular design, so when we look for a Designer's show we really want him or her, to be superior, that's why I prefer Todd than anyone else there, because he is unique. Let the nice regular ones to go back home; bring the designer to do a great show. I want to be surprised when I watch HGTV, let's see what Todd has to offer every week!!!
Maria J.

Posted by Mariajuan – September 8, 2007 10:32 PM

It has been festering in me all week to comment on episode six. I think the integrity of the show is compromised as Will is definitely the best designer on the program. I am an HGTV aficionado and know good design when I see it. I could care less about how well the designers speak, as long as they use correct English. I think the blonde judge has her eye on Todd, the first episode she acted as if she could eat him for dinner, and she continued to say Will didn't impress her. Then what does impress her, blond hair and blue eyes?

Posted by n57890 – September 8, 2007 7:10 PM

I think will was cancelled because of a lack of confidence when he hosted, not his accent. I hope that Robb was watching so that he could see what it is like to be a very gracious loser. Will was amazing and to contrast that with Robb's rant it makes you wonder why Robb did not get it sooner. I think that Todd is still a little California surfer arrogant and I do hope that Kim takes it all.

Posted by judith hecht – September 8, 2007 7:05 PM

Todd, plays with design and quite frankly that would drive me nuts with his "Dude" attitude.

Will had by far, the best loosing speech. Blew me away. If any of the loosers (like self-opinionated Robb), took it in stride the way the Will did, people wouldn't have hated him.

Kim has my vote. Yes, she has no training, but she had learned quite a bit and she has a good sense of style. She addressed her clients issues and went over the top by including the dining area in her project. To quote Vern Yip, A+ for that.

Posted by Barbara – September 8, 2007 7:02 PM

I think Kim is creative, However I don't feel she should have made the final two, when she redesigned her give back room, she not only decreased the amount of seating that the family had, but she only thought about the adult's, she did not take the child in to her design in either saftey nor comfort;

Todd did think of the entire family, as well as will his room was mainly designed for a disable teenager, but he provided her with the abilty to either have one of her family member's, sleep in her room if they need to but it also allow's her to maybe have a friend sleep over and I'm sure when each of the judge's first started out on T.V. that they where not 100 per cent perfect.

Posted by Donna Mills – September 8, 2007 1:07 PM

Simple. Should have kept Will and ditched Kim. His designs and work far surpass hers. And we won't even begin to discuss the cancellation last week.

Posted by angie – September 8, 2007 4:23 AM

I AM PASSED DISAPPOINTED, I AM OUTRAGED!!!!! Kim is clearly lacking in superior design. WHAT ARE YOU THINKING JUDGES. Last year David didn't have a strong camera prescene, but he was taught and learned how to have strong prescene. IT'S A DESIGN SHOW, WE WANT QUALITY DESIGNERS, NOT FAKE HOSTS OR HOSTESSES, BELIEVE IT OR NOT, WE PREFER QUALITY DESIGNS RATHER THAN SOME BUBBLY PERSONALITY THAT HAS NO SUBSTANCE. WILL should have been in the final two, like you said, he understand the client and delivers. Todd is good, but a little wacky, Will would have been a great balance. If your decision was based on the success of Will, then I can somewhat understand that he will succeed no matter what, but then again, why not allow him to be shared with America instead of someone that has difficulty in doing a kitchen or has symetry in design flow. URR!!!

Posted by Andre-Paul – September 8, 2007 1:13 AM

I am really enjoying this years show. I really believe the judges have done a great job. I really enjoyed Wil. Kim and Todd are great. It will really be a tough decision. I think people on here are too tough on Todd though. I think Todd has what it takes to be a great host. I was not sure when the show first airing. He really has matured and I believe that his show will be entertaining. Kim does a great job and I would not hesitate in hiring her to decorate my home...It will definately be a tough decision. It is too bad that Kim and Todd could not host a show together. I think that would be my favourite hgtv show.

Posted by Greg – September 8, 2007 1:10 AM

If my wife designed the way Todd does, I would call Kim. Also, Kim has a great personality. She has my vote.

Posted by Albert – September 8, 2007 12:44 AM

Will is by far the best designer out of the three. I was so sad to see him go. I thought Will was just fine on camera. It's more important to be a great designer than a host.

Posted by Katrina – September 7, 2007 11:59 PM

I was very disappointed about will being eliminated it seemed martha had it in for him from the start. No matter how well he did or what the owners said about his design she knit picked it to death. It is also obvious that she has the hots for Todd that was a given when you see how they look at each other and act towards each other. Todd is a wrecking crew not a designer. He goes way out and way overboard in what he does. Kim is a great designer and I will vote for her in the elimination.

Posted by guest – September 7, 2007 8:34 PM

Love the idea someone posted that they should individual challenges with different decorating styles. Each paint can has a certain style that each has to carry out. Such as the modern, rustic, cottage, french, italian, country, asian, spanish, traditional, romantic, garden style, etc., etc.! The person who suggested that has a great idea. That would really be fun to watch! Also someone had posted an earlier blog that they should do a patio or outdoor room. That's a great idea also!

Hopefully HGTV will take these wonderful ideas that these people have and use them to the delight of their viewers.

Posted by Cindy – September 7, 2007 7:50 PM

This is my very 1st Blog. I was hoping to find an e-mail to Will but this is the next best thing.
I loved his comments after his show was cancelled.
Being disabled myself, when I heard what he said, I thought YESSSSSSS! he got it. He might not have gotten his show but I guarantee that he got more out of this with Bridgit then he could have anyplace else. Thanks Will for learning that people with disabilities are people first.

Posted by Linda – September 7, 2007 4:49 PM

I just got to watch last Sunday's episode. I really think Todd should have been the one to go, but I know Martha would not have stood for that. Oh Well. I thought Kim's room was the best, then Will's, but what do I know? More than likely I will vote for Kim, unless Todd pulls off a miracle. Go KIM.

Posted by Marsha – September 7, 2007 2:58 PM

It was a travesty to cancel Will's show. He knows design and he's genuine. Todd's designs are off-the-wall; how can viewers see his work as practical and beautiful? I can't remember Kim's designs other than the paper plates with design cut-outs and her last disaster. Kim is a helper, not a designer. Her West Virginia design violated Design 101: She arranged the furniture against the wall! Other than boring, the family didn't ask for a dance floor! The show is hopelessly biased toward Todd; he went to California, now Hawaii? I can't wait to see more skateboards, ramps, "water, water everywhere" and OMG, maybe bundge cords? HGTV should add a "write in" option during the voting. It would redeem the judges' flawed decisions and show that HGTV is listening to their audience. The show has potential, but now it's in the potty.

Posted by valerie – September 7, 2007 1:02 PM

I was really sorry to see Will go. I would really like to have seen either Todd or Kim (both untrained as interior designers) have to do a room for a wheelchair bound occupant. Will exited with such grace and is a great designer. I think Vern is wrong when he says that an untrained person can host a design show. They can host it, maybe, but will certainly be doing more decoration than design. Design deals with the health, safety and welfare of the client as well as aesthetics.

Posted by Karan Anton – September 7, 2007 12:43 PM

I love Kim's on camera presence. I like her designs as much as Todds. I'm planning on voting for Kim, I'd enjoy seeing her show. I hope she wins!

Posted by Nancy – September 6, 2007 11:01 PM

Well, it's down to the final two and we ALL knew Todd would be one of them. Martha can't keep her mouth closed or her eyes off of him. Ugh! I'm from CA and am so happy to report that there are not as many "Todds" here as portraited on television. I live in the central valley where the corn fed boys are raised. Yee Haw! Okay, back to the show. I've read many of the blogs and agree that the judges have strayed from the path this year. How many shows are there where the designer is also the host? Not too many. Kim has the makings of a great host. And, while she is not a schooled designer, there's always room for improvement. I think her heart was in the right place when she completed her challenge, just a bit misguided. She had trouble with the mud on the carpet so that should have been her first clue that the owners would have trouble. Todd...what can I say that so many of you have not already said? He's a joke! I have not liked any of his designs. I disagreed with Vern regarding the skateboard ramp when he said that designers should think "outside the box". Thinking outside the box is, oh I don't know, using flooring on a wall or ceiling? All of the contestants who completed challenges that I liked are gone. I hope that HGTV goes back to the way they had the show the first season with more individual challenges and not so many double eliminations. I wonder if they did that this year so Vern could get his new show started? Hmmmm...

Posted by TLC – September 6, 2007 10:34 PM

I think all of them have done wonders under a lot of stressful situations. I'm a good designer but not under stress. I'd pick Kim any day because in spite of the stress she still seems to be there with a smile at the end. Todd just seems immature to me at times. He's a wonderful designer but he's just almost too much. Kim has modesty which is very appealing. I say give them both a show!

Posted by mary b – September 6, 2007 9:12 PM

I was very dissapointed the so called judges eliminated Will. I do not plan to watch the last episodes. The Design Star is Gone. The rest is just fluff. I believe Vern Yip knew they'd made a mistake.

Posted by Pam – September 6, 2007 9:07 PM

My last coment for Todd was cut off so here goes again....if you were so concerned about the middle beam, since you can/t remove it why not add two more on either side and make it a design feature??? Or do you just like the demo routine?
In general, a good challenge for next year and one that will really challenge the designers is to have ten design styles hidden in paint cans. Each designer gets a can and then must create that style (Craftsman, cottage, Victorian, rustic, contemporary etc.) in identical rooms. Now that would be a challenge! After all, a designer designs for a client NOT how he/she wants to design. A knowledge of various design styles is a must. (Can you see Robb or Todd doing a shabby chic desin? Priceless!)

Posted by Anne – September 6, 2007 5:34 PM

While I am a novice to blogs, I watch HGTV everyday at some point. I just read the comments and sincerely hope someone at HGTV reads them. The viewers clearly want to see Will back. Many see a good team with Sparkle and I agree. Martha got to have her hunk in her magazine, let's end it there. I think her crush is embarrasing. Considering people's professional futures are at stake, it should not have been tolerated. Both Will and Kim have shown a lot of grace under pressure. While a show is about design, we all react to hosts. HGTV shows are so terrific. The ones that do not shine, focus on getting 'model-like' hosts/hostesses that look like they should be working an auto show. Will and Kim are very genuine people, that is why they resonate with the viewing public. Todd is a surfer-boy. I was shocked when his skateboard pipe was considered good design. He had no communcation skills when he interacted with the firefighter family and carpenter. The next challenge clearly favors Todd by being in Hawaii. I plan to vote for Kim even if she does not have the Barbie doll image. She is better than the shirtless Ken-doll. Finally, I do hope that HGTV listens to the public and does something with a Sparkle and Will show. That will have viewers and staying power.

Posted by Jeanne – September 6, 2007 1:27 PM

Sorry that I am SO LATE to the party!

There are so many posts that I am sure to duplicate what someone has said, so I apologize for that in advance.

I felt that this episode went as planned. They all did pretty well, but I would certainly agree that Will's room was the best. That being said, he had the easiest room to work with. I liked his color choices and he certainly made the "clients" happy, even thrilled.

In fact, they all did, didn't they? And in the end, isn't that the result that we all look for in a designer?

Will's room was great! Kim went "out of her way" to accomodate the dining room as well into her plan, even though it wasn't part of the original scope of work - WAY TO GO KIM! Todd overcame architectural challenges without missing a beat - awesome! The TV doesn't have to be the focus. It was clear that he designed to room to function as a "family" room, not a "TV only" room. He laid out the furniture as the room gave him permission to do so.

Sometimes, you gotta go with the flow. And wasn't it great to see him make the adjustments and, rather than push the envelope for shock value, create a room the family could use and be proud of.

This is a DESIGN STAR show and the true star can only be Todd.

Kudos to Kim and Will. I actually like both of them and feel confident that they have grown and will face some new opportunities because of their participation here.

But when it comes to STARDOM, Todd has cornered the market when it comes to these last three.

Not an employee, just a fan of season 2 (since I didn't see Season 1). Looking forward to voting and to a new season of EPIC DESIGN and Design STAR 3.

Posted by noone – September 6, 2007 11:04 AM

Brenda in Sc- I copletely agree with all the blogs about Will. he was your future DESIGN STAR with a heart. he was magnetic,had great ideas and very practical. his smile was infectious. Hosting skills can be learned as actors do!! I think he did well anyway! i believe you all missed the mark but you are the pros-we will see!!

Posted by Brenda Hurd – September 6, 2007 2:43 AM

Well, along with everyone else, I knew Will's show would be the one cancelled, and I, too, think it was a HUGE mistake. I think he had an additional challenge in that he had to design a room that would accommodate a wheelchair while at the same time make a cute room for a teenage girl. He listened to what she wanted and came thru, big time!

As for the rest of the show...first off, when they announced the destinations and said they would not reveal which family lived where, who were they kidding? I guessed right away where each one lived. It wasn't that hard to figure out, so I'm sure they each knew where they were going and would have had time to think their designs thru. I mean, how many coal miners live in, say, California?

As far as the time limits, obviously there has to be some kind of time frame or there would never be a show, but come on, 24 hrs? It takes me most of a day just to paint, sometimes. And how do they get all their deliveries in a day? That's amazing. Unless you just pick the first thing you see, shopping alone can take hours. Considering this obstacle, I must admit that they all do a good job of finishing their rooms. Are there "helpers" in the wings that we don't know about? Do the stores accommodate them because they know it's a TV show? I can't imagine going out to buy a room of furniture, accessories and building supplies and having it delivered that day or the next (Rooms To Go?) going home, painting, sewing, etc, etc, all in 24 hrs. Someone tell me the secret!!!

I was hoping that Kim would finally be able to show us just how good a designer she is on her own, but I was so disappointed. She seems like a nice person and feels at ease hosting, but her designs leave a lot to be desired. Why was the sofa all the way across the room, with only 1 chair and a table in front of the wood stove, and a big empty space in between? The seating was not even facing each other. Only 1 person at a time can enjoy the heat and fire? And I don't remember seeing a coffee table in front of the sofa (I may be wrong). She should have thought to put a runner down on the carpet, regardless of whether or not it was muddy outside (it IS a high traffic area), and perhaps got a darker color carpet for a coalmining family. And what was up with that tacky shingle roof thing over the bar? Why on earth did she leave that up and then use what looked like paneling on the wall below it? That could have been so cute. And, as the judges said, the angles were all off. If that was my room, I would felt very disturbed. And I didn't really think it looked much different from the way it started.

Todd's room looked ok, but the family specifically said they wanted to watch movies together. How are they going to do that when only 2 or 3 people would be facing the TV, and they would have to watch it all the way across the room, over other people's heads? I hope they have a chiropractor for the people who have to watch facing backwards. Not planned out very well, Todd. Maybe you should have built another giant lazy susan.

Will's rooms were always attractive, he pays attention to the function of the room, and he's thoughtful of the person's/family's needs, with the added bonus of being such a gentleman. From the beginning I was rooting for Will or Sparkle. So much for that.

There will be no winner for this season, just a leftover with a show that will bring us rooms that are either impractical or lacking interesting design. Too sad.

Posted by Conni – September 6, 2007 2:27 AM

I have been waiting all week for computer repairs so I could express my feelings about Sunday's show. I still find it hard to believe Will was elimated. This season has been a real disappointment.
The format of goup challenge did not show what each designer could do, and took to much time. Designing their living space was reasonable. But who see design in building a skateboard ramp in a living space (which was the only this Todd did other than help with the building of the table for Kim and Scott..they did his painting).
Having people with no taste decide the designer for a wedding reception..who came up with that? And then to have a double elimation behind something like that..what?
The individual challenge in a 99 cent store, good. If I remember correctly Scott's design was considered to busy. I believe Vern said a good designer knows when to stop. Why didn't this apply to Todd's over-stuffed room on Sunday Should not the same rules apply from week to week and designer to designer? Judges we listen and remember.
When what's with kitchen vs living room..should not competion be on an equal playing field? In Wayne Newton's guest house..get real. What does a lazy susan in the middle of the living room have to do with design. I can't believe anyone in America other than Wayne Newton would want that in their house. (I'll see you at the hospital) Then to show Kim and Robb going at each other, bad, bad, bad HGTV. That's when there should have been a double elimation, Kim along with Robb. Each put a bad taste in the viewers mouth.
Going back to the individual challenge who would call a room painted like a wave, broken table and cotton balls design, shock value..yes, design no way. My question to the judges is would one of you design a room for a client like that..I don't think so. So in judging, if you would not put it in a clients home, why would you accept it as design? I think the show is called "Design Star", not another hour with a bare chest.
The judging this season was a joke. It was apparent from the start that "she" had no love for Will or design skills but bare chest, sly smiling surfer dude..girl he might have a brain..you think, he's has played you like a piano.
HGTV I have not always liked you show line-up but I have continued to watch but this is beyond acceptable and has hit a low equal to the other networks. What happened to your values this season, was rating so important to you that you forgot your viewers. We watch because it inspire, teach and didn't play down to the viewers. What happened this season, David was a good artist and designer that needed help in hosting skills, yet David won and Will was elimated. What change, are there no guidelines for the judging this season.
We know that Todd has won so I for one will not waste my time watching or voting when it does not mean a thing.
Maybe you will rethink the format and judging next season. Remember you viewers are not all surfer dudes but people that have watched long enough to expect better from you. And we remember.

Posted by dfleming – September 6, 2007 12:18 AM

A note to HGTV. I don't watch your network to see great hosts. I watch to see great designs -- to be inspired and entertained by truly talented people. Will was this person for me during his entire run on Design Star. Candace Olsen's goofy schitck drives me crazy, but her designs are phenomenal. I am most intrigued to hear her talk about design given to me straight with no nonsense, bad puns and the slapstick antics in between. But back to Design Star. Not to slight the final two. They are talented in their own rights, but neither nailed their designs consistently throughout the contest as Will did. And by design, I mean space planning, color, form and function for the clients -- things that Todd and Kim lacked, according to the judges. It doesn't matter how charismatic a host is if his or her designs fall flat and fail to match their on camera skills. I echo the sentiments of all comments in support of Will. If there is a way to give this guy a show, a column on the website, something... as much as Will is loved by the viewers, you would be foolish to let him slip away.

Posted by Amy – September 5, 2007 9:51 PM

I don't like Todd or Kim. I am a bit shocked that Will was eliminated. Quite frankly, when I looked at the last three designs, I asked myself, if these rooms were in a magazine, which ones would appeal to me based on design? The only one was Will's. He has an excellent sense of design.

Todd's room was goofy-"all" of that seating and yet it wasn't lined up to view the t.v.? What's that about?

And Kim, the room didn't make sense. I didn't like the colors, I didn't like the room and I didn't think it looked good having a chair in the middle of the room. Is that good design?

Todd seems grossly immature throughout the entire series, always jumping around like a two year old with ADD. That's not my idea of a design star.

Will was great and the only other person I saw on the show that I liked their design was Josh Sparkle.

As for this year, I don't even want to vote because I don't like either one. Last year, any of the top three could have had their own show (Tim, Alice or David) since they all were really good. This year, only Will and Josh were good. Todd's design's don't seem to have much of a "practical" application at all. I mean, who wants a wave or who wants a giant "lazy Susan" in their room? I mean, really? If someone came in a built a lazy Susan in my living room, I'd be upset.

What a disappointing season.

Posted by Sue – September 5, 2007 9:39 PM

I am saddened at the loss of Will. I thought this show was about finding the Design Star. Todd is very talented though with a bigger, bolder approach to everything, and Will is a natural from the beginning. Will's imperfections are what make him so likable. He may not speak perfectly, yet he is magnetic. It's like we're visiting his place. He oozes charm. He is very talented, and he puts himself in the place of his client, pleasing them to the utmost. That is what it's all about. It isn't about a shirtless host or a host who is comfortable behind a camera but is lacking in design expertise. I think that if Will won, more people would watch. Also, if Will had a co-host, it would be great to have Sparkle join him. They certainly got along and did such a great job.

Posted by Sandy – September 5, 2007 9:29 PM

I was also sorry to see Will go - I thought he did a great job. Kim also did well given her lack of resources. My in-laws live in a similar area so I know how hard it is to find anything but the most basic of furnishings etc. in such places.

From what I have read elswewhere, please don't blame Kim for the choice of flooring. Apparently carpet was requested by the family and was not Kim's first choice at all. I suspect that carpet represented luxury to them in a way that a hard flooring material couldn't. Perhaps they had never even had good carpet before.

Todd's design was just a color mess to me and I didn't like it at all.

Posted by Jan – September 5, 2007 9:20 PM

Too bad about Will. He has a professional feel about his work. David B. was nervous in front of the camera too, but they helped him find his hosting style after he won. They could have done the same for Will.
Kim's design skills are a bit weak. She should be the most prepared for hosting. She has schooling in the performance arts - acting and being in front of people. She is likeable and could be a great host.
I'm not sure about Todd. He certainly has skills but his designs seem sort of impractical. He needs to tone it down a bit in his hosting and be a little more informative about the reasons for his choices. He does remind me of Eric Stromer(sp?)though.
I would very much like to see more individual challenges. I think some of the contestants got steamrolled by some very strong personalities and we the viewers didn't get to see what they could do

Posted by Rick – September 5, 2007 9:00 PM

I watched with great interest tonight show; Yes last years designers seemed to have more talent than this years; but there were two that did match up to last years, that was Todd and Sparkle Josh. I have to agree that watching this year's show has made me realize how talented David Bromstad is, and how Will's style is like his. I also noted how sincere and genuine his exit interview was, so much class that Robb's didn't have. Todd I don't care for his style, but I do like his enthusiasm. I probably won't watch the new design star that is picked this year, for not impressed with either of the last two remaining desingers. I hope that the last show brings out their best, for they do need it. I also, agree that Kim has excellent hosting she does sparkle. But her designs are weak and don't seem to have the talent that is needed to continue to host a show of her own. And I hope Todd learns some way to bring his designs for the normal person rather than the surfer dude. I mean who can forget the designs of Alice and David's, both were way over the top. So good luck to the next year's design star; it will take a lot to bring out the best. And the best is going to have to be for this year's audience. For the standard was set last year.

Posted by DJ – September 5, 2007 8:48 PM

I don't think Kim was thinking straight with light carpet for that space. Oh my gosh, they will be ripping that out in no time! Space planning was not good either. As far as hosting abilities, what is wrong with just being a normal geniune person... like Will? I like that type of personality so much better than overly bubbly like Kim, or over energetic, like Todd. That gets old and I don't care for it. Geniunely nice and "normal" gets my vote...which is Will and, unfortunately, the judges voted him off!! Too bad!!

Posted by renie – September 5, 2007 7:30 PM

I love Will's designing skills as well as his character. How can I contact him to do some designing for me. I looking to make a purchase soon and would like to get him to design or give me ideas on designing my home. My family and I look forward to making this major purchase. Out all the designers, I felt like Will had the peoples ideas of what they wanted in a design as heart. I hate that they cancelled his show. Kim and Todd are ok, and I know that they will be coached to developed their skills as a host. This could have been done for Will as well. He really had great ideas and how to implement them. Can you all consider having him host another show of his own. He works well with others and could gather a great team to work with.

Posted by design 7 – September 5, 2007 7:14 PM

A love letter to Mr. Will Smith, My dear man you have won my heart with the way you gracefully took the loss if the challenge. You touched my heart with your treatment of little Bridget and her special needs. I must admit, you were not my begining favorite, nevertheless, I can grow in mind and heart. Will's room was both functional and beautiful. I would pay for your great designs.
Kim and Todd you are both class people and fantastic designers. It is going to be the most difficult choice between the two of you. Also, Todd your design for the family was a total knockout, it blew me away.The print on the lounge chairs was spot on. Kim, you oose warmth and you were made to communicate on TV. Good luck, Kim and Todd (Your both winners) Will, you stole my heart .The world is open to you. All the best . A True Fan

Posted by Deanna – September 5, 2007 6:26 PM

Vern Kipp was so wrong when he suggested the host didn't have to have training. Kim is the worst. Will is the best. Todd will (should) win over Kim. I do like the out of the box thinking that Todd has.

Posted by siest – September 5, 2007 4:31 PM

HGVT can you PLEASEEEEEE listen to the fans?
Will is the winner and we want him in his own show.

Posted by loida – September 5, 2007 1:51 PM

I'm happy to read all the other fans who thought Will was the best designer. He really knew his stuff when he talked about a room and why he did what he did. I felt like I actually learned from him. I really like Kim -- she is so sincere and a genuinely good person (not that personality is the purpose of the show), and Todd is talented as well, but his goofy surf-boy style really bugs me and he is a TERRIBLE host! I reeeeeeallly hope he doesn't win.

But this is a GREAT show -- the only 'reality' show I even consider watching!

Posted by Pam – September 5, 2007 11:31 AM

I was also very disappointed with the release of Will. Will was the most well rounded of the 3 left. As a designer myself I have noticed that Todd is an extremely creative person yet he lacks the practical design fundamentals (as the judges noted with his furniture layout). If we recall the last design star the winner was not that great on camera either. However he improved tremendously with experience and training. Will was not bad at hosting he just needed to be polished a little. I know that it was not a good reason to dismiss him. If anything, He captured the competition. Kim is a very sweet person however she never truly showed her design skills. She was able to "skate" through the competition by chance. We all know it should have been Will and Todd. HGTV has a lack of ethnic hosts and while skills has nothing to do with ethnicity I feel that Will was possibly robbed based on his.

Posted by Pierre – September 5, 2007 10:54 AM

( Week 6 )I thought Will was awesome, he had the best design. Just because he didn't speak as well as the others, I felt he has a genuine heart for decorating. I like Kim also, but one of her tables was way too big for the room. I would like to see some of the people in the first episode come back and decorate with the winners. It would be great to see how they are doing. And maybe do a show with season one against season 2.

Posted by Jan – September 5, 2007 9:44 AM

I think HGTV is on the wrong track. Will did design, the rest are artists, with no common sence , or wishes of the clients.
Hopefully HGTV will see there problem, and correct some damage done.

Posted by Leen42 – September 5, 2007 9:32 AM

I agree with most that it was difficult at the begining of the show. This season's pick of designers was hard to get excited about. But as the show went on it became obvious who had the passion, creative talent, personality, integrity, character and ambition. TODD.

I took the time to check out Todd's website and really get to know him. What a guy! So diverse in everything he does. I think most are indimadated by his genuine flair for life and his God given talents.

I would give anything to spend time with him in hopes that even half of who he is would rub off on me.

I don't believe Todd is in this for the competition as much as he is there to take the opportunity to succeed. Todd will succeed even if he does not win. He goes after everything life has to offer him and certainly does not need a TV show to be a "Design Star."

I believe the judges see this too.

Posted by Patrick L – September 5, 2007 9:15 AM

No Will = No Viewer.

Posted by Kim – September 5, 2007 8:43 AM

I'm totally frustrated. Todd and Kim's rooms were arranged so poorly, I could only hope they were trying to play to the camera. Balanced and functional placement is the backbone of good design... I expected Vern (of all people) to toss a full-blown fit over this, but it obviously wasn't much of a consideration in the final decision.

Will's "exit interview" made me even MORE frustrated! This guy has such a wonderful attitude and HEART! It's obvious that he designs from it, too. Talent, heart, and likeability... that's the trifecta! More Vern irony here- his new show is all about "giving through design".... um, hellloooo?

I know Will isn't ready to host a show, but that is something that can be learned. (Have you seen some of Julia Roberts' old movies? Ugh. Girlfriend has come a LONG way... ) You cannot train someone to have empathy, you cannot train someone to have design talent, and you cannot train someone to be genuine. Design Star is passing up some REAL assets here.

This season just seems like it has been rushed and unfocused. So many double eliminations didn't allow people to really showcase their skills. Challenges in event design, etc... were a little odd, too. I thought it was particularly unfair to allow the engaged couple to have the power to completely eliminate a designer based on the design board only.

I wish the show allowed the viewers to vote, too. It would be perfect to mix our votes with the professional panel votes. I GUARANTEE that the results would be very different than what we have now. ( :::Love you, Josh:::)

Okay- I'm off the podium...... next! ;)

Posted by Champagne Chic – September 5, 2007 5:18 AM

I really like this show. My only problem with it,it goes by too fast and double illiminations get rid of some real talent because of one bad choice that week. I too would like more individual rooms and a budget a little more workable. I loved it when they did the studios apt. last season. All of them are very talented to come up with the rooms they did with Dollar Store products was amazing.They all appear to want to win but encouraging to one another. (Rob excluded)

Posted by Judi – September 5, 2007 3:47 AM

My previous comments weren't printed, so I'll make this one brief. I'm responding tonight to Iwatkins' September 4th blog. Will was clearly the best designer Sunday night, which is why there has been such a strong, visceral reaction to his departure. Martha has been so biased against Will--that we--the viewers--couldn't help recognizing it. Her unfair bias made everyone uncomfortable because it is so very unjust. Also, we would have liked to see one more of his designs. The week before, after praising Todd's turntable, Marthat turned to Will and said, almost as an accusation, "What did you do, Will?" Without Will's design, Todd's platform would have been merely a merry-go-round in the middle of a living room. How many people have the physical strength to turn a platform with furniture on it? Todd doesn't design for "living" --he designs to draw attention to himself. I respect Vern and believe he, too, preferred Will's designs, but acquiesed to Martha. I am especially disappointed in Cynthia Rowley because I really love her work. I was a guest at the Hotel Monaco in San Francisco this year and I loved the elegant design of the rooms so much, I asked who the designer was--and they told me it was Cynthia Rowley. I wasn't surprised--it wasn't the first time I've stayed in a CR designed room--she is an excellent designer and her work is beautiful. So, I was disappointed when she--apparently--went along with Martha and eliminated Will. Cynthia put her head in her hands when Will exited the studio Sunday--as if she knew they'd made the wrong decision and couldn't look him in the eye. In regard to hosting skills: The judges have underestimated the HGTV viewers--because contrary to their idea of what makes a good host--we have responded to Will's on-screen presence--just as we have responded to his beautiful designs. I just checked the ratings for Sunday's three designs--Will's design(of course) was the highest rated. In spite of what the judges decided, Will won Sunday night.

Posted by Denise – September 5, 2007 2:40 AM

To the HGYV producers:
Will definitely produced "The Best Room." That's not just my opinion, or most of America's opinion, but even David B. said that in his blog.
Don't worry about "hosting" skills; when Bridget was hugging Will, that said more than anything else. Will has already won the hearts of America. He is a truly kind, spiritual person and that is what the viewers want. Will definitely has a good CHARACTER AND REPUTATION; No amount of lessons or money can buy these traits; they have to be EARNED. LETTING WILL GO WAS A BIG MISTAKE. My husband and I were thinking of inviting friends to watch the last episode with us, but we lost interest in that, when Will was eliminated. HGTV, if you really care about what your viewers want, you will bring back Will and Sparkle Josh as a team, starring in their own series.
p.s. We thought that Todd looked bored when he
met with the family to determine their desires.
We didn't think that his color choices would promote relaxation and the furniture arrangement was weird.

Posted by Helena – September 5, 2007 2:08 AM

Will is a classy guy. He may not be the best choice for host, but he has something not many people do and I really admire his graciousness.

Posted by Susan Melville – September 5, 2007 2:02 AM

yes I completely agree that this season has almost no talent. I thought Will was the best by far. I won't even watch a show with either Kim or Todd. Yes they hosted well but that means nothing when you can't design.

Posted by Jessica – September 5, 2007 1:49 AM

I am very disappointed in this year's show. Now that Will has been eliminated the judges have consistently let all the good ones leave the show.

I think to be fair next year's designers should do individual projects that are judged solely on their value, no names until after the works have been judged. Keep the judges in the dark so there is less of the favoritism that seems to be going on this year.

I love HGTV but the programming is going downhill. I am totally tired of real estate shows!!!!! I could care less what house someone is going to buy that cost however many hundreds of thousand dollars. I have a house that is no where near that expensive and I'm happy. Let's go back to how to decorate on a budget as most of us can't afford high budgets makeovers. Give us back the programming that made HGTV so popular.

I'll still vote if for no other reason than to keep Todd from being chosen but the best designer, the one who really should have had his own program was Will.

Posted by victorianlace – September 5, 2007 12:35 AM

Will's room was the only one that showed any design. The other two painted walls and bought furniture and carpet. Oh, yes, bookcases flanking the fireplace and a toy chest--wow, really out of the box thinking. And a log holder. Big deal. Plus I just read on the message board that Kim is a friend and neighbor of an editor of the same magazine as one of the judges. That may not be inappropriate but it certainly gives the appearance of it. I'm quite shocked actually. I couldn't believe it when the one judge said she was tired of sofas that face the tv. Did she miss the part where the owner said it was a tv/movie/hangout room? I'd sure love to spend $10,000 and then have to rearrange the furniture and repaint the walls. (I know they didn't pay...I'm just sayin') I won't vote this year because neither of them has shown the ability to design bo diddley. If they're just supposed to host, then either is ok. Both have nice on screen presence and Kim is funny--liked her city mouse comment. Unlike a lot of posters, I'm liking HGTV less and less...all the fast out of kilter views of rooms, silliness taking the place of hosting. Candace, I can't afford you but you and Joan are about all that's left to watch. Oh, and Paul the Gardner Guy.

Posted by Toto – September 4, 2007 11:58 PM

I've seen Mr. Yip's work on Trading Spaces, and I have a high regard for him as a designer and as the person we see on camera. He likely would have been my fourth "standout" in yesterday's post because he too obviously gets the heart thing really well, but he hasn't really been on HGTV, yet. I'm looking forward to his show. His judging here seemed very fair-minded and well thought-out and he tried to perhaps even factor in that quality, and while I may have disagreed with him on some individual issues, I respect his viewpoints.

That "This is really mind-blowing. [pause] And not in a good way." (that's a bit of a paraphrase) line on the first show would have really endeared him to me for life if he hadn't already done so. He's a real smart guy and a funny one too.

'Funny' is important in this business, it seems to me, because so many things can get in a tangle, go wrong, suffer unexpected change, and schedules can go bad, and apparently are always in danger of doing so. A sense of humor in any profession is a good sign of balance and an ability to get over rough spots.

Look at Todd's tantrums about his design problems, altho I would think that it is routine to test a paint on a wall ASAP for drying to be sure that it's right and not wait to find out that it's the wrong one at the last minute. But Todd doesn't seem prone to accepting his own mistakes, a serious flaw in a designer. All make mistakes at times, I'm sure. Laugh it off and get on with it....

Anyhow, putting Yip in a triumverate with two "style" women who are not entirely active practicing full-time designers was a little strange. I would have preferred that the panel consist of three practicing day-to-day designers and not be riddled with "famous" stylish women. "Style" doesn't strike me as what should be the issue.

But let's face it, David was such a winner in the first series from his first thru his last appearance, in every regard, that he was almost a shoo-in from the git-go for at least the final two-people challenge.

We didn't have that going on here - I would have loved to be a fly on the wall for the weeding process from the start. They need to be for the third season a lot more selective of the "10" (or 11) and knock off the list the ego-driven ones like Robb and Todd, who showed their true colors in the initial on-camera interviews, and ditch the lacklustre ones too (the Georgia housewife/designer).

All very interesting, this, for SURE, but I will be approaching season 3 with considerable wariness.

:)

Posted by karen – September 4, 2007 11:43 PM

The show has lost my interest since this year's judges, while liking good art (as in Todd's works) are forgetting about good interior design (also, Todd's upside down stuff or, the worst, his skateboard ramp in a glass windowed high-rise!). Function is a huge part of design space.

Good taste should also be a part of things and the wedding was a bust. While everyone has the right to their own reception design, the DesignStar wedding would probably not appeal to most couples. It really was quite tacky.

I miss Sparkle Josh and now I'll miss Will. Well, maybe not since I will no longer be watching. I spotted Todd as the winner on the first show simply on his wild personality and unique, if controversial designs.. I actually thought he was some kind of "plant" and that the judges were primed to "love" everything he did no matter what it looked like. I was proved correct except he evidently was not a plant, just a weird contestant on DesignStar.
Boo, to the judges!!!

Posted by Margaret – September 4, 2007 11:38 PM

Will,
You are one of the people I respect the most. Your attitude through all of this has been great. I don't know how you were able to put up with the behavior that Josh exhibited throughout the shows. You have a true personality. God will bless you, I just know He will. You are deserving of many great things. May God bless you.
Karla

Posted by Karla – September 4, 2007 11:10 PM

So disappointed by Will's elimination. I just loved him and appreciated his good clean design. HGTV has gotten way too zany and personality driven. Enough! Won't be watching anymore.

Posted by Gloria – September 4, 2007 10:58 PM

I'm not much of a blogger. This is my first post ever. I watched the first season of Design Star religiously and still wouldn't miss a single episode of Color Splash with David Bromstad. I can't tell you how eager I was for this year's Design Star.

The audition episode was promising, but it went down rapidly from there. Robb should have been gone in the first episode, then we could have seen a little more of Lisa. What's up with the team designs and double eliminations? This format made it very difficult for us, the audience, to get to know the contestants. More indiviual challenges and single eliminations, Please! What makes really great drama is not a charater like Robb, but rather really feeling a strong connection to the designers. This year's program didn't allow that to happen at all. I wanted to see more of Neeraja and Organic Josh. I don't feel like I have a connection with the three finalists either. I'm not invested in the outcome at this point. I have a real bias against Todd because of his macho alliance with the evil Robb. I can see him having a real creative show, but I won't watch it. I get enough testosterone watching "Over your Head". I like Kim and hope she finds her niche in the HGTV line up. Wouldn't it have been great to have a show with the joint winners Kim and Will. Kim's hosting and Will's design.
I hope the producers are reading the email and really understand the disappointment of this season. Please make better choices next time. NO MORE BULLIES!!!

