Posted by Chelsey – June 9, 2008 1:00 AM
Guest Blogger: James Bolosh, VP, Event Programming HGTV
Hello HGTV Design Star fans. First of all, thank you for watching. We always try our best to keep you glued to your sets and we're glad you keep coming back every year.
Casting Weekend (aka Family Reunion)
I arrived at the hotel near LAX, where 39 talented designers were waiting for their final auditions before our amazing judges and friends, Vern, Cynthia and Martha. I immediately checked in with my long-lost “brother” and Design Star host, Clive Pearse, and we both agreed over a cup of tea (he's a Brit, after all, and brings his own teapot and tea paraphernalia to every shoot) that it seems like just yesterday when we were watching the confetti fall on Kim Myles after she won America's vote and became the newest Design Star. Now she's a huge success on the network, and we're all back in Los Angeles for another grueling audition weekend. Clive and I made a quick call to David Bromstad, but of course he wasn't around, so we got his voicemail. I guess that's the life of a busy Design Star!
Why 9 Finalists?
You probably want to know how we even get to this point and why we only have nine finalists this year. Here's how it works: The production company (495 Productions) poured over thousands of audition tapes and narrowed the field to their top 100 or so for the HGTV team to look at and help narrow down to the final group. And this season we decided to allow only nine designers to complete so you can get to know them better (there were 10 finalists the first year and 11 last year). We heard you loud and clear on not being happy with the double eliminations and wanting to get a better sense of the finalists' design chops. We like to give as many people as possible the opportunity to be on the show and compete for this life-changing prize. And this year we let you choose one finalist online. Many viewers were wondering why there were two female contestants online. Well, we had narrowed down our cast already and had two contestants that were pretty similar and felt like you would appreciate the opportunity to help us make the decision. And by the number of votes cast, obviously you did. We're going to have the online contestant vote again next season, so stay tuned for more information.
How Does It All Work?
Here's some inside scoop — there's lots of down time at the hotel between the various challenges and interviews casting weekend. So in order to keep our designers from bumping into each other (or even worse, the judges), we put each designer under lockdown in their rooms. That means no leaving without a producer, no calls, no computer. Only room service is allowed.
As each designer presented themselves to our judges, you could immediately tell which ones were potential Design Stars (we watch in a control room next door). They expressed a passion for design and were comfortable just being themselves in front of the camera, which makes for a good show host. Watching these folks reminded me why I love this show so much and why so many people put their lives on hold to try out. Dreams can come true, and that's what this show is all about. They all understand there's no bigger prize on television; I always say it's like “winning the life lotto!”
I think that's worth a few hours of boredom in a hotel room, don't you?
It's All About the Shoes and the Bags
This year we decided to begin our first challenge at the end of the first episode — it was just way too big for one episode (more on this next week). What you didn't experience were the incredible winds, cold and rain the cast and crew were fighting. We always watch the action in our mobile control room and since this was a remote location on a lake in Nashville, we were in production tents. The entire area turned into a giant mud pit and I ruined a new pair of Nikes. Oh well. The “chief” (my boss and the head of HGTV Programming) drove up from Knoxville to get a glimpse of this year's cast in action, but we spent more time holding the tent down than watching the drama unfold.
Speaking of shoes, I think shoes can tell you a lot about a person. Did you notice that we established everyone getting out of the cars by what they were wearing on their feet? We also get to meet our ninth contestant, chosen by you, America: Stephanie Cook! Flip-flops were probably not the best choice for Stephanie to wear. Especially when you're about to do some major construction. And what about Michael Stribling's Louis Vuitton bag? I hate that it got soaked, but he looked pretty “ferosh,” right? (Be sure to rewatch this segment on your DVRs).
We Heart Nashville!
The city and home chosen always become “characters” in the show, so we really try to make a careful decision. Nashville was the right choice for many reasons. First of all, Scripps Networks has a big presence in Nashville already through GAC. And, on a personal note, I started in the television business in Nashville, so in many ways it was like coming home again. A big shout-out and thank you to all our friends at the Hyatt Park Place in Hendersonville, Tenn., where we all stayed. Is it quiet now without us?
Design Star at the Movies
We were excited to see the amazing movie trailer ad for Design Star during the previews before Sex and the City. HGTV's VP of Promotion and her team definitely rocked it out this year. I feel happy and lucky to be a part of such an amazing team that gets this huge production on the air each year.
Watch the movie trailer ad for Design Star.
All I can say is, stay tuned for an amazing ride this season! You're gonna love it.
The cream always rises to the top — and this season is no exception. Talk to you next week.
JB
Be the first to comment! Enter your comment in the form below.
I love this show...I look forward every Sunday nite and the repeat show the next nite.
I have already done a few things inside my house that I wouldn't have tried without watching Design STAR..I Hate painting, but after watching the Design STAR...I've painted/Blue/Orange etc.
But I have to tell ya (5) stars to go....It will be hard to find another David or Kim....
But not to worry, I intend to watch every show.
I love the "Drama" each Designer brings to the show.
Leonardo in LA
Posted by Leonardo – July 8, 2008 9:16 PM
I've enjoyed your Blogs they have added to
the total HGTV Design Star viewer experience.
Blog more often please.
Posted by Elaine Forman – July 6, 2008 2:51 PM
I loved watching the first two Design Star Shows. But this time, the show has become an outlet for rudeness,bad behavior and really takes away from any enjoyment or design ideas viewers might have come away with.I feel the judges have taken this show to a platform of"Design Snobery". How can a designer claim to have compassion for deserving people and show such bad behavior in the same week. HGTV, please have a higher standard than some other bad reality shows. Pam from Snohomish Wa
Posted by Pam Penick – June 26, 2008 12:24 PM
My girlfrinds and I get together to watch Design Star...WE ALL agree Depaul should not have been sent home. His room was not that BAD. The one that just kills us is the cry baby. We though, well tonight she gone. No such luck. All she does is, well nothing. Oh, pardon me she does cry and waste time.
Posted by Tommy – June 23, 2008 12:01 AM
It's official now. You're making decisions to boost ratings and not on design talent. Every reality show keeps the "trouble maker" to keep people angry and tuning in hoping they will be eliminated the following week. I hope someone with clout at HGTV is paying attention, because this has turned into a lame mess. I'm done with it.
Posted by doug moore – June 22, 2008 10:24 PM
Scottie's room was complete and functional and the retro look, to some of us, is quite relaxing and fun! But a room that is not complete and unpolished should not be acceptable in a competition like this one. I am very dissapointed in the judges decision to keep a contestants who clearly is unorganized and not very talented. I can't even remember her name because I was so turned off by the tacky white block of wood in the middle of the floor.
Posted by Krystal Gober – June 22, 2008 6:22 PM
thanx! i was wondering why you guys chose 9 designers. but i think youre right cuz i didnt like those double eliminations!!!!!!
Posted by mandykn* – June 21, 2008 6:12 PM
Sure the upstairs bedroom was boring but it was complete. Boring is an opinion, I know people who would enjoy that room.
Dark chocolate walls for a sunroom? What was she thinking? I stopped listening to her too.
To turn a piece of furniture that is organically beautiful, and naturally exciting, into an ugly and boring dining room table is a design sin! The one who painted that table white doesn't understand the meaning of "pop".
The judges missed an opportunity to strike a blow against the professional uglification that passes for design.
The bedroom and sunroom didn't offend me. What happened in the dining room did.
Posted by Charles Younger – June 18, 2008 9:07 PM
What happened to Vern's heart??? This show made me very uncomfortable. It should be entertaining and inspirational. It was none of those things. Over the past three years I have personally redone my entire home; kitchen, baths, paint, furniture,landscape and hard scape. Your shows have been my single most inspiration!! I will be taking Design Star off my Tivo. Sorry, you lost me.
Posted by laura – June 18, 2008 12:02 PM
After watching the first episode I saw some things that I'd like to comment on. It really seemed to me that no one listened to Tracey, just as she commented about. She was also trying to exercise her ideas and was pushing to get things done on time, something the judges have commented and eliminated people from last season for not doing. Kim, was scolded for not speaking out last season. Tracey speaks out and gets bashed for it. I think that the judges need to be consistent and fair. The others should have stuck to the plan that everyone agreed on. They were totally unfair to her. Tracey did go overboard in lashing back at them and she needs to watch it on that point.