Posted by Yvonne – September 4, 2007 10:48 PM

Design Star, you make a big mistake by cancelling Will's show. I think you did it not because of his design, but by the way he spoke and his presention. When Dave won last year, he had a trainer to help him in his up and coming shows. Last season was a better season.

Posted by Rhonda – September 4, 2007 10:48 PM

I'm 63 and am thinking of downsizing. Like many of my friends at this age, we have the money to spend on new furnishings, etc' but there doesn't seem to be a show out there for us. As I watched the last show I thought how nice it would be to have Will design rooms for me. It would be different from many of the usual design shows where they either fight,act totally stupid, or create the 100th family room with 3 small baskets to hold all the children's toys. He would listen to me, his client, and incorporate items of my past,(recycling),along with good design and an updated look (which is something I don't even know I'm lacking until my with it daughter-in-law from New York gently lets me know that brushed nickle fixtures would really freshen up the kitchen.) But until HGTV figures out a way to bring Will back, I will stare at my outdated brass handled cabinets, walk on my carpeted non-hardwood floors, and wonder what really is outdated about my cluttered country look.

Posted by Susan – September 4, 2007 10:45 PM

I have been venting since they elimated Will from Design Star. Of ocurse HGTV has to reevaluate its format....But it was refreshing today to see an older couple on house hunters. They were both very charming. It was a nice change.

I love seeing regular people on tv- just like Will!

Listen up HGTV!

Posted by georgia34 – September 4, 2007 10:40 PM

Will had the best exit ever on a show. He is truly a class act! He gave me goose bumps and made me cry, when he talked about Bridget and how she changed his life. You've really grown on me since the beginning of the season.
I think you are so talented and a really great, down to earth, guy.

Posted by Kim – September 4, 2007 10:35 PM

Will was the clear winner whose designs were clearly the best. In the guest house makeover he clearly expressed the design theory which Todd was totally unable to do - but the judges did not comment on Todd's poor style. With the deserving designs Will showed that he is a person with actual design talent and depth who just need a little polish - and a little confidence after being slapped down by Martha (and Robb of all people).
With Martha I think it is a class thing - Will is too much of a regular guy.
I am so disappointed I've stopped watching hgtv - at lease for awhile. I may get out of the habit.

Posted by Babette1952 – September 4, 2007 10:25 PM

I dare HGTV to give a show to Will & Sparkle - and also to this season's "winner" - and see who has the higher ratings. Hmmmmm...

Posted by Cheryl – September 4, 2007 10:17 PM

How many of the judges had to go through anything like what the contestants go through? What contest did they win to get where they are? This competition is not practical or realistic. Why are there deadlines? In real life, how many people really expect a designer to finish something in a matter of hours? Most people I know have had experience with designers taking up to several MONTHS to finish a project. HGTV, gimme a break!

Posted by Jay – September 4, 2007 9:57 PM

I was just about to stop watching this year because of Rob. He was so insulting, difficult to work with, and just plain rude!!! It upset me so much I wasn't going to watch and I am truly one of your most loyal fans. Why wasn't Rob voted off the show a long time ago?? I only know Vern of the 3 judges from when he was on trading spaces years ago. I thought Rob would have been given the boot just for his arrogance and disrespect. I am disappointed with the judges and the show for letting him stay on so long.

I already miss Will. He was down to earth and made the show worth watching. Good luck to the last two designers...

Posted by Judie – September 4, 2007 9:53 PM

Will's design was "hands-down" the most pleasing, appropriate and deserving this week. His exit was grace in motion. I don't know what perky Kim was thinking. Her design was supremely boring and impractical. So what if she hosts well? All Will would need is a few lessons in elocution. So sorry Will! You are the true star--able and eager to fulfill the needs of your clients with warmth and integrity. It has been an honor to observe you: you are a gentleman with talent and humility. Judges: wake up! Obviously, you picked Todd long ago. True, his designs are "far-out" but impractical. True, he is cute, but so what?

On the other hand, I know the judges had/have a very hard job. I would not want to be in their position. Although they have done an admirable job, I hope HGTV selects a new judging panel next year. The audience would love to hear some fresh perspectives. Let's keep "Design Star" going! I love the show.

Posted by Patti – September 4, 2007 9:48 PM

Dear MeI.I.I.Me,
The "outcry" for Will is not for the particular challenge on the last episode, it is because the viewers have continuously preferred his designs & recognize the talent. I thought the man very genuine & likeable from the 1st show. It didn't matter who Will got, he would have LISTENED to any of them & given them what they wanted. Thank God Todd didn't do Bridget's room. Horrors. Another skateboard ramp?

Posted by Cheryl – September 4, 2007 9:34 PM

I think Will had a great talent, He's a great designer and I agree with one of the posted comments hosting skills can be taught, but designning not. If I could I afford to pay a designer I will hire Will. But Todd has a lot of potential, Kim not so much I think she needs more designing skills.

Posted by Cecy – September 4, 2007 9:29 PM

What interests me is, that WILL was either souly responsible or a partner of all Top Designs as voted by viewers. Also, WILL's awesome statement when his show had been cancelled. Sure, he exercised his style all the way through and lacked hosting/presentation skills, but he was incredibly successfull with his work. WILL, your a CLASS ACT! I wish you absolute success both personally and professionally. Todd is explosive, interesting, imaginative and fun. Sofa placement-eh. So many alternative solutions neglected by such a creative individual. KIM, is a natural on camera and is what the judges want. KIM is doing awesome for one with no formal training, as if that means anything."if only" WILL had the calm and cool characteristic of is design style, he would be, the next Design Star. With this, GO TODD!!

Posted by CushLink – September 4, 2007 9:22 PM

A poster here named Mel nailed it: "IT'S NOT A DESIGN SHOW -- IT'S A DESIGN STAR SHOW. This isn't a show for the best designer, or the prize would be a design company." Truly, I believe Will is not a TV star, but he probably, literraly, just won himself a design company. He's proven his ability, and that last room may have given him a life's calling. In any event, that was one of the claaiest speeches in defeat I've ever heard.

I don't see a future for Kim. Sure, she's poised in front of the camera, but she's not a designer by trade. They'd have to create a show where someone else designs and she narrates. Now why would HGTV be stupid enough to build up a star with no visible design skill, who does nothing but narrate the work of other designers? er...wait...Clive Pearse....never mind, Kim could do fine.

Then there's Todd. What I admired most about Todd's room was that he had a plan, saw that plan wasn't going to work because of the load bearing beam, and just regrouped and executed a different angle on the plan. There were no moments of whining or moaning. Todd does what his clients want, executes it on time, does well in front of the camera, and has building skills. To me, he's the obvious choice. Will he win? Hard to say, since many people are going to vote for Kim because the judges got rid or Sparkle Josh (bizarre logic, but that's what I'm seeing on this board). Todd has done everything that was asked of him, taken some pretty big risks, and (as near as I can tell) is being villified because he works and plays well with Rob.

Also, one poster is getting everyone hysterical because (allegedly) Todd indicated he wanted Rob on his show. People, even if Todd wins, he only gets a show -- not executive HGTV decision making authority. If Todd wins, he goes straight to TV star school, and then they'll pair him with someone carefully chosen by HGTV to bring balance and demographics.

Finally, I hate to break this to many of you, but Sparkle Josh will most likely not return in a surprise twist ending (along the lines of the FoodTV Star debacle with the chef who lied on his resume). Like Will, he will do just fine and go on to lead a healthy, productive life (maybe not as a designer, but as a buyer, perhaps?)

Posted by EddieAlbania – September 4, 2007 8:31 PM

I will really miss Will, he is a great designer and very gracious.Love you Will and much success to you in whatever you do.

Posted by Carole – September 4, 2007 8:25 PM

AJ,
You wondered why Will's web site did not end in ".com." ".ws" stands for Web site. www.willsmith.com is very occupied by the actor and singer.

Posted by nivlem – September 4, 2007 8:13 PM

Sunday I watched all 6 episodes again AND TOOK NOTES! Episode 1: Will was commended, along with Scott, Sparkle, and Todd for "strong work".(Robb was in the bottom two.) Episode 2: Will was commended for making good decisions and contributing to the team effort, as were Scott, Todd, and Adriana,(Sparkle was the winner; whereas, Robb and Kim were in the bottom group.) Episode 3: Martha called Will's design "great, sharp, crisp" and Vern said that he was "stoked," called his work amazing, and said that Will knows what he is doing from a dseign sense. ( As for Kim, Vern said that her side items looked like afterthoughts, but that the overall concept was good.) Both Will's and Kim's "strong creativity impressed the judges," according to Clive. Episode 4: Although the couple did not choose Will's wedding design, the bride commented that "Will nailed the colors." The judges commented that Will's "passion for design is contagious." (Robb, the team leader chose Will as the weak link, even though Will was the one who helped him to see the error in the poker chips display at the reception. Fortunately, the judges didn't boot Will then, as everyone else could see that Robb was a snake and should have been ousted early on.)Episode 5: In this show Will explained to Todd something about the framing of the platform, I think, as they were riding in the car. Would Todd have built it incorrectly if Will had not been there? At elimination, Vern asked for more intonation in Will's presentation, and Martha found him to be "flat". However, Vern reiterated that Will talks about the design in his presentations. (We heard this from Vern after Will's first hosting video, as well.) NOW THIS BRINGS US TO EPISODE 6: The final comments commended Will for consistent design excellence, but Both Todd and Kim have design issues...functionality and space planning! WHATEVER HAPPENED TO "Form follows function?" One more thing...for the last several episodes, Martha was heard to say several times, even though Will's work was considered strong EVERY episode, that she was least impressed with Will. That is her perrogative, but how could anyone be less impressed with Will than Robb, who proudly announced that he hid lights in the .99 store so that nobody else could find them? To me, that is cheating and should have disqualified him.
Also, I did not view Will's rooms to be the same from week to week. I saw consistency of good design concepts, not sameness. And if consistency is "expected", Martha, that is a good thing!

Posted by Alice – September 4, 2007 8:02 PM

For those of you who are commenting on what the designers did wrong, maybe you should look at some of the designers blogs and get the behind the scenes look at what went on with the show (especially Kim's). I think you all forget that these people were under very tight time schedules and based on where they were located (ie rural West VA, IN and Calif.) they may or may not have had access or availability to products that you have suggested. Cut them a break guys! They all did a great job considering the time they had.

Posted by Carol – September 4, 2007 7:56 PM

i think tou have let some talented peaple go i don't see letting kim stay only because she looks good in front if the camera she whine's all the time and who says oh i can't do a kitchen on the last challange she did mostly cosmetic she did not change anything i would have changed that awful bar not added more wood to it it could have stayed a bar just take the top part down it looked like a roof over it

Posted by jenny – September 4, 2007 7:34 PM

Where is episode 6 on demand! Geez, it's usually up in a day or two. HELLO WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE SHOW I MISSED

Posted by Lin – September 4, 2007 7:29 PM

WHAT A WASTE..WILL WAS EXCELLENT. I HAVE READ THE COMMENTS. HGTV, ADMIT U MADE A MISTAKE. BRING WILL BACK!!! I LOVE HIS PERSONALITY AND CHARM AND MOST OF ALL HIS DESIGNER SKILLS!

Posted by Elnora – September 4, 2007 6:51 PM

They're not going to find another David Bromstad. Neither Kim nor Todd have the God-given ability of design and color. You can learn a lot in school but David's ability is far beyond book learning. Todd is good with innovative design such as the lazy susan living room which I thought was brillant. Todd has proven with his design of the white water wave in episode 3 that he has the ability to paint original art works such as David but he has not chosen to show us that side of his design.//If Kim can paint-we don't know that either. The Total Design Concept needs to show some original works and or art accessories which Kim and Todd have left off of their total design challenge so far.//Like I said before--a David Bromstad comes along once in a generation.

Posted by BigD-designer – September 4, 2007 6:24 PM

I just wanted to post that I finally got to watchthe show and I agree with the judges that Will has a hard time in front of the camera, but to be frank, I would allow him to design my home on any day, he really does know how to make a room look fabulous. I hope that HGTV picks up on that and maybe puts him with a host like Clive so that he can some day have his own show.

I think that Kim and Todd could make a good pare. Kim is great in front of the camera and she is an ok designer, Todd, is ok in front of the camera and he is an amazing craftsman. I think that if HGTV really wanted to blow this competition out of the water they would start by throwing the rule book out the door, give WIll a host partner, put Kim and Todd on their own show and everyone would win, I know that the public would.

I have to say that I am very glad that these three made it as far as they did. Hands down they really did deserve it. I know some people were a bit upset about the statement that Todd put in the rug, but I think that he was only thinking about the needs of the family.

Well, I threw out all of the advise I could, and HGTV is not paying me for it, so I better go, but thanks for having this here so we can post HGTV, this is a good show to participate in.

Posted by Rhonda – September 4, 2007 5:56 PM

I like Kim and I will vote for her in the finals. She is a natural in front of the camera and I for one like her design. I would enjoy watching her show.

Posted by Nancy – September 4, 2007 5:01 PM

If you rewatch the judges reaction to Will's graceful exit, when he thanked them for the opportunity it tells much about them and their true feelings. Cynthia looked striken and buried her hands in her face, Vern looked utterly depressed, and Martha smirked. Need I say more?

Posted by Reggie – September 4, 2007 4:53 PM

QUESTION: Why didn't Will's response to the viewers get a separate blog, as did Sparkle Josh's???

Posted by Bisi – September 4, 2007 4:45 PM

I love Kim. She always seems to rise to the occasion, no matter what the adversity. She came in as the clear underdog, and has been able to hold her own. Watching her present her completed designs is so informative. I always learn something from her.

Even though Will was eliminated, He is probably the best designer of the entire crew. His personality was so lovable, unlike some of the other arrogant jerks who couldn't design their way out of a brown paper bag.

Since HGTV is a business, and the ultimate goal is to get people to watch the show, my money is on Kim. You go girl!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by Ernie Z – September 4, 2007 4:42 PM

Tonight's show was a real tearjerker. I cried when Will was eliminated even though I knew the judges would eliminate him because of his hosting abilities. When he said "hosting is hard work", I knew it was over for him. That said, I think his design came out on top. To me, the other designs (as good as they were) couldn't hold a candle to Will. Will's design was bright, clean, functional, and alive. He is a designer, not a host. The final challenge will determine who I will vote for as, right now, I can't decide. Just like last year between David and Alice.

Posted by Julie – September 4, 2007 4:39 PM

Although I have previously posted my comments - I have takenthe time to read others comments. Isn't it amazing how many viewers share the same thoughts on this seasons show? Hopefully, the higher ups of HGTV are reading the comments.
Design Star is not worth my time watching any longer. I will not be watching the final episodes. I hope the ratings suffer. HGTV is insulting my intellect.
Where there is a WILL - there is a way. Even cleverness is not enough to win.
Perhaps Will is too talented for the tastes of the judges. However, NOT the viewers. THE END.

Posted by christine Madore – September 4, 2007 4:32 PM

It seems bizarre to me that Will was eliminated based on his hosting skills when Kenneth Brown has had a show for years and can't say 3 words without flinging his arms all over the place. I can't even watch him and his designs aren't even that great (hello, gluing grey flannel to a livingroom wall?) If Todd wins, I hope they get him some Ritalin.

Posted by tuttid53 – September 4, 2007 4:25 PM

Will was absolutely robbed! He was the only one out of the last three that should have his own show. Anbody can learn how to host, but not anybody can learn how to design. It's sadly apparent that HGTV knew exactly who they wanted, (Todd), so why let him compete and waste America's time? Why didn't they just give him his own show right off the bat? Yes, he's very creative but what has he done that's actually functional?

Will- you are absolutely a class act. Hold your head up high- we know who the real "Design Star" is!! It's just a shame that America won't get to enjoy your show!

Posted by Jen – September 4, 2007 4:13 PM

This show was so predictable. I KNEW they would pick Todd, and it was obvious from the beginning. Whenever Todd comes into her presence, Judge Martha acts like a gushing schoolgirl. No matter what Todd says or does, he is brilliant (or brilliant LOOKING) in her eyes. I suggest that Martha stop lusting after Todd and do her job - which is to judge objectively. There is NO way that a judge of her calibre would ever deign to live in a room that Todd designed.

The judges keep gushing - Todd is so adventurous and dramatic. PLEASE!!! A skateboard ramp in a living space?? A rotating platform in a living room??? These are accidents waiting to happen. Is this practical?

Todd's room was a disaster - and I surmise that if any other designer created a room like this one - Martha & Vern Yip would be "mortified." It was too cluttered (remember they booted off Scott for the SAME reason?) Did you ever notice that NOT one of the judges ever really critique Todd's work? They say that Todd needs to work on his "space planning." HELLO???? Isn't this one of the beginning basics of Interior Design????? He can't even grasp space planning - it was claustrophobic - yet, there are the judges admiring the Nordic Golden Boy Todd in all his "hey dude, athletic glory." The judges and HGTV don't want a design star - they want a Cover Boy. It's looks over substance. Next week, per the previews, this show ups the ante with more shirtless scenes of Todd - it's like watching an episode of that old reality show "Are You Hot"? It's tacky and in poor taste. This is a design show? Furthermore, Todd has this Jeff Spicoli act going - that Sean Penn character in "Fast Times at Ridgemont High." How many more times do we have to him utter the word "dude."????? This is pathetic. It seems that HGTV specifically set up all the contestants to fail while they pushed Todd ahead.

The whole season is a joke and an insult to the audience's intelligence.

Posted by Don – September 4, 2007 4:00 PM

I agree with most of the other comments.
It seemed like the judges were making choices based on "kissing up" first then on design.
Lisa had a crummy area and no real chance to succeed. She could be good. We'll never know.
Neeraja should have been eliminated for the blah bar with no stools. Look into her eyes, she is COLD. She said she would "mow people over" to get what she wants.
Robb should have been eliminated next for his rude, pompous, egomaniacal behavior. Don't the judges watch the video clips of the designers working in their projects?
Scott should not have been eliminated for his design; it was good, just a bit "busy."
Todd is a creative artist, not an interior designer. So far he has just barely produced. His living room design had good elements and colors, but a bad arrangement.
Christina, sweet but trashed Adrianna instead of taking responsibility for her own decisions.
Adrianna was just okay, needs to get stronger.
Josh F was weak in design and personality.
Sparkle Josh should be a finalist. Who could predict that the Las Vegas couple would go for redneck design instead of Vegas design.
Will saved Robb's butt on the wedding design, and Will's design was classier. His room design for the girl was really clean and nice.
Kim is good. I agree she didn't grasp the issues of living with mud and dirt and kids. She should have included a front porch and rugs instead of carpet.
I love Clive. I've been watching Designed To Sell from the beginning. I have watched all of the Design Star shows, some twice.
I like Vern a lot, watched him on TLC Trading Spaces from the beginning.
Martha and Cynthia may be good designers, but seem to have lost touch with the real world.
Still, I will continue to watch, I love interior design.

Posted by Dani – September 4, 2007 3:47 PM

I also think the judges sent home the wrong people. Scott and sparkle Josh are great designers with 'original' personalities and would have been perfect hosts. In my opinion,they picked the wrong guy to be the 'design star' last season. David Bromstaeds work is nothing special and his presentation is still very unprofessional. Most of his comments about the new contestants work are inappropriate and degrading. -And whats up with his naked upper body all the time? even on his vlog after the show he didn't find it necessary to put some clothes on - how disrespectful. Does he have to distract from his mediocre design and hosting skills by showing off his tatoos? I know that 'sex sells' in the tv world, but this is Hgtv for crying out loud! I think it looks ridiculous and tasteless.

Posted by Renee – September 4, 2007 3:47 PM

The show is not about DESIGN, or Will would not have been voted off - the show is evidently about a "star".
HGTV has missed a great opportunity in having Will as a Design Star host. He is capable of bringing a new fresh element and challenge to HGTV. To design a handicap enabled room was a learning experience for the viewers. Will is a serious and extremely capable individual - anyone remember Davids hosting abilites? Nada. He had to find a niche. Will has and has TALENT.
HGTV may be entertainment - Personally, I view the shows to learn. Kim and Todd will not be showing me anything new. So sorry. And judges: Your preferences are extremely apparent on TV

Posted by christine madore – September 4, 2007 3:47 PM

Will is a nice person but his design style is the same over and over again. I like Kim as a host but she has repeatedly said that her style is "glamorous." Not the every day style either. Todd is fun and can be serious. He can learn to do different styles and tone it down if necessary. I love David's show but how in the world could you replicate his designs in your own home? Even the wall treatments? Let's face it, TV is for viewing and hosting. That's what HGTV is looking for.

Posted by Nicole Duke – September 4, 2007 3:25 PM

I disagree with all of the disgruntled remarks about the judges. Since I didn't watch last years show maybe I shouldn't judge, but since I've loved David Bromsteads program so much I wanted to be sure to see this season's show.
I've agreed with the Judges almost all the way, except I would have liked to see Robb go sooner.
He had talent no doubt but such an abrasive personality wasn't going to make it. I will have a hard time choosing between Todd and Kim.
They both are great. Some of the bloggers criticize them as if they should be perfect already. They will grow, whichever one is chosen.
I think Todd & Kim have very good presence on camera and great attitudes when they hear constructive criticism from the judges.
I have to say the blogger that seems to think Kim has a chip on her shoulder must be looking at things from a different angle from me. I can't see it myself. She's bubbly, I love her smile and she's very talented. I think it's even more of an accomplishment that she's come so far without formal education in design. As for Todd, he's easy on the eyes that's for sure, and has mucho talent to boot.

Posted by Virginia Davis – September 4, 2007 3:07 PM

Oh, please! This 2nd season of Design Star is a disappointment! I loved the first season and watched it over and over and still do online. I love David and I love COLOR SPLASH!

Having said that - Christina was star quality, Sparkle was too and they were exited on the stupidest episode ever! WILL WAS MY ONLY HOPE! Now he is a Designer!!! What are the producers and judges thinking? Kim has a pleasant TV personality but that is it! I was so confused by her redo in WV! No focal point! Wrong materials to us in Coal Country!(Many have said hard wood floors and leather upholstery and I completely agree) Todd is really obnoxious with his long arms and flat hands chopping through the air, what's that all about? He painted the beam red? What? Now it is noticed more that ever!!! I WOULD LOVE A SHOW BY WILL & JOSH - or CHRISTINA. HGTV, this Design Star season is awful. It's over for me. Done!

Posted by reena – September 4, 2007 2:58 PM

I'm miss Will. He's terrific in so many ways.
Did anyone notice the gorgeous background he's sitting in when he gets the call that he's been chosen as a Design Star finalist? I bet he did that design and it was gorgeous.
Bless him for his uplifting remarks about being blessed by meeting Bridget. He always had a positive attitude, even when being PUSHED by that obnoxious Robb.
I wish a world of success and happiness to Will.
Maybe HGTV will consider him for a co-host like we see on David Bromstad and his co-host who work beautifully together.

Posted by Virginia Davis – September 4, 2007 2:47 PM

From the beginning, Will and Sparkle Josh were my favorites- their designs were meant for real people and their personalities were warm and wonderful! Now that Will is gone too, I really don't care who wins, as I probably won't watch either show. I like Kim, but I don't think she has the designing skills to have her own show. I never liked Todd's "surfer dude" personality and designs, although he did surprise me this week with a somewhat normal room and less hyperactivity (and he can keep his shirt on!) I agree the show needs new judges- even my kids can see how Martha is pulling for Todd!
PLEASE can we have a Sparkle Josh and Will show?! THAT I would watch! Will, you have so much class and that will take you far!

Posted by Wendy – September 4, 2007 2:42 PM

It is interesting that last year HGTV picked David Bromstad and promoted him as a kind, caring, designer (I agree) that women practically fall all over to hug and kiss when he arrives on their doorstep (thus the repetitive commercials that focus on his tatoos and him working without his shirt on, etc.) This year you had Will, a kind, caring individual that had loads of design talent and yet he was let go for not being dynamic enough. I agree with other viewers...I would be more likely to watch Will over Kim or Todd and do not plan to vote for either one of them.

LET'S START A WRITE IN CAMPAIGN FOR WILL!!!

Where there is a Will, there is a way! Will is a class act that really DESERVED to be the Design Star. HGTV needs to be redesigned!

Posted by Abby M. – September 4, 2007 2:34 PM

i can't believe that with all the talent on this years show that these are the two contestants remaining! i thought the show was called "DESIGN STAR" not "decorating with the best host" it reminds me of the "boy band" shows where they pick the person with the "right" look and they are really just an average singer.
will was an all around complete designer with a charming, authentic personality. his designs were thoughtful and useful. not"predicable" like martha mc cully said. he had style!he could've learned "hosting".
while kim seems like a great person, she doesn't have any "design" skills or knowledge, she's a DECORATOR.
todd is just too out there! his designs are not useable in the real world. i mean really, who has a skateboard thing, a tsunami or a lazy susan in your living room? he's sooo hyper.
i'm very disappointed in the remaining contestants and i doubt if i'll even watch the finale or their new show.

Posted by michelle – September 4, 2007 2:26 PM

It is not fair. I just saw David Bromstein, the first winner of DesignStar on a video talking about the present contestants, he is on his second season of his show Color Splash, and if he received coaching for hosting and presentation skills I cannot tell. I love David and think he has more talent in the tip of is fingernail than all of the previous and current contestants and the judges. I think the judges shoud have worked more with Will, what they are missing is Will's got it, what they are looking for in a DesignStar

Posted by Musette – September 4, 2007 2:24 PM

I cannot believe the judges let Will go! There is no reason left to watch the other epidsodes. Another loyal fan is gone. Will you were the best!

Posted by Jona – September 4, 2007 2:13 PM

HGTV are you listening? Will were the real thing. I love him from the beginning. My prays and thoughts are with him. I hope he is rewarded for his big heart. He shot for the moon and landed among the stars. Good luck Will.

Posted by rachar – September 4, 2007 2:00 PM

I loved Sunday's show the best of all for this season of Design Star. Their talents really did shine. I, though, feel like most people, that Will was the true "star" of that show. What a wonderful, kind, good man he is...and talented to boot! I hope he goes far in whatever he does.

Posted by avaholley – September 4, 2007 1:58 PM

Will's design was great! He could have hosted a show. These 2 skinny chicks did not want him to. Kim has a great personality & she has the good looks for a t.v. camera. She could teach the 2 lady judges something about style. Get Todd off, PLEASE! All that jumping & tumbling around. Who in their right mind could stand to watch a 30-minuted show with him hosting. You lost your best designer when the ladies looked at Will & just decided that no one would want to watch him because he wasn't full of the same phoney style & chic that they have. 162466

Posted by Nancy J. Webster – September 4, 2007 1:53 PM

The judges truly missed the mark and I just had to blog about it. Will was the best designer hands down! He was very creative and put a lot of thought into very clean and classy design that anyone could use. I like Todd's creativity but I do not see his talent as an everyday design star. He is a bit over the top and I could not see him doing regular designs for normal people on a day to day. In looking at the overall body of work I think Kim's work was tacky. She has not done anything significant to be in the final 2. I hate to reminisce but I was upset when Sparkle Josh was voted off. I believe his design was a bit glam at times but his stand out point for me was in the very beginning when I saw the room he and Will put together. It showed superior design skills and had the awe factor. In addition in looking at the kitchen makeover, his skill made up for the lack of skill displayed by the others in that kitchen. At any rate, I am very upset that Will was voted off for nothing more than hosting skills that could be taught. At this stage of the game good design skills cannot.

Posted by Danielle – September 4, 2007 1:43 PM

Last season was wonderful, because there was more closeness between each design star in the running. They showed their anger and what they felt about each other, which made each one better in the next epsiode. I haven't watch every epsiode, but I have enjoyed what I watched. I especially like Kim's style. I believe she's the next Designer Star.

Posted by Anna Price – September 4, 2007 1:33 PM

I love this show!! What a difficult decision the judges had to make this week! I thought all three designers were outstanding. I love all three, their personalities, their talents and designs! If all of them had a show, I'd definitely watch, but, I have to stick with my girl, Kim, as my favorite! I believe her talent is innate, she's a wonderful show host, with a sincere and sweet personality... I'd really look forward to watching her show, just like David's Bromstadt's, Color Splash! Way to go, HGTV!

Posted by AganaBaby – September 4, 2007 1:27 PM

Of the 2 left, Todd should win on talent and ability... but I bet they pick a woman because they picked a man last time. This is what most of these shows do. [btw: Kim has with very little experience or know how]

Posted by karen – September 4, 2007 1:25 PM

HGTV - Great show. Entertaining and I've learned from each contestant's own personal style and approach. I have to admit, I wish your forum was a little more moderated though because it seems like it is just a forum for people to "hate" on people they don't know. I have really enjoyed all of the contestants, but have pulled for Todd since Day 1. His creativity is engaging and energetic. He seems passionate about what design means. He brings a positive, more progressive vibe that stands out above the rest.

I think this forum shows that people are easily influenced by things that are outside of what truly matters. This show is about design, not about whether Todd wears a shirt or not. This show is about the challenges they are asked to do, not about who Todd "hi-fives" in an edited clip to make good television. This show is about making something amazing in little time and on a little budget -- oh yeah, and often tough spaces to work within. This show is about "people" trying to make good. All I see here on this forum is how people are so comfortable making harsh criticisms about people they don't know personally. I think this forum is great because it is open. But, I have to say I am most disappointed that so many feel so comfortable being so quick to judge on such superficial and personal things.

I love the fact that Todd, Will, and Kim made it to the end. Each brought their own sense of style and sensibility to each challenge. I, too, was sorry to see Will go because his designs for each competition was great.

I really look forward to seeing what Todd and Kim have next. I think both are fantastic and I personally would watch either host a show on HGTV.

My vote will be for Todd Davis because his unique style, diverse talent, creativity, passion and authenticity will make for good television that will keep me watching HGTV in the future.

Thank you HGTV and the judges for putting on a great show. You've done a great job.

Posted by Marie – September 4, 2007 1:19 PM

I am so sad to see Will go, he is definitely the best designer with the most talent! Kim and Todd do not measure up to Will in skill or heart!

Posted by Janice – September 4, 2007 1:17 PM

Well, I am very dissapointed in this show... First of all, If I see Todd wearing leather pants on one more episode I will scream out of my mind!!!

URGH... I cant believe that he is still on the show, soo arrogant! I will not watch his show and neither Kim's!

Posted by AB – September 4, 2007 12:52 PM

Did anyone else notice that on HGTV's home page this week (not the Design Star home page) they featured Will's bedroom for Bridget. Does that mean that HGTV considers Will's design the best this week. If so, they seem to be in accord with most of the fans. Reading the blogs, most of the fans also seem to prefer to watch Will's personality. If that isn't crucial to hosting a show, what is? Will has the designs and the personality. What exactly is the judges agenda? A "star" according to their impractical notions, or a Design Star the viewers of HGTV want to see?

Posted by Fran – September 4, 2007 12:51 PM

I agree with those who said that Will's design was the best. And neither Kim nor Todd is THAT much better at hosting than Will; I feel that it'd be nice to have a host who ISN'T so hyper and loud and revved-up, like so many others (I'm thinking of LAST season, for instance!). Will harks back to the soothing days of Sarah Richardson (sp?) on Redesign!

Kim is cute & likable, but her design for that poor family was so awful, I couldn't believe it! What a waste of 10K!

Todd's design had the most visual impact when compared with the "before" picture, but it really was laid out strangely. His hosting was not that good either.

Will's design was totally unexpected for a girl's room. One designer commented that it didn't seem "girly" enough...so what? Where is it written that they always get pink?! The girl and the family obviously loved it. I think, with a little coaching, Will could really be a first rate show host AND already is a great designer.

I really liked his reaction after being "Canceled": "I will be a designer anywhere, whether on TV or not"...REALLY classy!

Posted by ilovenormabrams-really – September 4, 2007 12:47 PM

Not happy with Will living the show. He was the best designer. I think the show should be name "host star" since you guys are not looking for the true designer but for the one with the best hosting abilities. That show me that your program is not really about design but is about ratings. I think the hosting abilities you can trained but the good taste and ability to design no.

Posted by loida – September 4, 2007 12:35 PM

What is this show about? Design or hosting? Will had the best and most original room; he even added a soft area for her to roll into and not get hurt. Todd, to me, bought nice furniture and put it in the middle of the room and in front of the TV. I could do that. Kim missed the boat and the judges missed the boat,also. I grew up on a farm and the last thing you want is carpeting when you walk into the house. She should have had an upscale vinyl with area rugs.The furniture placement did not look right and the entire project yelled CHEAP! Anyone who doesn't notice the lack of grass and the muddy yard needs to go back to school.

Posted by Kathy – September 4, 2007 12:32 PM

I feel better after reading these posts. I am reassured that it's not just me - most everyone else agrees that Will got robbed. I laughed after reading kdenning's comment that we HGTV viewers are tired of hosts that seem like they are on medication. Will was down to earth AND TALENTED. Nothing wrong with his presentation skills that coaching could not fix. Let's be honest. As much as I LOVE David Bromstad, his hosting skills are weak. But I don't watch his show for his hosting abilities. I watch to see him transform a room in ways I can relate to and be inspired by. Will was the same - from the beginning. I liked all of his rooms. I liked none of Kim's rooms. If someone had to go, it should have been her. She seems like a really nice person but I would never hire her or TOdd to do any room in my house. Nor will I watch a show hosted by either one because I am 99 percent sure they won't present anything I want to see. Nor will I vote for either one to be te next Design Star because I don't care who wins. All of the truly talented designers have been eliminated. As many have said, I also have lost respect for the judges.
As for Todd's design, I thought that light sofa (even Scotchguarded) was impractical for a family room. Kim's room was dreary but anything was better than what was there before.
HGTV is my favorite channel but only because of shows like Designed to Sell and House Hunters. With the execption of David B. I have stopped watching some of the "designer" shows because I don't relate to the content and the hosts to quote kdenner "seem like they are on medication.''
I sure hope the Design Star producers pay close attention to what we fans are saying and come up with better presentation next year. This year was awful and disappointing and in some cases just plain stupid.

Posted by Starrider – September 4, 2007 12:25 PM

Initially I was very much looking forward to the
new season, but it has been very disappointing.
The chosen participants are not experienced enough
with design, and really are not artistic to the
extent that is required. With time, and training they could become good, but at this point I would not want either of the remaining two or any of the initial six doing work in my home.

It was not enjoyable in the least, watching the fueding between Kim and Robb. I work hard each day, and when I sit down in the evening to watch TV,I want to be entertained, and inspired, not depressed.

Will always had a smile on his face, and even though his designs were basic, at least they were clean, and functional. He's skills for hosting were not strong, and that's the season for his elimination, but he's the only one in the whole group that showed real class after his dismissal. He was still smiling, and his comments were very uplifting, and it's nice to see someone these days with true compassion. I wish him the very best, and with his attitude.........he will do well.

Kim's challenge was absolutely horrible to have to face. This poor family didn't need a make-over, they needed a whole new house. It's my opinion, that Kim had the biggest challenge of anyone. At least the others had normal households to deal with. I really don't understand why HGTV chose this family in West Virginia. Yes, they need help, and yes it's wonderful that they did get some new furniture, etc., but it was depressing to watch, and something should have been done off-screen for this family.

Needless to say, I will stick it out until the end, but after all the advertising about Las Vegas, etc., and how big and exciting this year's show would be, I find it all very disappointing.

Posted by Vanell – September 4, 2007 12:22 PM

Well, reading through some of these comments gave me a good feeling. To know that I(all the way in Curacao,Dutch Antilles)wasn't at all wrong about how I felt about this season. Last year; I was right on the dot with David B. He was simply the best choice for design star. This year: I didn't feel the pull of last year. And YES my choice would have been WILL. For GOOD and amazing designs ,practicality and a designer one can relate to!!
I am still mad/sad you let Will go... especially for something that had nothing to do with his Terrific Design abilities.This has ruined the show for me
Good luck, Will in all your future endeavors.
My 2nd choice would be: KIM. Good luck girl.

Posted by CurazaoDesign: – September 4, 2007 12:14 PM

WILL: YOU HAVE WON IN MY BOOK. YOUR PARENTS SHOULD BE VERY PROUD OF YOU. I LIKE THE JUDGES BUT THEY HAVE MADE A BIG MISTAKE. YOUR DESIGN SKILLS ARE TOP OF THE CLASS, YOUR ABILITY TO HEAR AND SEE BEYOND WHAT YOUR CLIENT WANTS AND NEEDS ARE IS WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT IN FIRST PLACE. IF YOU EVER COME TO CALIFORNIA AGAIN I WOULD BE HONORED TO HAVE YOU DESIGN ANY ROOM IN MY OLD HOUSE FOR ME.

RESPECTFULLY,DENISE

Posted by DENISE – September 4, 2007 12:12 PM

I think a show featuring Kim as the "aspiring designer" she is, learning the professional techniques and tricks of the trade, and teaching all of us fellow "aspiring designers" that watch HGTV for that reason, would be extemely appealing. I have never seen any of Clive's designs featured, but 'Designed to Sell' is one of my favorite shows. While I will miss Will, and won't watch Todd, I think Kim is what HGTV needs, a novice design to match the skills of their viewers.

Posted by Dana – September 4, 2007 12:08 PM

Kim, a wood laminate floor would have been much appreciated by the family. They will be cleaning carpet from now........I've lived in the mud!! The rest of your design was good.
Will's was perfect for a young teenager. I would not trust Todd with a design, but he has a good personality. Hopefully HGTV's Design Star is more than that!

Posted by Mary – September 4, 2007 12:04 PM

I think Martha has drooled over Todd since the beginning. She also hasn't liked Will very much. I think she wanted Will gone because he would have been the best competition for Todd. And, since she can't make the final decision, she wants to put a weaker designer against Todd. The judges missed the boat this year on the eliminations. It should have come down to the end with Sparkle Josh (my pick) and Will.