Posted by Judy Winter – June 17, 2008 2:57 PM
Quite frankly,Michael is a huge turn off to the show.
Scotty should not have been let go first.I find Michael repulsive with his comments that are demeaning and condesending.I give one of his team mates kudos for being honest about him.
Posted by pat miller – June 16, 2008 11:26 PM
This is the worst group of design stars you could possibly have picked. Michael has the typical arrogant queen attitude. He needs to take a lesson in getting along with others instead of making snipey comments. I'd vote him off in a heartbeat. The other guys are not too bad however, they could use some polishing. None of them has show presence quality. The girls also leave alot to be desired. We have the California, blond bimbo crier, the no one wanted to listen to me so I just kept quiet, blame everyone else type and then you have the argumentative , "of course you had a say" I'll make myself look better at your expense type. Last but not least there was the other woman designer who worked on the dining room who just fades into the woodwork. There is not one of these designers that I would want to win or that I would watch their show is they did win. This is truly a pathetic group. None of these people are of the caliber of a David Bromstad or a Kim Myles.
Posted by Wendy – June 15, 2008 11:06 PM
My husband and I just finished watching the first episode, which made us very uneasy. It seems that race has something to do with the decisions. The first to go was the only African American, who was put to work by himself to begin with, and everyone else who stayed was White, including the two wimpy women who could not stand the stress or time pressure. Be honest, the three judges were extremely harsh with him, even though he did a pretty good job with the bedroom. True, nobody is perfect, however, they criticized everything he did, which was very unusual. I am Asian, but I am very disappointed with Vern Yip's attitude. We both liked his show, but he did not seem to be professional or impartial in this episode. Thanks.
Posted by Mary Chen – June 15, 2008 10:16 PM
I think that the first episode of this show was garbage. I do not agree with the removal of the first contestant, there were alot of other terrible designs that should have gone home. The brown was not the best color choice but the overall design was better than some of the others. I was a fan of this show in seasons past, however i am no longer a fan.
Posted by Jacob – June 15, 2008 10:05 PM
Two words -Mikey Verdugo. Wow, what a complete package he seems to be, totally gorgeous, talented, and a hard working cop with a heart of gold- what more could a woman ask for? I was just planning to watch this show because my mom and I are such huge fans but now there's even more reason to tune in every week! Kudos to Design Star, and it looks to be another exciting season.
However, I do think the men are going to have a run for their money because the women this season seem to be extremely talented!
Posted by Chenelle – June 15, 2008 6:22 PM
It's Sunday, week 2 of Design Star and I am at work getting ready to go home and watch my absolute favorite show.
I can see all of the thought and work that goes into this whole HGTV DS thing.
This building a house idea is good for me to see who can and can't "get along", who has any building knowledge/skills, who has the physical/emotional stamina, who has a sense of humor and the positive attitude to build up their team mates.
Yes, this is the exact reason why I love this show so much. The creativity and sense of humor of the producers and cast continue to excite and keep me lifted up. Keep it coming - and Thank You HGTV.
Marlese,
Hartford, CT
Posted by Marlese – June 15, 2008 4:27 PM
Come on guys... have you never watched a reality show before? The first episode is always about introducing the contestants, then the "real" show begins. We've only had the first show and already people are saying who they love and who they hate. We don't even "know" these people yet. Obviously, they don't show us the entire selection process - that would probably be a whole season in itself. We can't possibly judge by the little clips that we get to see.
Having said that, the Amazing Michael - at first I thought he was an entertaining character, but when he just kept repeating his little catch phrase it just made him obnoxious. Hopefully, he won't continue repeating it throughout the show because it would overshadow whatever talent he has.
In a way it'll be interesting to see how people who are already professionals in design/decorating handle the challenges, especially the ones who are already bragging about being the best. On the other hand, I like to see what the average person without formal training can do, like on the first 2 seasons. A short aside on Kim - although I voted for her because she was the better of the 2 remaining contestants (in my opinion), I always feel that I want more from her. She always seems to stop short of being finished, as if she ran out of time and/or money. I thought that about her trailer makeover last season, which to me was not the best that could have been done with that home. Hopefully, this season the judges will think hard about sending home true talent, like Will and Sparkle Josh and not end up with the best of what's left.
The judges - Vern is a top designer with amazing talent. My only criticism of him is that he seems to dislike any style that isn't like his with clean, simple "Asian" lines and candles all over the chocolate brown walls. There are many, many decorating styles and fortunately not everyone likes the same one or this would be a really boring world. Vern, just because you don't like, say, Victorian clutter, doesn't mean that it can't be done well. Cynthia gets very emotional and seems to judge by what and who she likes, not by design standards. Martha is just useless.
The concept - I, for one, would be majorly ticked off if I went on a design show and ended up having to camp outside, especially in what appears to be not the best weather conditions. The whole thing about building their own house, while intriguing, is not what designers do. When was the last time Vern got a job and had to sleep outside while building a house? However, we don't really know yet what the challenge entails, so why don't we wait and see what happens? I just hope that this is still mainly about decorating, not construction. We already have Extreme Makeover Home Edition.
Either way, I still love the show. Nothing's perfect, not everyone will like the same things, and it will be exciting to see what kind of designs they all come up with and how they handle themselves.
Happy watching.
Posted by CONNI – June 15, 2008 2:09 AM
WOW! What a first challenge! I, for one, am curious to see how this plays out...I think it is a great exercise in imaginative creativity, and seeing how they perform together. And its an outdoor space! FINALLY!
I already know (from watching Seasons 1&2) that there will be the usual (cringe) soap opera drama and antics (this is where a TV remote is a must, gotta love that mute button).
My only wish is that we don't lose a potential Design Star before we see them perform in an individual challenge.
Posted by Pret – June 13, 2008 11:02 AM
Dumb first challenge, this isn't what designers do. I prefer more creative processes like designing a room from a pet store only now that shows what a designer can do. These people aren't trained or experienced in house building-most of them anyway.
We want design not construction. Please living on cots outside that doesn't show your creative side this is not Survival Star!
Don't know I will continue to watch.
Posted by Susan Rodbell – June 12, 2008 10:32 PM
Wow, I guess I'm like most of the others, what a disappointment. I am a HGTVaddict, and Kim and David are AWESOME, what a slam to both in regard to "raising the bar". I will watch the next one and then decide from there if I will continue. I convinced so many friends to watch this year, and when it was over I was on the phone w/ lots of upset friends...No design...what a waste of time per their input. I had nothing I could say. Maybe including David and Kim as a "Mentor" would go along w/ your twist....I'd say the attiudes of most of the contestants could use some of Kim and David's personalities and ABILITIES, Kim and David are "Fresh" and "Caring People" like Vern.
Posted by Melanie – June 12, 2008 3:30 PM
I love HGTV - Vern you are amazing and is not only your guests or you crying, but even me!!!
I think the idea of building their own house is perfect and that shows their talent in organizing and intelligence. Is not only about putting colours together, but also taking care of everything else. Sure they don't know what plumbing in details is all about, but the connection with the interior design is also very important.
I am a little dissapointed in their first reaction - i thought this opportunity in building their own place will be really exciting for them. And above all i think they are loosing the main idea: they have to be a team - they have 2 guys, if I remember corectly, that are good builders. You have the others that are good designers. Make the best of them all...
Great show, great job - Good luck :)
Posted by Lorrilee – June 12, 2008 3:09 PM
Well, I thought Design Star was about original design ideas, giving the client what they want and pleasant personality NOT great hosting skills coupled with good looks. A great designer can always be trained to be a great host but can you train a great host to be a great desingner? I think not!
Judges are sometimes biased with there decision. Last season Will was not chosen because of his poor hosting skills, oh come on his designs were great and he gave the people what they asked for.