Posted by Bertram – September 4, 2007 11:48 AM

I think your show did Will wrong for letting him go because of his accent. His work spoke for itself. He was one of the best designers on the show and I'm very disappointed in HGTV for doing that. I watch all of the design shows and I enjoy doing that, but if theres a problem with a person's speech then that should be address in the contract when a person sign up to be on your show. I don't think so that is called discrimination. Shame on you HGTV for letting a great designer go because he didn't speak the way you though he should.

Posted by Janet – September 4, 2007 11:48 AM

It seems that the majority has spoken. This season has been too rushed, not enough individual challenges and HGTV seemed to go for the personality/entertainment factor in picking design contestants over design capability. I agree with David and others that Will's design skills were the best of the remaining three by far, and this is a design show, so why should he lose out due to his hosting ability?? Kim and Todd have yet to show that they are really capable in individual design. The space planning for both of them on camera seemed very off. Then again, we haven't seen enough of anyone on an individual basis to truly judge.

I can't imagine how hard it must be to pull off these designs and execute them with limited time and information. I still enjoy watching but don't feel like we've gotten the best out of this season. The judges are odd. Vern is the only one with a real design opinion - not that I always agree - but we aren't hearing where Cynthia and Martha are really coming from with their commentary.

Posted by Heidi – September 4, 2007 11:30 AM

I personally didn't like the lack of imagination Kim showed in her makeover. Nor did I like her attitude when she said she is beginning to wonder if this is the field she wants to be in. Will will be my choice when I buy my house during the coming year. He can design my fully wheelchair accessible, two story, elevator included, home for me. I do realize that Todd will be the winner in the end. I believe that is as it should be. His imagination is astoundly exceptional.

Posted by MsTisa – September 4, 2007 11:08 AM

This is my first time blogging...ever, but I was so inspired by Will's reaction to leaving the show that I am compelled to write. What a refreshing, humbling and inspirational farwell from Will. He restores confidence in good sportsmanship among reality show competitors - he behaved so beautifully which is fitting for a design show. I hope his behavior is rewarded with at least a guest appearance or two in the coming season. Bravo Will!

Posted by MJ – September 4, 2007 11:06 AM

I wasn't impressed with the West Virginia family who was "broke", but had a HUGE TV in the room.

Posted by Gail – September 4, 2007 10:41 AM

I have been very disappointed in the judges decisions. I didn't think Organic Josh was given much of a chance to show what he could do, I hated it when Sparkle Josh left the show, and I thought Christine should have gotten a pass-she had done so well, and she was having problems handling tacky. I was also surprised when Will was sent home. I wouldn't hire either of the remaining two, and doubt I would watch their show. Maybe if they paired Sparkle Josh with Kim, or Christine with the skate boarder....

Posted by Cathy New – September 4, 2007 10:34 AM

I am a Will follower now, i dont want to watch a good actor, i want to watch a real person with real feelings changing real peoples lives everyday. most of us agree, with the camara rolling Will is the same genuine person not pretending to be someone who he is not.

Posted by ismael – September 4, 2007 10:28 AM

I hated to see Will go b/c I thought he was the best designer of the 3 left. (I still think Sparkle Josh and Kristina should have been in the top 3.) I won't vote for either of the 2 remaining b/c I don't think they have the style to carry their own show. Todd's room was overdone in red. I can't think that someone who puts a sofa perpendicular to a TV has a good sense of design. Plus I, too, am tired of his bare chest and gymnastic shannigans. He's too immature. Kim tried but a rug in a coal miner's home doesn't show common sense. At least tile the entryway. In my opinion, her arrangement of furniture was very poor (1 chair in front of fireplace); sofa up against wall away from TV and no accessories? She could have definitely made it more inviting and rustic. Anyway, here's one person who won't be voting or watching the next new design show. I hope HGTV reads these blogs and takes into consideration what their viewers want.

Posted by Nan – September 4, 2007 9:58 AM

I was so upset when they cancelled Will's show on Sunday I really don't want to watch the final episode. If anyone on this site was really paying attention, the one who really didn't like Will was Martha...not Vern. From what I can tell from watching all of Vern's episodes of trading spaces, Will has a design style much like Vern. It was Martha who, after every challenge said that she was not impressed with Will. She has a big problem with him not being "polished". She said it over and over and over. She also commented on his style being predictable (I'm paraphrasing). I think that it was ultimately her influence that persuaded the other judges to vote Will off. I cannot believe that they kept "harping" on the presentation issue because there is a woman on the food network channel name Paula Deen who is as country as all get out, and it works for her and the show. So, I also think they should let the people start voting much earlier in the show so that we can decide who we want in the finals.

Posted by Donna – September 4, 2007 9:54 AM

I loved Design Star last season but have been disappointed this season. I base my week around the show and am sad that there hasn't been the talent like last year( DAVID ROCKS) I like more individual challenges. THe apartment redo was my favorite last year with the design rooms next. Show us the talent. Hosting skills are important but the designs are what excites me. I long to see David's Color SPlash because it is truly him. What will Todd and Kim have to offer. I am sad with the turn of events.

Posted by Glenda Dulkoski – September 4, 2007 9:50 AM

Wow, a lot of comments. Most that I've read echo each other, most people think Will was the best of the three. I agree. I would however, have liked a challenge in which the designers are forced to design a room outside of their "signature" style. For instance, I would have liked to see how Will would design a room with a "country" style or Todd a room with "practical and functional" focus. I think the finale would have been A LOT more intense if Will and former contestant Christina were the last two standing. Their 99cents rooms were the both the BOMB and I think their sense of design was equally impressive. The two that are left however are more about style than substance. The only thing I can point to that Kim did that had the "wow" factor was the table in her 99cent room. Todd's style on the other hand is all "wow" and little practicality...so I'm less than excited to see either of their shows, though I will probably tune in to see which angle producers try to take it. I didn't watch HGTV last year so didn't see Designstar, but I have to say I'm less than impressed with David Bromstad's (sp?) show. It's called "Colorsplash" but all the shows I've seen are in earth tones...not at all what I expected when I first tuned in...and with each room I've seen him design, I've been underwhelmed. So I hope the new DesignStar show will be an improvement. Just my thoughts...

Posted by TG – September 4, 2007 9:28 AM

Attn: Kim from West Virginia - I know you didn't like the choice of the area - but I am from Massachusetts and know W. Virginia has its more beautiful parts of the state, this just happened to be the family chosen - deserving from the tapes they received. I don't know how many they received. Every state has great & not so great areas - and well off & not so well off areas.

Posted by Leigh – September 4, 2007 9:26 AM

Wow, I can't believe that based on the comments of the viewing public as represented on this message board that people may make Kim the Design star out of spite for Todd. Has he ever said anything negative about anyone? Has he been less than pleasant? People are misinterpreting his enthusiasm for ego. If you listen to the words that come out of his mouth he is not an egomaniac, just self-assured and very upbeat. I love his enthusiasm for life just as I love Will's. What is wrong with that? I think it would be great to have a design show that featured a host with great carpentry skills and who thinks outside the box. That is what makes for great viewing. The reason that he was able to stretch $10,000. so far was because he can spend more money on furniture and accessories as he does a lot of the carpentry himself. He was calm and composed in this last challenge despite the fact structural problems through a wrench into his original design. He dealt with it in a professional manner. It makes me sad that Kim, who is a dime a dozen and not unique in any way will probably win because people don't like Todd because they perceive that the judges favor him. His show would be a breath of fresh air and that is the purpose if I am not mistaken. To give Kim a show would be a big, fat yawn and I wouldn't watch it. I think if people vote for Kim out of spite it will be a real shame. Let's see who nails the next challenge. If it is Todd and there is still sour grapes here than my theory will be proven correct.

Posted by fanfare – September 4, 2007 9:23 AM

I sure hope Will reads all these comments on him! He needs to know that America really thinks he's the true Design Star (as well as a great all-around person!). We love your design and YOU, Will! God bless you!

Posted by Julie in Kansas – September 4, 2007 8:28 AM

I sure hope HGTV utilizes Will's talents! I still think he and Josh aka "Sparkle" would make a great design team. I like Todd's engery, but enoughs, enough I don't think I could take a 30 minute show of him. Kim does have the personality and remember this is TV and she will get an assistant with a "team" of folks to help with design. I agree with most of the folks, Season 1 was far better.

Posted by vickievail – September 4, 2007 8:04 AM

I thought the show was suppose to be based on design? Im completely confused as to why Kim wasnt eliminated and Will was. Kim although she had hosting abilities had no design skill. She was doing a room for a young family and she designed a room for an elderly person in a nursing home. Todd, although not my ideal host at least has abilities in design. The true designer, Will, was let go. The judges need to be CANCELLED!!

Posted by Marybeth – September 4, 2007 7:15 AM

I truly think Will nail it. He did as his customer wanted. The room could have used one real standout feature but it was great.What are hosting skills anyway? We all loved him and I'd watch his show. Kim is a great host and seems a good designer but I wasn't impressed with her room this time. She deserves to be there if for no other reason then having to indure Rob the week before. I think Todd didn't fulfilled his clients needs. They wanted a room to watch movies in and there were only a couple seats that provided that. He's a character and maybe he would appeal to guys but his stuff is just way to off the wall for my taste. How many people want a half pike in their living space, like he did for the first challenge? He's innovative and I imagine there are some people who like real off beat things.

Posted by Judi – September 4, 2007 4:57 AM

The concept of the show was a nice idea but the ending results were 2out of 3 bad but the one that did the best unanimously is sadly and unfairly gone. I think the show has gone from DESIGN star to PRESENTER star, and now you need yet another one-JUDGE star. I understand each designer had limitations, but that's the point of a challenge presented to a designer to work within those limitations, not the limitations of your speech [in]abilities. There was a discriminating decision made upon Will's cancellation and I will not watch either of the "winner's" shows and none other for that matter on HGTV unless there is a recall.

Posted by St. Louis Fan-formerly – September 4, 2007 4:57 AM

I went thru and read more of the comments about last nights show, some of them surprising others not so much. I certainly hope the judges read these blogs and understand that most of us who comment watch several HGTV shows (my fav is Divine Design) and they may wish to just ignore us thinking we do not know good design or have any idea who is the best but I do believe they will find themselves to be very wrong about that, as they are about the finalists this year, where is the actual design in either of these finalists rooms, because I sure didn't see it. Mind you I have nothing against them personally they both seem nice enough, if a little insincere, but for wanting to win the show. I've already written this year off as just poor judging decesions, which left us no real designer to vote for so I will not be voting - or watching any show they may come up with for the undeserving winner -- Sorry I watch some HGTV every day, and I mean everyday - I love COLOR SPLASH from last years Design Star and was looking forward to this years show and winners show but now I guess I'll have to wait till next year and hope the judges actually judge by the designs not by looks or hosting ability - if you just want a host then have a show looking for that not designers. See you next year, think about what you have done this year before coming back next though because MOST of us will only give it one more shot!!!!

Posted by Piggy Lover – September 4, 2007 4:34 AM

Wow, justed finished watching the latest episode. Will was so gracious in his exit interview, I really admire him, and I loved his design. I am still pushing for a Will and Sparkle Josh show. They would bring so much to the plate-talent, personality, compassion, and understanding a clients wishes. I really hope that Kim wins her own show too! She has a sweet personality, works well with people and I love her design sense. I do think that she is the next Design Star.

Posted by Vic – September 4, 2007 4:23 AM

Clive, just before announcing Will's canceled show, said, " Will you've showed an excellent understanding of design and a great ability to recognize your client's wants and needs." How could he put his mouth to say those words? Did he think about what he was saying? He totally contradicted himself and the entire premise of the show. I don't want to see some hyperactive adult jumping around on TV. If I want to see that sort of behavior I will watch MTV or a sit-com. When I watch HGTV or any other design show network I watch for design ideas and techniques. I watch for inspiration. I don't care how much or how well their image is projected across the TV airwaves. Will is nice, sweet, and genuine and that is what comes across during his on-screen presentations. He would be welcomed into the homes of everyone around the globe. Unlike Todd who one either loves or hates. He will not be well received by the masses. He is one of those people that will get on the nerves of a great majority of people with that surfer dude vibe. He will not be well received as Will would.

CAN"T you see it's a conspiracy? HGTV, you done gone too far.:/ Thou hast losteth thy way. Read the blogs and get back on track HGTV or you my find no viewers next season. BRING WILL BACK! PLEASE! Or create a show for him outside and separate from the Design Star genre. He deserves it and you owe it to him and America.

Posted by angela – September 4, 2007 4:13 AM

The judges have cancelled the most genuine “star”. Will listened to the needs of his clients, paid great detail to the room/furniture proportions, and has the most inviting personality. The viewing audience LOVES him and his designs were always the best of the group. Todd seems to be more interested in Todd shinning than meeting the need of his clients; his presentations are all about “drawing the attention to himself“. Please HGTV, when you pick contestants for next season, leave the “difficult personalities” behind and give your viewing audience genuine, talented, likable people - like Will.

Posted by Linda – September 4, 2007 4:05 AM

Why does administration have to review and approve my comments before they are posted? I have a real problem with that.

I am still very angry at the judges but I am starting to get upset with HGTVs producers as well. They think we are all idiots. They must think we are too stupid to see the farce they call a design competition. It was obvious from day one that they wanted Todd. But we weren't suppose to see their snicky snicky tactics. Oh! Believe you me, HGTV, we see it just as we saw it last year with David B. You got it right with him last year. David was the best from the beginning but had no great presence on TV. He is sweet and that came through in his designs just as Wills sweet disposition and caring persona came through during his on camera presentations. I personally think Will did better the first time but he did not get the chance to say more on the second chance. Re-watch the show from last night. Listen to Todd. He sounds like an airhead; whereas Will sounds sincere and gracious. Why has thou forsaken Will? WHYYYYYYYYYYYYY?

Posted by angie – September 4, 2007 3:45 AM

Someone mentioned Kim being devious but does any one remember when Robb either took or hid all the lights at the 99 cent store so no one else could use them? He even stated all was fair in a contest. I was more than ready for him to be gone. I did love Todd's couch surfing room but I think Kim and Will would have been a better choice of the final two. I think Todd is more focused on what he wants (definitely California=style) rather than what the client wants. Plus he is still a bit immature for my taste. I will be voting for Kim unless she just totally blows it.

Posted by Sue Robinson – September 4, 2007 3:24 AM

Will Smith, of Charlotte, NC, was the Total Best, in ALL Categories, from START TO FINISH!

Will's HOSTING WAS "VERY GOOD", because: his words "WERE" understood, they made sense, and they matched with what we saw! His pleasant body language worked with his verbal descriptions. His tone was friendly, not pretentious, nor was he condescending in worshipping himself, nor his choices. His spaces were always inviting and functional, without latter explanations.

All of his gestures were always genuine, down-to-earth, understandable, not-pushy, and welcoming. His working attire was comfortable, toned-down, and perfect for "his" body type, and for the type of work he performed. ..Also, to show his clients that THEY are still the ones In Charge! He was always straight-up, pull-no-punches, yet, a listener, to try to please the client /(Judges too), instead of worrying about his personal feelings!

Will ALWAYS demonstrated a very trusting, kind, pleasing, and honest, southern personality. And event though, he is a YOUNG EDUCATED "BLACK" MAN, he is NON-THREATENING, yet, he speaks up; actually, in favor of others.. FOR THE SAKE OF THE CLIENT.. even though, HE was THE ONLY ONE IGNORED! He just put all of that aside (as I'm sure he's no stranger to it)and kept right on working, cooperating, assisting, and obeying!

I'm sure that all of us are very much aware of the reason of the risk in Will Smith, of Charlotte, NC, being chosen. His "black" southern accent! The Judges were diplomatic about it, and said, "his hosting style!" Josh and Christina would had been more acceptable, if they couldn't had pulled through anybody else.. And, that's just the truth! But, so is life.. What could they do?

I'm not angry with them, though, because, I understand.. I may as well! But hey, I believe that "Will" also understands. You heard him, in his exit speech say that it's not his time to be HGTV's Design Star! Of course, he could had meant that he needs more training in "TV Hosting", so..?

Will left happy, thankful, inspired, still in awe, and loving everyone of them who he met, especially the little girl-in-the-wheel chair! I understand that everything isn't as easy as it sometimes seems. But, for -a Will Smith- to have even received such a chance, opportunity, and honor, to be a contestant on HGTV Design Star, and to have lasted as long as he did; I, a total stranger to him, sincerely thank HGTV!

Okay now, come on Todd & Kim, my video recorder is waiting! Thank you, Judges and Clive.

Posted by SuzyBelle – September 4, 2007 3:05 AM

WHY CAN'T WILL AND TODD BOTH BE HOSTS ON THE SAME SHOW? THEY WORK VERY WELL TOGETHER! TODD IS THE ARTIST/CARPENTER AND WILL IS THE DESIGNER AND LIKEABLE, PERSONABLE, MAKES-YOU-FEEL-GOOD HOST.

JUST A QUESTION....

Posted by Kim – September 4, 2007 2:28 AM

Will, talent, and the ability to have people like
him....Big Mistake HGTV, notice the blog people all feel the judges are into their own idea or favorite, not basing their picks on actual designs...disappointed that Todd was not censured,
put down for that red room, and not following his
client's wishes, they asked for a tv room to watch
movies, HELLO, the couch was facing away, Todd
forgot his rollers for the couch...
I have lost all respect for the judges, will not
watch any show they host, and the same if horrors
Todd wins.

Posted by Nancee Truelove – September 4, 2007 2:21 AM

I have to say I was revved up to watch the show last night...I couldn't wait to see how they designed each space individually - and I was curious to see if Todd could pull off designing a space without his punch of design - what I mean is some people like comfort and beauty without ramps, and stages...so I when I saw his space and furniture choices I thought he did a great job..although I agree the tv placement could have been addressed better. I also thought the kids space was nice & fun. I read someone said he should have addressed the beam maybe as faux..but maybe it would have looked like an arc in the center of the room so better off not calling more attention to it. I thought Kims design was really good also and it changed the look of the room to something much better than I could have imagined. I know she didn't have a lot of choices to furniture shop given the area, but I thought Todds furniture quality looked better - Wills space just came out so cute & she really loved it. He really needed to consider a lot of things for her in that room - so there were limits, but it came out beautiful & more adultlike - with modern touches - but yes I agree there weren't many decorations or pictures...except the dots..(chuckle, sorry)- Will guy you really are a winner best of luck in your life! : )
Ok...ready for the next challenge!...can't wait!!

Posted by Leigh – September 4, 2007 1:51 AM

I personally was rooting for Kim & Will. I am an avid HGTV fan and I would not watch Todd. I feel he is very annoying and seems to be a know it all. I really don't feel Mr jock would appeal to the older generation of viewers such as my self,(and believe me there are many) nor would his designs.Know one on this years show even comes close to having David's talent for design and appeal. Believe me if I could afford David I would have him in my Arizona home giving me my dream. Since I can't,my money is on Kim. You go girl.

Posted by Linda – September 4, 2007 1:29 AM

I am waiting for my comment to be posted. I AM SPEAKING THE TRUTH and the truth hurts. Yes Will should have not been eliminated. Judges deep in your hearts you REALLY KNOW WHY YOU ELIMINATED HIM. But remember YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW.

Posted by Constance – September 4, 2007 1:26 AM

Congratulations Todd and Kim. Will, good luck to you. Hope to see you on your own show or maybe working along side Vern on his show. Vern seemed to appreciate your talents and your space planning skills. Todd is so good looking and energetic and would make a fantastic addition to the HGTV family. Kim also would be great.

Posted by Martha Stewart – September 4, 2007 1:24 AM

Design Star is my favorite show! I could hardly wait for the season to start this year and I have not been disappointed. And I believe the judges have done a great job...I especially enjoy Vern. He seems to be the "rock" of the panel and quite professional. Also, I don't think the judges have shown favoritism towards Todd. Yes, I'm disappointed that certain contestants have been cancelled, but the judges are not the ones at fault for some of the eliminations. To help build a sense of fairness, the show is designed so that the judges don't hold all the cards. Some of the eliminations have clearly been out of the judges' hands.

Today, Labor Day, I have watched all the shows from the first to the last show on 9/2. (I especially wanted to see how the judges could have eliminated Robb sooner.) If given the opportunity, I suggest all Design Star fans watch all the episodes again. It gave me an opportunity to really look more carefully at each person's design and watch them along the way. I think the best picture we got about each contestant's actual talent laid in the episode where each had their own "individual" challenge. I believe if I could change anything about the show, it would be to film the "individual challenge" as the very first episode. That would separate a lot of nonsense right off the bat. No more blaming or hoping you open the right can of paint to show your true abilities as a designer. Maybe have a double-elimination right there. Plus it would give the judges a better idea of who actually has potential from the start. Some of the contestants get eliminated simply because of poor team-work before they established themselves at all as individuals. Look at "Organic" Josh. We don't know what he was really about. He got paired with Robb the first episode and automatically had a bad light shed on him. Again, it would have been nice to see his very own individual ability during the first show.

If I had gotten the "can of paint" that made me pair off with Robb, I would have lost right there and then because I would have killed him. There are about 1% of the population that NO ONE can get along with and Robb is one of those people. My design focus and talent would have been lost teaming with Robb because I would have been too busy trying to make sure I REMAINED a part of the challenge. He would have run over anyone he was teamed with. I, like many others have written, really could not believe Robb survived as long as he did. But after watching all the episodes in a row, and trying to see things from a professional stand point, I could see how most of it was out of the judges' hands.

The wedding reception episode sealed Robb & Christina's fate at that point and it was strictly at the hands of the wedding couple. I feel sure the judges were disappointed to see Christina eliminated, but... after reviewing the re-run...Christina did not give the couple the design they asked for. She completely disregarded what the groom wanted and that decision cost her the show. She clearly had talent and I believe America would have voted for her. Robb got lucky and I know it sickened us all.

I do ask Design Star to carefully select the "wedding couple" or family for the 2008 show. Make sure the integrity of the couple is solid if they have the capability of eliminating someone, especially at that point in the show. The VERY BEST designer could be eliminated right there and we don't want that to happen. I'm not saying that Christina was the best, but she clearly was not the worst designer of the ones left. We could have lost Josh or Will right there and that would have been a huge loss, too.

Also, give credit where credit is due. The judges did eliminate 2 ladies early in the show that did not need to remain in the competition. We could have had a "female" Robb on our hands. And for Todd - again I think everyone should really watch him through each episode. He definately has talent regardless of rather Martha favors him or not. (Which I did not see her do.) I can't put my finger on it, but there's something about Todd that I don't care for either (I think we're all feeling it)...maybe he's too "aloof". However, if you watch him through every episode, his attitude is professional & positive, and he gets along with everyone. I don't care if he takes his shirt off or not, watch his design. It is consistantly solid. I also think he remembers what's most important. It is a COMPETITION. He's winning, along with Kim, and he hasn't stepped on anyone to do it. He stays focused on why he's there and does not let emotions cloud his design.

One of the earlier blogs I read made a couple of good points about Kim's and Todd's designs. I couldn't understand what she was thinking by putting carpet in that rural home. With Todd I found it odd that he used the color "red" with two fire-fighters as the home-owners. Too "fiery" of a color for a family that needs a space that invokes tranquility & peace. I have to agree with most of the bloggers. Will's t.v. personality should not have caused his elimination. If we look back, David Bromstad also had some difficulty but had tremendous talent and he has a terrific show today. I believe Will had enough presence to be a good show host with a few coaching lessons, and his work has also been solid throughout the competition. Again, if you look back at the previous shows, her abilities are not as strong. Will & Todd should be the 2 going before America next week.

Overall, I've still enjoyed the show and can't wait to see this design star's new show and for the 2008 competition.

Posted by Sherry – September 4, 2007 1:23 AM

I agree with the majority of the bloggers in saying that Will Smith is the next DESIGN STAR. I think that the judges REALLY missed the mark on this one. I think that Will already has the Charisma and the Persona to host this show. My sister and I said that one can be taught hosting skills but, the kind of raw talent that Will posesses can not. If, anything why not have two winners with Will as the designer and Todd as his carpenter. They seemed to get along very well and I believe that Todd is excellent at his craft...AS A CARPENTER!! Kim is a passable, mediocre designer at best. Will you will be dutifully missed and I hope that big things come your way. You are truly an extremely talented and gifted young man. GOD BLESS!!

Posted by Keir Fortune-Easton – September 4, 2007 1:00 AM

I watch a lot of HGTV because I am limited in my activities and I'm on oxygen. But I think it's about time that HGTV starts looking at the "mix" of hosts and adds some "variety" to the line-up. There really isn't too much in the way of diversity when it comes to hosting. I can only think of "House Hunters" and she really isn't a real host we just hear her voice.

I loved Will and I think he would have made a great contribution to the HGTV hosting line-up. Not only is he talented, charming and sincere but he would give young minority designers a really great role model to look up to.

Wake up HGTV I know there is a huge melting pot of designers to choose from. Get with it!!!!!

Posted by MegAtHome – September 4, 2007 12:48 AM

Oh Well, I knew Will's show would not longer be on the lighted wall. I just hope we learn something from this. America will always be the kind of country that it is as long as we can not look beyond. Sorry but this decision had nothing to do with will's ability to decorate. He was the best. It had to do with WHO HE WAS and WHAT HE WAS. I will not look at this show again. I cried after I heard the judges (who are suppose to be so educated) eliminate a person because of WHAT HE WAS. This elimination had nothing to do with his accent, the judges just used that as an excuse. I hope no one look at the new show (one of the judges) is about to STAR IN. We love you Will.

Posted by Constance – September 4, 2007 12:43 AM

Will you are still number one. You have genuinely been considerate to your clients' needs as well as to your opponents. All the rubbish about the millionaire clients only affirms the fact that Will had true design and that big heart again to thank Bridget for giving something to him. He once again shows that he can satisfy the wealthy as well as the deprived. Yes, I know the other 2 families were ecstatic but were also in desperate need of some design.
Sorry Todd, you complain a little too much about how hard your job is to complete. Kim, vinyl and cork flooring is a very big alternative to lifestyles these days with a huge variety of rugs to define areas. Yes, Martha needs a bib to stop drooling. It's getting disgusting. Will, if you don't mind, I know how busy you will be, but I need some advice on my move from a 2700 sq ft house to a 1280 sq ft house secondary to being disabled. I would be more than honored if you find the time to send me an email and maybe even just look at the pics. I can pay you and guess what I live farther south than you. Was lucky enough to bear Katrina and Rita and keep on going. In addition, Spakle Josh, you work well with Will. Maybe you two should get your own show going. With enough of us writing, I think we can manage that. Last year was the first and best with David as the winner. Alice is from Shreveport and I do not miss her spots on HGTV online.....Debbie from South Louisiana....

Posted by Debbie – September 4, 2007 12:37 AM

It should be WILL in the final two. He has done the BEST and should get his own show. Yes, he does have to work on his hosting skills, but he is a GREAT designer and so genuine. He REALLY knows his stuff and is so positive, too. When they said that his show was cancelled I almost started crying. I hope he finds another designing job of his dreams soon because he truly does deserve it. He will be missed.

Posted by Regenia Lopez – September 4, 2007 12:37 AM

"Will, we're goin' to miss ye - we hardly knew ye!!!" What a gracious gentleman you are! Your room was of your style (not mine!) but it was so attractive and perfect for a young girl embarking on teen/adulthood!!! Your care and thought into the project was obvious and Bridget I'm sure counts herself blessed indeed also to have met you! She unfortunately may have a disease none of her classmates has but she also has a beautiful room unlike any of her classmates!!!!! Where there's a Will, there's a way! Love it!

Kim's project was the most challenging to be sure, however, the design was not outstanding in the least! I cringed when I saw her deliberating over carpet color as she chose almost white and she herself had battled the surrounding mud and coal dust the owner had mentioned in her audition package! Not smart! Furniture placement??? Not thought out! Hurry, hurry, hurry . . . but in fairness, much of that is determined by the rushed limitations of the program format which I think is entirely unfair to the designers as well as clients!!! Who wants a "slap-it-together" result?

I'll bet the judges have regretted several of these "judgement calls" long after the cameras were turned off! I think Martha is adolescently enamored with Todd's shirtless preening! Only Vern seems to really "get it", the genuine concept of the program! Can't wait to see his new show!

Posted by ferniesonliest – September 4, 2007 12:32 AM

Will Smith SPEAKS: Hello out there to all of my loyal super fans. This experience has been so rewarding for me and I have become a better designer because of it. There were thousands of people who applied for this show however I was one of the ones CHOSEN. That is a great blessing on its own. I have had the chance to meet 10 unique individuals who shares my passion for design and I am honored to call them friends. I was given the opportunity to share my GOD GIVEN talent with the nation and for that I give GOD all the GLORY. It is my hope that people learned from me not only how to express their design ideas but also how to do it in a manner that preserves the GOODNESS in people. I am a person who always sees the glass 1/2 full and when one door closes in my life, I know GOD is busy opening up several more for me. Moving forward from this experience allows me to do so in confidence knowing that my designs are loved by many and favored by most. Thanks for supporting me and keeping me in your prayers. By the way, many of you have expressed that you would love for me to design spaces in your home. Do not hesitate to drop me a line anytime. I am now free to 'design' about the country... Love you all and CONTINUE to watch the show. Who knows what surprises await! Most humbly and thankful. Will Smith www.interiormotives.ws

Posted by will smith – September 4, 2007 12:23 AM

Like everyone else, it's too bad the judges couldn't be cancelled. All three designers this week were great. As others said, I think Todd has been kept for his sex appeal.To be honest this whole season has been a joke. Rob should have been gone the FIRST week. He couldn't get along with anyone and a showboat jerk. I like all three and felt they did the best with the time and product they had to work with. I think Kim had the hardest jobin the boondocks in the mud. My vote goes to her.
Next year get some REAL DESIGNERS FOR JUDGES!!!!!

Posted by Deb – September 4, 2007 12:17 AM

Well, I had a chance to watch a repeat of last night's show with the final three. And a large portion of HGTV had repeats from the beginning. And in the very 1st episode, when they were doing the audtions, they had only planned on 10, but Will was so good, they increased the # to 11. See, even they knew what they would be missing if they didn't have Will as a contestant. Boy, did the judges make a HUGE mistake in cancelling Will's show. I have a feeling that if Todd get's his own show, it'll be cancelled after the 1st season. Kim might hold out for awhile. I do hope that the judges read all the postings in both the blog and the feedback for each contestants rooms and realize what they've lost. Will will go onto bigger and better things in the future. HGTV has lost a star. A host doesn't need to be loud, boisterous, and down-right crazy. Even the best of the hosts on television have had off days. HGTV, good luck with your next "Design Flop".

Posted by Karen B – September 4, 2007 12:12 AM

I just saw the rerun of sunday night's show and it hit me. They had to eliminated Will because he would have been to much of a challenge for Todd. He would have given Todd a run for his money and not only that there was to much of a chance for Will to win and the judges did not want that, they want Todd to win. I hope America votes completely for Kim. The judges need to stay away from the challenge this coming sunday and not give their opinion, THEIR OPINION IS NOT WANTED, LET US MAKE UP OUR OWN MINDS. YOUR OPINIONS ARE SO PREDICTABLE, PLEASE KEEP THEM TO YOURSELF.

Posted by Janet – September 4, 2007 12:05 AM

I was very disappointed when Will's show was cancelled. I thought he brought such a uniqueness to the show. Why can't a show host be genuine and caring like Will- he definately has the talent- just not the phony pizzazz that Todd and Kim have. Sorry Will, the judges couldn't recognize your greatness-- But I'm sure your path in life will bring you much happiness and success because you ARE genuine and caring. Good Luck --- And YES, You ARE a great Designer!

Posted by Mary Ann Thillet – September 4, 2007 12:03 AM

Will should not have been sent home. His was the best design. Kim if very likable but her design was flat. Todd is over the top. Will once again showed his what a class act he is. He exited with such grace. He stole my heart. I would definitely watch a design show with Will as the host and designer but I doubt that I will watch either Kim or Todd.

Posted by Mary C – September 4, 2007 12:01 AM

I really enjoy watch HGTV every chance i get.
It will be intersten to see who really win and Becomes the Design star.The Jughes have a hard decisions to make and i now thats not so easy to do.I really wish everyone a lot of luck and my prayers go out to everyone,good luck and keep your head-up.Thanks for leasoning to me aand my conmaints. Please past this on.

Posted by Cathy – September 3, 2007 11:58 PM

I was so sorry Will was eliminated - he seemed to be one of the few who truly planned his desigbns successfully. He should have been left in the competition and if he won, could have had a "Danielle" supporting him in his show.

Kim has a wonderful personal style but has need of a crash course in design. I will vote for her. She has probably had the most challenges than anyone else - on the show with Robb her challenge was him and she came out of that challenge a winner. And then she was given a trailer in WVA with probably very few design sources close at hand. But her clients were happpy with her and that is most important. I am not being negative about WVA, I lived there for 20 years, but I can't help but think that HGTV was looking for a joke when they picked the trailor to redo.

Todd doesn't provide his clients with what they want. Why give clients a bright red room where the furniture does not face the tv when the clients so wanted a soothing, relaxing space where they could watch tv together? I think he is very talented but not for a design show.

Posted by margaret – September 3, 2007 11:54 PM

I am also very disappointed that the judges eliminated Will, by far the top of the final three. Throughout each episode, he not only showed us he is a wonderful designer, but that he is also a compassionate man with a huge heart. I wish HGTV would have put more emphasis and thought on what the true meaning of "design" and "star" are, than on "who looks good on camera." My vote has gone to Will and I agree with other viewers that a show with Will and "sparkle" Josh would be very entertaining and fun to watch.

Posted by Terra – September 3, 2007 11:44 PM

I really thought "Where there's a WILL there's a way." Bummer to see Will go, but with amazing grace and character. He is a winner in my eyes because he CHOOSES to be one.

Good luck, WILL! I wish I could have you come and do my living room! I'm sure I would have loved it.

Peace,
Bonnie

Posted by Bonnie – September 3, 2007 11:36 PM

I don't think Will had what it takes to stay on. I think the "outcry" about him being canceled is because of the emotional aspect of his challenge last night.

If Todd or Kim had Will's challenge, the masses would be cheering for them instead.

Posted by MeI.I.I.Me – September 3, 2007 11:35 PM

HGTV producers:
Your fans are speaking up...and you should pay attention. We are tired of phony hosts doing silly stunts. We do not need more shows of flashy, extravagant design that is not functional or realistically achievable for today's families who are struggling to make it financially through a month. We do not need snobby designers (or even home buyers or real estate "experts") who put down a home's features that most of us probably have in our homes. Give us REAL DESIGN--simple solutions for bright, caring, hard-working folks who want to make the best of what they've got but honestly can't afford much more than paint.
Will struck a chord with your viewers, because he was real. Where there's a will, there's a way. Bring the guy back--REAL DESIGN with Will Smith.

Posted by Janet – September 3, 2007 11:29 PM

I am really disappointed in the outcome of this year's finalists. I feel that Sparkle Josh and Christina were super designers and if there had been more individual challenges instead of group challenges, they would not have been eliminated so quickly and maybe the finalists would have been a little more creative. This year's applicants were definitely not the same caliber as last year's.

Posted by Lynda – September 3, 2007 11:27 PM

Sorry, one more comment. I watched Will's exit interview. What a class act!

Posted by Teresa E. Ross – September 3, 2007 11:26 PM

Will made the show tonight. His compassion, his attention to the clients wants and needs were great. His existing comments were great, he enjoyed his experience, his attitude was great, he is a real class act.

As for the so called judges, they need to go. Especially the women. Todd is not that great.

GET THE JUDGES OFF THE SHOW.

Posted by Janet – September 3, 2007 11:26 PM

Will is the real winner. His design was fantastic! I really don't care whether Kim or Todd win. I am sure they are nice people. I am sure they have decent designs. They just didn't show it as well Sunday night. I will not vote. HGTV...will you listen to us?

Posted by Teresa R – September 3, 2007 11:15 PM

I am in agreement with everyone that Will is a great designer but his designs, although esthetically pleasing, can seem mundane and institutional. (Will, if your reading this, please don't take this comment as negative or degrating because you are very good at what you do.) Todd and Kim are each doing a great job showing their individuality and unique styles. As a Paralegal who really enjoys the design shows and uses the knowledge gained in my own home, I think it is quite refreshing to see Kim get this far and be so successful without having any formal design training or experience. Go Kim!!

Posted by Nat – September 3, 2007 11:00 PM

I am really disappointed with Design Star this year. It seems to be a big personality contest not a contest on who can really design.Wouldn't you rather have hosts for your new Design Shows that your viewers like and can relate to.All the drama this year is terrible, especially from Robb,I can't believe that you don't see what your audience sees. Is this just a ploy to get a bigger viewing audience because it isn't working.My friends and myself are not even interested in watching the last two episodes or voting . Its such a shame because you got rid of the designers that everyone would have loved to watch. Will and Sparkle Josh.Isn't this what HGTV is suppose to be about, creating designs and ideas for the viewers which they like. The judges do seem a bit bais this year also. Martha has dished Will from the beginning of the season and only likes the designs that Todd does.The judges should be more professional and not let their personal views get in the way. I know that this is a hard job but it is obvious to so many viewers that this is a terrible season. Let the viewers vote, we are the ones who watch HGTV.

Posted by Carole Pazderski – September 3, 2007 11:00 PM

Will listened to his client and delivered many innovations to transform her space. Judges erred in dismissing him; Robb was kept for the tacky wedding, which pleased his clients.Presentation can be taught; witness David Bromstad.I would watch Will any time - my idea of a real designer.