Posted by Ginelle – June 12, 2008 2:32 PM
I was very disapointed in season 2...it was just ok. Even though I voted for Kim in the end, I am disappointed in her show. I am sure she will not get picked up for a 2nd season. Now for this season, I totally hate the concept. I agree with other people about to many pretty faces! Great interior design should be paramont. And I don't like the whole cot idea. The producers should be shot!!! I am an interior designer myself that has done many DIY shows with channel 3 here in Phoenix, AZ. And I have to say producers and company managers don't know squat about interior design and the wants and needs of the watching public. I have a great idea for a tv show that has not been done and I believe would be of great service to the watching public. If your interested HGTV email me.
Posted by Eliazabeth Masi – June 12, 2008 1:17 PM
Okay, let's stop bashing the judges right away. Both Cynthia and Vern are very experienced, and probably don't like being so judgmental, but it goes with the territory. I'd like to have dinner with both of them just so I could pick their brains, and not about the Show. Martha - well, I think they need to get someone else. I just can't connect with a lot of what she says about the contestants. And I do agree with those who say we don't need someone who is a Brooke Shields or Brad Pitt in looks - they just need to have a sense of humor, and a great smile, and a lot of patience to deal with the clients on a show. I do agree also with those who feel like Stephanie just poses her body all the time, and I think the skill was in the hands of her competitor. Think you missed the call, America! I hope this first "trial" gives those two designers who really know how to build a chance to shine. The one who doesn't know how to deal with construction issues, but just wants to design a space is not really up on what it takes to transform a space - if you gotta put in a beam, you'd better know it!!! God bless all of them, however, and may peace be with the judges as they look over their work.
Posted by Connie – June 12, 2008 12:23 PM
In the show I notice Jerome had on a suit at the challenge but when they were coming from the airport, he was wearing jeans?!?! Is this showing going to be put together or is it real?
Posted by Sherry – June 12, 2008 12:00 PM
I too, was very disappointed. Lame**Lame***Lame!!!
I am interested in seeing creative ideas in design. The personalities will come out in the competition and experiences, and should be secondary at best. Let the drama happen on its on and capitalize on it, dont try and create it with kooks and focusing on lame behavior, especially at the expense of content.
Posted by Lorita Williams – June 12, 2008 10:19 AM
OK first lets say this..I see alot of the commentors already put there plug in for who they want or don't want to win,but really the show hasn't really even started.
Vern I love you and your style and I watch your show every chance I get,but it looks like your not so popular already at the start of this seasons design star,well you have my vote and when your as good as you are..just take it with a smile lol.
I love the idea of building the house..lets see who babies out on this one.I think this is gonna be aGREAT season.The designers seem to have more spunk and alot of attitude this season,lets just hope the designs they have are worth the wait.
NOW FOR THE JUDGES!!!
Last season I think you babied the designers to much,you weren't that strong on explaining your reasons for letting them go.I think if you don't come right out and strongly say what you mean then how are they really gonna learn from the mistakes..I mean you can't just say"I like your design but" ok I'm just saying get alittle fiestie!! Clive I think your wonderful
Posted by Terrylee – June 12, 2008 10:06 AM
I was truly disappointed this year. In the designers and where you decided to "drop" them. Season 1 got a Brownstone, season 2 got a penthouse so you go to the south and drop them near the river and say build it yourself? They are not plumbers, they are not electricians. How cruel to do that. As for the designers themselves...I am sorry to say that you did not get the "cream of the crop" unless of course most of your crop was bad. I won't be watching this year, it is a shame too because I did enjoy the first two and was looking forward to this season until I say the first show. Sad just sad. I still love Clive
Posted by Kathy – June 12, 2008 10:00 AM
I was really disappointed reading most of the comments left dissing Michael Stribling. Since when is confidence and pride in oneself frowned upon? I think Michael shows extreme potential in this show, after all it is a show representing the talent of the designer not a pity party for someone who blanked during the interview. I think HGTV did do a poor job of introducing the designers and didnt show you enough of their actual talent, but rather the drama. If you really want proof that Michael is a great designer go to www.michaelstriblinginteriors.com
Posted by Emily Morgan – June 12, 2008 1:53 AM
I do not like the build the house Idea at all
I watch for the design element not construction
It seems from the other comments I am not alone on this.
I have also been waiting for Design to start but it is dissapointing so far. I love Design star I hope this gets better and not turn into a survior type reality show.
Posted by Terri – June 11, 2008 11:28 PM
This is an awesome challenge. You may disagree with me but tehy really don't have to do a full blown house. It could be like a patio space with a feeling of some shelter and still have great design. It's also great because it's a wakeup call tha they can't play it safe like all of the designers on season 1. I am also tired of hearing everyone say that the designers don't have experience. Exspecially Mikey V. Just because he is a police man doesn't mean he doesn't have any experience. Just go to mikeyv.com
Anyways to be a great designer, you don't have to have formal training. Some people are just born designers. (ie Christina Ray)
Posted by Nate – June 11, 2008 10:22 PM
I'm so glad I'm not alone on this one. I was waiting all winter for the show to start. I hope it gets better. Is this survivor or a design show? Build a house in 7 days come on guys! Really. How stupid can you get. Making them be outside? Again what's the point. I was so disappointed I don't even know their names yet. I think the guy is Michael who Vern went after to do a retake. Oh let's just baby him now. Hope Mr. Fantastic gets kicked off the first week. I hope HGTV reads all these. Don't do this next year. Lets be real. We are looking for a design star to help the middle class person redo their own house. Get some good ideas that don't cost an arm and a leg to get done. Hope it gets better.
Denise
Posted by Denise – June 11, 2008 1:58 PM
Message to the Producers of Design Star:
Please remember why people watch your shows and your channel....
While we may want to be entertained, there are enough other shows we can watch. We tune in to see good - NO...GREAT design work. We are not interested in the "sexiness or good looks" of the contestants for pete's sake! We watch HGTV for it's content! I swear some of the contestants appear to believe this is a beauty contest!!!! Quit pandering and dumbing down your show. GIVE THE VIEWERS what we want - excellent design.
Posted by FANATIC – June 10, 2008 8:00 PM
This is my first year comitted to watching Design Star and i think the selection process looked smooth. Except for running after the bruised ego. I am sure Vern sees some of his own talent reflected in Michael.. but honestly, they should have let him click his heels together cuz now he's had a house dropped on him and I'm wondering if the hearts, brains and courage are going to run to his aid so he can stand up and say, "I'm the greatest". I'll be watching Jerome, Jennifer, Matt and Mikey with the most interest.
Posted by Lonny – June 10, 2008 7:55 PM
I definitely need to make two points:
Why may I ask, did the Judges/Producers give Michael a second chance at his audition? Are they going to offer the same opportunity to future contestants? How about the others from the previous two seasons? I was quite surprised that Michael could not answer what I considered to be basic questions for this type of audition. He was not prepared at all; I don't call that "amazing" that's just ridiculous, to say the least. The other thing that was out of line was Cynthia Rowley's reaction when the other Judges & Producers wanted to elimiate one of the contestants; we only knew this particular contestant was male. She obviously did not agree, threw a "fit" and made some childish remarks then abrubtly removed someone else's photo from the "line up". I believe Cynthia Rowley lacks the professionalism necessary to be a fair and impartial Judge.
Posted by A – June 10, 2008 6:55 PM
Now I wish I'd entered! Designing houses is a hobby I picked up while living off grid in an old camper trailer in Colorado for three years. It helps to have had a grandpa who designed and built houses when I was a child.
So, I am intrigued and cannot wait to see what they come up with. I am, however, going to miss the idea of a relatively untrained person being able to come out on top. I think that Vern made a good choice in allowing the "I'm amazing" guy on the show. Let's see what he does with the opportunity. He will either sink or swim.
Good going guys!!
Posted by Gloria Bloore – June 10, 2008 9:35 AM
I have mixed feelings about the contestants for this year - while it's interesting to see non-pros grow through this process, I think it will be interesting to see how people with more experience (and used to more budget) handle the challenges.
With regard to the house building challenge, is it possible with a budget of $100K that they could hire someone to build/frame the house and then they design/decorate the interior?
Just a thought...