Posted by Karen – September 3, 2007 10:49 PM

Will, I am so sorry you are gone. I know someone had to go but I really loved your work. You left with such dignity and grace. With smiles, even. I admire you greatly. I wish you good fortune continuously comes your way, as you are very deserving of it – not just for your skills but also for your beautiful personality.

Kim, you have amazed me. I went from not knowing what you can do to seeing such awesome work. I loved your angles. I get so tired of being stuck, in my small home, with everything against the walls and all “squared” out. There are times that function is not the number one need in a room. Aesthetics are quite important to me but my man is all about “spend as little as possible” to the detriment of aesthetics. I am really behind you and hope you are the DesignStar.

Todd, what can I say? For once Martha did not drool all over you and helped me feel the judging was fairer. Your room was quite awesome in color and style. However, I agree that the arrangement was a bit off due to the amount of people needing to see the TV. I know I liked Kim’s offset arrangement, but one of the specifics was that all needed to be able to gather to watch movies, etc. Your attitude has gotten less annoying since Robb left. It is like seeing a new you. Keep it up.

Posted by Toni – September 3, 2007 10:45 PM

I just wanted to say to Kim,girl I don't know what part of wv. you came to but you were lucky,I live in wv and were I live the dirt is red clay.When it rains it is so slick you can't stand up and when it dries its like cement to get off and the stains,well I've been 12 years and I still haven't found anything to take it out.

Posted by vanchie blankenship – September 3, 2007 10:42 PM

Vern, first you tell Will to put more energy in his presentation, then when he does it genuinely, you dismiss him for it...What do you want HGTV "design shows" to stand for?...Someone please tell lovely David to put a real shirt on when he does his VLog Blog... The blond woman judge is blatantly "hot" for Todd and has lost her objectivity...I don't think that anything can beat the Will-Sparkle combination for "watchability." HGTV has lost touch with their biggest fans...Please throw us a bone!

Posted by Margo Goldberg – September 3, 2007 10:40 PM

Hey everyone!!! I have been reading everyone's comments & I think we are all in agreement that Will should have won, hands down, no doubt about it!!! I say we all not watch the finale and maybe the people at HGTV will finally get it that we want to watch designers!!!!! I can honestly say that whoever wins next week, which I really don't care who wins, I will not be watching their show!!! Neither of them are true designers like David B or Will!!! I am still truely disgusted by the judges decision. If you do watch the finale, don't vote!!!! I hope a TV channel out there will give Will a chance & have him host his own show. I would watch it any day!!!!

Posted by Jenn – September 3, 2007 10:38 PM

Like so many others, I thought Will's design was the best in meeting client needs and desires. While his presentation style may not have been "polished" on previous occasions, I thought his presentation on the last episode was a great start to learning a host role. . . .I'm sure the other hosts on HGTV didn't start out at 100% perfection, either. Will is so fresh, genuine, down to earth, REAL is a great word. I get tired of the high energy, hyped up style of some hosts who come across very phony and hysterical.

Whomever is picked, Kim or Todd, neither will come close to David Bromstad. He is such a radical departure from your typical show. . .so engaging, sincere, and above all, TALENTED. Watching him create is something I look forward to each week. Whatever you do, HGTV, don't even think about cancelling David's show. He is the best you have. Normally, I'm not into skin and people taking their clothes off on TV. However, David looks so good when he does it, he has my permission to take his shirt off anytime, anywhere. My house, maybe? I'll be delighted for him to "decorate" my space!

Posted by Shirley – September 3, 2007 10:34 PM

For all those who just don't understand REAL design - not every seat in Todd's room needed to be facing the television. There are 8 members of the family and seating for 12 in the living room, the 4 seats not facing the TV are fine. I would gather there is a lot more that goes on that living room than just television watching. I think Todd created a great space for parties and even family meetings in addition to TV watching. The criticism that not all seats face the TV just outs the critics as limited and utterly lacking imagination.

Posted by Sonia – September 3, 2007 10:33 PM

I've been reading all of the comments, both here, on lwatkins blogsite, and on the main DS RateMySpace sites. It's truly amazing to me that so many people seem to be sucked in by the surfer "dude-ness" of Todd, and his sex appeal. Martha McCully is obviously one of these people. I'm embarrassed every time that I see her simpering away, whenever Todd smiles at her.
Todd has never learned how spatial relationships work, because he's more into the "Todd-ness of Todd," rather than concentrating on merging function with great design. Color and function are extremely important considerations when designing any room, and a real designer knows that you can't shove your own personal tastes down the throat of the customer. I'm wondering how long the hammock lasted; can you imagine the lawsuit, when the 18 month old falls and breaks a few things? Also, how on earth can you relax in a room that's colored after Dante's Inferno? Or watch television, when the majority of the seating doesn't face the TV. That's a huge waste of space and function.....
Will produced an amazingly clean and well-thought design, catering to the specific limitations of the young lady who would be living there. Special-needs floor plans are among the most difficult in the industry, due to the room required for safe wheelchair use. Also, making the wall color seem "simple" is the ultimate hallmark of the true interior designer. People are complaining that Will used simple colors and design, and yet the sophistication of this truly modern design is unbelievable. It went over the heads of the judges, as well as most of the viewers who preferred the flash and trash of Todd's work. The modern design vernacular is a tour de force of simplicity and utter elegance, combined with the regular repetition of elements which culminate in a room which can be "personalized" with the addition of a single photo or objet d'art. We, as the viewing audience, need to educate ourselves more thoroughly, so that we can understand this ultimate statement of elegance, which is Will Smith.
Kim had a difficult challenge, at best. She managed to bring more than a touch of elegance to this deserving family, as well as functional living, in an area which seems to be so very far from civilization! Gorgeous, gorgeous landscape, but Oh! so very difficult to feel connected to the modern world. The result of Kim's talents, and that of her carpenter, was a warm, inviting space, which catered to the needs and desires of the family. It really doesn't matter what Vern thinks, because the family has specific wants in their daily living, and Kim catered to that. Her connection with them is to be envied, and I know that she will be successful in any of her endeavors.
That said, I'm very saddened that Will got the axe, even though Todd had blabbed the verdict early last week in his personal blog. How the judges can say one thing, one week (or season) and then completely reverse their position, all in the name of fad-following, is beyond me. I think that I'll keep to reading lwatkins blogs, and not watch future episodes of DesignStar, or any of the comments. lwatkins has a wonderful way of describing the episodes without bringing any of the bad language, posturing, bullying or off behavior of the contestants, as well as glossing over the embarrassing behavior of the judges. Good luck to Will, and I'm hoping that Kim will prevail over Todd.

Posted by leonply – September 3, 2007 10:32 PM

Many on this thread expressed a desire for Will's website address so they could either express their support or hire him as their designer. I can report that when I logged onto this thread early Tuesday morning, around 1:00 am CDT, Will himself had posted a comment and gave his website address. In fact, his post was about the third comment in the thread but, for reasons I don't understand, his post is gone! I tried to go to his website and perhaps the page hadn't fully loaded when I had to get off the net because it didn't show up in "History" in my browser so, unfortunately, I'm unable to give a fully accurate website address. But I do remember enough that you should be able to find it through Google or another search engine. Curiously, his URL did NOT end in ".com". It ended in "ws" instead. I do remember www.interiormotives was part of the address. The top of his homepage window says both "Interior Motives" and "Will Smith", so a search solving for both phrases should get you to sight.

Good luck with that.

I really am puzzled why Will's post would have been deleted. Might he have done it himself because his website's server was getting way more hits than it could possibly handle? Might HGTV's webmaster have deleted it because it was overly religious in tone (it mentioned God a lot, but otherwise was in the nature of a thank you to his fans) ? I guess we'll never know.

Will was my favorite of this bunch too, but I knew his presentation skills would do him in even before I watched this most recent episode. I wasn't aware until reading this thread that David Bramstad's hosting skills were shakey during Season 1 ( I never saw it) , but I find his hosting on Color Splash to be every bit as good as anyone else is with their shows. Although they never said so on camera, maybe the judges felt that Will's hosting skills were so weak that they wouldn't be able to tutor him out of it enough. Who knows...

Anyway, if this competition were a question of which designer do you have the most confidence in to actually design FOR YOU, Will would blow everyone else away easily.

AJ

Posted by AJ – September 3, 2007 10:30 PM

I'm not totally into reality TV, but if HGTV really wants to create a DESIGN STAR, then let the viewers vote weekly like they do on American Idol. It would probably be smart to use internet voting for us "old folks" who don't text message, but either way, it would remove the bias that seems apparent in the judging.

Also, the first thing that happened when David became the first Design Star was that HGTV added a sidekick to his show. Why not choose the sidekick for the next Design Star from the pool of 11 designers.

Come on, HGTV, think this through a little...are you trying to create controversy? We just want to learn from great designers!

Posted by lisaondarbonne – September 3, 2007 10:30 PM

Okay "lwatkins", I am still waiting to know what you meant by "Both remaining contestants are so deserving in completely different ways!" Please TELL US WHY YOU THINK TODD IS SO DESERVING???

The next blog should address all the outrage the public has shown here on this forum and the message boards regarding the last disaster of a show. If you are going to make a statement like that you need to back it up and tell us why you think he's so deserving. We are WAITING to hear from you!

Posted by dreamdesign – September 3, 2007 10:27 PM

I think that there are too many of the same hosts on HGTV...ex. Kim and Todd ...I think this last elimination was a big mistake...

Posted by collegedesigner – September 3, 2007 10:23 PM

Although each of the designers did an outstanding job. I especially liked what Todd did with his room.
Red is such an appropriate color for Fire Fighters. How cool is that? I am also very happy that Kim is in the top two and Will has a bright future ahead of him.

Posted by Deloris – September 3, 2007 10:19 PM

This was a great episode but, no surprise, I disagree with the judges. Based upon this episode the weakest design was Kim. How can she have given a coal miner such light carpet? The set up was not condusive to relaxation. Even though I am not fond of Todd I have to say his room this week was nice. I still wouldn't watch any show for any of these 3, but I don't even have faith that they will actually have a show. Did anyone notice the commercial for Vern's new show? It seems they rushed through this season not caring who won just to get to that show.

Posted by Heather – September 3, 2007 10:01 PM

Will would have been an awesome addition to HGTV. He was a humble person with an excellent personality and a big heart. Most of all, Will's design techniques and skills were much developed. HGTV knew about Will's speaking abilities before they allowed him to enter the contest.

My wife and I feel that with the next Design Star HGTV needs to make the following changes:
1. Have more judges. I like Vern, however, he dominates the atmosphere. Three judges are not enough.
2. Make the contests real world in application---99 cent store decorating---what is the purpose of this??? Let designers decorate purposeful spaces with real-world constraints.
3. Stop having so many group projects. One or two designers run the show and then other designers take orders due to differences in people’s personalities. Let designers create his/her own spaces.

I wish Will the best---HGTV should give Will his own show for the mistake they made in eliminating him for such a lame reason.

Posted by Richard – September 3, 2007 9:57 PM

270004

I agree that Will is a very good designer. I just don't think having his own show was a good idea. He is too unpolished. Kim is also a good designer. I think she is too predictable and sweet. My opinion is that Todd should be the next design star. He is more educated than Kim, and could do an outdoor recreation design show that would appeal to many. I have enjoyed this year's competition, and I respect the judges.

Posted by Patty – September 3, 2007 9:47 PM

Well, in the famous words of Bill Clinton, 'What is, is'.
The fact of the matter is that it is now down to two......Kim and Todd.
Kim is genuine and deserves to win. She was given an almost impossible challenge in West Virginia.
She is not boastful or conceited. I would love to see her win.
I did love Will also. He was great and even humble when he lost. Todd should have been the one to go.
As for the host and the judges of the show.....give THEM siniliar challenges and see how well they do!!!
Vern had better get a little humility on! I did love him, but now he has a far too superior attitude!
Just my opinion, and everyone has one!
DF

Posted by Donna Farrar – September 3, 2007 9:41 PM

Will - Great guy, but his designs are always the same.
Kim - Nice, but you need to go to Design School. No designs skills or vision whatsoever.
Todd- You have shown great design and skills and you are a nice person. You deserve to be the next design star. Good job.

Posted by Angela – September 3, 2007 9:37 PM

I just rewatched last night again. I still don't get Todd's color and the cramped, squished sitting area (trying to envision 12 in there) shoved all to one side which was not even facing the TV or fireplace, not to mention the unsafe toy chest and the beam he couldn't stand that he made a focal point of by painting it red. Kim's family was broke, the wife was concerned about dirt from the coal plant and she put light carpet(did the judges even mention that?), a high-def TV (can they afford everything that goes with high-def?). To top it off, the solitary chair and table in the middle of the room-what gives with that?
Will's Bridget wanted clean and grown-up since she was going to high-school and that's what she got. I never heard cutesy or girlie mentioned. I do remember the mom mentioning studio-apartment with Bridget saying she liked the sound of that and that's what her room looked like. She must be confined to her room alot when she does suffer fractures. I won't vote for either Todd or Kim since I don't feel they're deserving of their own show. I won't be watching either one so I don't care who wins now. Will was booted because he would have been real competition for Todd in a final two. Todd has it and knows he has it in the bag. Totally disgusted and disappointed with this show. Is it about hosting or designing? There should be a balance-Todd and Kim can maybe host but the designing is questionable-they can't even place furniture well! Will could have done both in the end.

Posted by beaches – September 3, 2007 9:34 PM

I was hoping to have Todd and Will in the final two, but now I won't have to worry about who to vote for.

Todd should win hands down. Kim is nice, but doesn't have any design skill or vision. Her show would be sooooo boring. Todd's show would be incredible. His passion, creativity and great hosting skills make him a shoe in. GO TODD!!

Posted by Rachel – September 3, 2007 9:34 PM

Coming from South Carolina (even though I'm currently lving overseas), I could not have been prouder of Will! He is and always will be a classy Southern gentleman. He went out with real style. I'm sure HGTV will recognize his talent and keep him around. I'd love to follow his career. Best of luck, Will!

Posted by Susan – September 3, 2007 9:32 PM

Wow! I really loved the show last night. Too bad Will had to go, but he has been really repetative in his designs. I thought Kim's room was ok...not very functional or comforatable. Todd's room was definitely the best. I loved how he thought of every single family member and made a special place for them in the room. What an amazing amount of work in such a small time. Everyone in North Carolina is loving Todd! Can't wait to vote for him next week and watch his show on HGTV.

Posted by cassie – September 3, 2007 9:29 PM

I have watched the episodes since the beginning and what I can't understand with these designers and others on HGTV, is that they don't seem to able to paint correctly. Todd picked a rich red but, he didn't prime before or repeat applications. With a color like that you need to prime and apply several coats. It seems to me that these people would know this.

Posted by kim – September 3, 2007 9:27 PM

I've watched every episode except number 5, sad to say i missed that one but caught a glimpse of what happened on hgtv.com. This last episode (6), i was very disappointed that Will was sent home. I feel that he really listened to the needs and wants of the young lady and her parents. Hello people she did say that she was getting ready to enter highschool and if i could go back to those days, i would have wanted my bedroom to be just like hers: sophisticated and shows her transitioning into adulthood. Will did exceptionally well and i think the judges may a huge mistake by cancelling his show. They need to realize that they didn't start out being perfect. Yes i will agree that he needs to work on his hosting skills, but give him a break, somebody needs to give him a chance after all someone gave them theirs or else they wouldn't be where they are today. So kudos to Will and i wish you much luck and success in pursuing your goals and just because this didn't workout for you that means that GOD has something else in store for you even bigger than what they are offering.

Posted by Kim Stewart – September 3, 2007 9:25 PM

I still have not seen the reason why Will was sent home. Judge Martha clearly did not like him and has been trying to get rid of him for the past three weeks. Will is a great designer and the best of the three. He has the right attitude. As I recall, last year David was short on hosting. He has since improve and is doing great.

Posted by hyac – September 3, 2007 9:24 PM

Great show!! So nice to see the designers do something for deserving families. It was nice to see their sweet personalities. It was also nice to see how well they all get along with each other and support each other. Sad to see Will go. I was hoping to see Will and Todd in the end. I can't wait to watch next week and vote for Todd. He definitely is the most deserving.

Posted by Brian – September 3, 2007 9:24 PM

Just saw the latest episode today. Not surprised at the result. Hopefully the judges will be changed for season 3. BTW, David (winner from last season) is a great designer. However, Color Splash is a bust. I'm surprised it was extended.

Posted by Denise – September 3, 2007 9:13 PM

Just saw the latest episode today. Not surprised at the result. Perhaps the panel should be changed for season 3. BTW, David (winner from last season) is a great designer. However, Color Splash is a bust. I'm surprised it was extended.

Posted by Shirley – September 3, 2007 9:12 PM

I was very disappointed when Will was eliminated from Design Star. In my opinion Will has shown more style and taste than either Kim or Todd. I've enjoyed eveyone of his designs. I especially enjoyed the show where he and Sparkle Josh designed the bedroom in the penthouse. In my opinion theirs was the best. I also enjoyed Will's individual challenge at the 99 cent store. He will go far. Will, when one door closes God opens another. God speed to you Will.

Posted by Millie – September 3, 2007 9:12 PM

I'm signing off Design Star after tonight's show. The two finalists seem nice people; I don't care which of them wins, I won't watch their show, they just don't interest me. Will hit the nail on the head when he said he was getting mixed messages about his hosting. His hosting improved 100% with this show and none of the judges seemed to notice. I, too, think he's the best designer and the only designer left in the finals. And now he's gone and taking me with him. I WILL continue to watch Color Splash

Posted by Lisa – September 3, 2007 9:07 PM

HGTV execs have a touch decision. How do they get out of the mess these judges created? All I have to say is...

We, the people, of these ACNielsen ratings, have already voted.....and the winner is Will!

Posted by sallyb2003 – September 3, 2007 8:57 PM

Maybe with a little luck TLC execs were watching their competition and will appreciate a good designer in Will and give him something with them. I said last week that too much emphasis is put on hosting skills and this week proved it. I certainly will not watch a show with Todd in it. He will be too busy showing off and not able to do a decent design. I agree that the viewers should be the judges. One vote per registered viewer would make it a legitimate contest and not a popularity contest.

Posted by Edwina – September 3, 2007 8:54 PM

I LOVE HGTV-DESIGN STAR AND HGTV PERIOD. I WOULD WATCH IT 24-HOURS A DAY IF POSSIBLE. IT WAS NOT A SURPRISE TO ME THAT WILL WOULD BE ELIMINATED TONIGHT. GREAT JOB WILL. IT WAS UNFAIR AND UNFORTUNATE THAT THE BEST DESIGNER WAS LET GO. HOPEFULLY, NEW JUDGES WILL BE SELECTED NEXT YEAR, BECAUSE THE PRESENT JUDGES HAVE LOST THEIR "FAIRNESS" EDGE. I HAVE TOTALLY LOST FAITH IN THEM, EVEN MR. VERN, MY FAVORITE. BEST OF LUCK TO A GREAT SHOW AND I WILL CONTINUE TO WATCH AND VOTE NEXT WEEK FOR THE BEST DESIGN--WHAT OTHER CHOICE DO I HAVE?

Posted by ANN OF RB, FL – September 3, 2007 8:51 PM

I can't believe Will is gone. Is this a show about how to be the host star? He improved 100% over last week. Couldn't the judges see that. Does anyone remember David's hosting skills? Not so good and see how they trained him. I hope Will gets alot of offers from this experience. Maybe next year the judges will take our advice. I don't know how this would work, but I would like to see the shows not taped far in advance, so the judges can see our comments. Ok lastly we all know we need to vote for Kim. I can see she would be able to work with anyone and maybe we can teach her not to use white carpet.

Posted by Denis – September 3, 2007 8:45 PM

I agree with almost everyone. I, too, think Will is a class act, and yes, his design was the most successful.

I also agree that Todd is pretty annoying and very full of himself. Please, a little humility. And, for heaven's sake, keep your shirt on! (David, you, too, please. I like you, but enough is enough.)

I do like Kim, but think she's the weakest designer of the three from last night. But I'd much rather see her on TV than Todd, so guess next week's vote is a foregone conclusion, for me, anyway.

A couple of suggestions for next season - more individual challenges and fewer double eliminations. It seems as though we're rushing through this season. It's too fast for us to really understand the designers and their vision. And, please, keep everyone's shirts on!

Posted by Christine McKinney – September 3, 2007 8:42 PM

THE SHOW WAS GREAT -- BUT I WAS SAD TO SEE WILL GO , HE IS NOTHING BUT SOLID CLASS .
I FEEL TODD IS GOOD AS THAT IS WHAT DESIGN IS ALL ABOUT -- PUSHING TO THE LIMITS OF WHAT YOU SEE AND FEEL , ALSO ABOUT FULFILLING THE PERSONS DREAMS YOU ARE DESIGNING FOR .
I FEEL KIM DID HER JOB AS MUCH AS SHE COULD FOR THE PEOLPE BUT I DID NOT CARE FOR IT --- WISHED SHE WOULD HAVE HAD ENOUGH MONEY TO BUILD THEM A FRONT PORCH AND PUT GRAVEL IN THE FRONT YARD THAT WOULD HAVE HELPED AS MUCH AS ANYTHING .
I THINK WILL FULFILLED ALL OF BRIDGETTS WISHES AND DREAMS PLUS HOPEFULLY JUST AS COMFORTING FOR HER.
TODDS WAS GREAT AND I LOVED THE COLORS AND THE ROOM LOOKED WARM AND COZY FOR A FAMILY , BUT DID NOT LIKE THE TOP OPENING BENCHES WITH SHARP CORNERS AND THE HAMEK COULD CHOKE A CHILD IF TWISTED IN IT .
I WISH CYNTHIA WOULD GET SOME FASHION DESIGN FOR HERSELF , SHE REMINDS ME OF " OLIVE OIL "
FROM POPEYE . HER NECK IS LONG AND SHE WEARS LONG DANGLE EARRINGS THAT MAKES IT LOOK WORSE AND THEN HER HAIR PULLED BACK TIGHT JUST LIKE OLIVE OIL . SHE ALWAYS LOOKS LIKE SHE HAS ON A NIGHT GOWN OR NIGHT SHIRT . PUT SOMETHING CLASSY ON , BRING SOME HAIR FORWARD AND SOMETHING WITH A HIGHER COLLAR . JUST A PLAIN WHITE DRESS SHIRT WOULD BE NICE AND LOOK BETTER . HER JEWERY IS BIGGER THAN SHE IS .
I LOVE HGTV AND LOOK FORWARD TO EACH SHOW GERRI

Posted by GERRI – September 3, 2007 8:37 PM

Todd is the winner from the start... He has the looks, carisma, and the talent to be the next top designer....He has it all.. good luck...

Posted by camille – September 3, 2007 8:33 PM

I knew that Will would go home because I cannot see someone on TV with their pants hanging below their waistline, and he definitely did not have television characteristics; he was too nervous in front of the camera. Also, all of his rooms look very anesthetic. He calls it clean-lined, but I call it a hospital room. I loved his use of colors, he definitely was not afraid of using very unique colors in his rooms. On the first night I absolutely loved his room design, but then his designs started to become a pattern, with different colors.

Posted by Anita – September 3, 2007 8:22 PM

I don't know, I have to agree with the judges.. All the designers worked there booties off, and they "all" seem like super great and caring people...
but, clearly the most innovated and talented designer left is Todd. He did make that room work in all areas. He did an excellent job.
Good luck to all of you, but I'm sure we'll see Todd in the end...

Posted by Pammy Poo – September 3, 2007 8:21 PM

Will,

Charlotte, NC welcomes you with open arms! The exposure you received was priceless.

There are so many new people moving to Charlotte that you will not have to worry about work!
I will be reading the Observer to find out where you will hang the sign for your business!

Take care!

Posted by anewcharlottean – September 3, 2007 8:18 PM

After reading all of the comments, everyone is in agreement. WILL IS THE TRUE DESIGNER. He hit the nail on the head with Bridget's wants and needs. He even went as far as looking into her future as far as needs. For everyone that is not going to vote next week, don't let Todd win, I hate to say it vote for Kim. Just as someone can be given acting lessons she can go to design school.

Posted by Connie – September 3, 2007 8:17 PM

Based on last night's decision, I will probably not bother to watch the rest of the season, or a new Design Star series. Will was the best designer for each client, most thoughtful, most cooperative in a team, and the most genuinely warm individual. Will deserves his own show just as much as David did and if HGTV won't bring him back in some capacity, they have really missed a great opportunity to connect with a loyal audience. Oh, by the way, I'm sick of cleavage and bare chests! Like someone else said above, that's NOT why we watch HGTV. Sexy gets boring after awhile! Give us substance.

Posted by Judy – September 3, 2007 8:16 PM

I am CONFUSED!!!I believe there is only one designstar.All blogs seem to be mentioning a show with Will and Josh.ONE SHOW ONE WINNER.Will is gone.Josh is gone,although I really felt he has talent.I really enjoyed Scott.He has talent warmth and was so animated.I would love to write him and tell him how much he reminded me of my cousin Vincent.He passed away one year ago.He was an artist and a commercial designer in D.C.and Fla. Not to mention a wonderful and funny humanbeing. Sincerly,LETITIA

Posted by LETITIA – September 3, 2007 8:15 PM

It's pretty apparent that the judges do not have their finger on the pulse of their viewing public. Also, does it appear to anyone else to be a conflict of interest to have a judge on the panel who also has his own show? Is it possible he could have it in for any contestants whose talent he may feel threatened by? I agree that Will needs work on his speech, but he was far and away the best designer left on the show. I like Kim and I would give her show a chance, but they had better give her an assistant that has some training. I would absolutely not watch a show hosted by Todd. He is too high energy for a design show. He'd make a great host for an extreme sports show or something like that, which is also something that I wouldn't watch.

Posted by Mindy – September 3, 2007 8:12 PM

I agree with Connie. If hosting skills can be taught, then designing skills should be able to be taught...well, maybe improved. If Kim received formal training, I'll bet she would be pretty good. Maybe her show should be "Design School Design Star" and we can follow her through the process (could be fun) or she could interview designers or design students (I'm sure there will be plenty of personalities she'll encounter) - I don't know, I'm grasping. She's a cutie and all, but I just don't know if she can pull off a full season of actual designing. However, IF I vote...she'll get my vote. Ohhhh...Sparkle Josh and Will...please, HGTV, give them a show!!!!!

Posted by Eileen – September 3, 2007 8:04 PM

I enjoy the show however, I knew from the beginning that Todd would be a finalist because Martha likes looking at him. I think Will did an awesome job and really did the best of the remaining 3 designers. I feel like Todd will win simply beacuse he is good looking and muscular not necessarily because he is the best designer or host. Come on HGTV, you are better than that!!!! How about some different judges for next year's show? The current judges are very predictable.

Posted by Michelle Harrington – September 3, 2007 8:02 PM

Like most I was sorry to see Will go. His designs were always good. Kim is not bad either. As for Todd...He's okay, but a little out there. That's fine for someone of his generation who's single...But it doens't appeal to everyone. I must agree with the judges that the furniture placement for Todd and Kim was off, But Will got it right for Bridget. She was brilliant. So his hosting skills weren't great, he was still enjoyable to watch.

Posted by Karen F. – September 3, 2007 8:01 PM

What a change in the show since Robb left! Has anyone besides me noticed how much calmer and more mature Todd seems without his loud-mouthed sarcastic buddy to egg him on? Big difference!

As for the designs, I'm not sure any of them were 'great'. They were very pretty and the families seemed to love them - which is the entire point anyway. But, there were design issues that weren't addressed.

Will's design was lovely! And Bridget loved it! And although several who posted and a comment by the judges was that it was too grown-up, the person it was designed FOR did love it and that was the most important thing, in my opinion. It did lack that 'little girl' quality, but didn't she SAY that she wanted it to be more grown-up? She will add her own touches, I'm sure. But Will's basic design was awesome.

And speaking of Will, I love the fact that he didn't allow being eliminated deter him from his ultimate goal. He is still going to be a designer and a WONDERFUL designer, I'm sure! He is kind, gracious, thoughtful, humble, selfless and understanding. He listens to his clients and 'gets' what they want and delivers. He has more class than 10 GQ men could ever hope for and although his hosting skills were not up to the level the judges were looking for, Will will go far and be successful where others fear to tread. I'm not even sure if he realized this or not...Bridget may have touched his life and changed him forever, but he OBVIOUSLY touched all our lives and we are better for THAT! Godspeed, Will! "Where there's a Will there's a way to great design"...and you are a great designer.

Kim...her personality just pops off the screen. She is another one who really connects with her clients. Her choices for this challenge did seem a bit rushed and not completely thought through. Yes, tile would've been a better choice because of the clients' situation - no sidewalk or gravel (mud, rain, snow, etc.) can ruin carpet in no time. And coal dust on a light-colored carpet - yuck. Impractical. Even if there had been tile just on the inside of the door...and maybe a small space for muddy/dusty boots so they would never have to be on the carpet. But - I'm sure with time restraints, tile would have eaten up a chunk of time needed for the rest of the area. Seating was awkward, but having been inside dozens of double-wides, I know that the spaces aren't alway conducive to practical, functional design. Thought Kim's having the forethought to include the dining area in her design was fabulous! And what a bonus for the family! I loved the colors and the natural elements. If Kim had had one more day, I'm sure the whole design would've been over the top!

Todd - WOW! You CAN design a space for living! There were a couple of small things - the seating was awkward, and the kids could smash their fingers on the lids to the toy boxes. But the fact that you had elements in that room that could accommodate EVERYONE in that family was HUGE! You thought of EVERYONE! So many 'family' rooms are for the adults. You didn't leave anyone out. You designed a TRUE FAMILY room! Cudos to you! I'm so glad the 'Toddler' grew up and showed us the man he is without his ego taking over.

As for the rest...hosting schmosting. Kim is a natural. Todd is an artist all the way.

Good luck, you two!

Posted by Ena – September 3, 2007 7:54 PM

Will was fine, needs some flair. Kim is fine, needs some design training. Todd & David please keep your shirts on. We are desiring to watch design, not bodies. Hey, that's it! Vote for Kim and we won't have two shows with men taking their shirts off all the time! The most unfair thing in the whole contest has been letting the couple take Christina away. She did however ax herself by not catering to their wild expectations.

Posted by prettypearl – September 3, 2007 7:41 PM

WOW, HGTV and judges ... what a disappointment in not choosing Will, his design abilities far and away exceed Todd's and Kim's. He may not have the best hosting abilities but that is something that can be taught in a relatively short amount of time. His sincerity carries him a long way, best of luck in your future Will. Kim is adorable and a great host but not a good designer. There are lots of shows on HGTV that use only hosts, that would be a good place for her while she goes to design school. And Todd, well he is unique but having his first room that he had to design for real people and not just an art project shows that his design skills are sub par. Come on HGTV I thought the purpose of this show was to find the next Design Star. You really blew it this year. Will, Sparkle Josh, Scott - those are "designers"; Todd and Kim, not so much.

Posted by Mary – September 3, 2007 7:37 PM

I was shock to see Will go and Kim stay. His work was great but he freaks when he has to sell himself. Kim is great in front of a camera but her work is not. I think Will's work was better than Kim's by far. I do feel that Todd is going to take the show though. Good Luck Todd!

Posted by Necoleray – September 3, 2007 7:29 PM

I was so disappointment to see Will leave. He has what it takes to star in a design show - talent and heart. David was a little shy at first when it came to addressing the camera but look at him now. I know Will would have become comfortable in front of the camera as well. Another design show should snatch him up quick. I truly appreciate the comaradery between the three - what a relief not to see arguing and backstabbing.

Posted by Carolyn – September 3, 2007 7:29 PM

i love the show it is very excitating seen regular people fix a room , i learn lot of things that i could due in my apartment but economicly i can afford i love will ted and kim but i know that one will be the winner , i hope i dont the last episode , im trilled with the stuff you do in the show

Posted by sonia fuentes – September 3, 2007 7:27 PM

Just saw David's video blog. I think he missed the fact that Bridget is a young lady going to high school, not a kid. Will nailed it for her.

Posted by Cheryl – September 3, 2007 7:25 PM

I have never written before, but I am very, very upset. You have voted the best off. Will had tremendous talent and a down to earth approach. I dont't understand when you say he was not able to present himself. For the average, ordinary person, Will is what we want. Kim was AWFUL, AWFUL. She cannot design and I would never watch her show. If this is what HGTV wants, then I will not watch HGTV. Instead of relying on experts, why not let the general public decide who we like. I believe Kim set up Robb, she is great at using people. If you don't like Will alone, why not try the combo of Will and Sparkle Josh for a really great show.

Posted by Rose – September 3, 2007 7:25 PM

Will by far...was the best designer. His hosting skills could have been learned. Look at David...he was weak in his hosting skills and look how far he came??? Again...the judges have made a lot of serious errors in their choices this season. It's much easier to teach someone how to host a show...then it is to create exceptional designs. I am really disappointed in Vern. He usually has a good "eye" for these things... I would like to see the two female judges replaced next season. We need true designers to judge this show. I have to say...Will had the best attitude of them all...when he was eliminated. He didn't feel sorry for himself at all! Hats off to you Will!!! Not sure I want to vote next week??? It's tough picking between two weak designers. Kim is the best host of the two. I would say...that the winner of this season will have to really kick it up a few notches...or their show will only last one season before it's cancelled.

Posted by Teresa – September 3, 2007 7:24 PM

I am really glad todd is still in the running. I think that Kim should have gone instead of Will. Nothing Kim did rewally stood out to me as a great design. Will's designs were great. It would be easier for him to learn hosting skills than to teach Kim design skills. Maddie Paul 9yo.

Posted by maddie Paul – September 3, 2007 7:23 PM

Will showed true talent from the very beginning. He has a wonderful concept of space, texture and tone and was the only one seen with a tape measure almost everytime during all of his challenges. What impressed me most was his true desire to please his client, and his truthfulness to himself an dhis audience. I agree with everyone else -- hosting can be taught, talent cannot. What a shame HGTV was afraid to take a chance on a true talent. Nobody else is saying it, but I will. Will is African-American and so is Kim. That is the reason Todd will win.

Posted by Margarita Estrada – September 3, 2007 7:19 PM

I watch the new season from the beginning and always followed with David's Vlog. I have to say it was enjoyable to see and a I disagreed with the Judges from time to time. First I believe they got it wrong when the sent home Lisa and not Robb. But to slam Will because he wasn't articulate was wrong. I knew how it was going to go all the time. I believe to give the man the chance to compete and then slam him was wrong. And to keep Robb as long as they did was also wrong. Robb implied that Will wasn't working when he won the wedding challenge, yet it was Will who pointed out to Robb that chips weren't the color he showed the clients. Even one of the Judges asked Will when he worked with Todd what he brought to the challenge. I think every one forget his design came in second to Robb's during the wedding challenge so to suggested he wasn't working was unfair. I think Robb was still angry about the little "spat" he had with Will when he told him he was irritating to work with. "That no one wanted to be paired with him. Well I love the show. And my favorite is Kim.

Good Luck to them both.

Posted by Cande – September 3, 2007 7:18 PM

I think the biggest problem was Martha's obvious crush on Todd. It is sad that the judges are not objective. Surprising that Will does not remind Vern of himself. Mr. every room has a red wall. I believe the judges think Todd's looks will bring in the viewers, however after a week or two of his boring persona and outrageous whimsical design people will clearly stop watching. It is ashame that this contest is not clearly about design talent. David won last year and does very little hosting per se. It is about is design talent and his affection for bringing joy to people with his designs. I think Will would have been able to accomplish that. I dont really want to point out the limitations of Kim and Todd as much as to highlight the work Will was able to accomplish. But, who is going to want a skateboard ramp in their home. Who will be excited by the marginal furniture Kim selects. I do feel Kim was placed in the finals because she is a good host, but more for the fact that Todd will easily defeat her in the finals. Well at least we had one year where the judges were fair and impartial. It would be my hope that there be no more design star shows for several reasons. One, it is not worth having a show if the best person does not win. Lastly I watch HGTV all the time and there are many design stars already on the network.

Posted by anthony – September 3, 2007 7:14 PM

I too feel that Will should not have been chosen. This seems to have happened because the judges are giving a lot of weight to hosting skills, and maybe too much. David B says that he was rather poor at this too, and he was selected to stay (see his vlog comments on these three and their episode 6 designs and hosting skills). He had comments on Will's design, all constructive criticism, but still considered Will the best of the three as a designer.

Me, I found Kim's "angling" of the furniture to be a very basic and huge design error, and her design rather intuitively obvious and unimaginative. Yip is right about the dining room, tho, nicely done.

As to Todd's design, I frankly every week have had a hard time getting past his obnoxious leaping about and arm waving and celebration of self to SEE his work, but when i really concentrate, all I can come up with for every one of his designs in the series is "creative but with serious impractical elements" (e.g., the platform). And that applies to this round too - the placement of the sectional in respect to the teevee is an obvious blooper, but what really struck me was the inappropriateness of those two lounges (he called them "chairs") both in the room as a room and as part of meeting the family's needs. They just don't fit in either case.

A "star" in my view stands out in every regard, not just as a "host" or a "designer". There's more to it than that. Three HGTV designers that I have seen over the years are standouts in this more general sense. The first would be Candice Olson, the second David Bromstad, and the third, yes, William.

Each of these three has a sweetness of character that manifests itself as a consideration for and a fine intuition about their frequently inarticulate clients and what their hearts want, and they carry off their designs just beautifully because of that quality. This is about more than paint and wood tones and color and furniture and accessorizing and all the rest of the physical stuff in design. It really IS about heart, design.

I hope we see William again, and most certainly that he does well. His balanced and gracious statement after his show was cancelled really left me smiling. What a guy.