Posted by TK – June 10, 2008 12:18 AM
I suspect Michael was selected by the producers for his polarizing aspect; by appearances of the posts already here, people either love him or hate him. For me, anyone who announces "I'm amazing" should shut his yap and let his work speak for him. Until that happens, I'm far from convinced. And for all the Michael haters, and yes, I'm leaning toward being one of them, I'd wager they'll watch the show just to wait for him to fail. Guess that means he makes it until at least the midpoint of the season.
Posted by DT – June 10, 2008 12:13 AM
Well i have to say i was disappointed, i missed the orginal airing and stayed up until 1am to see it , i really dont have a need to see how they come to the final people unless of course we got to vote for the ones who make it on the show. I really felt as if i wasted an hour watching it , waiting for something to happen . and then them putting micheal on there when you couldn't explain one thing he was asked is just beyond me . i just hope it gets better , i loved season 1 it was interesting and fun , last year was a disappointment and now this year starts off as one too sad
Posted by Eva – June 9, 2008 11:20 PM
Well I think this years design Star has most assuredly raised the standard. I heard from the begining that they we raising the standards and that they have. They found already successful designers and I see have already put them to a challenge above there abilities.Being place in the great outdoors looking at stacks of supplies,and the cots,and sleeping bags what more of a challenge it is for them who think they got it made as a designer and hearing therecomments as they drove up to the first challenge of becoming that all to famous Desing Star. I am so looking forward to this season and I am already casting my vote on the who I think will be the successors and who won't.
Posted by Dawn – June 9, 2008 11:08 PM
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/design-star-hgtv-2060730-stephanie-cook
Why are they revealing that Stephanie was a semifinalist before the show even aired?????
Posted by Kathy – June 9, 2008 11:03 PM
I was very disapointed with the constant comments about "raising the bar." What a slam to David and Kim. They are fantastic designers and I love both their shows. I'm usually very excited about the new Design Star show but I think the producers were rude. I also used to love Vern but after watching his new show, he is so nice and on Design Star he is not so nice. What's up with that?
Posted by Cynthia Clark – June 9, 2008 10:26 PM
I'm not sure about the "build your own house" idea, but I do like what we have seen of the contestants so far. And the mix of skills represented should allow them to accomplish this goal if they work together -- after all, it is a group challenge to begin the season.
On the other hand, I don't like that they were subjected to such horrible weather with the possibility of illness. They should have been allowed to stay at a motel until the house was done.
Regarding the professional vs. untrained question: on the blog where we were allowed to make suggestions, there were a lot of posts saying the producers Should! restrict the "amateurs" and bring in more "professionals"! They listened! Now people are complaining because they did what they were asked to do! Give them ALL a chance -- producers and participants -- it is way too early to be making decisions about whether this will be a good season or not.
Posted by Beatrice – June 9, 2008 9:52 PM
Well..I have a message for Matt! You are the next Design Star! Great job! You have a huge fan base at TWTC in CO. We will root for you and you have already blown us and the judges away with your Design Board!! Wahooooooooo Go Matt Go!!
Posted by Patty – June 9, 2008 5:59 PM
I'm conflicted about the "build your own house" idea for day one of Season 3. On the one hand, WHAT a challenge! And on the other, What's the point?I'd be terrified because I'm a designer not a contractor, so your point is??????
I think it's a bit premature to dismiss Michael immediately. Some people grow as the weeks go by. I watched videos of the past two seasons and David Bromstad was hidden behind the overbearing personalities of some other contestants in the beginning. He emerged as an OUTSTANDING designer.
I'll watch for another week and see how it goes.
Regal M
Posted by M Regalbuto – June 9, 2008 5:51 PM
The producers had NO CLUE WHAT THE VIEWERS WANTED TO SEE ON THE SHOW!~~~ DESIGN STAR.......?????I don't like the contestants...all/almost all are designers...there are a lot of very talented people, artistic that are not already designers. That's what the viewers want to see, every day people with dreams and talent!! NOT THIS!! You have enough designers on the shows!!NOT WATCHING THIS YEAR!! DIDN'T LIKE ANYTHING ABOUT THE SHOW!! BUILD A HOUSE???HELLO!!
Posted by Stephens – June 9, 2008 4:20 PM
Hate that Michael (I'm amazing) made it onto the show - he has no business being there and he could be the reason I stop watching.