Posted by karen – September 3, 2007 7:14 PM

We have two non-designers from which to choose. What a sad state of affairs!!! I don't know who is responsible for this farce. Could it be that upper management influenced and mandated these decisions from the judges. If that is so, then there should be an investigation of this matter. If the judges truly believe that their decisions were valid, then their contracts should be terminated for imcompetence and not understnding design concepts.

Posted by CR – September 3, 2007 7:10 PM

Face it - HGTV cannot have a black design star. Vern, your show has been canceled.

Posted by Jean Mapes – September 3, 2007 7:09 PM

I understand the point about hosting, and I can see why Kim chose carpet instead of tile or wood with a small child in the house. We're not coal miners, and we don't know all of the conversation that took place between Kim and her clients. Why are you all assuming the husband comes home dirty? That said, I would definately watch a show with Will and Josh. It has potential to have great design, and be funny and entertaining.

Posted by Victoria – September 3, 2007 7:05 PM

I really liked Will's design. The colors were perfect and I loved the white furniture with the colored knobs. The only thing I could see to improve the space would be a few fun teenage girl elements.

I did not care for the red and orange combo in the space Todd designed. I do think he is taking a lot more negative criticism here on the blog message boards then he deserves. If you watch the designers faces during the video presentations, he shows the most emotion and I have noticed that he seems to have a soft spot hidden away in that "to the max" attitude he likes to portray. I read his website and I saw nothing on there to indicate that he "let the cat out of the bag" about his win. He has a lot of artistic talent and it's fun to watch what unexpected design he will create. His talent is way "outside of the box" and I enjoy that unpredictability he brings to the shows.

Kim's design was okay. I don't think she had a clue what "rustic/country" was but I realize that she had a lot of time and shopping constraints. I cringed when I saw that carpet. I have three children and would never pick a light colored carpet.

Posted by Heather – September 3, 2007 6:57 PM

I LOOK FORWARD TO VIEWING YOUR SHOW EVERY WEEK. I TOO WAS DISAPPOINTED IN SEEING WILL LEAVE LAST NIGHT..HE IS A NUMBER ONE CLASS ACT. HE WILL GO A LONG WAY. I WOULD HAVE LIKED IT TO HAVE BEEN BETWEEN WILL & KIM. I LIKE HER BUBBLY PERSONALITY AND HER TREMENDOUS GOOD WORK. I THINK THE JUDGES DID A FANTASTIC JOB SELECTING DAVID LAST YEAR....I LOVE HIS SHOW!!! HIS WORK IS ALWAYS FANTASTIC!!!MAY THE BEST ONE WIN!!!

Posted by Maria Mercier – September 3, 2007 6:55 PM

Frankly, none of the three did an exceptional job. Will's was ok and the other two just awful. And the judges....why not let us vote every week?
Seems to work pretty well for another very popular show.

Posted by crg – September 3, 2007 6:54 PM

Last year, I was so torn between Alice and David, it was difficult to vote. This year, I couldn't care less - I won't watch either's show. Neither Todd or Kim can design, which doesn't seem to be a requirement anymore. I would have been just as torn this year if the final two had been Will and Sparkle. Fantastic job, Judges, you ruined a brilliant concept. It makes me so angry I don't think I'll even watch Vern's new show. However, I think he tried. Get those two man-hungry women off the panel! Next year the host will be a porn star!

Posted by Cheryl – September 3, 2007 6:50 PM

to the person saying Todd asked Robb to be on his show: He was referring to another project of his, not his HGTV show. And he also has asked other DS contestants to participate; Robb was just the only one who had agreed at the time he wrote it. Believe it or not, Todd has no SAY whether other DS contestants will be allowed on his show with him, if he wins.

Posted by VickiD – September 3, 2007 6:34 PM

I think Design Star is a great great show. The only negative is that it's gone by too fast. STop eliminating two people in one episode. Let the show last longer and let people enjoy the many makeovers. Colorsplash is my favorite show ever!!! David Bromstad is so creative and such a wonderful personality. Make sure these two shows last a long long time.

Posted by Lisa – September 3, 2007 6:32 PM

I think in the end the producers don't care what we the viewers think. They aren't reading our feelings in these blogs. They just see all the feedback and say "great alot of people are watching".

It will all backfire on them if they don't listen to what we are real saying.

Posted by Georgia34 – September 3, 2007 6:25 PM

Does anyone of importance read these blogs and take the hint that the public is not pleased with the shows eliminations of or do they just pass into oblivion...........I agree I don't think Todd or Kim should still be there and I do think that Will is a true gentleman and did a great job. Robb lasted longer than he should have; I didn't see a great deal of talent in the designers that they picked for the show this year. The first season was much better!

Posted by Dee – September 3, 2007 6:18 PM

Would someone please tell Todd to put his shirt on? If our service members can be in the middle east dressed in full battle rattle and sleeves down he can leave his shirt on. When I was last in Baghdad it was 148 degrees. Maybe he thinks he's appealing to the female vote, but he just looks like he's pandering.

Posted by Maggie – September 3, 2007 6:13 PM

I watched last night's show. And my jaw dropped when they cancelled Will's show. Will was the most genuine person, add to that, a great designer. So maybe he wasn't all loud and jumping around the room during his presentations, but if anyone remembers, last year, David wasn't either. David needed lessons on how to host. HGTV could have shown the same courtesy to Will. Again, Todd's room was nice but not functional for most family members. Heck, he hung a hammock in a room where there are little children running and playing! WHAT WAS HE THINKING! Little children could get hurt, tangled, or worse yet, strangled in the darn thing. The family was gracious, but I'll bet as soon as the cameras left, they removed that hammock. And to make a toybox/bench for children without (it appears anyways) safety latches to keep the top from falling down. Again, not family friendly. Apparently, Martha has more pull on this show than any of us know. She's been gung ho Todd since day 1. He admits that he's a carpenter by trade, well, go back to skateboarding and building. Kim's room was nice, but again, the husband works in the coal mines and there was no grass around the home. What was she thinking, putting down a light coloered carpet? She's good, bubbly, and her designs are far more functional than Todd's, but in the end, Will should have won the entire thing. Will is a gracious, grateful, soft spoken man with a good eye for design. And you could see that he put his heart and soul into designing that room for Bridget. Good luck Will in your future. I'm sure that you will be a great person without having your own show. And who knows, maybe one of the other stations, Style, Bravo, TLC, or Discovery Home will give you a call and offer you a lucrative TV career. If so, be assured that I will be watching.

Kati B

Posted by Kati B – September 3, 2007 6:11 PM

I would hope that all of you who are so very judgemental and so eager to criticize the efforts of these contestants would have a moment of clarity. First, you have the luxury of hindsight, no pressure and no one judging you. Second, try to imagine what it was like for them to go from one situation to the next with no breaks, no days off and no contact with loved ones for 5-6 weeks. How long do you go without a break? Third, watch the show carefully, scenes are reshot, the time alloted is not all usable. Fourth...if you are so talanted, why didn't you try for the show? So much of your carping is as valid as the beer-drinking sports fan who calls the professional football star a bum, or the silver sppon politician who second guesses career military officers. This competition is to find a TV show host, not to find the best designer in the country. Design is subjective. Like art, it's value is in the eye of the beholder. We have a choice between a 34 year old man/boy or a 33 year old woman...the others are gone, get over it.

Posted by Bob H. – September 3, 2007 5:59 PM

Kim makes the presentation portion of the show go off without a hitch. However, I find her design lacking sometimes. I guess she presents so well that the network feels she can easily be taught where she falls short in space planning and color selection just to name a few areas. She has made herself look good when in direct competition with others like Rob. Either that or he just came off as too arrogant. I'd just like to see more a more solid designer with a show, but her presentation is so sure, I don't see how Todd can pull it off. I have a few problems with some of his rooms as well...generally because he tries to make everything. Sometimes you can actually buy something that will work just as well and look better. But, I love his art. I really don't like Kim's design scheme or lack thereof. Her lack of professional training really shows. I think in the last show, Will's room was by far the best. He just beat himself with a poor presentation, unfortunately.

Posted by seravega – September 3, 2007 5:58 PM

Hmmm...Will was a real talent, had a great personality, good on camera, smooth, and a gentleman. He was my pick from the beginning. I cannot understand why the judges would eliminate him. I guess this show isn't about "design" after all. It doesn't look like there is going to be much of a "star" either. Kim and Todd are okay, but mediocre compared to Will. Apparently, many people agree. I hope Will can get his own show anyway. I would certainly love to see more of him.

Posted by ladyliberty42 – September 3, 2007 5:52 PM

I am still in shock. The judges voted off the best designer. I don't know if I can watch the final episode. Why would Todd put red in that room. The parents see red all day at work do you really think they want to see red at home too? The colors should have been relaxing and red IMO is not. Gesshhhh. And the space planning was horrible. The majority of the sitting was not facing the tv. And how could he not know that beam was not structual. I knew it was structual and I am not a designer. He made such a big deal out it and did not spend enough time listening to the client. I hope he does not win. If he does I will not watch the show. I hope Kim wins even though she was not my favorite. I hope Will gets a show anyway. Him and sparkle Josh would make an great team.

Posted by Ray – September 3, 2007 5:48 PM

Will is a class act. No anger like Robb, no whining, just thankfulness. Wishing you all the best Will.

Posted by Marvelyn Criner – September 3, 2007 5:48 PM

I was so disappointed to see Will go. He has more talent in his little finger than Todd ever will. A hammock for kids and a toy box that doesn't have any safety features?? Obviously he is really not family oriented. Kim did a remarkable job on her project in the limited time she had. If anyone should have gone home it should have been Todd, he has one style and that is what HE wants for the space, not necessarily what the people want. It's obvious to anyone who has been watching the judges want Todd, I absolutely will NOT vote for him regardless of the next challenge.

Posted by Lynda – September 3, 2007 5:44 PM

I just finished watching the show. I can't believe that they let Will go. Will, I love your design and I can tell you are a great guy. You are so humble and easy going. I would love to watch your show than Todd and Kim. And your exciting interview shows your personality.

Be honest, at this point, I lost interest in watching the show. First is the "Sparkle" Josh and now it is Will. Don't know what the judges were thinking. I don't think I am interested in watch either Todd or Kim's show.

Posted by Joanne – September 3, 2007 5:23 PM

Hey Folks! Remember- it's ratings that count - not necessarily design. Based upon the number of bloggers - this show is a hit. Todd will be the winner- hands down. I lived in Honolulu - based upon my knowledge of suppliers- C. S. Wo or the Pacific Design Center are the only places to shop. It will be interesting. At least the venue is much better than LV.

Posted by Evelyn – September 3, 2007 5:16 PM

Dear HGTV:

I have been an avid viewer of your many shows for quite some time. I watched Design Star last year and remembered that David had some difficulty with hosting as Will had this year. Also, from the very first episode of Season 2, it seemed that Todd would be a great set designer and that his forte would not appeal to the average homeowner. However, considering that fact, the judge's all seemed to gush over his crazy designs and childish antics "on camera" in every episode.

I am still trying to mull this whole thing over in my head and also talking with other viewers, but I surely hope that HGTV is not exhibiting some "bias" on their station.

With all that said, I know that the Universe will present Will with great abundance, just not the title of -- Design Star (your judge's saw to that last night). HGTV and it's judges need to seriously read these comments on this blog as they are quite powerful and send a powerful message from your viewers.

HGTV, you have made a BIG Mistake!

Posted by Cathy – September 3, 2007 5:09 PM

Was anyone really surprised by the outcome of the last show? The judges (especially Martha) have tried to bring Will down week after week. Yet, he has been the most consistent, solid designer of the series - and the designer who has actually listened to the wants, needs, and tastes of his "client." Perhaps if he had not spoken with a Southern drawl, had been less of a gentleman (taken lessons from Robb), ended each sentence with "dude," "blast" or "full throttle," taken off his shirt or acted like a ten year old skateboarder high on Kool-Aid, Martha would have drooled over him as she did Todd. Neither she nor Cynthia could control their giggling when it became Todd's turn -- how immature and grammar schoolish! Ladies, both of you have ruined this show for me. Will's design for Bridget was beautiful, sophisticated and exactly what she requested. He has great talent, which offset any deficit in hosting ability -- which, by the way, could be polished whereas lack of design talent cannot be learned. Kim's design was an improvement -- what would not have been? However, she simply cleaned the place, added new furniture, flooring and accessories. With $10,000 the family themselves could have done that. Why, oh why, would Kim choose light carpet when the wife had said her husband brought home soot from the mines and made everything black??!! I was not impressed with Kim's results at all. In fact, the furniture placement felt very awkward. Yes, she can host and shop -- that is not what I watch a design show to learn. (yes, duh, West Virginia? had she paid attention she should have known she had the coal mining family and didn't need to create 3 designs!) Now for Todd...what can be said? His "untraditional" ideas prevail. The room was: crammed with large furniture, blinding with harsh paint, a disaster-waiting-to-happen for small children (toy box/seat with no safety hinges, hammock that could hang/choke a child)--certainly not the calm, relaxing haven the family requested. I am so disappointed in this series for so many reasons. Regardless of who wins the final competition, I will not watch the show because neither of the finalists excite, inspire or even interest me. HGTV producers, please take note that many, many of your viewers have been very turned off by the show this season. I watch HGTV to GET AWAY FROM American Idol / Simon Cowell and the other worthless reality shows. Please bring back the class and character of the shows your loyal viewers have come to love.

Posted by IntoDesign – September 3, 2007 5:08 PM

I think most of us agree that what happened last night on the show stinks, and there's really not much more I can add to what has been said. I will say that it truly hurt my heart for Will to be eliminated because you'd like to believe that this channel would be free of some of the biases you may find elsewhere. After all, the show is supposed to be about design.

My question for the host of this blog, LWatkins, and all of you, is WHAT DO WE DO ABOUT THIS? I BELIEVE WE NEED TO DO SOMETHING MORE THAN COMPLAIN ABOUT THIS IN THIS BLOG. A PETITION, A BOYCOTT, SOME ACTION TO LET HGTV KNOW THAT ITS VIEWERS ARE SERIOUS ABOUT DESIGN AND FEEL CHEATED. IF WE TAKE ACTION, PERHAPS SOMETHING WILL CHANGE. MAYBE NOT IN TIME FOR WILL, BUT WE MAY BE ABLE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR NEXT SEASON'S DESIGN STAR. AT THIS POINT, THE WHOLE THING HAS LEFT A BAD TASTE IN MY MOUTH, ESPECIALLY SINCE I WATCHED THE FIRST SEASON AND KNOW THAT DAVID BROMSTAD STRUGGLED INITIALLY AS WELL. IS ANYONE ELSE READY TO STAND UP AND TAKE ACTION? IF SO, WHAT CAN WE DO?

Posted by Lisa – September 3, 2007 5:08 PM

Truely love the Desing Star show. I learn something every time I watch. Will did a great job. Having lived in a wheel chair for 2 years and now with a cane I can tell you that he hit this design right on the button..kudos to Will and thanks for your comments about visually lowering the ceiling...it is hard for a virtically normal person to even notice the need for this...I'm touched that Will recognized it and did something about it...Luv you for it Will !!! The "judges" haven't got a clue...and in my eyes just made a huge mistake.

Posted by Becky White – September 3, 2007 5:06 PM

I still MISS Josh!

Posted by Mary – September 3, 2007 5:04 PM

This season is awful. The producer's should be fired, the judge's should be fired for picking some of the worst designers(?)yet, and for personally being responsible for those left in the finale. Vern, you should feel nauseous! Shame on you!

Posted by mary fegan – September 3, 2007 4:58 PM

Any show that Will ever hosts, I will watch, knowing if he can do it, I can too. Besides, he has good taste, demeanor, and I could trust him with my checkbook.
Any show that Todd ever hosts, I will never watch. Not only is he juvenile, arrogant, and has absolutely no decorating ability to his fantastic carpentry skills - I know whatever he does on a show I could never do. Much less, I would never trust him to spend my hard-earned money. So, I would never watch any show Todd hosts.
At least my final vote has been made easy now!

Posted by Debra – September 3, 2007 4:53 PM

I can't believe the judges can't see Kim's lack of experience, knowledge, style, and just common sense. No design professional would track mud over newly installed carpeting, then brag about the qualities of West Virgina mud. And why not choose a darker color or patterned carpet for an area that is obviously prone to getting dirty.
Will was a sincere, considerate, genuine, hard-working, contestant, in comparison to Kim, who was all talk and no talent - just look at her tile work on the kitchen episode- she should have been dropped that episode or before. Several earlier contestants would have made much better finalist, and better deserved the honor.
I think HGTV needs to do better in their choice of judges or else send them to judges school where they can learn to make their decisions with knowledge and impartiality- it's frustrating to viewers to see obviously poor judgment prevail after investing their time in the series.

Posted by Tom – September 3, 2007 4:47 PM

None of the rooms looked like they had a $10,000 makeover. Kim spent too much money and time on the wood trim, and should have changed the flooring to something that would be much easier to clean. Will bought a flat screen tv, a new sofa, a small refrigerator and paint, plus accessories. His room was all angles. I think a wheelchair friendly room would have smooth curves on the furniture. Nobody in Todd's room is going to want to sit on the sofa perpendicular to the tv, but at least his room looked like he spent some money in there, with the two new lounge chairs.
Will is the only one with any design sense, and he is the only one I would want to design for me. I like Kim's personality, but if she knows how to design, it doesn't show. Todd tried to be different, and the judges like to see different ideas, even if they don't really work. So . . . how about a show hosted by Kim, with designs by Will, and Todd can be the barechested carpenter.

Posted by amaretto – September 3, 2007 4:47 PM

I LOVED last seasons Design Star show. I have not enjoyed or watched all of this season. First the format was not good. Next, we saw more of the judges than we did the designing. I used to love watching Vern on Trading Spaces and I usually liked the rooms he designed but I think he is too criticle and oppinionated as a judge. The ladies are almost a joke. I agree that Will is a far better designer than Todd and Kim put together, but he does need a lot of voice and hosting tutoring.Todd is a very poor disigner and I feel, a very poor host. I have not enjoyed watching or listening to him and will not if he is chosen. How can we when he has done such a poor job of designing that we will have no respect for him. Who wants to watch someone when you feel that you can do a better job than he does? Kim is better at hosting but needs to bring it down a notch. She also needs to knock the chip off of her shoulder. She looks like she's hosting an infomercial for knives.

I have been wondering why some of the contestants were chosen in the first place. Didn't they have many apply? I feel that some of these people should have never gotten on in the first place and the ones I liked and I liked their work were voted off the show early. Someone wrote in their blog that they think there has been an agenda from the first toward one pereson and I agree. If this is true please don't waste our time again. This has not been good television so don't repeat it please.In order to put yourself out there for television I know you must have a big ego but please judges. Also just because you are a prettyboy does not mean you should host a show! We as viewers do not enjoy watching peacocks strutting around. I no longer watch trading spaces because of this. I also do not enjoy watching people debasing or being mean to others in the name of a game. I know there are others out there that enjoy this type of ignorant, uncouth,sleezy television and I feel pity for them. Their lives must be so troubled.All of the audiance is not like that. Please give us our kind of show.

Posted by Christine – September 3, 2007 4:44 PM

will's design was the best. I am sorry he is eliminated. I will not vote for either Todd or Kim. They are I am sure very nice designers and with the suppport of HGTV will do a good job for a Design Star show.

Posted by Teresa R – September 3, 2007 4:40 PM

I have to say that I am very disappointed in HGTV Design Star's choice of properties in West Virginia. I, too, live in West Virginia and I do not live in a double-wide mobile home, and, believe it or not, we have grass and landscaping and a concrete sidewalk/driveway!!! Yes, West Virginia does have coal mining communities in our beautiful state, but not all of them are in the condition in which you wish to deplict West Virginia! I was so excited when I found out that you had chosen to visit West Virginia, but then was sickened by your choice of areas. Why not come back to West Virginia and choose a deserving family outside of our coal community and stop the stereotyping of the most beautiful state in the United States???

Posted by Kimberly – September 3, 2007 4:35 PM

I'm another who feels the judges messed up this one. Hosting skills can be taught - common sense in design can't.
Will gave the young lady and her family what they wanted. Kim blew it with white carpet - white carpet shouldn't be sold to anyone who doesn't hae a maid to shampoo it daily! Todd doesn't know how to design for anyone who lives in the real world - I can't imagine what his show could offer the average viewer.

If Todd does win there's no chance I'll watch his show. If Kim wins I'll at least give her show a chance.

I hope next season's judges come without any prejudices - I think both women ruled Will out from the beginning.

Posted by Donna – September 3, 2007 4:33 PM

Episode 6 for me was not as much about the designers as it was the people they helped. We loved the idea of doing something special for those people, and it would be a good idea for a new show. But that means BRING BACK WILL! Never Todd, and maybe Kim. I thought Kim had the most difficult task because of the rural setting, but did not understand what works best there. She is a city mouse, after all.

Posted by Jerri – September 3, 2007 4:15 PM

You got rid of the best designer last night. A big disappointment but not really a surprise. I would have loved to watch Will's show but I could care less about Design Star from this point on.

Posted by Marcia – September 3, 2007 4:02 PM

I think this season has no real talent unlike season 1 with David. David has been outstanding.... The two left are not my favorite choices and I don't think either could carry a show of their own... Kim is not even a designer, its like If i try to tryour ofr American Idol-- I can't sing! The judges also need to doa better job they lack talent and emotion.

Posted by Maggie – September 3, 2007 4:00 PM

Will was by far the best designer. I would have had every single one of his designs in my home.

BTW, Will posted a comment thanking everyone. Go to his website www.interiormotives.ws

Posted by anita – September 3, 2007 3:58 PM

Other than TV news shows, HGTV is the only channel I watch. I was so excited last year with DesignStar's first season. This season I've enjoyed watching the participants. The most disappointing and dissatisfying part this year has been watching the judges, specifically, Martha. It has been quite evident from day one about her total bias and dislike for Will. As a true professional you don't go on national TV and display such personal and utterly bias behavior about anyone. Additionally, when you continually discredit the work of someone whom others can clearly see as talented, you only make your self look bad. Eliminating the only "true" competion for Todd has been your strategy all along, "congratulations Martha, your unprofessionalism has been noted for all America to see.
Shu

Posted by shu – September 3, 2007 3:52 PM

Will is one of the most gracious people I have had the pleasure to watch. He not only had great design skills he also was very humbling in his exit. This shows what kind of "CLASS" he has and would have been and assent to HGTV. I hope whomever wins can live up to him, Thank you Will for showing us great sportsmanship.

Posted by audrey – September 3, 2007 3:48 PM

Will - you are the reason why HGTV is worth watching. I was moved by your compassion grace, humility, not to mention your true design talents.

Vern: what a disappointment you are: I have always looked up to you but clearly you were overpowered by your two fellow judges.

HGTV - are you listening: give Will a show and a lot of people will be watching. I will not be bothered with a talk/lookie show of Kim or Todd's.

Posted by Phoenix – September 3, 2007 3:43 PM

I wish that HGTV would do something really different this time. I think the last three finalists should have a show together. They all three get along well, and each brings something unique and different to the table. Will has talent and heart! He would bring both his talent and compassion to the team. Kim may not have as much experience, but she is fun to watch and has very creative, and a little offbeat, ideas. Will has the construction experience to round out the team. All three were great designers. Will can be taught to host a show. That's the easy part. Building charisma with the audience (which he did) is much harder to create in someone. Again, let's have a show with the three -- different types of talent, different personalities that complement one another, and most of all - diversity. Are you listening HGTV?

Posted by DaLyn – September 3, 2007 3:43 PM

I have to admit I preferred last years Design Star. I think that maybe they should have stayed in New York with more individual challenges. But I'm not the producer of the show. So... whith all that said. My pick from the beginning was Sparkle Josh. I was sorry to see him go. Who knows, maybe he may host his own show down the road or maybe HGTV will give him a spot on there website. Among the collective cry of relief when Robb's show was canceled, I believe my voice could be heard above everyone's. I think if he were given his own show on I would stop watching HGTV all together. So happy that didn't happen. I need my HGTV fix. Last nights episode was close. I thought all three did well. With Todd's room I just didn't care for his color choices and I also felt that the beam could have been handled better. Maybe a rustic, faux wood, finish. Will's room was good. Clean lines and cheerful colors. While I like the adult feel to the room I think that he could have incorporated some of Bridget's personal items such as family photos. As far as Kim's room the furniture was an issue for me too. But overall I thought it was good. Todd and Kim were good with the hosting skills although to me, it seems like Todd is trying too hard. Kim seems very at home in front of the camera. While I agree that Will needs to work on his hosting skills... let's not forget a young man from last year named David who went on to host Color Splash. This skill comes with practice and time. Remember David's hosting skills were not that strong. David by the way was my pick right from day one. All the best to the remaining three. My pick to win the competition is Kim.

Posted by Donna C – September 3, 2007 3:39 PM

HGTV- You should be ashamed for missing the opportunity with Will. How about getting an impartial jury next season. Vern / Candice / Ken..... Todd, your teenage body language is enough to make me fast forward to the next designer (wouldn't watch your show)/ Kim is not a fab designer but she does have the enthusiasm and the drive to listen and try / Robb - should never have made it on the show - he's a TOTAL LOSER !

Posted by Robin – September 3, 2007 3:37 PM

Kim? WHY? Her living room was AWFUL, so 1970's and such poor use of space. I am sure the family just loved the room as ANYTHING would have been better than what they had previously. BTW, I don't think she's that great a host... she reminds me of a younger version of S. Epatha Merkerson (Lt Anita Van Buren on "Law and Order") which is cool if you want to act in "mom" type roles. She is NOT the next "design star" - Todd is getting my votes as well as those of my friends who watch the show. I will re-iterate an earlier point, Kim was just as responsible for the tile on the first kitchen not getting done and the paper plate cut outs were appalling plus she did bait Robb, driving him crazy with little passive-agressive jabs making him lose it, causing him to get booted, which is troubling since the judges showed us deviousness will trump talent any day where they're concerned.

Hey, does anyone know where Alice is from last year? We'll say the same of Kim next year.

Posted by Sonia – September 3, 2007 3:36 PM

I taped/watched the last Design Star episode last eve and then re-watched it this afternoon. I gotta tell ya, Will's exit comments are still giving me chills. WHAT a powerfully profound & enlightened message!!!! I've seen previews for the new "Deserving Design" show with Vern Yip. Will, you would be a great addition to that new show after how you treated/worked with/lifted-up Bridget and her family! You blessed all Design Star viewers last evening with your words of wisdom and showed us what it means to be both a "design star" and a compassionate designer! Good luck to you as you go forward....even though this window has closed, I have no doubt a bigger, better door will soon open that is all you want and deserve!!

Posted by Susan – September 3, 2007 3:31 PM

Will should definately be the next design star. Who cares about his hosting abilities. He can learn. All along his designs have been solid and the best. Boo to all the judges.

Posted by Sandra – September 3, 2007 3:28 PM

What a shame that HGTV did'nt see the true designer in this years shows was Will. His designs were great. The judges were really way off in their opinions. The room that Will designed for the little girs was EXACTLY what she
wanted. Wake up judges. Even Clive said that the
only thing wrong was Will's hosting skills. Todds
just got the muscles. There is only one David Bromstad. He has the muscles and the TALENT. Kim
has about as much skill as any mediocore designer. HGTV how about a Special Twist on the
show. Bring Will back and give him another chance. When he wins you can get him a hosting coach. By the way Color Splash is a HUGE hit and
I am so glad it has been renewed. Will's show
would have really been complimentary to David's
show. HGTV you missed the boat on this. Change
judges for next season but keep Vern. He is the
only one that knows design.
Kit

Posted by Kit – September 3, 2007 3:27 PM

My wife and I have the same reaction as the vast majority on this site. Will Smith was the class act of the show. My father would have said, "Give that decision a saliva test!"

Clearly, the "self-taught" Will would have been a quick study and would have developed his own charming, sincere, and caring style of presentation on his own show.

David was a first-rate choice last year, but surely creative people needn't require that show hosts be homogeneous clones of one another.

Posted by Mickey Weinberg – September 3, 2007 3:27 PM

where do i start? by watching reality shows, you can always tell the real personality by listening to the ones who where voted off, so to Will, you are the true design star to most people who watched your designing abilities and your exit interview left many with teary eyed viewers hoping that you too will come back to a design show made for you. i just don't understand that hgtv would not hook you up with some public speaking classes or whatever it would take to make you more at ease in front of the camera.anyway, Kim what happened to wood, kork or tile floors in a rural area? and the dining area was a little too modern for a loghome design. and then there is Todd, please exlain to me why would you create a red room when you have not one, but two firefighters, who see a lot of red at their work?!?!? i don't feel that he really related to that family in more than one way with his over the top design. learn how to listen, which is a must have quality of a good desiger, perhaps you could learn something from Will, instead of being so khaki. last years show was much more exciting, than this year and hopefully hgtv listens to these blogs and one other thing, did anyone else ever wonder how the two lady judges would fair, if they had 26 hours to design and a room?!?mhmhmh!!!
p.s. Will i'm in SC and need help with my living space, so if you have time i would like your input.

Posted by rochelle – September 3, 2007 3:21 PM

I don't understand all of the criticism of Todd's room, I thought it was gorgeous. Those lounge chairs were so beautiful. I thought the room was stunning. No matter how you design toy storage for kids it has to be child proofed for the little wee ones. Those things are easily bought. Nobody has a seamstress for custom cushions. The little hammock was a touch of whimsy.
If they feel it's dangerous, they can remove it.
If you saw that room in a magazine, I think it would knock your socks off. What we have here is alot of people turning against Tood because he is good-looking and I don't think that is fair. Vern wanted to see how he could design a practical room and he did it. Please don't hate on him because his from California, has an upbeat personality and is good-looking.
I thought Will should have stayed over Kim hands down. Maybe I am mistaken, but I did not see a custom computer station which would be very important for someone that has to stay in their room for long periods of time. However, it was lovely right down to the satin curtains. He should have faced off against Todd. There is nothing more to be said about Kim that hasn't been said already. If you like a 70's basement look with K-mart furniture she's your gal. It sounds to me like the voting fans will vote for her over Todd and that I do not understand.

Posted by fanfare – September 3, 2007 3:06 PM

The challenge to help these families is excellent, so I hope that continues in any version of Design Star.
As for the season and the results--if this is the continuing format, rename it "host star" or "drama star", because the best designer just went home...from David's comments on the vlog, he may think so too. Design is not just about the look on the camera, but about life style, ease of maintenance and practicality. I think that the remaining designs by Kim and Todd leave something to be desired in that regard. Since a few months have gone by since the taped episodes maybe these guys have had time to brush up on their skills...and we'll see a big step-up for the finale; 'hope so.
Last comment--get some fresh judges, or maybe introduce guest judges to bring something new to the table and cut down on bias.

Posted by RGCF – September 3, 2007 3:04 PM

Will's design was amazing. Not only did it need to look good, he also had to make sure everything functioned for Bridget's limitations. Each element of his room was so thoughtful and he gave her not only a beautiful suite, but a lot of independence as well. He is the only one who gave the client everything they asked for and more. I agree with the other viewer's comments... I would love to see a show hosted by Sparkle Josh and Will. They are both from the south so maybe they could team up. or, maybe Will, Sparkle and Christine could be a Design on a Dime team. or leave HGTV altogether..
all I know is the really good designers got kicked off the show way too soon. I expected Will, Scott, Sparkle and Christine in the final4.

Posted by Laurel – September 3, 2007 3:01 PM

Will, thank you so much for your consistant grace under pressure, your lack of pretention, your practicality, and your lovely designs.

HGTV -- add me to those who think your judges made a mistake. We all recall the last show, in which the credo "This is a design show" was followed: David was a terrific designer, but Alice was better with the camara. David had a very pleasing personality and has demonstrated that hosting is a skill that can be improved. Also, when viewers like the host, we're willing to cut them slack, as far as lack of polish. Will consistantly demonstrated a high level of design competance and savvy. The others aren't as practical and are lacking in design basics, however much they relate to the camara.

The judges totally missed how much the viewers have (already) come to enjoy Will's sincerity and warmth. They also missed (perhaps they did not see all the takes the viewers did) how destructive Robb was -- they made a serious mistake in not eliminating him sooner, and did a serious disservice to the other contestants.

Maybe it's farfetched -- but I think there's something to the idea of Will and Sparkle Josh. They have a great chemistry.

In any event -- Will, you obviously have a rewarding career awaiting you. Best wishes. Thanks again.

Posted by Stacy – September 3, 2007 2:56 PM

Great show this time. I think everyone did a great job for those families. I didn't understand some of Kim's choices, like the lighter carpet, until I saw her blog about it. She explains it pretty well. ( www.kimmyles.com )I have lots more respect for her after reading her thoughts on the various challenges and designers. Will's exit shows what a class act he really was.

Posted by CarrieCali – September 3, 2007 2:53 PM

Well, I guess that the "judges" are really blind,
and all the In Style person can see is Todd. I guess she is ruled by her hormones and seems very
anti-female (feel sorry for her female employees who work for her because she seems she can be a real witch). Will is far the best and Toad is
horrible (have a very high opinion of himself)but
I was at the New York City press release and he is as bad as Robb but hides it better. Toad has
a poor attitude towards the others because he booed Lisa when someone commented about her and
also rolled his eyes when Lisa was mentioned. Also, he stole her material and space and complained to the producers that he needed that
spot to built his stupid skateboard ramp (growup)!! I will definitely not watch if he wins because he cannot host at all!! He is way too much into himself and cannot design what
people want. I also will not watch Vern's new
show because I feel he has terrible taste in what
he feels are good designs and is afraid to stand
up to those two women judges. The President of
HGTV show should really reconsider doing another
DesignStar show because this one was not impressive at all and I won't watch another one
and considering not watching HGTV any more.

Posted by mary – September 3, 2007 2:52 PM

I love the show!!!! Reading through the comments, I have to say you guys have a lot of unfounded opinions about the judges. You know it's always easy to voice an opionion from your living room but, I think you have to give the judges their props! They are the ones who actually face these people and deliver the bad news. I too miss Sparkle and was sad to see Will go, both were my favorites, however I don't think they base their decisions on popularity and good looks. I'm sure they all paid their dues in the world of design and achieved their status through hard work and tons of stress. Come on now............

Judges and Clive......keep on doin' what you're doin'!!!

Posted by Kate – September 3, 2007 2:52 PM

Hi again, Am I the only female that for some reason can not get over the fact that the DUDE makes my skin crawl. LOL I just don't know what it is about him that grates me so much. Maybe it goes back to my bar hopping days when there was always one guy who thought he was the stud & all the chicks flocked around him. To me it is so fake & ingenuine. He's the type of guy that looks just a second too long at you that makes you feel uncomfortable. Maybe Martha enjoys that type of exchange but come on it is just so obvious that he is playing her like a dummy and he is winning the game. As far as Skinny, I really don't think she had much to say about who got ousted. I do think she was the only one in the bunch who really felt badly when any one got ousted. Is there anyone else out there that has the same condition about men like me ie. the DUDE? PLEAAASE help me or refer me to a good Shrink. THANKS

Posted by pf – September 3, 2007 2:46 PM

I can not believe we have lost Will also. Scott, Will and Sparkle Josh were the designers this season with talent. I like Kim, would love her to do my hair but would not want here decorating my house. Todd I would love to landscape my backyard, maybe add a pool, but his room last night was awful. He would make a great carpenter for a real designer on a show. Like most people I think HGTV needs to give Will and Sparkle Josh a show! Let Todd act as their carpenter. Kim can be wardrobe and hair. Scott can be creative director, because he is a fabulous. designer in real life. This season has been a joke. Maybe Vern is wanting a new bad design show to make his look better.

Posted by Leighb – September 3, 2007 2:43 PM

I think the judges were being bias in their decision. As a person who knows designing and an HGTV fan, i was disappointed to see Will go. Todd and Will are the best. it was just a bias decision, as im sure Will could have taken lessions on hosting as his designs are wonderful.

Posted by kim – September 3, 2007 2:42 PM

IT'S NOT A DESIGN SHOW -- IT'S A DESIGN STAR SHOW. This isn't a show for the best designer, or the prize would be a design company. They have to have 'presence' and Will (although he IS a great designener and a 'real' person) doesn't have "IT" Josh has it (He did catch a LOT of attention afterall) Kim has it (she seems very comfy in front of the camera) even Todd has it (Extreme is catchy!)
I can't predict which will win next week; but I am looking forward to teh show.

Having said that; I would LOVE to know how much of their budgets these people actually spent. Kim bought furniture and carpet, Todd bought a lot of wood, couch, and a TV. Will bought paint and a TV??? I know the TV wasn't cheap, but I'm SURE he didn't spend the whole 10K. Couldn't he have bought her a new bed at least? Kim even did the dining room as well ("I figured I had 10K so I thought Why NOT!")

Posted by Mel – September 3, 2007 2:39 PM

Down to two!! Message for Will; your designs have been great throughout the competition. Unfortunately, I think your competition out hosted you or you would still be there. The best of luck to you, Will. You were the gentleman all the way and you will be missed. At this point, I have to go with Kim. I'm still wishing Josh Johnson was still in there. The whole season just seemed to be missing the proper judging and not enough individual designs. We, the viewers, can't be that far off the mark when so many of us see and feel the same things about this show this season. I am such an HGTV fan, but I truly hope something is changed so next season can be better. Bottom line - give Josh Johnson a show!!!!!!!

Posted by Joanie – September 3, 2007 2:37 PM

Design Star is excellent T.V. whomever wins! I have truly enjoyed watching all the different designers, so much so that I watch the repeats of the show throughout the week...can't get enough!

Posted by Sandy – September 3, 2007 2:36 PM

Will had the most heart AND design strength of any of the contestants--Vern had called him genuine an episode or so back, which captures him perfectly. I certainly hope this launches him onto a so well-deserved career path in his field and that maybe somewhere down the line we'll see him again. I'll definitely miss him.

Of the 2 left, Kim is going to get my vote. Besides the fact that I'm originally a Queens girl myself, I really like the empathy she has for her clients and the fact that she remembers that there are many on the design spectrum who work within real-life limits to achieve the kind of serenity and soul boost a connection a design charge can provide. She's polished and poised and what she lacks in design background I think she'll make up for fast (David vaulted to his full promise over time as well, in his weaker area--still wish they had given Will a chance to do that, but hey, you can't have everything). Todd's a little too "extreme" and one dimensional to me, though I do think that what he's good at he does well. he doesn't have the arrogance of Robb (this is my first blog post so my first chance to say this), who just repulsed me. I don't care how much talent he had--and his designs never really did much for me--that level of ego and disrespect for others is inexcusable and would most certainly have soured any viewer experience. It would have been all "look at me, look at ME!!!!!" and I only wish he had been voted off earlier (I miss Sparkle's sweetness and inventiveness). I was certainly going to stand ready at the phone dial position to boot him off if I had been forced into that position--ANY of them would have been better than him, and I think it's really sad that it was still all about how it was always someone else fault that he failed. He said "I fought all the way" when he left, and all I could think was, "but you didn't have to fight." I shudder to think what his childhood was like to cultivate such an angry, defensive, and pitifully small personality.

anyway, that's enough making up for lost time. I'm still a hooked viewer and think the calibre of designer, overall, is definitely better this year, though I agree with one other blogger who said they thought the show was zipping by pretty fast.

ap, minneosta

Posted by adela peskorz – September 3, 2007 2:33 PM

It's really sad that Will was eliminated. He had the best designs, knew how to work with people, and had the most common sense. He was a pleasure. Hosting skills could have been worked on but this was about design and doing what was best for others. I definitely would have watched a show with Will. The other two - not so sure

Posted by Mary Ann Angelo – September 3, 2007 2:28 PM

I can see many agree with me so will keep it short. The Judges their show should be cancelled. The women act as if they are in much NEED of a man. Todd should have been the first to go, he has no class as a designer, in fact what did he design that could be used in the home? The people who selected this group made the biggest mistake. CANCEL THEM !

Posted by PATRICIA BALZER – September 3, 2007 2:25 PM

Will's departure was a disaster. He did a great job.
On the other hand, Kim's room lloked like she bought her furniture at Big Lots, it was placed in a bizarre fashion, and I thought she should have been dressed down for the carpet decision. It is going to get filthy straight away. Very poor choice. They were just so grateful for anything, bless them. Todd's room was elegant, thoughtful andd beautiful. I don't get it. But then ago, Robb was a better designer, too. Kim's room was so awful, and I felt very bad for Will. He did a great job!

Posted by fanfare – September 3, 2007 2:20 PM

Willie should not have been the one to go home last night. He was the better designer than the girl. You can teach hosting but not design. I am very disapointed.

Posted by Darlene Smithart – September 3, 2007 2:20 PM

The more I watched this show the more disappointment I got. Robb, Todd, and Neeraja should have been the first three eliminated. It became obvious that the judges especially Martha McCully and Cynthia Rawley were prejudice towards Will and Josh. Will and Josh were the best at designing and Scott was pretty good too. Since they eliminated Will I am no longer going to bother watching the last show or whatever show is developed from it since it is so obvious that this show is fixed.

Posted by Peggy – September 3, 2007 2:12 PM

WILL--You have touched my heart!! I would love to see you working with the show Ty Pennington is on. You have such a heart and the fact that you left with such grace and humility--WOW!! You were not my favorite before this (I really like KIM) BUT you became my fav after last night!! GOD BLESS and I hope you have the opportunity to make a lot of people happy in years to come.

Posted by Razzy – September 3, 2007 2:11 PM

I just tried to post and my post was "held" saying I was a first time poster. This is not true as I have posted many times last week. I can't believe I am being censored...as my comments are no worse than many others I have read here. We all dislike Martha and are simply stating that fact. I thought this was America...remember?...Free Speech?

Posted by patricia – September 3, 2007 2:10 PM

Hi all. Just want to say I agree with most of you...Will was robbed. Todd needs to keep his shirt on. And Kim is nice and has good hosting skills, but is clearly not a very good designer...although she gave the family something far better than they had before. Also wanted to say I was censored in the "Rate My Work" section...I was trying to say that Martha is not a designer, she's only a writer and magazine editor and is not really qualified to judge. Then I went onto her personal blog and tried to post twice...both posts were censored and never appeared. The best part is she has "0 comments" on her blog. Either she is so irrelevant no one wants to post, or every post is censored because they are all negative towards her. Tee hee hee :-)

Posted by patger – September 3, 2007 2:07 PM

New show for next season:

"WHERE THERE'S A 'WILL' THERE'S A WAY"
straight from his mouth.

All the best to Will, not only does he listen to his clients needs, but he also looks at what they dont see. He noted that the fact the his client was short he designed her room using psychology in how high he painted the walls to ensure that his client would not have the added 'handicap' of feeling short. Wonderful compassion and insight.
Its a pity I am so far away in Jamaica or I would definately love to have him design my home.

Posted by Lavern – September 3, 2007 2:04 PM

Hey did anyone notice that Will posted??? Please go visit his website at www.interiormotives.ws

Will you are the TRUE Design Star and all of us wish you well in the future. We know you will go far - God Bless!

Posted by dmz – September 3, 2007 2:03 PM

WILL:
I'M FROM PUERTO RICO,EVERY SUNDAY I SEE DESIGNER STAR CHALLENGE.YOUR DESIGN WAS THE BEST.IF I NEED TO DO A RENOVATION TO MY GRANDAUGHTER REALLY I DO THE SAME DECORATION YOU DO LAST NIGHT.IT'S AMAZING! WOW , I LOVE THAT COLORS. REALLY.

Posted by ANA – September 3, 2007 2:00 PM

Sorry. The professional team missed the mark this week. Will is a fabulous designer who follows through like a pro! Anyone can learn to be "camera ready", David Bromstad has proven that with his show this year. Superb listening skills, a heart for the cllient's needs, a true sense of design style, and the ability to execute the design are the gifts that Will would have brought to a new HGTV show. I watch HGTV for several hours everyday. I'm truly disappointed that I won't be able to add Will's show to my "favorites" list.

Posted by Nagatha – September 3, 2007 1:59 PM

Will's exit interview is on the Design Star site, but for some reason they edited out his mention of Bridget.

Are they purposely trying to cover up just how sensitive and personable Will is.

HGTV has to see the huge mistake they made by selecting looks over talent.

We fans deserve an apology but I know that will not happen.

HGTV make amends and give Will his on show. With all of the numerous, numerous blogs concerning him you owe that much to your loyal fans.

****** Will's new show---"With you in mind" coming soon! (Just a suggestion HGTV since Will always has his clients wants in mind)

Posted by Georgia34 – September 3, 2007 1:56 PM

todd is going be the hgtv desiga star.randy shader

Posted by randy shader – September 3, 2007 1:51 PM

Another post. Please CANCEL Martha's show NOW, before the last designer show next week. She is such a dip - drooling over Todd and ignoring the other designers talents. Vern, you should have stood your ground and voted Todd down and kept Will and Kim. Will and Kim could have a great show together . . . Will could do the designs and Kim could be the host to talk about the designs. Todd could just go away! ! ! ! He's so 'in love with himself' and who wants to see his white, white torso - it's really creepy looking.

Hope you have a different panel to judge the designers next year. Definitely need someone who will not be so biased and drool all over one of the designers. Bad taste.

Posted by BB – September 3, 2007 1:49 PM

Its such a shame that this is not a show about design. Not one of the rooms tonight were special. Functionality was lost on 2 out of 3 and
artistic flare didn't even show up at all - I'm with all of those that thinks this has turned into a show about physique and charm not design.

Posted by connie lyn – September 3, 2007 1:47 PM

What everyone fails to see is that Design Star is not about talent or design. It is about potential ratings. Todd will be the next Design Star. As Carrie Bradshaw said- it's about the Zaz Za Zoo - Martha eat your heart out. Todd is married, at least on paper.

Posted by Evelyn McDonnell – September 3, 2007 1:42 PM

I feel the new format of filming all the episodes has diminished some of the excitement of watching the shows. The finished rooms are shown so quickly, from few angles and without closeups that it is hard to see what was accomplished. It seems anticlimatic. I would really like to see more time devoted to the viewing of the finished rooms.
Very disappointed with the decison of the judges.
What is with the infatuation of the women over Todd? it isn't very subtle.
Will and Sparkle Josh should have a show with Todd as carpenter, now that I would watch.

Posted by Linda Rogers – September 3, 2007 1:42 PM

A call for new judges next season. They are the most boring part of the show- especially Martha & Cynthia.

Posted by roomz – September 3, 2007 1:39 PM

Well maybe they decided from their experience with David that they would not go through the things they needed to, to get David ready for tv. It may be much easier and cheaper to give the Host the design directions than to train them to be come across well on camera. If the cameras do not love you, you can't be on tv.

Will knew this was coming...do not feel too disappointed, he got probably the best gift of all those ppl...to advertise his talent and business to all of America and beyond. Now he does not have to put up with a whole set of BS from show producers etc....leave the headaches to "no-talent" Kim and "over-the-top" Todd. He can run his own show with more clients! Good luck Will!

For those who did not see, Will responded above. He also gave his website url.

Posted by Dekkah – September 3, 2007 1:34 PM

I have thought that everything Will designed was stylish and classy throughout the competition. He definately did the best design last night working on Bridgit's room and I cannot believe that he was cancelled. I liked his warmth and folksy, caring manner and I think he would have become more accustomed to talking in front of a camera as time went on. I like Kim as well but I think the judges have been clearly directed to choose Todd. His design work stinks and will not align itself to HGTV viewers who won't want a skateboard ramp in their living room any more than a rotating platform. Now we head for Hawaii which seems the right venue for his outre style. I am tired of hearing the judge say "this is sooooo hard" every week. It should have been an easy choice on Sunday only the judges overlooked talent for cheesecake. I KNOW Todd will have his shirt off again in Hawaii--he isn't David Bromstad who is a very talented designer so the judges need to stop looking at his body and look at his design work.

Posted by Patty – September 3, 2007 1:29 PM

I was extremely impressed with the compassion of Will... That really is what life is all about. Will will be an extreme success with this experience. Some many have expressed dissatisfacton with last night's decision. Now we have the opportunity to vote. It is almost like the two party system which will become important next November as we choose the best of the worst. Both Todd and Kim did expressed themselves a slight better than Will. However, I see this year's show as political. Who will the viewers enjoy seeing weekly. So we move on..

Posted by steve – September 3, 2007 1:26 PM

The judges need to be cancelled. Todd is no David and Kim is no designer. Will has the special touch, he listens to the client and produces. HGTV should consider a new program, "Dynamic Duo Design" STARRING Will and "Sparkle". They should also search for judges that are interested in the design talent and not the "chest" of the contestants, Martha! Martha has made a fool of herself and should return to her real job and take Todd with her. If you are interested in Will's designs his website is www.interiormotive.ws. Hope he is flooded with business and doesn't have time for HGTV and all the bs.

Posted by Carol Jones – September 3, 2007 1:22 PM

Will, thanks for giving us great design on Design Star. As I have said in many of my blogs, you always were the "real Design Star" from the beginning.

I read your blog and I'm so happy that you gave God all the Glory. He will definiately continue to bless you.

As a true lover of design myself, I say thank you once again for what you brought to the table on Design Star. As a fellow Christian, I say...may God our Father through Jesus Christ continue to bless you and allow you to glorify him through you wonderful gift of design.

Remember to always stay humble no matter how big you get.

I am so proud of you!

Sincerely,
Georgia S.

Posted by Georgia34 – September 3, 2007 1:18 PM

How about replacing Martha McCaley with Dominique
Browning of House Beautiful magazine, someone who
sees design and beauty outside a young male body.

Posted by stacy – September 3, 2007 1:18 PM

The out cry from Will's departure has been overwhelming! We have all gotten personally involved with the show and the contestants. No matter which person left this week, there would have been massive protests.
As the three contestants stood before the judges, I hated to see any of them leave. Someone had to go, I'm glad I didn't have to choose. You could see the judges were struggling with their verdict. I commend them for their insite, constructive critisizism, and fairness.

Posted by Mary J. Anderson – September 3, 2007 1:17 PM

Will, you're a class act! Thanks for everything!

I am not one to comment on blogs, but I must say that I truly believe that the (female) judges were bias against Will from the start of the show! Vern seemed to be the only one to honestly expressed his unbiased opinions week in and week out; albeit, he got it wrong last night and agreed to cancel Will's show! Vern, I respect you and have been admiring your work for a long time but I must say that I was disappointed last night.

Granted, we only saw (a bit) of the project, but from my viewpoint, Will's work "hit the mark!

To HGTV "powers-that-be": if you're simply looking for someone with "the ability to host"; say so!!!!

Female judges, if you return for the next season, please leave your bias' at the door and have a bit more integrity!!!!! Sadly, you guys didn't even hide your disdain for Will and your love for others....

Kim and Todd, good luck next week!

David B: Question: Do you truly believe that Will should've been eliminated because he didn't have "bunches of fun lamps around Bridget's room??? BTW - Please wear a shirt for your next "after-the-show" reaction! (Luv ya! But have to be honest).

Posted by GJ – September 3, 2007 1:17 PM

Will, your talent is true. You have a strong work ethic and communication skills. Those will help you succeed in life. But most of all your genuineness is beautiful. You are real. That is a rare quality(especially on t.v.). I respect and admire people who are genuine, like you, and so do others. God's blessings to you as you move forward with your career and your life.

Posted by Annie – September 3, 2007 1:13 PM

I'm disappointed that Will went home.. but I knew he would. He was definitely my favorite designer, BY FAR! Kim's designs never stand out, and Todd's are usually just so "out there" that they aren't practical for everyday use. I felt like last year David's hosting skills were much like Will's and I think they made a mistake by eliminating him based on that. I think it would have been much easier to make him into a wonderful host than to try and make one of the other two into a wonderful designer. Will, your graciousness was noticed and appreciated, and as a resident of Charlotte, I hope you will continue to design, and I know you will be so successful!

Posted by Mandi – September 3, 2007 1:10 PM

I watched all of the first season and now watch David's Color Splash, and enjoy it. He is a real talent. This season revealed some talented designers. Will Smith outshone them all. This last challenge demonstrated the real design talents. Will was without question, the winner!
Vern, how could you let the other judges persuade you otherwise??? You lost a STAR in sending Will away. Delivery on camera can be taught; talent cannot.

Posted by Greta Rainsford – September 3, 2007 1:04 PM

I was very impressed with Will's design. Of the three I thought he questioned and listened to his client the best. He did an outstanding job for that little girl - with very little drama involved. His hosting could have come along if they had given him a chance. Yes, I like Kim as a real person, but come on! beige carpet in a coal miners house! She is going to need a lot of help if she gets her own show. As for Todd, I agree that HGTV had him pegged at the beginning as they are looking for some pizazz, apparently. Ugh. Give us back a real design show.

Posted by Rose – September 3, 2007 1:02 PM

Arizona's take:

Will was the only one who pulled off a professionally designed room. We don't agree with Vern that his design bordered on sterile. What struck us was that Will gave that girl a perfect environment to bring in her own personality. Who knows what little personal item of whimsy she has stored away that she will put right in the middle of that white desk under the lamp, which will make the room just "hers." To us, that's the mark of a good designer: one who takes the room right up to that point and allows the owner to add that last little touch. And as far as addressing her bubbly personality, he did that with the polka dots on the wall as well as the round knobs on the drawers, and the lava lamp.

We maintain that after having seen all the contestants from this year's competition, only two stand out as people we'd want to watch every week. Will and Josh. They make the perfect team-designers. Will, the consummate strategist and Josh the perfect, spectacular host. Let Will design and let Josh accessorize and take us through it. HGTV, you have happened upon a ratings winner with these two, and we hope you recognize that. Give them their own show together and you will make America happy.

No matter who wins next week, neither Todd nor Kim have the ability to capture an audience; their show will go flat and it will not be renewed. Please take away from this series a new twist, because you've spun yourselves into the ground by eliminating the people we, the viewers want to watch. Give us back Ebony and Ivory. Now that we know they exist, we can't imagine a network without them. And here you are teasing us again with their presence in the last episode. Don't let it be the last time.

JJ and HL on behalf of the entire state of Arizona

Posted by JJ – September 3, 2007 12:58 PM

I will miss Will, I still think he should have won, Todd just to wild, to over the top. Kim is good socially, but not the great designer. Will has the design, heart, and really cares about his client, why didn't you get him help with talking on TV.

Do a show of Will and Sparkle Josh, and I will watch every show! They would be fun to watch!

It should be Will !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Let us know what happens to Will Please!!! And what happens to Josh Sparkle too!

Posted by Michele – September 3, 2007 12:57 PM

After reading all of the comments, everyone is in agreement. WILL IS THE TRUE DESIGNER. He hit the nail on the head with Bridget's wants and needs. He even went as far as looking into her future as far as needs. For everyone that is not going to vote next week, don't let Todd win, I hate to say it vote for Kim. Just as someone can be given acting lessons she can go to design school.

Posted by Connie – September 3, 2007 12:57 PM

Will should have won last night and after reading the reviews I"m glad most feel the same way. People watch HGTV for design ideas. I know I do. Kim while pleasing as HOST can't design and I don't appreciate that training along with talent for design is overlooked. Todd is a good carpenter. HGTV give Will his own show I want more ideas of design and functional space planning.

Posted by Marida – September 3, 2007 12:53 PM

I really enjoyed Design star tonight . It was nice to see people who deserve help get it .. Gee they all were so good . I think Will is the very best designer but think he knows his hosting skills arent good . Kim for sure has the best hosting skills but Todd is the better of the two in design . I think he has calmed down alot and a great designer .. Gosh i really wish Will the best and i think he will go on to really do great things .I will miss not seeing you Will You are a great guy and respected the most out of all the degigners .. God bless you Will ........ Who will win ? I have no idea ...Wheres My Sparkle ???? ...Paula

Posted by Paula – September 3, 2007 12:49 PM

Ok I wasn't going to comment here but I just had to when someone said that Todd has on his web site that he won. Now tell me how can that be when we the viewers have not voted as of yet. I for one am not impressed with Todd at all I don't feel he has what it takes to design for the everyday person. He just way to much into show boating. I also wish it would have come down between Will and Kim but as everyone has said here Will will come out of this as a true winner because now the world has had a chance to see what a great designer he is and what a special person he is, so I would bet his phone is going to ringing off the hook with people wanting him to design their homes. I will be voting for Kim I think she is awsome. If she wins to will show the world that anything is possible if you want it bad enough and work at it hard enough.

Posted by Barbara Cieslik – September 3, 2007 12:48 PM

First I want to say, I absolutely LOVE Will. His humility and his talent are most obvious. Design is an art and either you have it or you don't and he has it in spades. It is a natural talent that should be recognized and celebrated. Todd and Kim are good hosts, but that is like judging a book by its cover. When you get past the cover what do you get. Okay designs.

With Will the cover can be spruced up, but when you open his book, you get consistent, outstanding and polished woork. Also, you get a person who can work well with anyone. Did anyone notice that he was NOT the center of conflict? Did anyone notice the excitement (genuine I might add) when he was showing his room to the family. Not staged, but truly a loving experience. I hope HGTV realized they have a diamond in the rough with Will and offer him a show. Hmmmm....How about a show on learning how to be a host. That would be a really great show. Marry great design with what it really takes to become a host.

Posted by Glenda Hoagland – September 3, 2007 12:26 PM

I agree with most of you -- I think Will should have stayed. He has great personality, he is very "in tune" with his clients, he has great design. I do believe that he needed more of Bridget's personality in the room -- something that said "high school student". Todd, I'm sorry -- he just doesn't cut it for me -- the placement of furniture -- didn't work! Kim, I like her personality and the care she seems to take with clients. I am concerned about her design -- I agree with David on this vlog -- placement of the chair in front of the fireplace was rather strange and the couch up against the window when there was so much floor space. I think I will probably be voting for Kim next week -- I just hope her design lives up to what I expect from her!

Posted by Deb – September 3, 2007 12:26 PM

I'm with Judy... will there be a slot for write-in candidates when it's time for America to vote? Will always had and always will have my vote!!!!

Otherwise, just like they surprised us with double eliminations, would it be possible for them to surprise us again with double wins by giving Will (and someone else) each their own show?

Posted by Bisi – September 3, 2007 12:24 PM

Todd is out of the box. Loved his blue&white room. His red room is great. His Design series should be "for out of the box" people. Kim is safe but she has had terrible team members and the elements...wow? There is always something to hamper her design within the timeframe.The owners wanted something dull??? Will brought down the "roof" with his low painted walls that was the greatest of all. All designers hv to work in color and styles of consumers. I want a "Star" (winner or loser (pls not Robb)to come to Chicago and help me. Who can be like David B.? No one!!!

Posted by C.Jones – September 3, 2007 12:22 PM

Is HGTV reading the AUDIENCE'S commentary? The shows that should've been cancelled are the two women judges. It's been obvious all along that they're libidos are dominating their decisions. Will is BY FAR the best designer of the final 10. God must have great plans for him to keep him from a limiting TV show. Does anyone at HGTV have a clue when it comes to 'hosting'? Will's genuine warmth, heart, and humor came shining through to the audience time and again as evidenced by the overwhelming support in all the postings. I would've watched him faithfully. Todd's a body and his designs fall short in arrangement and function, not to mention glaring lack of safety for children. Kim is comfortable with the camera, but also has some serious problems with coordinating needs and furnishings, as well as placement. As a first time viewer of Design Star, I'm thoroughly disappointed. The true Design Star just got booted by inept judges. God bless you Will! You are a complete success as a designer and a human being!

Posted by Brenda – September 3, 2007 12:22 PM

I have not always agreed with the judges: Robb should have gone long ago; Will has not been given his due. He is a great designer, and just from his closing remarks, anyone can see he is a great person! You go, Will! Keep putting your heart into it and you will be blessed!

Posted by Lorraine Hornaman – September 3, 2007 12:16 PM

Does anyone reading this have the Design Finalist Will's contact information, email address or website Please post it on this blog!

I am so disappointed in his lost. I think he is/was the best designer there! Kim's makeover was horrible and unattractive in my opinion. Todd's makeover was mediocre not exceptional in my eyesight

Posted by Pensacola,Fl – September 3, 2007 12:14 PM

Question: Why didn't Will's response get a separate blog just like Sparkle Josh's did?

Posted by Bisi – September 3, 2007 12:13 PM

I don't get it!!! Without a doubt, Will has been the most talented designer from the beginning. I have no faith what so ever in either Kim's or Todd's talent. The litmus test is who would you want to design a room in your OWN home? Will is the only one I would choose! Todd is crazy and too out there....also way too cocky and sure of himself. I would NEVER trust him to do a room in my home. Kim is absolutely adorable and throughly likable but just does not have the design talent that Will possesses. What is wrong with the judges? Shame on you!! You are trying to choose a DESIGN star!!! The hosting ability can be fostered (look at David). Will's sweet nature, sincerity, and earnest desire to please his clients shines through and totally resonates with the viewers. These qualities endear him to viewers......unlike Todd's "valley boy", "hey dude", "full throttle", stupid air head persona....he is extremely annoying. You obviously think viewers want a muscled guy who rips his shirt off at the most ridiculous times. I'm sick of it with David (don't watch his show anymore)and certainly don't want more! That is not why America watches HGTV. There is plenty of skin on the other networks and that is not why people watch your shows. Please HGTV, remember what you are about. The judges have let us all down (the blonde judge has been totally blinded by her lust for Todd)....they show how out of touch they are with the viewers...it's about the deign, not looks! Here's a winner......give Will and Kim a show together!! They have great chemistry and their obvious strengths would create the perfect balance and a fun show to watch!!

Posted by Terry – September 3, 2007 12:11 PM

Does HGTV listen? We are the viewers, We are passionate enough to write. We watch everyday.

Posted by eFUENT – September 3, 2007 12:09 PM

I believe it has all be said in the above. Will should have been the winner. I will genuinly miss Will and wish him the best. Maybe another design channel will pick him up and I will be watching.

Posted by Jean Daley – September 3, 2007 12:08 PM

WHAT A LET DOWN......HGTV
Clearly Will and Kim should have been in the final 2. Thanks Martha for wearing your talent on your sleeve tonight, could you have been a litle more obvious ?
Will, please know that your designs are great adn I have enjoyed watching you on HGTV for the this season. Lastnight was my last episode for the season, now I don't care who wins. HGTV, you need to really listen to what the family asked for, just like Will, and make your decision based on that, not on how well you come across on TV, if thats the case then Robb and Todd would have been the 2 want-to-designers to go first!
EVERYONE please visit Will's website.......
www.interiormotives.ws
and send him emails @
willsmith@yahoo.com
Let's get him into our homes to design and make him rich...........................
He doesn't need HGTV for that!
Ramona Conley-Worley from Charlotte, NC

Posted by Ramona Conley-Worley – September 3, 2007 12:05 PM

I have read through many of the other comments, and I too was so disapointed in those judges for axing Will. Anyone could be great in front of the camera with practice and coaching. As for the judges, especially the 2 women, and I for one can't remember either of their names, they themselves have no presence in front of the camera, they are both full of themselves and very dry, they'll probably pick Todd because they both seem very "hot" for him.
Will had the most grace, and he and Sparkle Josh have been my favorites. I too was concerned with the hazards for the little kids in todds house, and kim, what's with the carpet in the muddy VA house? At least in front of the door. How about bringing in a load of gravel for their driveway, and a front porch cover to the entrance to the house. I would be a loyal fan of a show with Will, he was truly the "star." If you plan a show for next year get some real judges, the ones you have now are no more "stars" than I am!

Posted by Anna B – September 3, 2007 12:05 PM

The National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) definition of a designer: "The Professional Interior Designer is qualified by education, experience, and examination to enhance the function and quality of interior spaces. For the purpose of improving the quality of life, increasing productivity, and protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the public." In my opinion only one "designer" this week exhibited these skills. Part of your mission, HGTV, should be to educate as well as entertain. It is apparent from the comments posted by viewers that you, HGTV, are not interested in providing your viewers with quality design shows.

Best Wishes to Will. Your attitude, talent and knowledge will take you far.

Posted by Linda – September 3, 2007 12:01 PM

Wow! I'm chiming in with a me,too. Will, you did great tonight and throughout the competition. I agree that you and sparkle josh would make a great team and i too hope that another network picks up the two of you. I knew y'all were great from the bedroom you did on the first episode!
This year's show has been a great disappointment to me. The judges eliminated talented people consistently (specifically Scott, Sparkle Josh and now Will) for reasons that they praised in others. How confusing to both the contestants and the viewers! I've watched Martha lust after Todd every week. That's okay, I guess, just recuse yourself from the judging on the basis of being biased.
Speaking of bias, does anyone else think the HGTV in general has an anti-south bias?

Posted by Susan Perry – September 3, 2007 12:00 PM

I am so proud of Will, he was a blessing to watch throughout the series. And he has a reason to be thankful, and it takes a good heart and blessed spirit to say that he was thankful on national television. I fell his talent will continue to speak for itself, he will grow from this experience and we WILL see Will back the next time around on Design Star. Follow your heart, dreams and keep your gentle ways because you Will, are definitely a STAR. I will be looking forward to seeing you next year.God bless you.

Posted by Kathy West – September 3, 2007 12:00 PM

I didn't get to see last night's show because I was out so will have to watch it on the repeat. However, without even seeing it, I knew Will would be eliminated. I am not a fan of Todd's work nor of Todd. Someone posted that Martha's show should be cancelled. I laughed at that one! How true. From the beginning, you could see that she was enamored with him and his looks. And, what's with the bare chest stuff? I didn't care for it with David and I don't care for it with Todd. I'm no prude, believe me, but this is not the forum for baring it all. Are they hoping that this bit of "cheesecake" will help them win? Well, it seemed to work for David although I will have to say I like him way more than Todd. I began rooting for Kim from the beginning and although I like her a lot, I have to agree with the majority here. Will would have been the best choice. I can't wait to see this episode to see what he did.

Posted by Elaine – September 3, 2007 11:56 AM

The show is not worth watching anymore. The design star that really "had what it takes" has been cancelled. Obviously, the girls are chest struck and can't see through the red, and Vern, well, you have truely dissappointed us once again. Are you sure you are looking for the best designer? It has been shown time after time, that you are looking for the cutest designer. Kim and her cute smile, Todd and his cute chest. Design??? Obviously, it's not about that. The girls searched pretty low for their comments about Will. Fake?? No fakeness in complete joy over seeing your family exstatic over your design. At least, that's what Vern says in his commercials for his upcoming design show....or is that fake??? Will certainly improved his hosting abilities, and all along has been the most centered designer from the beginning. He is a class act. You loose girls, no one will watch the show of the cute girl or boy you end up with. People will vote, just to have their say, but seriously, the show will be cancelled shortly after it starts.

Posted by ssam – September 3, 2007 11:54 AM

If I have no faith that the judges are offering fair, unbiased design oriented decisions, then why would I place my faith in their skills in their real jobs? If HGTV is choosing to foster "reality" drama over true design challenge, then why wouldn't I go for a real "reality" show on a proven network? If HGTV is offered a truly talented person like Will, who is broadly appealing and endearing, who offers quality designs, while being a role model to millions, why would they pass him up? All I can say is that I am looking for the channel that answers these questions in a way that I can respect.

Posted by sandy – September 3, 2007 11:50 AM

I'm in agreement w/comments pertaining to furniture placement in Todd's room! I'm concerned with a designer who didn't realize THIS to be an issue! BUT I think it's completely unfair to place these very minimal time limitations and expect quality work! When I'm doing a room I have varied "trial and error" placements of everything. I can't imagine the pressure/burden of thinking a designed space can be successfully accomplished in 26 hours, to include construction, painting, shopping, execution & completion. Todd's room okay - not blown away by it though!

I think the series format should include more independent assignments giving a better picture of abilities! The group assignments usually become a tug-of war! You can't group together talented people who are motivated to be "the winner" with their own ingenuity, artistry, execution and then expect them to sublimate all their efforts under an umbrella of "being cooperative"! Not realistic!

I wonder if it might be wise for HGTV to include a viewer "review-and-suggestion box" to the next series! Refining would work to the advantage of the format.

Posted by ferniesonliest – September 3, 2007 11:44 AM

It was a hard decision for the judges tonight, however one had to go and Will, with all his talent as a decorator, he just can't seem to be able to face the cameras.
Poor Kim, with all that mud, she should've put a plastic runner at the beginning or take the shoes off, which would've been hard.
I agree that the carpet needed to be of a color that would not show the dirt so much, and the furniture in leather probably too expensive.
Todd... what can you say about Todd? Send him surfing back to California he is still too immature for the job.
I will vote for Kim... she is another Lisa La Porta dynamo!

Posted by Ana_Guam – September 3, 2007 11:43 AM

I, too, am sorry to see Will go. His design was lovely, but here's something else I really liked about him.....he's genuine.

Note to HGTV: your idea about hosting these shows has become very monotonous and quite tired. Almost every host you have acts like a wind up toy, with a rictus smile, silly stunts, too, too, too much razzamatazz!

Just stop it. It makes it very tiring to watch more than two shows with hosts like that and then I need to take a break from them. Not every show needs a host who's acting like they are on medication.

Will was a lovely soothing person. A little buffing and he would have done just fine. And would have been a very welcome change from the cranked up hysteria which passes for hosting on some of your other shows.

Posted by kdenning – September 3, 2007 11:39 AM

I woke up this morning still shocked that Will was let go. I just can't believe the judges could make such a wrong choice. It is obvious the ladies favor "surfer dude" and Todd's designs are ok. Only Will had the complete package. I personally loved his designs as well as his personality. I feel REAL people are what this show needs. And, Will was best hands down. Will GOOD LUCK TO YOU, AS YOU SAID,"WHERE THERE'S A WILL, THERE'S A WAY."

Posted by Diana – September 3, 2007 11:39 AM

I have always been an avid fan of HGTV. Seeing this last episode of Design Star really disgusted me. Design is about the person(s) you are designing for - not about yourself. Will used his talents to create a functional space for Bridget. It was not about him - it was about his client. As a designer myself I often times have to put my own personal tastes aside and cater to the person who is "writing the check". What good is the greatest design if your client comes behind you and changes everything? Even though Will was not chosen as "The Judges' Choice" - you can be assured he was the "Peoples' Choice". I sincerely believe that Vern was not in agreement with this decision, and for that I commend him. I see a lot of Vern in Will - and that speaks very highly of Will. Will was more concerned about his client and what he had learned from it - than what "He" had done. I believe his passion about his work is more genuine than Todd could ever imagine. Kim seems to have the same passion for her work that Todd does, but, like Will, it is for the client - not herself. The only thing the judges did tonight was make it easier to choose the winner - Kim! Todd has a lot of potential - but he needs to think less of Todd and more of his cient.

Posted by Renee – September 3, 2007 11:35 AM

I having been giving the judges the benefit of the doubt all season, even though I disagreed with almost every choice they made. I assumed that they were seeing more than I was with their trained eyes. But, I just remembered that last season Martha McCulley and Cynthia Rowley (mostly Martha) were all agog about Tim too, the tall, cute, white (straight) male designer. I was actually surprised last year when they voted him off in the three-way elimination challenge, Martha seemed so taken with him. I think I see a trend here. Very unprofessional, ladies.

Posted by jcquilter – September 3, 2007 11:34 AM

Is it just me...or did I miss something here? - why is the one person with the most top-rated room designs NOT in the final TWO?
Will - you were my favorite from the beginning...you know compositon, function,space planning and all with a sense of aesthetic balance and beauty (all this coming from a gal who tends to stick with traditional "decorating" vs. contemporary elements). I always found a piece of your design I could appreciate and make my own...you were a smooth drink of Southern Comfort and refreshing to listen to. No hype! Just good common sense, down-to-earth style I could relate to.

Posted by Pret07 – September 3, 2007 11:29 AM

well, well, well........This is just such a strange season. Hard to figure out the judges - hard to figure out the contestants. I think they ought to restructure the goal of the show and allow for a winning TEAM of designers. The pairing of Will and "Sparkle" Josh would have made for a unique show full of personality, positive and very interesting dynamics and tremendous talents. But the reality is we are now pretty much stuck with Todd and Kim. Did no one notice that not only was Todd's placement of furniture questionable, it did not meet the basic requirements of the family. To WATCH TV when they are altogether. HOw can one do that when you're sitting on a couch facing another direction???? I also did not see any safety/child related design approaches from him, unless he didn;t point them out. His hosting skills, again, like everything else about him, is all about HIM. He is a legend in his own mind. All he did while hosting is spit out and describe what everything was - a couch, a shelf, a toybox....etc. Yeh, we can see what they are Todd. But, um.....how about a little heart and soul added to what you;re saying? Kim is cool but it is obvious she does not have the training and experience behind her to address all of the concerns and details that the family last night needed, whether they expressed them or not. I'd like to see her host a show but not be the lead designer on it. Is that possible HGTV? hhhmmmm...maybe Kim, Will and Josh altogether somehow?????? It'll be interesting to see how this all unfolds!!!

Posted by Karen – September 3, 2007 11:29 AM

Will should have been allowed to go to the next level with Todd and Kim or he definitely should have been one of the finalists. His design was on point but his presentation needed work, according to the judges. Kim and Todd had design issues but good presentation. This should have been a 3 way tie. All 3 should have advanced and America should be allowed to pick the design star winner after the last challenge. That is what I expect to tune in to on next Sunday. This will eliminate the judging bias which I felt was occurring. If I don't see Will in it, I may not be watching. I don't feel the judges made the best decision. But, they can remedy that by allowing America to select from the three left standing.

Posted by E – September 3, 2007 11:28 AM

I thought the whole point of this challenge was to design a room based on the clients wishes. In my opinion Todd had the worst design if you went by those criteria. The family likes to watch movies in that space and he didn't even have the furniture turned toward the tv. Todd should have been cancelled immediately based upon that fact. Will did exactly what Becky wanted and Kim did exactly what her family wanted. I "will not" watch his show if Todd wins and it looks like that's the way things are shaping up. Will was the best!!!

Posted by lynn – September 3, 2007 11:22 AM

I can just say that I'm very disappointed in the decision. But what a beautiful man Will is, he was so gracious I couldn't have been more proud if he was my brother. What class he showed in his exit. He has the personality for the show, he just needs help and practise the same way David did. What a shame.........

Posted by JO – September 3, 2007 11:20 AM

Something most of us on this blog and this country who watches Design Star has always really known....Will and Josh are oozing with CLASS AND TALENT! Too bad the judges can't see that! So sorry to see Will go just like I did Sparkle Josh! This year's show has been sooo disappointing and just so sad for these two talented designers. Also for Scott and Christina. Those four were the absolute best and had the most talent, class, character and values that I want to see and be inspired by on TV.

Hello producers...won't you PLEASE read these blogs and listen to your viewers?!!!!!

WARNING VIEWERS!!! If you don't want to see Robb back on TV then DON'T vote for Todd!! According to his website blog, he has already asked Robb to be on his show when he gets one and Robb has accepted. Vote for Kim because we know she won't have Robb on HER show. A vote for Kim is a vote NOT to have Robb back on TV and a vote NOT to see Todd shirtless doing his juvenile stunts and unpractical designs on TV.

Kim does seem nice but the real talents...the judges have let go. TOO BAD for HGTV viewers. It is our loss but eventually it will be HGTV's loss!! This network is losing viewers!

So proud of Will and Josh's exit interviews.