Posted by LVA – June 9, 2008 4:15 PM
I did not like it...RAISING THE BAR??? I think you raised it too high!! I didn't like the contestants..especially the last girl..hello...need ratings? I was very disappointed...I was looking forward to this year....may not watch it again!!! Too bad the viewers didn't pick what they wanted to see!! The producers aren't in touch with the viewers!! TOO BAD!!!
Posted by Mari – June 9, 2008 4:00 PM
THIS IS NOT SURVIVOR! Looking forward the actual "design" competition tasks, hate the "Build your House". How dumb - what a waste of time and way to exhaust them at the beginning. Maybe HGTV is testing out its next show called "Design Survivor" - design on a desert island with only things you find! Vern, you should have let the blond kid go, he can't speak at all! Not ready for prime time yet.
I hope this gets better, I was looking forward to the real show....
Posted by Dizod – June 9, 2008 12:47 PM
Michael (I'm Amazing) has no business being on the show. Even given a second chance did nothing to improve his presentation. I don't know how the judges can justify his presence.
And building a house??? Dumb
Posted by Bonnie – June 9, 2008 12:08 PM
I thought the show was good, but seriously, is this a popularity contest or what?
Matt seemed to be the only truly viable contestant - compared to him, the rest seem like just "I wanna be famous and get attention" type people. Cutesy, nice and smiling contestants is not why people watch your show or your network.
"I have a passion....." PLEASE!!!!!!!
Posted by FANATIC – June 9, 2008 11:52 AM
I'm from Nashville and didn't recognize the lake-side location for the cabin-building challenge. Where was this filmed?
Posted by Will – June 9, 2008 11:39 AM
What a waste of an hour! I cannot believe you people did this...dumb dumb dumb! And the people you have chosen are nearly as bad. Perhaps it is harder to find future Design Stars nowadays. That guy wants to "raise the bar"? hahahahaha. There might be one so-called star, one or two. The rest are of no value. I cannot believe I watched this show...but I will watch one more time to see if you do better...if not, ta ta. And Clive looked embarassed and he normally is so confident, funny and entertaining.
Posted by bee_sneeze – June 9, 2008 11:18 AM
Well, I liked that you threw everyone off right away. Taking them out of their game a little bit is a good way to see a true champion under pressure. That being said, I am anxious to see what happens here. I will be quite upset if this ends up to be a waste-of-materials house. I would hope it could be built to code with the help of plumbers and electricians so it could at least be donated to a family when all is said and done.
Glad to see the first challenge mixed up a little but not sure about the Survivor-type element with the cots, etc. I'm glad you realized that we wanted to get to know the designers better because, for me, Season 2 was a bust, and I'm not 100% sure that the cream did rise to the top when all was said and done...
Anyway, the previews for the next episodes looked good so I'm excited to get to know everyone. With first impressions, Matt blew me away with his design board that he made and with his work. Wow - he looks like something new and exciting for HGTV (badly needed). On a personable level, Jennifer seemed the nicest and fun, though I don't think I care for her design style, but I am keeping an open mind. I didn't totally dislike anyone off the bat, but I was a little disappointed about Stephanie making it - she gives off a bimbo quality -- that's not nice, I know, but I would like to see more seriousness there. I'm keeping an open mind for everyone though and looking forward to seeing what happens next.
Posted by Miranda – June 9, 2008 11:14 AM
I called my sister after the show and we agreed that this was the dumbest plot for Design Star. It would be nice if this show actually was looking for a real designer. What real interior designer builds a cabin with their own hands? I certainly hope they had the brains to call a contractor and give him the $100,000 to do the house. This entire premise is stupid and disappointing.
Posted by Cindy – June 9, 2008 8:45 AM
Season 3's goal to raise the bar might not have been necessary if Vern Yip hadn't been so obviously partial to half tubes. Merry go rounds and Hurricane scenes. Can his voting be more in line with the stated goals of Deserving Design? Which, by the way I NEVER watch because it is so hypocritical from the way he voted on last year's Design Star.
Posted by Louise Jurek – June 9, 2008 1:36 AM