Thank you Will for writing on this blog just like Josh did. You two really need to hook up with the talents and class you both have. America wants to see you both with a design show. Maybe another network will discover your talents, class and character. God Bless you both. You are good examples of the character and values that people should have! Hope to see you both on TV somewhere SOON!

GO KIM!! SAVE US FROM TODD AND ROBB!

Cindy

Posted by Cindy – September 3, 2007 11:20 AM

Will your exit interview was beautiful..Your a gentleman ..Kim your my number one woman I will be voting for you. I am so sick of seeing a shirtless bouncing man. Todd's style is okay but isn't he just another David..which I don't really bother watching'

Posted by Peggy – September 3, 2007 11:19 AM

OOPS! I must correct myself--the last two eliminated are Will and Robb, not Robb and Josh.

Posted by terry – September 3, 2007 11:14 AM

As much as I love this show, and as much as I am cheering for Kim, last night’s design winner was Will. Yes, he was nervous in front of the camera, but are you telling me experience could not have helped him overcome his shyness?
Kim did a wonderful job giving a family who had nothing something. Nevertheless, let us be real, and I mean this nicely…wouldn’t anything have been an improvement? Yes, Josh’s design was very colorful, but not very functional, just flashy. Just having good stage presents isn’t everything, but yes, I know it helps if the people at HGTV are going to just drop a person into a show without help and guidance. YOU WERE OUTSTANDING WILL. The best thing about the evening was that two families received wonderful changes in their lives. Yes, I did say two families.

However, the most incredible thing was the extreme difference in the exit of one week’s contestant from the other. Robb, Mr. Jerk versus Will, Mr. Class. I wonder if Robb puts on those types of temper-tantrums on a real jobsite.

Posted by Deniece – September 3, 2007 11:03 AM

Will is a class act! His designs have been consistent throughout this season. I would describe his hosting skills as low-key and after watching Color Splash a few times, I think low-key would be a plus. His room for Bridget was beautiful.

Kim had a rough assignment--mobile home, middle of nowhere. She carried it off and you have to like her bubbly personality.

Todd? I thought there was too much red. The seating looked awkward. The toy box and book shelves uninspired. His hosting seemed centered on all the gadgets he bought for the family which seemed to be set up in separate stations. I would think a family room should bring families together, not put them in the same room all doing different things. The hammock for the little ones scared me. An accident waiting to happen. Why not a table and chairs to go with the blackboard? Also way too many pillows scattered around the room. Todd, were you channeling Rob here?

Given the choices, I would have kept Will. His designs have been inspired, functional, and very clean. His exit was truly classy and inspirational. You could see the connection he and Bridget had together. I choose personality over hosting skills any day!

Now if they follow last season's footsteps, does this mean the last two eliminated will be back to help the finalists? That would be Robb and Josh. I would say no thank-you to Robb!

While I loved last season, I think this season' challenges have been too similar. Too many eliminations too quickly with not enough individual challenges. While I agree teamwork is important, we really needed to see more individual stuff!! And how about some new judges for next season?? Or just let "America" pick the winners each week? We know what we like!

Posted by terry – September 3, 2007 10:55 AM

Of the three, I think only Bridgett will be happy in the long run. The Indiana family will have to rearrange the furniture completely, since those on the couch (with the exception of the small L part) have their backs to the TV - and the kid aspects had no safety features included (how many decades has it been since people were told not to put tops on toy boxes that slammed all the way down?). And the hammock for an 18-month old. Obviously Todd does not have kids.

And the West Virginia family's carpet and furniture will soon look like the old did. Even though Kim did add a small amount of tile at the door entry - it probably isn't enough.

Yes, both were happy, but wouldn't you be if you got all that free? Long term - only Bridgett will be truly happy with the her new room.

Posted by Anne – September 3, 2007 10:47 AM

Wow, great show. Will is such a beautiful person. I loved his exit interview and I just saw his blog comments. He will go far in life and will be very busy designing for people and changing their lives positively for years to come. I loved "Where there's a Will, there's a way!" That was so cute.

That being said, however, I think ultimately the judges made the right decision. Will does a great job but his designs do look pretty much exactly the same, and they are very nice, but they never really changed much. Plus, he doesn't need his own show to accomplish great things in life - he already has - and he "gets it" in that he gets what his purpose is on this earth and it is to give glory to God and to serve others. Way to go, Will. It's not always the destination but the journey.

Anyway, I thought Kim did a good job with what she had. That wasn't completely fair with her being in the boonies and working on a double wide. I thought she left too much wasted space in there and didn't like her layout, but her overall design plan was solid and her heart was in the right place as well. She is so much fun to watch on camera as well. I loved the colors she picked, just not the furniture arrangements, but she did what she could with limited stores to shop in, I am sure.

I thought Todd did a great job as well. I would have liked to have seen all that he wanted to do in the beginning, but I thought he was smart to "throttle back" in his design plans. I wish he would have balanced out the strong red colors with more neutrals, however. Red can drive you crazy over time. I loved those chairs he got for them; they were awesome.

It was just so much more enjoyable watching 3 nice people work last night without the "cutting people down" drama of Robb. I watch this show to learn things and if there is a little bit of drama, then that's okay, but it CANNOT be the sole focus of the show - that really detracts.

I am anxious to see what goes on in Hawaii. I like both of them and have no idea how I will vote in the end. I need to see some more skills first and wonder what kind of show HGTV wants. I absolutely LOVE David's show, Color Splash. I think either Todd or Kim would give a good show at this point.

Posted by Mandy – September 3, 2007 10:43 AM

I am sure you are reading as fast as you can, but why did you cut out my blog from week 5 when Robb was cut. I wasn't rude or crude or anything, just voiced my opinion that Kim is NOT a designer. You originally posted my blog, and then you removed it. Why?

Posted by desert nurse – September 3, 2007 10:39 AM

I am very disappointed that Will was let go. He has a heart as big as this country and a million dollar smile! His designs are great, and he truly hits the mark with his clients. He may not be the high energy person the others are, but so what? I watch HGTV quite a bit and in a network, as in life, you need balance. I think with the money put into this show, they could hire a coach and I am sure in 3 hours, Will's personailty would come through in a camera friendly way. He can speak, he can design, he cares, and is someone you feel comfortable with right away. He is also gracious, I might add. Instead of a tantrum, like Robb, he loved his experience and grew from it and will move forward. I also like Kim and Todd, Kim more than Todd. I too would have liked to see Kim and Will in the final 2. The judges have the upper hand (until next week) but they could have seen a real star in Will had they given him the chance.

Posted by Michele – September 3, 2007 10:32 AM

Well tonight Martha won! She was so negative towards Will and at least she admits that she "likes Todd". Todds choice of colors were awful as well as the space usage. He had 10,000 dollars and the big ticket item was the TV? How are they going to watch it from the placement of the couch? Kim's choices of couch/chair were dreadful. Here design ideas were the result of lack of experience. The place looked empty. Yes, their hosting a TV show but they need practical, usable advice/experience. I'll be thinking of Martha when I seen InStyle next to Oprahs Home magz...by the way, Rowley's design line of bed linens, flopped at Target and has since been pulled. The viewer has a long memory...Thank God, the couple of Todd's design were EMTs! When the little girls fall out of those hammocks and hit their heads on he buildt in toy chest or get banged on the head by the lids of those chests....stupid.

Posted by lynn schmollinger – September 3, 2007 10:32 AM

I truly enjoyed seeing all three designers showing other human aspects of themselves. The three of them showed emphaty to the families and did do their best! I know one thing, I rather not be a judge, it is so hard to be fair as they consider different aspects needed to host a show plus the designer ability, creativity, plus how they relate to their team members and clients. I sure still miss Sparkle Josh and agree with another post that S. Josh and Will together in a show might be a great combination if giving them a chance. But even those that are not in the competition anymore got a lot out of it, as humans, this matter more than money and being famous!
I'm looking forward to see the next episode. Kim has showed not only her talent as a designer but what a great heart she has! Todd has showed (a lot of shirtless upper body! ;) just kidding, he shows dedication and creativity. Both Kim and Todd can be the winner! Again I'm glad I'm not one of the judges! Can they have 2 final winners?

Posted by Roxana Reyes Davis – September 3, 2007 10:22 AM

The judges really messed up this time! Will & Kim should be the final two--both of whom are natural stars. On the other hand, Todd is an over-grown, over-aged surfer! He thinks & feels that everything is about him, his wants, his desires, his needs. He does not know how to host--he redirects everything back to himself rather than what's important. The movements of his arms and hands when talking to/with someone is extremely distracting--the same motions I have noticed from my grandson and others his age.

Designing spaces is SUPPOSED to be about the client, the needs, wants, dislikes of the client--not what someone else thinks it should be.

Will did a fantastic job design, carry-out, & follow-through. The client(s) were extremely pleased, excited, & HAPPY! This is what it is all about. He also did a fantastic job hosting his work tonight--he seemed much more relaxed & at ease like he was pleased with the outcome of his work and the reaction by the client(s)! Great job, Will!

Also, Kim did a wonderful job--outstanding really! Her conditions were the toughest of all! (Will's wasn't a cake-walk either--designing for a physically handicapped teenager is a challenge unto itself--let alone bringing it all together and delighting the client beyond words!) By the way, have you ever tried to design, redo, rearrange in a mobile home? Because of the construction, one is limited to what can be brought into the space (weight), size, etc. Because of this, hardwood floors are simply out of the question! As for the carpet color, it was fine! Using a dark carpet would have darkened the space even more, made it seem smaller, and it is much more difficult to keep clean! Kim used the colors that the client wanted! That's part of what made them so happy and pleased with Kim's work!

As for the fire fighters' home, Todd really did very little except paint, buy furniture, remove the wet bar, and arrange the furniture. By the way, fire fighters see "RED" all the time in the work place--why on earth would you use the same color at home!???!! Red is not a peaceful, harmonious, relaxing color; it is the color of fire and rage! It's O.K. to use red color splashes--but not entire walls and/or rooms!

I really wish that Kim & Will were the final two because, in my book, they are the real stars & have demonstrated that everytime!

Posted by Lucretia McLeroy – September 3, 2007 10:20 AM

It was a fantastic show. Each of the designers showed great work with the little time they had. Unfortunately I feel that one of your judges is a little bit self centered. Every time I watch Design Star there seems to be only one judge who forgets that some of these contestants are just starting out and that they need a little encouragement to go a little bit farther. Yes, the conestants need to better thenselfs but remember that they are what they are humans with hearts and souls. Mr. Yip you need to stop and smell the roses as you seem in every epsiode to be a very critical person. If this is how you go through life then you might want to step back and take a hard look at yourself. Sometimes we are too close to the situation.

Posted by Rick – September 3, 2007 10:08 AM

It was very emotional for me to see Will be eliminated. I picked him as the winner when I voted. His design and his graceful exit interview proved that he is the true STAR of the season. Will's heart, design, common sense and genuine care for the client outmatched them all in my book. Will, you are an inspiration and thank you for being a witness for your faith. I think you did more for America than you know! God bless you!

Posted by Tami in VA – September 3, 2007 10:05 AM

I have changed my mind about Todd. At first I was all for him. After reading the Blog on his website, I am going to vote for KIM. I hope others will join me in that vote. Todd's Blog refers to putting together a team of designers from across the country and the only one who has signed on is -you guessed it- ROBB! Todd mentions that he is still working on the other castmates...in my opinion, they will never want to work with Robb again!! I AM VOTING FOR KIM JUST ON PRINCIPLE ALONE!! I think Todd is a sell out and will do or say whatever he thinks the masses want to hear. I understand he is playing to win but the contest goes beyond the final episode...he will have to prove himself on every show if he wins...I don't think he has the staying power.

Posted by Ricardo – September 3, 2007 10:04 AM

Will, You are a Star. You were tuned into your client and you delivered in real life. Alas, the judges didn't see that as enough. You were so gracious when your show was cancelled. Best wishes to you.

I'm glad to see I wasn't the only one concerned about the toy box dangers! Can you say "pinch points"? WTH! And the red, red, red. I give it a week and it will, sadly, be impossible to live in that space.

Kim, sweetie - coal, wood burning stove. It's already been said so well here. That carpet will be such a burden for that wife.

Oh, well. Still excited to watch the final, and VOTE!

Posted by ktsmom – September 3, 2007 10:04 AM

HGTV although I have enjoyed the show i thought it went way to fast. there weren't enough individual challenges and now we are suddenly at the final two. there wasn't a chance to see the people develop and learn. and rob..well good riddance. i would have NEVER watched him even if he had won. next year, have more individual challenges and make the season longer. this has been way to short.

Posted by Gwen – September 3, 2007 10:01 AM

I agree that Will was by far the best and most deserving. The judges don't have a clue what on air presence even means. They seem to think that it means forced humor with flashy, childish antics. I have seen too many shows where the hosts are TRYING to be funny or hip or "different," but what happens is they are all the same. It was refreshing to watch a down-to-earth genuine personality that people just liked. That was different. I would be interested in watching a show where Will goes to homes of regular folks who are deserving of a little sunshine because of a challenge they are facing (e.g financial, medical, loss of family). It would be a refreshing feel good show that, although it won't eliminate the families' challenge, would at least bring a deserving break from it. Will would be perfect for the job. Lastly, the judges, with the exception of Vern, have no clue what good design is. Again, they want flashy and "new." What those of us who watch HGTV want is appealing, clean, and stylish. It just makes no sense to me how they can criticize Will's design and praise Todd's. No offense, but Todd and Kim's design were not really designs. With 10,000 dollars, who couldn't go out and buy nice furniture, cool electronics, new flooring, window treatments, etc? The point to design is making it look good. It is in the details, placement, etc. Will was wonderful at that. Vern mentioned that they could each be taught. Well, for a design show, I would rather watch a designer taught to be comfortable on TV than an entertainer taught design. A show given to an entertainer taught design would be like watching HGTV's version of Milli Vanilli. Not exactly a great plan to follow considering Milli Vanilli flopped once it became general knowledge that they had no real talent of their own.

Posted by jay – September 3, 2007 10:01 AM

WILL SHOWED GRACE UNDER PRESSURE AND WHILE HIS HOSTING ABILITIES MIGHT NOT MAKE HIME A TOP TV HOST, HIS PERSONALITY AND DESIGN CAPABILITIES WILL TAKE HIM FAR AND WILL PROBABLY BE MORE REWARDING FOR HIM IN THE LONG RUN.
KIM WAS FACED WITH A DIFFICULT AREA TO ACLIMATE TO IN A SHORT TIME, AND WHILE I AGREE WITH THE FACT THAT AN ENTRY SPACE WOULD HAVE BEEN A GOOD IDEA, SHE WAS WORKING UNDER ADVERSE CONDITIONS, ESPECIALLY FOR A CITY GIRL.
TODD IS A SHOWMAN AND LEFT SOME THINGS TO BE DESIRED. THE DANGEROUS LIDS ON THE TOY BOXES THAT SOMEONE MENTIONED, AND THE FURNITURE ARRANGEMENT WAS UNCOMFORTABLE IN MY VIEW. THE COLOR WAS NOT EXACTLY RELAXING. BRIGHT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE RED! WITNESS MY ALL TIME FAVORITE, DAVID BRONSTAD! AND FOR CHANGE ON A BUDGET YOU CAN'T BEAT LISA LAPORTA!

Posted by TINKER – September 3, 2007 9:59 AM

I have really enjoyed this year's competition and watched faithfully last year.You have done well HGTV. Last night's show left some "SPARKLE" missing. Will did a good job but forgot that this was a teen-ager even though she had medical problems. Todd's room didn't seem to be anything extra special and was very cluttered in one area. Kim had her hands full with a mobile home and it's location. She did not have the best resources to work with but made the rooms very livable and functionable. I think the decision was right on but again it lacked the "Sparkle" that should have been there.

Posted by Terri – September 3, 2007 9:58 AM

Will's exiting comments brought tears to my eyes. He is really a class act, and as others have said was one of the best designers -- possibly the best -- of the original eleven. He will do well in his design career; and as somebody else said, he has qualities that are far above a mundane TV show. I also liked his post to this blog today. Good luck, Will!

Todd is not a horrible person. I could see empathy in his eyes during this show when he was watching the videos sent by the room makeover candidates, and also when he was talking with them before starting his design. I really like some of his ideas, too. I thought the color scheme of the room he did was awful -- but perhaps the homeowners requested that bright red palette? Otherwise, it should never have been used. Some on this blog will think it was a bonus that he did not take off his shirt in this episode! At least, it didn't make it on camera if he did.

I like Kim, and at this point I think she has a good chance of winning the competition. She is very personable as a TV host. And her designs (yes, I used that word) are far better than anything I myself could do; so that is how I have to rate them. I do think that she needs to work on her design skills a little, but they really are not bad. And overall I like her optimism and how she tries to make the best of every situation -- except when extremely frustrated with Robb, of course. But that was a challenge for everybody else (except Todd).

Posted by JAM – September 3, 2007 9:52 AM

Very sad to see Will go -- my family was rooting for him. Extremely talented yet very humble. Showed class all the way through. You have a beautiful heart, WIll!

Posted by julianna – September 3, 2007 9:49 AM

Kim is a hairdresser. The red in Todd's room was overwhelming and he needs to keep his shirt on. Will's design, as usual, showed thought and talent. Last year I respected Vern Yip for his comments but this year I realized that I never did care for Trading Spaces- too much orange and purple and too tacky.

Posted by kjp – September 3, 2007 9:41 AM

Will's design rocked. He should not have been eliminated. Kim's design was not worthy of having her continue on to the final two. Will can learn "hosting skills".

Posted by Kathy – September 3, 2007 9:31 AM

I love the show and have been watching last years winner show his stuff over the past year.
As for this year, though I really like Todd's vision in design, I find his hosting manner a bit annoying. Kim seems like a natural at it.

Posted by MB – September 3, 2007 9:30 AM

Like many others I am disappointed with the way HGTV has handled the Design Star show this year. First of all, I hope next year they change the criteria for choosing contestants and not have a repeat of the "reality" show as we had this year - too much drama. They need to stick with design ability. Secondly, no double eliminations. It doesn't allow us enough time to get to know each contestant and what they are truly capable of. Thirdly, again, keep design ability in mind when eliminating..hosting can be taught. HGTV viewers want to glean something useful from a design show, not sure we will be able to with this years final two. Will had design capabilities from the heart - a true gift - not something you can teach.

Posted by VictoriaA – September 3, 2007 9:29 AM

Will was head and shoulders the best. I watch for design, not annoying hosts!!!!! People liked Will and he brought focus on the family he was working with.
Ty Pennington is already on TV!

Posted by ML Sharp – September 3, 2007 9:16 AM

Betcha Will will show up on HGTV on a different show...he's great and they know it. I do believe that all of these contestants and eliminations are following a formula that was pre-set by the producers.

Posted by Julianne – September 3, 2007 9:11 AM

Great job Will! After viewing tonight's episode and your wonderful exit interview, I've reach the conclusion that YOU'RE TOO GOOD FOR HGTV. With your talent, genuiness and huge heart you will do well working with Ty on Extreme Home Makeover or a show that will appreciate your amazing gifts. It seems that HGTV is moving in the direction of goofiness, tricks, gadgets and pirouettes-- versus good design and function. Remain true to yourself and keep the faith. You have touched many lives through your designs and your wonderful character which makes you a true Star. I hope to see you with your own show soon. It would be a refreshing change.

Posted by amelia6655 – September 3, 2007 9:05 AM

yes, the show is about design but the WINNER gets to HOST his/her own show. Hosting skills or lack thereof, must be taken into consideration

Posted by shirley – September 3, 2007 9:01 AM

So sorry to see Will go, he was a great designer. Tell Todd to keep his shirt on!! Enough already.

Posted by Debbie – September 3, 2007 8:56 AM

one more thought, for the family that Kim had, they need to realize that having decent window treatments should taken more importance than having a treadmill in the living room. I could not believe my eyes when I saw that. What the treadmill cost would most certainly have bought decent window treatments for the whole place! And putting carpet in that place. Come on, how long will it look like it did last night? I give it a month or two, in that neck of the woods!!!

Posted by tonk99 – September 3, 2007 8:43 AM

Surely HGTV doesn't think that we as viewers want a cookie cutter polished mannequin of a host. There are dozens of them already - Will brought so much spirit and heart to his designs and to the screen. Hard to believe we won't be seeing him anymore. :( Anybody know where we could write and put our two cents in?

Posted by Delylah – September 3, 2007 8:40 AM

First off last night was no surprise Todd gave it up in his blog. Lets face it, the producers ordained it from the beginning Todd is their pick for DS. They cast the characters carefully so Todd would be a standout [at least in their eyes and Martha’s] adding Josh J. who they thought would be entertaining but too flamboyant to have a wide appeal. Boy, were they ever wrong! The audience loved him, he was my first choice.
He had to go because he was the biggest threat to Todd, had he been in the final two he would have walked away w/ it.
There was no rational behind their reason to cancel Josh J. Telling him he was a “good shopper” made absolutely NO sense. Last nights excuse to dismiss Will was equally senseless. Saying, his hosting abilities were weak yet Todd’s were no better. Obviously the judges did what they were told to do, get rid of Will [ who has design talent and class ]to pave the way for Todd.

This whole series was a farce and Robb and Todd were a tag team. Robb’s reward, a member of Todd’s design team on his new show. WBTW Todd selected before last nights show AEB his blog “I've been working to .. team of designers together, who have been cut from the show… So far only "Robb" has agreed to help out, but I'll be working on the others.”
Also he began his quest to select a team before we vote seems Todd is overly confident it’s in the bag and he’s the next DS.
How nice for the viewers they will get to see Robb again well not this lady. My vote next week will be for Kim. Who BTW judges said could be taught design yet Will, who can design can’t be taught hosting ? Come on give me a break!
HGTV shot themselves in the foot on this one. I’m so irritated at being duped into thinking they were actually looking for a design star that I don’t even want to watch their channel. Do they think the majority of HGTV think w/libidos? Me thinks they are in for a surprise at least I hope so.

Posted by CCRC – September 3, 2007 8:39 AM

I am a big HGTV fan. As a fellow southerner, I do like Will. I like Todd and Kim too. BUT,I beg to differ with most of you about teaching "hosting". David was my choice from the beginning of last season and I hate to say - even with his outgoing personality, he still sounds a little strained trying to host his show. I am great at what I do and I know what works in my line of work (I teach nursing) so I am going to leave the judges to doing what they do best and trust their decision. All we see is a short video. Things really look different as a big picture in real life!!
So if you threaten to not watch the show again - don't. There are plenty of us who will.
Will is a survivor and will be just fine - he's got talent.

Posted by Mimi – September 3, 2007 8:39 AM

Another Design Star flop this week, letting political correctness make the decisions instead of talent. You knew before the show started that Kim would be in the final so the only drama was over whether they would dump Todd or Will. I'm no fan of either of them but I must say that Will showed a lot of class in his exit speech. He didn't deserve to make it this far but, doing that, he didn't deserve to lose last night either. Kim showed that, in addition to being a mediocre designer, she also isn't too bright. Did you notice her talking about how she had to work over 3 different designs since she wouldn't know which family she had until she arrived at her destination? Duh, how many coal mines are in Indiana and California? A little knowledge of basic geography would have saved her a lot of worrying and perhaps she could have come up with a better design. Sure, her host family was thrilled when they walked in but they would have been thrilled at just about anything compared to the wreck the place was when Kim started. A big dissapointment but not a big surprise, which is a sorry commentary on the show and its judges.

Posted by Tom – September 3, 2007 8:25 AM

Listen to David's (last year's design star)assessment of last night's episode. He states that Will's was the best design by far and that both Kim and Todd had odd furniture placement.

Posted by craig wimberly – September 3, 2007 8:07 AM

THe judges' show should be cancelled! Martha pre-selected her choice and her comments each week supported it. Vern is amiable but so last year. Cynthia was snoozing. For heaven's sake, give the designers more time to execute their designs. Would another day kill HGTV? I'm so tired of the rushed, artificial pressure. This wouldn't happen in any show created for them. A decorated room in one day? Don't you already have a show for that? Believe me, the designs suffer no matter what money is involved. Yes, I agree with the other fans - Will should have stayed. I will not be watching any show hosted by Todd or Kim. One is too out there and I can do better than the other on my own.

Posted by Margaret – September 3, 2007 8:05 AM

I loved Will's personality and his designs. I was afraid they would cut him because they felt he had no hosting skills. I feel they were wrong - Will brought a common sense and down to earth approach. I really wish I knew how to contact him to tell him how great I think he was/is.

Posted by Mary – September 3, 2007 8:00 AM

Will: You are a Class Act! You designed a wonderful space for your client. The wall treatment was inspired but I do think it needed some teenage "fun" element. Wonderful designing all around!! Hosting can be taught
Kim: Great stretching of the budget and working with what you had. A tile or wood entry way for dirty boots would have been much more practical. A dark carpet, light walls and washable upholstery would have been better. Placement was off as well but your hosting was dynamic!
Todd: I could never live in ANY of your spaces!!!! A retreat??? All that red would make me insane!!! The furniture was oversized and space was poorly used. The bookshelves were nice. Why did you waste time trying to take down the beam? It was obviously load bearing...why not add kid's area is a disaster waiting to happen. What... no safety catches? The hammock was a mess and very dangerous. If you like hamocks, why not use one on the wall for the stuffed toys? A Design Star you are NOT!

Posted by Anne – September 3, 2007 7:58 AM

I've never commented before but I am with the majority of writers. I think Todd is all show and little talent. Will did a wonderful job and could have learned how to host more comfortably. Todd copied David with his shirt off and his good looks. I know that is part of being a design star but lets look at more talent. It was very obvious the women judges were taken with the handsome Todd. Too bad, they lost the opportunity to be credible to the viewers. I hope Kim can do a good job next week and win. She is geniune and would do a great job as a host. Will good luck and I know your future is bright!!!!!

Posted by connie aagard – September 3, 2007 7:52 AM

I disagree with most of the blogs. Will has a signature style, and he repeats it all the time. I agree Kim could have done a better job. However, she's more fun to watch compared to Will. I think the judges are doing a great job. As for all the Josh fabs...he didn't do a great job, He has a great personality, and I liked him. However, his worked lacked.

Posted by Terri – September 3, 2007 7:52 AM

I agree with some of the others - A show with Sparkle Josh and Will would be awesome. I knew before the show even started that Will would be the one to go - Just a feeling Hated to see it happen.

Posted by DJ – September 3, 2007 7:29 AM

Wow ... what a great show! I have read through all the comments, and strongly agree that a person with as much class and design ability as Will should not have been eliminated. I checked out Will's website www.interiormotives.ws and am totally impressed, as I have been all along with his design. Will, like Josh, will go further in life without Design Star ... kudos to the both of them!

So, about last nights show ... well, where to start. First of all, I'm so glad I don't have to see Martha drool over Todd at yet another elimination. Perhaps she took notes from Paula Abdul on being a judge! Anyway ... design ... First off, I have to say that I think Kim's design, given the circumstances, was exactly what it should have been. Coming from "coal country" myself, her options were very limited. These are not hundred thousand dollar homes by far. "Design" for them is what makes everyday life more livable, and I believe she accomplished just that. I believe that a good designer should be able to design in multi-million dollar homes and double wide manufactured homes all in the same ... to fit the needs and lifestyles of the owners. I think Kim did a great job with her task at hand!

Will, what a class act!!! He not only had a great design, but made Bridget's life so wonderful and totally filled her heart with happiness. He gave her exactly what she needed, her own little oasis away from her medical problems. It could have perhaps been more "teen oriented", but from Bridget's demeanor, I got the impression that she was very mature despite her disability, he met her, I didn't, so perhaps it was exactly what the doctor ordered. As far as hosting abilities go, they allowed Robb in there long enough ... UGH! Can you imagine him being a host? I don't think they took the pressure of performing into consideration. I believe Will would have shined through in the end ... their loss.

Todd .... the big kid. His room was crammed. Personally, I believe a large multi-sectional sofa would have been more appropriate for a family room for such a large family. And I agree with the earlier statements about the hammock ... I would have tossed it out the minute he walked out of the room ... I see bodily injuries happening there. Maybe a nice 2 sided chalk/art board that had some scholastic value would have been a better idea for the younger children.

On to the finals! I hope that we see some true design from these two before voting.

Posted by Kim – September 3, 2007 7:17 AM

Will should not have been canceled. His thoughtfulness for that little girl came across. He even made the paint in squares on the wall drop down from the ceiling to give her a more comfortable feeling in the room for her height. He made sure she had a beverage center and a very soft sofa, critical for someone whose bones break easily!!! The only design that I felt he repeated was in sets of three in each room he worked on. Other than that he is the one person on the whole show whom I felt I could TRUST to make over my own house. He made it interesting each week. It is livable design.
Todd, you are over the top in too many areas. I just am not comfortable with any of your designs. A lot of your projects are unfinished. The frame of the lazy susan living room was some 2 X 6' s with some stain thrown on them. You even stained cheap pine for the TV surround and sconces in Wayne Newtons living room??? In this last show the toy box was unfinished and looked scary. The whole room was unbalanced and did not end up feeling relaxing colorwise. It just looked too jumbled.
Kim, your room tonight was straight out of "Tacky Mobile Home" Style magazine. Ugly (though brown) furniture. Terrible placement. Who sits and looks at a closed cast iron wood stove. Did you stop to think that they have to walk in and cross the beige carpet with all the wood that easily will overfill and won't end up in your cute wood holder. To anyone who heats with wood it is a joke. You could have given them the light walls and darker floors. Your room again was not finished. Lighter wood stained paneling and a modern dark wood table and bar stools atraight out of Pier 1??? Where were the lamps, the end table decorations,a game table, an afghan throw, and/or a duck decoy. I live in a log cabin, girl, and you don't have a clue as to what that looks like. I can't believe you spent $10,000 on that space. Those people should've had better for that amount of money. Glad you went to performing arts school because that seems to be what the judges wanted. I liked you at first but am really disappointed in the rooms you have done. None are finished with a designers flair.
HGTV, I want to see more of Will in the future...you can make that happen....just read the blogs to see that people want Will.

Posted by Vickie – September 3, 2007 7:06 AM

Well, I for one will not watch Design Star season 3 if Martha returns as a judge. I love the show, but she ruins it for me. Judgment concerning design should focus on the designers abilities, and not on one's own glandular condition. Keep the show, retire Martha. What should have been a 9 out of 10 this year has been a 4 out of 10 almost entirely on account of Martha.

Posted by Glen Bradley – September 3, 2007 7:04 AM

I was sorry to see Will go this week. I was hoping to see him go all the way. I think some coaching would have brought out his hosting skills since he already has the design chops. He's so genuine which you don't get a lot with HGTV.

However, Martha made a comment early on something along the lines of "looking for avante garde' which translates to not functional which translates to Todd. Is this what HGTV is looking for in the new show? I've noticed that the designers haven't been asked for their design point of view. If Todd wins will they then riff off of his 'uniqueness'? Who know? I look forward to finding out.

I do like Kim's hosting style; very relaxed and humorous. The HGTV crew will be able to provide heavy direction on the areas where she's lacking if she's the winner (she already has my vote)

Posted by Kathy O – September 3, 2007 5:35 AM

We all loved Sparkle Josh and he was great fun and will do well even without Design Star. It is just a boost to his already blossoming career. Tonight was about people and it was the first show about people. I think Design Star should rethink their format a bit so that there are more than one or two episodes about real people. Sure, it is fun to see a fantasy room or a celebrity space but let's face it on an actual HGTV show what we tune in for is real people and real spaces, real solutions and real color choices. Tonight, I saw Will shine like a beacon, Kim meet incredible challenges with a great heart and Todd ground himself in a closer orbit of reality. All were stellar. I know I was much more proud to see Will's exit statement with grace and understanding and know that I hadn't wasted my Sunday evening than last week when I saw Robb's exit. I am impressed.

Posted by Yvette – September 3, 2007 5:27 AM

I am glad that I am not the only one who thinks that Kim's designs are boring. She doesn't know who to pick out accessories, much less plan furniture layout that maximizes the space's potential. Even the judges pointed that out on the last two episodes, but they continue to keep her. They even found the time to give her a new hairdo. I guess they want a puppet-designer, with someone standing in the shadows directing her design choices, because if they give her a show, that's what someone will have to do. She knows nothing about design and it shows.

Posted by desert nurse – September 3, 2007 5:14 AM

JUDGES - HGTV FANS ARE SO DISAPPOINTED. Will is a true designer, from the heart, with loads of talent, character, charisma, you name it, he's got it. Your BIGGEST DESIGNSTAR ever just left the studio. Kim is great and come a long way and proved herself in this very new design world for her; Todd is a true artist, but no designer, still very immature and childish, designs very much like David Bromstad's (WE LOVE DAVID, but ONE DAVID is enough - we want variety not copy cat). Your only hold back was that Will could not host - what channel were you watching? I have noticed that southern charm, nice, respectful, clean cut, down to earth, everyone can relate to doesn't seem to be hgtv's mold. All host are cute, handsome, stylish, but not somebody every normal down to earth person could sit on the front porch with and discuss designs and such. David got Danielle and trust me without Danielle he wouldn't have been so great either. Why couldn't Will have had that chance, maybe with Kimberly? I have never seen so much disaappointment in any "cancellation" until now, Will's even more than Josh Sparkle. Don't you think hgtv could benefit with a smart, intelligent, very talented designer who just happens to be slighty pudgy, southern , and oh yeah black. He is a star even if hgtv doesn't think so, his design for the family in California was from the heart and it rocked, Will please see if Bravo or Style or TLC can recognize talent that HGTV can not, very disappointed Vern did not stick up for Will, very disappointed female judges judged by their taste in men, your taste is not everyone's, maybe everyone is not impressed with a grown man who jumps on furniture, laughs at everything, and reminds you of the surfer rock dude that never grew up. WILL, God has better things in plan for you, you are very talented, big heart, you have big things ahead for you, team up with Kim, Josh Sparkle - Design Southern Sparkle Stylethe World.

Posted by Robin – September 3, 2007 5:12 AM

The judges have blown it again. Todd simply cannot design for people in a real world. I'd hire Will today, but none of the rest. I'll say it again, if Todd wins, I'll not be watching the new Deasign Star. HGTV had better choose a more qualified line up for #3 because except for Will and the early Josh, none of these were as good as last year's contestants. And no matter how good a hosting job Kim did she used no common sense when it came to light carpeting in a home with no driveway or sidewalks. I'll vote for her no matter what kind of crazy mess comes up with. It does seem as tho he's been reading this blog as he's tried to sound caring and down to earth but his yelling and jumping is a dead giveaway. Who'd want to watch that on a design show?

Posted by mommalou – September 3, 2007 5:03 AM

I think the judges had a difficult time tonight because each designer did a great job for the client that they represented. Will took great pleasure in designing the room for Bridget and it did look like a studio apartment she could live in with her handicap. Will added all the right touches. The only thing he forgot was to put back a little of Bridget in the room. He took away all of her things - pictures, nicknacks,etc. that meant something to her and I think if he would have brought one or two of them back into the room Vern would not have been able to make the comment that it looked too sterile and not personal enough. As for Kim, putting that light carpeting instead of wood flooring with rugs to define the areas I think was a mistake. She lived through the weather where she tracked in mud just imagine dirty snow and how much time and effort it is going to take to keep that carpeting clean. I know from experience and I don't live in a situation like the West Virginia owners but have the light carpeting and it needs much care. She also took away much of the seating that they wanted if they had family and friends and gave them a chair instead of another sofa - I didn't understand that but I know the family was grateful for everything done because they stated they had no money to fix the house. I think instead of giving them another dining room table it would have been nice to give them more seating so they could have company since she took two couches out of the house. I also really didn't get some of her design plan and when she stated she built the bar Kim only put a top on it to make a breakfast bar. She also used furniture like the furniture Sparkle Josh bought for the kitchen redo he won. I was kind of disappointed Kim didn't do more. However, like Vern stated she pleased her clients. I think they would have been pleased no matter what because they really needed the help that the show provided them. Todd's design showed what Todd does but he was the one who had to change his design because of structural components in the house that couldn't be changed and time constraints to change some of the ones he wanted to make. That beam running across the middle of the room was a shock that it really was a suppporting beam. He then had to redesign his design. The sofas being off center from the tv seemed to me was a good idea because it gave the little ones a play area where they could be close to the family and still be in the room. I didn't mind the colors he used because the family stated they didn't mind bold colors for the family room and it tied in to the furniture. I didn't think the colors stood out once everything was in place. My nieces would have loved that hammock he made by the toy box and I saw how easily they got into it. What a great place to read a book or just get a little one to lay down and rest awhile. I thought Todd gave the family everything they needed and when the family is together you don't always have to be watching the tv. Vern made the comment about it being hung to high but that's where they put tvs when they hang them above fireplaces - what a perfect place to put it so it out of the way. Todd seemed to give the family what they wanted but I do think he should have looked into how the toy box closed unless its like the one in my home that looks like it might close on little fingers but is constructed in a way that they can't get caught. I think all 3 designers did a great job but I think if I would have been a judge the final two would have been Todd and Will. It looked to me like Kim was a good shopper more than a good designer in this episode. I am really looking forward to next Sunday because it is another individual challenge and we will really get to see more of how each one can design.

Posted by tigermello – September 3, 2007 4:57 AM

I wanted Will and Kim in the final!!! When I saw Kim's room with the light carpet and the furniture choices and the one lonely chair by the wood burning stove...why one chair?? (I need to see the show again, were there two?)...I thought she was going home for sure. The hammock in Todd's room made me cringe. I thought this was an accident about to happen, along with the toy box without a safety hinge. The family likes to spend time together to watch TV and play video games, but they can't see the TV from the sofa...practical. Overall I thought Todd's room was much better than Kim's. Despite some flaws, I was very happy and excited for each family. Will, Will, Will...He gave Bridget a wonderful room! The colors were great and the design was very age appropriate for a young teenage girl. Bridget was very excited to see her new "studio apartment" bedroom and Will showed just as much excitement in presenting it! Sure his hosting skills need improving, but I recall on the "Making of a Design Star" special that David had a hosting coach!! Love David, but he didn'nt quite warm up to it until the end of his season (could be because Ian is talking more and they added a new design assistant...Danielle is a little lackluster...oops, another show, another blog) For all those who say they won't watch next week...come on!...you know you'll watch! You may not vote, but watch...because we'll get to see Will and Sparkle Josh again on the final show!!! And finally...it doesn't bother me a bit that the guys are taking their shirts off! And, I can't wait for Vern's show!

Posted by Eileen – September 3, 2007 4:39 AM

Get some REAL judges! And why is anyone about Kim? Face it -- she doesn't know what she is doing. Granted she is good in front of the camera but that is because she is all about herself. Maybe they could have the Will and Kim show -- Will designs and Kim steps in to take credit for it.

Posted by Rita – September 3, 2007 4:37 AM

You could tell in his exit interview that Will is genuine because he actually glowed throughout his comments. Will, you are a true Design Star and I would watch any show you hosted. Not so with Todd, who comes across as "ME, ME, ME. LOOK WHAT i DID". Well, I am not impressed. His designs may grab your eye at first glance, but second glance reveals some real problems. I decided weeks ago that I wouldn't care for a show of his because it would have to showcase HIM, not design. Kim is much more real and likeable and I would watch her show. But again, Will showed tonight that he is a true *STAR*.

Posted by Debra M – September 3, 2007 4:37 AM

WOW! What disbelief when Will was eliminated, although I knew it was coming before the show even started, I had hoped my hunch would be wrong. Will is such a class act and a wonderful designer. I would have soooo loved to see him win the "Design Star" competition. Thanks, Martha, we all know Will is gone because you think that Will is THE threat to Todd. WE WANT AND DESERVE REAL DESIGNERS WHO KNOW HOW TO DESIGN.

The Queen of HGTV seems to be Lisa LaPorta and the King seems to be Clive Pearse. Now as great as HGTV thinks Lisa is, does she host her own show? NO, Clive hosts for her. Would have been genius to have Sparkle Josh do the narrative for a show with Will showcasing his designs. They could have went on shopping outings together and explained how and why they would or would not select an item. I think this would be an awesome show.

I would probably watch Kim's show to see what kind of show they would come up with. I would never watch a show with Todd. Forget it, I'd rather watch network tv on that time slot.

WIll You don't need to be crowned "Design Star" to validate your talent, you must have been born a Design Star, as it seems to come from your heart and soul.

Posted by noeokee – September 3, 2007 4:33 AM

Really disappointed in Design Star this season. There were too many team designs, where one person often dominated the design, rather than seeing individual’s talent. Eliminating 2 contestants a show reduced the number of shows, also reducing a designers chance to really show their stuff, and a chance for viewers to enjoy more episodes. I was amazed that the judges were awed by a skateboard ramp in a living room and a room with broken furniture.
Tonight’s show was very challenging, but I would rather have seen a more even playing field with all the contestants designing for a trailer or a handicapped person. Will's design was by far the best. Kim had a difficult task, but her design was rather plain. Todd obviously does not have children, or he would never have purchased a white sofa for a family with 6 children!!! The red walls were anything but calming and when he could not remove the beam he painted it RED against the white ceiling, so that it stood out like a sore thumb.
I agree with all the other bloggers that it would have been better to chose a good designer, Will, with a laid back demeanor, over drab, or a host that is jumping around and yelling.

Posted by Dee – September 3, 2007 4:30 AM

The judges knew the outcome of this design session before it began. It did not matter what any of the competitors did. Both women judges would not allow any negative comments to be made about Todd's work. When Vern stated that there were issues with space planning, the female judges immediately supported Todd's space planning decisions. I believe that there are dynamics at work that are hidden, hidden agendas. Will's work was not only superior tonight but also superior throughout this year's Design Star competition. Apparantly the decisons the judges make have little to do with design talent. That's too bad! Also, I wonder, since Vern thinks so highly of Todd's work, if he will integrate Todd's ideas in his new HGTV show. Fair and impartial judging is needed. Tonight HGTV got what it intended to get all along. A good part of this is pre-planned.
CR

Posted by CR – September 3, 2007 4:15 AM

Kim complained, "Maybe this isn't so fun". She seemed agrivated and crabby when she had to work hard.

I also noticed her acting like this when she had to work hard to get Robb's wedding reception done. She had the same crabby, this is not fun attitude.

I don't think she could handle the pressure of her own show.

Todd is too HGTV predictable for me. Too over the top! He acts too childish. I don't want to see the same old, same old type person.

Will was the best choice with consitently great designs that people want to live in. Great personality; nice, kind, caring, funny, understanding.

I am white, but I would love to see a black male designer get his own show! It would be something new and different. Plus, he is awesome.

Lets get new judges for next year: Vern, Kenneth brown, and Candace Olsen. People who can really design spaces!!!!!!!!!!

MARTHA, GET A GRIP! TODD IS MARRIED! GET OVER HIM. ANYWAY, HE IS NOT EVEN HOT! HE ACTS WAY TOO IMATURE TO BE HOT!!!!!!!!!!

I personally am going to vote for Kim (even though she is a worse designer than Todd) because Todd is too imature, his work is too over the top for ordinary people, and because I feel he cheated when he wrote into the blog when his show was not cancelled.

He has an unfair advatage, and he should really be disqualified for contacting voters.

Posted by me – September 3, 2007 4:11 AM

I think Hgtv should give Will his own show. These last 3 designers where the best in 2 seasons of the show. Will should have been in the finals

Posted by dj – September 3, 2007 4:08 AM

Awwwww.... Will, thanks for posting! I thought your room was great, and I've loved your designs throughout this competition. Your exit interview showed you to be the true gentleman and class act that you are.

Kim ... you GO, girl! Second week in a row, you've had the HARDEST challenge! You had to do so much ... you had me laughing and crying ... you truly deserve to be here in the final two!

Todd ... I still don't get it. Kinda tired of seeing Martha drooling over you, and I suspect that's why you're still here, but ... I just don't get it.

Still missing Sparkle Josh real bad. REAL bad.

Posted by Rainey – September 3, 2007 3:59 AM

Where do I start?

I can not believe Will was eliminated when his design was the best tonight. They could have gave him classes to be a better host (they did for David); They can't give the others classes to be better at designing.

I, personally thought Will's hosting improved from last week and it was great! His closing comment,"When there is is a Will, there is a way", was awesome!

Will's designs were the best every week. His personality was genuine and lovable! His smile and enthusiasm was contagious!

I WOULD LOVE TO SEE A SHOW WITH WILL AND SPARKLE JOSH ON ANY NETWORK!!!!!!!!!!!!

GO GET A SHOW, YOU TWO! MAKE HGTV EAT THEIR HEART"S OUT!!!!!!!!!

Will, the way you exited the competition tonight, with poise, grace, dignaty, and possitive energy, shows everyone that you are the TRUE DESIGN STAR!!!!!!!

Plus, I THINK TODD SHOULD BE ELIMINATED FROM THE COMPETITION because he wrote in to this blog and talked to voters before he was eliminated. I CALL THAT CHEATING!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by alicia – September 3, 2007 3:58 AM

Martha does not like Will and apparently
she carries a lot of weight on that panel.
I hope she knows that everybody has noticed her obvious contempt for Will. She should be replaced.
Todd is playing her like a Baby Grand.

Posted by Carol – September 3, 2007 3:52 AM

Wow! We are down to the final two.
I was sad to see Will go instead of Todd. I feel that Kim had the toughest challenge of the three and she came through with flying colors. She has my vote unless Todd performs a miracle in Hawaii.

Posted by Russell Bombay – September 3, 2007 3:36 AM

I really enjoyed Design Star - last year -
This year however there seems to have been so many bad decesions, made by the judges, that we have now ended with no real DESIGN Star to chose, just a hunk - who will obviously win by a landslide - because the other can HOST if someone else actually design and plans for her, that it is hardly worth the effort or time to watch. I don't know what your going to do with the winner because I don't think you have a design show even if you used both of them. Sorry to see the actual designers Robb and Will out of it. Good Luck

Posted by tonigailm – September 3, 2007 3:29 AM

When Clive summarized, he said that Will needed to work on his hosting, Kim needed to work on
"space planning," and Todd needed to work to
"make his ideas able to function." Therefore,
if we were looking for a designer, by Clive's own summary of the judges' comments, Will was the ONLY person who didn't have a design problem. . .
therefore, Will should NOT have been eliminated.
Additionally, Vern complimented Kim for listening to her clients' needs. But she DIDN'T! In addition to financial challenges, the wife clearly stated that their sofa was ruined by dirt in the coal industry environment. KiM definitely
DIDN'T ADDRESS THAT NEED. HOWEVER, WILL NOT ONLY THRILLED THE HANDICAPPED DAUGHTER, BUT THE MOTHER SAID THAT HE HAD DONE SO WELL THAT SHE WISHED THAT HE COULD DESIGN THE REST OF HER HOUSE! One can only conclude that the judges are not making their decisions and comments in a logical, thoughtful manner. The judges should also take a course in designing for child safety. They eliminated a talented designer who also is a very kind and considerate person. How very sad for HGTV.

Posted by Sara – September 3, 2007 3:25 AM

Welcome to BAD DESIGN DECESIONS 101
Show 1 a half painted wall and no barstools to sit on at the bar- anybody care to say who should have been cancelled that show - and they were surprised that the kitchen didn't get finished - duh
Show 3 - the decorated to death room - and hello the shipwrecked room if you could call it that - was that a desing anyone would actully put in any room, basement or garage I think not!!
Show 4 - Why did Josh stay here when he had nothing the groom had asked for either - all flash, no substance.
Show 5 - Kim was completely out of line in this challenge, did not try and help design at all, she had a bad attitude for the start and nothing to contribute at all, even her limited shopping did nothing to help improve her lack of style or her lack of ability to actually DESIGN - get that not host but Design -
Finally show 6 - Ah! What can we say two of the (designers) should not even had made it to this show - Kim unfortunatly is not a designer which is more than obvious to all of us who watch the show, remember this is a design show not a hosting contest - And Todd - what can we say about him over the top unlivable designs is this really where the future of design is going - non functionable - poorly planned - dangerous - overly done - red red red , crammed, crammed, crammed rooms - with skate board parks, and giant turntables in our living rooms, really!!!
What are the judges seeing when they look at some of these tapes and rooms - good smile, muscles, tight butt and abs - good at taking credit for other peoples work - Sorry who did all the staining in WV and built the bar???
Now its to late because this is what the public gets to vote for - over the top - ridiculus- or lacks talent other that speech ability -under-handed - hair dresser - really - I think I'll abstain from this vote - THANKS

Posted by tonigailm – September 3, 2007 3:20 AM

Thank you Will for a wonderful season. Your TRINITY designs shine through. Thank you for giving God the praise and for bringing life and light into Bridget's room. You are a true inspiration!

Posted by Shay – September 3, 2007 3:18 AM

Martha you are so blatantly crushing on the surfer dude it's pathetic. Remember when you said, " I'd watch Todd's show (Hehehehe)"? You sounded like a 12 year old flirting with her 8th grade crush.

This so-called judge must be replaced. I also think you were too negative about Will. Week after week you always made a point to say something negative about him. Well you got what you wanted so far but if the viewers get what we want you will be cancelled before season 3 airs. All the judges have forgotten what the show is about. It's about great DESIGN not great LOOKS. Vern you especially disappoint me. You are boring and less enthusiastic than most of the other show host except for Sara Richardson. You are a sad disappointment. Shame on each of you.

Posted by angela – September 3, 2007 3:15 AM

HGTV really needs to read these posts. I hope they realise what a HUGE mistake they made tonight letting Will go. Kim's design was clearly the worst and she should have gone long ago. Last year the final show was so exciting to watch because I could not decide whether I preferred Alice or David, becasue I loved them both. This year, I do not like both of the finalists. I do not care who wins. I will not watch their show.

Posted by nygirl2007 – September 3, 2007 3:15 AM

I am so sad to see Will go. He had the best design sense of all the contestants. I loved his honest, unpretentious personality. He was a pleasure to watch. In the group project of the kitchen redo, Will was the only one to have any common sense when he commented on not removing the pantry for a fountain. You can't just design something stupid because it is different or shocking. Will is the only designer I would consider using to design/decorate any room in my home. Will is already a success and I am glad I got to "meet" him through this show. He is an awesome person, and an inspiration to others.

Posted by Lynn – September 3, 2007 3:14 AM

The way has just been paved for Todd to win hands down by eliminating Will,{Todd's only competition} and replacing him with Kim. I feel the judges set us up by voting off all the good designers and leaving us with the weakest one to go against Todd in the final. I'll be voting for Kim as a protest to this farce.

Posted by Will Fan – September 3, 2007 3:08 AM

My rural property in Oregon, just like the Deans, had white carpet put in for the sale to make the house look "bigger." WHAT A DAILY HASSEL!!!

HGTV already has a lot of "Kim"s. I could've learned from Will how to be a kinder, gentler human and from Todd how to let go & live -- isn't that what homes are "designed" to be about?

Posted by Melinda – September 3, 2007 3:03 AM

I just read what Will wrote on here and let me tell you, WILL, YOU ARE THE DESIGN STAR!!!!! Not just a design star but the design star. You are truly a very humble, creative and caring person. I wish you nothing but the best of luck in your future endeavors and I hope that when I get my own place, I would love for you to help design it for me!!!!! I hope you get a lot of business from this!!!! I would feel honored to have you design for me!!! I have already saved his website to my favorites!!!!
God bless you Will and I hope to one day see your face on TV hosting a design show!!!! I know you will be wonderful at it and you will bring joy & happiness to many people who could use it!!!! Just like you did with Bridget & her family!!!!!

Posted by Jenn – September 3, 2007 2:59 AM

I really enjoyed the show tonight. It was really neat to see such deserving families getting rooms they could really use and appreciate. Favorites aside, I felt that all three of the finalists did an awesome job. They all gave their clients just what they wanted....who could ask for more? It saddens me to see so many fellow bloggers being so negative and judgemental. I get the feeling that some of you just couldn't say anything nice if you were paid to! Gosh! It was sad to see Will go...he'll go on to many other great things, I'm sure! I feel that Kim should have been given more time since her challenge was tougher tonight. Still, she did a superb job. Go, Kim!

Posted by chular – September 3, 2007 2:56 AM

What I have observed from the VERY beginning of the show when they interviewed the contestants that Martha has not liked Will from the very beginning. I don't know what her problem is, but it has been so obvious; she has a scowl on her face when she looks at him. She prejudged him from the beginning. I was very disappointed to see him go; his designs are absolutely outstanding. Todd is okay; he is likable, but not a true designer; Kim is articulate and has good hosting skills; but I really would not watch her show. I am disappointed that Will and Sparkle are gone; they are real people that the viewing public can relate to. Was I watching Design Star of America's Next Top Model???

Posted by Connie – September 3, 2007 2:56 AM

May I please have a rant? Then I will shut up and go to bed. There is not one show on HGTV that I have ever watched that they haven't said that the fireplace should be the focal point in the room. Todd had the arm of the couch almost butting up against it. Another saftey hazard. And what is with the skinny female judge talking about that she doesn't like the TV being the focal point? which by the way was placed above the fireplace. The request of the customer was to be able to watch TV together as a family. With the way that was set up there will be alot of sore necks after watching the TV for awhile. I am sorry but the man, you know the DUDE still makes my skin crawl. One other thing, he had to wear another tee shirt with a provacative female on it standing side ways. My vote is for Kim even though the carpet was a bad idea. She may think that the wonderful WVA mud just sweeps up but wait until the husband comes home from a day in the mine & and gets coal suit all over the carpet. I bet that won't just sweep up like magic. Will would have been my choice, so sad to see him go. HEART WRENCHING EXIT THAT IS GOING TO TAKE ME A LONG TIME TO GET OVER.

Posted by pf – September 3, 2007 2:55 AM

Will,

Let me start out by saying that you are an incredibly talented designer. You are wonderful to watch. Your smile and your heartfelt personality is extremely contagious! I loved watching you while you worked because you always explained why and how you were doing things to the viewers. I actually thought that your last hosting was awesome! I felt there was just the proper amount of enthusiasm. The "When there is a Will, there is a way", comment was perfect! When you said that, I clapped my hands and jumped off the couch! I was impressed!

You were the best designer by far in the competition. You were consistently great! You had the most beautiful, livable designs! You are funny, optimistic, fun, happy, friendly, smart, creative, understanding, sweet, cute, attentive, detailed oriented, passionate. your downright perfect!

HGTV blow it big time tonight! They made two major mistakes: eliminated you and eliminating Josh! You two were my favorites since day one. The day Josh was eliminated, I made me was sick to watch the two of you standing there on the chopping block. Tonight, I felt that same sickness all over again.

I would love to see you and Josh call each other up, and put together a design show that the two of you co-host together! That would be awesome! I have read so many people on the blog say that they would love to see a show with the two of you together. I would love that too. It doesn't have to be on HGTV. There are many other networks (BRAVO, TLC) that would make HGTV eat there hearts out when they saw the rating for a show hosted by the two of you! Tell us a time, channel and date, and we will watch you!

I wish I could afford you to come to my house and work you magic in my small room! It would be awesome just to meet someone as wonderful as you!

You came in with grace and composure, and you went out the same way. You are a TRUE STAR!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am glad that you wrote in to the blog and I finally got you web address to check it out! I think that you should put your gorgeous smile on you web page to make it the ultimate!

At least you beat Rob out!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That has to feel great! You will always be the real design star to me. I am glad you did not jump around like a two year old; I am glad that you stayed true to yourself, and stayed true to your design style. You didn't sell out! That is why we love you!

Love,

Alicia

Posted by alicia – September 3, 2007 2:55 AM

I suggest that they use Will for a new show on HGTV where he works with part of a team that designs for persons who are challenged in some way. [Visually, physically, autistically challenged, etc.] because I think that it would be a great show and he would be wonderful for the show. There are more and more facilities and homes being built for challenged persons. It is well needed.

Posted by Teresa – September 3, 2007 2:53 AM

Ok, so this is my second comment on here and I have to say after reading a lot of the posts here most people are in agreement that Will should have stayed. I have to say too, I am disgusted with Martha & Cynthia!!!
First off, did Kim or Todd really listen to the families because I don't think they did! They did not give the families what they needed or wanted.
I agree with everyone else too! Kim's design lacked style and was boring and I believe she did not give the family what they really needed!!! Light carpeting??? For the same amount of money she could have gotten a Pergo locking wood floor that would handle a child & dirt!!! Or she could have made a tile area next to the door for people to take off their shoes. The colors were drab and she didn't brighten up the room at all. And don't get me started on the rustic look. What rustic look? This wasn't a rustic look at all. I think she totally missed the mark and not one of the judges called her on it. And also, knowing that they have a child did she even bother to think of incorporating anything in there for the child?
Now for Todd. I find him annoying and I do not believe he is a good designer and that is being nice. He does what he wants and not what the family wants! I mean the red was way too much in that room, it was very overpowering & he made if even worse by painting the toy box red. Nothing like using fun colors for a family that wants to have fun with the time they have together. I could not hang out in a room like that & I wouldn't doubt the family will soon be painting the room. The hammock for kids is an accident waiting to happen. What kind of person puts in a hammock for kids??? Not only with the possibility of a child choking on that thing but with the way kids are, there is the possibility of a child falling out of that thing & getting hurt!!! I feel he did not listen to the family and made the room the way he wanted to make it not the way the family wanted it.
Now on to Will. What a designer!!!!!! He really listens and cares about what the family wants & needs. Isn't that what being a design star is all about??? I thought it was but HGTV has showed that it's not about design.
I am pretty disgusted with this and the judges except Vern!!! The other two have got to go!!!!!
What I think people should do is not even vote!!! Maybe with the less votes HGTV will realize they need to make a change and get rid of the two women & bring in actual designers who know what they are talking about. I mean, could they wag their tongues and drool at Todd anymore than they have. Hey ladies, guess what, he's not a designer!!!! You people got rid of the one person who had the design talent and I believe would have come in to his own with the hosting. I didn't really think his hosting abilities were that bad. I thought he was pretty good & I would have enjoyed watching him on TV. His wonderful, warming smile was enough for me!!!!! His smile shows his sincerity & I think that's a big part of it.
I voted last year but this year I refuse to vote!!! Thank you so much Martha, Cynthia & Vern for leaving us with two people who might be able to host a show but can't design a room.
ALSO, DID ANYONE NOTICE THAT WHEN CLIVE MADE HIS REMARKS TO THE 3 DESIGNERS TODD & KIM WERE TOLD THAT THEY NEEDED TO WORK ON THEIR DESIGN STYLES BUT WITH WILL HE JUST NEEDED TO WORK ON HIS HOSTING ABILITIES??? I HOPE OTHER PEOPLE READ THIS & REALIZE THAT THESE JUDGES, EXCEPT FOR VERN NEED TO GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by Jenn – September 3, 2007 2:53 AM

Will is a true 'gentle-man'. He left the show with such grace and humbleness. I know he will go far in the design world even if we will not be able to see it on TV. Many people will benefit from his wonderful design sense and personality. He was a joy to watch. I agree with another blogger that a "Will and Sparkle Josh" show would be great fun to watch. To Will, you have touched my heart.

Posted by M. Gardner – September 3, 2007 2:48 AM

HGTV, You have GOT to be KIDDING ME! Now that I know that you don't need one iota of design talent in your little finger to become a finalist like Kim, then I think that I will enter the contest next year. I'm a cashier...I can EASILY do as badly and be a finalist! TWO of Kim's projects were left unfinished. I have LOTS of unfinished DIY projects in my home, so I know I can qualify. And Episode 6..HORRIBLE! She gave them WHITE carpet...she didn't hear a single solitary word the wife said! The furniture was sent at bizarre angles because she was CONFUSED. What a FARCE. Apparently being able to sell ice to Eskimos is qualification enough for HGTV because they are buying her smile. As for Todd, he's got style and creativity... he deserved to be a finalist. WILL's projects were flat-out nailed all week long. Am I the only one who noticed that this guy has a fabulous eye, keen design style and fabulous listening abilities? I am so peeved that Kim's camera ability won out over Will's design ability...Maybe HGTV should change the name of the show to SMILE STAR. I will NEVER watch Kims's show if by some wild fluke she wins...WHY? Because she can't teach me anything I don't already know, I haven't learned anything from her all week, except how to snit and lag behind, leaving lame designs in her wake. ANYBODY with half a brain can learn how to smile for a camera. America sees lots of Hollywood smiles on TV, they're a dime a dozen. HGTV failed to listen to it's viewing audience. I'm really not impressed at all anymore with the judges. I'm tired of hearing them say,"Oh this is SO HARD!" It's NOT hard, just pay attention! Cancelling WILL's show was the biggest mistake the judges could have ever made. IF HGTV wants good ratings, they NEED to listen to the majority of their watchers because we are ALL saying the same thing.

Posted by Pamela – September 3, 2007 2:44 AM

Tonight, Will showed that he is a gentleman with a lot of class as well as a lot of talent. What a difference between he and that Robb.

Although Kim & Todd have some endearing qualities, they are by no means the most talented designers to enter this season's competition (no, Robb I don't mean you). Todd's designs are not functional as he proved once again tonight with a family room sofa that makes television viewing uncomfortable from such an awkward angle. In addition, while red is a great accent color, there was entirely too much red paint on the walls. Also, I sure hope the family puts safety hinges on that toy box right away before one of their kids gets hurt. Kim's design did improve the look of the room but let's face it, almost anything would have been an improvement for that well deserving family home. I'm glad she found room in the budget for the adjoining dining room table. However, a coal miner living in rural W. VA is sure to track home a lot of dark organic material and it's going to end up on that carpet. I hope there was money left over in the budget for a good vacuum cleaner.

I think this is going to be a lackluster final challenge. If HGTV plans to have a third season, they had better do a better job of designing competitions. This season there were too many team competitions and double eliminations (the worst by far was the cheesy Vegas wedding double elimination) and that is how some less talented designers managed to stay longer than they should have. Please HGTV, don't disappoint us again.

Posted by Jane – September 3, 2007 2:39 AM

Will - what a class act! Could there have been any more of a contrast between his comments upon leaving the show and those of Rob last week? What a poignant and grace filled exit. Will's show may have been cancelled, but that he is a genuine winner is not cancelled?

Posted by steve – September 3, 2007 2:35 AM

I thought will was the best from jump street sorry to see him go in tonights episode Will nailed it and really listened to his client. Martha who clearly DID NOT LIKE Will, talk about presentation it clearly showed on her face and in her comments how much she did not like Will in every episode, Martha is very biased towards Todd, I don't know if its because he's 6'4, blonde hair, surfer type dude because his designs are not something that I would hire him for, I would hire Will anytime to design a room for me, where can I locate him I have some work that needs to be done on my house. Martha should be taken off the panel I don't think she is very personable, I'm amazed that she has the position she has with enstyle magazine makes me re-think buying that magazine.

Posted by Ruth – September 3, 2007 2:34 AM

What a great team of designers this week! It was refreshing NOT to have the abrasive confrontations of the prior DS2 shows PLUS Todd kept his shirt on. He could have had more taste regarding the logo on the shirt that he did wear.

I was glad to see that each of the different families receive design that would make such a difference in their lives. It was a pleasure to watch the expressions on the designer's faces as they watched the intro videos.

While we are on the subject of mobile homes....Has HGTV considered designing them? Many of us live in these...And many of us would care to watch an occasional mobile home make-over.

Will, you showed such grace and class in your exit. Well done, brother. We wish you well.

Posted by MtMama – September 3, 2007 2:32 AM

I can't believe they eliminated the most talented designer on the show. I'm sad. Will should have been in the top 2. He's talented, genuine, laid back and full of substance. Kim's designs don't stand out to me as anything special and Todd is just plain annoying. I thought he'd be the first to go after the unfunctional half-pipe. He comes across as childish and a show off, from the beginning- with those those dumb flips and somersaults. I'm almost embarassed for Martha and her continual fawning over Todd. Will, I hope that you go far in life, you deserve it. The judges made a bad choice tonight.

Posted by Stefanie – September 3, 2007 2:29 AM

Where there's a Will, there should have been a design star finalist. Will showed design skill and knowledge in his ability to size the room, plan the space, and execute his design to fit the space and the needs of his client. Either Martha or Cynthia commented that his design from week to week was "repetitive and formulaic." I think Vern was right when he said Will's modern take on design was his "signature." Unfortunately, I knew he would be eliminated. In fact, I thought the judges were leaning that way last week but I'm thrilled that Will had another opportunity to show his individual work. Yes, Will, new doors have been opened for you. Best of luck.

Posted by Baj – September 3, 2007 2:29 AM

Should have been Will and Kim. . . . actually should have been Will and Sparkle Josh. Back to reality. Vote for Kim. Her persoanlity is warm and kind and I am sure that HGTV producers will find a show to fit her style.

Posted by karen – September 3, 2007 2:28 AM

Wow...so much to say, so little space. SIGH...I echo the many comments about the fact that it seems to be a show about physique and personality...not design. Do the judges read these blogs? Are they here??? If so, listen to your viewers!! We are devoted and dedicated fans...people who watch ALL the time, and people who likely buy the products that are advertised during your shows! Listen up....we want design...not looks, not charm. (Both are perks, but, should not supercede design abilities.)
BTW...I agree...Will's exit interview was stellar! God HAS been glorified through you WIll...keep it up!

Posted by kelli – September 3, 2007 2:21 AM

Will continued to grow throughout the competition. Kim, although wonderful on camera, did not do such a great job this week. Last week, I thought Will would go home for sure; but he proved himself worthy tonight. I think growth should count for something, and Will definitely showed he is gaining strength. I don't know if the right choice was made tonight.

Posted by Meme – September 3, 2007 2:20 AM

It was a disappointment for me to see Will go. Will is a very cool, calm and insightful designer. His designs had the "wow" factors that we look for in a design. To choose someone whose designs look ordinary over one who can design but lacks the hosting ability is a shame- (anyway, I think the audience will enjoy Will's way of presentation, no hype but refreshing and natural for a change). You could have named the program "HostStar" rather than "Designstar" if you put more weight on the hosting than on the designing. How disappointing!

Posted by Peanut – September 3, 2007 2:16 AM

I have been an avid fan for the past two years and watch the show religiously. I love Kim very much but Will is hands down a much designer. During last season, I thought David Bromstad was an ingredible designer but was not all that terrific as a commentor. I believe he has gotten better with experience and with the assistance of the professionals his show is exquisite. The last Design Star show will end up being no competition because Kim cannot hold her own against Todd. The only competition he had was Will. Will you rock! Please keep up the fabulous work. You were born to be a designer and owe it to the world to make it bit more beautiful. It was an honor to watch you create magic and you will truly be missed.

Posted by Margo – September 3, 2007 2:15 AM

Well they did it. I knew they were going to get ride of the best designer of the three. I recall during last years show that they said the same things to David B. who ultimately won his own show. Even on his first few shows he was not as polished as a host as he is today. I was, however, glad to finally hear Vern say what I've said all along-Todd's focuses on artistic elements and not so much on design. Vern also was not pleased with the design he did. This is in fact his first real design and I though the space was cluttered and the furniture was too large and misplaced. He is not a designer he is a highly energized carpenter. What the heck have they done? As for Kim, she is great on camera and appears to be a veteran TV host; however, she is not a good designer. Her spaces always seem to be missing something. She appears to be quit the minimalist and I think that her spaces seem unfinished and a bit sparse. Since Will has been tragically canceled I do hope Kim wins. Yet, I truly think that all the judges in the back of their minds have and always had Todd pegged for the winner. I guess we will see. Also I have watched Vern on TV for years and he has less of an upbeat personality than anyone on TV. His personality is very dry and sort of depressing but he has thousands upon thousands of fans. I don't think an upbeat personality makes a great host. I think design is the bottom line. Finally, Todd sounds dumb when he's in front of the camera. He sounds a lot like Keanu Reeves but worst. Everything he says sounds like he's finished talking. Weird. I'm SO upset. I will not get dragged into watching this show every again. I think Martha M. needs to be replaced.

Posted by angela – September 3, 2007 2:13 AM

I enjoyed yesterdays show. I think Kim did a great design. She has flair while on camera. My vote will be for her if the voting was today.

Posted by Lucinda Breyer – September 3, 2007 2:12 AM

WOW! Will is gone...things will not be the same without his amazing energy and great smile. Good luck Will, hope this show gives you the exposure to move on too bigger and better things. I really thought Will's room was better than Kim's.

Kim.. I thought her room was the worst that we have seen yet.Putting a white rug in a coal miner's house... well, just listen too how that sounds....you get the point. Kim has done some good work but she has survived because other's have eliminated themselves, not because, she has done any great work. If Kim wins it will be strictly because Todd is such a love him, hate him, type.
Todd.. He is a pretty far out dude, what I like about Todd is he has taken chance's the whole show, whether you like his wild idea's or not, he has never been close too being kicked off, and when they asked Kim who her biggest competition was she picked Todd! The producer and the judges all are bias towards Todd because just as Kim can see Todd blows her out of the water when it comes too true artistic talent along with an amazing amount potential! I would be the first to agree that Todd needs to better educate himself in the design field, but come on people....Kim the next design star...that would be painful too watch her each week!

Well I am sorry too see Will go..Josh Sparkle and Will were my favorites..hope the last episode is as good as all the rest..who knows maybe Kim will breakthrough and do something special....and for all you man hatter's out there, and by reading this blog there are so many of you...give Todd a good look..the shirt off thing and the surfer stuff is all show biz stuff....you watch how polite and respectful he is too other's and you might have a different outlook....Enjoy the remaining episode everybody!

Posted by Laura – September 3, 2007 2:11 AM

I am completely devastated and shocked Will lost!!! I cried! Now not only do we have to deal with another David vs Alice finale but we have to deal with two people who have less talent than Will. I also have to say I find Todd to be annoying!!! Plus I don't find his designs to be pleasing. I'll be voting for Kim. Now, to Martha and Cynthia, for two women who have so much design experience they sound like they don't know much at all. On top of it, Martha's comment that there was not much personality in the room was way off base!!! And also her fomulaic response about Will's design was terrible!!!! Go Vern for really pulling for Will!!!! At least someone was!!!! Bridget wanted modern and clean and Will gave her all of that and more!!! What he did for Bridget was amazing & wonderful!!! The look on her & her family's face was all that needed to be said. On top of that did anyone notice that when Clive made his remarks about the 3 designers, w/Kim & Todd they needed to work on their design style but for Will the only thing he needed to work on was his hosting capabilities? Does anyone see a problem with that because I do? I watch a lot of HGTV & some people on there are very dry & shouldn't be hosting but their designs are what makes the show! Every host gets help and learns how to be in front of the camera, for example David, but with design either you have it or you don't. I am so disgusted with this!!!I think the whole point of being a design star is to give people what they want and need. Will has always cared about the designs and always cared about the people. WILL IS THE ONE!!!!! I think Will is a wonderful, creative and caring designer!!!! I hope someone from HGTV reads all of these responses, makes an exception & gives Will his own show. Maybe Todd could be his carpenter, ha! I really believe Will deserves it & I would watch his show all the time!!! Will, you ARE A WINNER in my book. He really cared about the people and gave them exactly what they wanted and that's the most important thing when it comes to design. WILL you are AWESOME & GOOD LUCK TO YOU!!!! Just know plenty of people were rooting for you and hoped you would make it to the finale and win!!!! GOOD LUCK WILL!!!!!

Posted by Jenn – September 3, 2007 2:09 AM

Will is far and beyond the best of the designers from all of the original 10. Without a doubt, he should have moved on to the last challenge. Will, you are amazingly gracious, and you obviously live what you believe. God bless you, and keep up the wonderful work! Hope you find my e-mail amongst the tremendous avalanche or e-mails you must be getting right now.

Posted by Glen Bradley – September 3, 2007 2:09 AM

There's been some blatant and obvious favortism shown towards Todd which is pathetic. Vern has said MANY times that part of design is listening to the clients and giving them the best living space possible. The one who best achieved that tonight was Will. Shame on you judges!!! My faith in Design Star has been shattered. My picks would have been Will and Kim...for whatever that's worth.

Posted by Val – September 3, 2007 2:07 AM

I personally identify with Will's clean line designs more than I do the other two, but that's just my taste. Although I must admit, I'm an Interior Design student, and I find more fault in the others' designs than in Will's. Being one of the viewers for which they are choosing a host, I would have liked a say in who got to go to the final two. Will's hosting apparently distracts the judges more than it does a viewer. I for one would have taken Will's good design/bad hosting over Todd or Kim. I like them... just not their skills.

Posted by Robin Pearson – September 3, 2007 2:04 AM

I'm commenting once again simply due to the fact that I still cannot believe that Will was the one cancelled tonight! Judges you have done fairly well this year with your decesions, except the first show Narahja should have gone - no bar stools at a bar - come on what were you thinking, and this episode was just sad Will's roon out shone the other two in every way - I really think you let all of us design fans down.

Posted by Piggy Lover – September 3, 2007 2:02 AM

Will, I hope you read the great comments from your fans tonight. You are the best designer and your entire personality is so pleasing. I was truly looking forward to contacting you about doing my entire house. Hope HGTV will release my email address to you so you can get started in making my dream a reality. Like I've said before, those judges cannot take away your talent. You are truly blessed.

Posted by P Alexander – September 3, 2007 1:57 AM

I have not read any of the comments because I don't want to know who was eliminated tonight. But I do have something to say. That Martha M. (judge) is so obviously infatuated with Todd (the dumb dude). She was literally gaucking at him as he walked off the stage. I am so afraid they are going to get ride of the best (WILL S.).

Posted by angela – September 3, 2007 1:57 AM

I am convinced that design talent has nothing to do with who will win this contest. Will was certainly the most talented designer of the three people left and was voted off because of his inability to impress the camera. Kim's design was not very good and certainly not the rustic design her clients were looking for but, because of her ability in front of the camera she is still in the running. Why bother calling this show "design star" - why not call it what it is - a mere shadow of last season's triumph. Truly talented people are all around us and it would indeed be wonderful if they won recognition based on those talents - I was mistaken in believing this show would provide that avenue.

Posted by Kathy – September 3, 2007 1:53 AM

I have read most of the comments, and I have to say I am glad that I am not the only one that thinks the judges were totally off base this week and last week too in my opinion. Kim can no more design, space plan or problem solve than my 10 month old. What were the judges thinking. It seems to me that she took rustic cabin out of what the clients said and nothing else. The carpet was all wrong the furniture placement was a complete disaster and whats with her saying she built a bar and stained all that wood, I must have missed all that because I saw the carpenter staining, when she came back from shopping for the 3rd time! Now lets discuss Todd's room that had no space to move around the seating in totally in the wrong place, and red - red what the heck was he thinking, not to mention no cushions on the bench toy box seating with square edges and no shocks to keep the heavy wooden seats from falling on heads and little fingers. The 2 best designers this year consistantly have been Will and Robb, Robb I believe had a severe attitude problem, but he was good at the design and space planning for form and fuction, and I thought this was a design show, not about muscles and butt kissing. Judeges for being designers yourself you would think that you could tell the difference between the talented designers and the tag alongs or show offs - get real!
Thanks Toni Morey

Posted by Toni Morey – September 3, 2007 1:51 AM

I will sure be voting for Kim next week. She is such a talented lady, even if she did put a light colored carpet in the mobile home when she should have put in either tile or