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Trish and MikeyV,

I loved your designs and I would love for you to come and do a room for me if you are ever in Virginia. I was really sad when MikeyV was eliminated, but when Trish was eliminated I was very depressed and would have loved to see her go through the final challenge. Keep up the great work and hope to see your designs in the future.

Coleene

Posted by Coleene – August 3, 2008 9:51 PM

Vern seems like a really nice person, but his designs are very predictable. You can count on him to put a bunch of candles on a wall, in a square pattern, making the wall look like a mausoleum. It looks like there are bodies in the wall and the candles are there to mark the spot. He seems to go for the designers who also do this, and who have obviously figured out that this is the way to get a positive response from Vern.

Posted by Lia – July 24, 2008 1:32 AM

Do you know what the name of the connecting chairs in this episode are called?

Posted by Sarah – July 22, 2008 4:55 PM

The only thing that really aggravates me about this show are the judges! The things they say when critiquing the contestants drives me nuts. Verne's, Horrendous kitchen comment and the boring kitchen comment came from Martha, just blows my mind. It was a nice kitchen, yes it needed finished (back splash) but it was still a nice kitchen. Not everyone watching this show can afford $10,000.00 remodels let alone designers. Too bad for Mikey V. he would probably clean up and be rather presentable with a little help, but then again he would have become a PR nightmare for the show with all of the controversy surrounding him right now.

Posted by Michael – July 20, 2008 6:04 PM

I truly love HGTV and if it were possible this should be the only channel that my cable company should charge me for becuase it is all that I tune in to. I have watched Design Star each season and I am truly dissapointed in the individuals chosen this year to compete. I have not seen anyone truly step up to the past challengers and each season I have chosen the winner. I feel that I can only judge at this point on the hosting ability because I have not seen any one stepping outside the box with design an originallity at this point so I chose Trish as the winner becaue her hosting is the best by far. I hope the final two jump out there and do something spectacular for the final challenge, they have not measured up thus far to the past two years on any of the competitions so it would be nice to see them surpass on the final challenge. HGTV I would like to thank you for all the programs and for all the education on design that you have taught me.

Jenna Bates

Posted by Jenna – July 14, 2008 12:29 AM

I know that Tracie wasn't everyone's favorite and from here it looked like she largely brought it on herself. With that said I don't know how much of the time spent on the shopping trip was travel time and or checking, pulling stock, checking out, etc. In that specific area I'm willing to give her the benefit of the doubt. I also agree that it was apparent from the onset that none of them liked the fact that she was the leader (not that i blame them) but in my opinion I don't think it helped them out either.

I don't know what the plans are for next year's season but if they don't crank it up they could very well lose some fans of the show.

Posted by elaine – July 14, 2008 12:21 AM

I agreed with the eliminations tonight. Mikey had a long way to go in hosting skills. And,Tracey, though better in her interactions with the other challengers tonight, did not exhibit creative leadership and also cost them in terms of time for the back splash. I disagree with the judges evaluation of Matt. I find him the most "real" of any of the contestants that are left. He doesn't "act" as if he were hosting...he just "hosts," which I find wonderfully refreshing. I hope the judges will seriously consider his style as one that the public might find truly enjoy and find relaxing.

Posted by Diana – July 13, 2008 10:20 PM

I am wondering why people watch Design Star and get so upset over the eliminations. That's what has to happen if one person is to win. So far I do not disagree with any of the judges decisions.

As far as drama and hype, hello, TV is about making money, not charitable entertainment.

This is my first season watching the show at all. I am a bit disappointed with two things. First, what is with everyone trying to incorporate black paint into their design? I think its lame, it was hot for like 2 seconds and now it seems safe. Second, I wish adults could behave with civility and respect for others. I can't imagine why anyone would go on national television and behave unprofessionally and just plain mean. Why on earth would HGTV want to hire someone who acts like some of these people? Oh yeah, they don't and they won't. Just watch, whomever wins will reflect positively on the network.

Posted by Lynn – July 13, 2008 1:32 AM

I have to agree with D's comments on July 5: the criticisms of the judges are not constructive for the contestants or the viewers. Would like to see how the now-reasonable budgets are portioned. More time to complete projects, too. I'm looking for a show with enlightenment and entertainment.

Posted by horsydziner1 – July 12, 2008 10:52 PM

One more comment. I kept looking at Michael's Spain room, and although I agreed Michael personality-wise had to go, I couldn't understand why his design was worse than Tracee's. So, I decided to look up Gaudi architecture (which the judges and the guest blogger mentioned.) Wow, is it an eye-opener. What fantastical designs. Although I still don't understand why Michael should have referenced Gaudi, I'm glad to learn about the architectural style. It's worth taking a look if you have the time.

Posted by Kersplash – July 10, 2008 2:12 AM

CMS, I read your post (7/5) about the June 6 Kalamazoo Gazette quoting Tracee as saying that she is one of the final two. I decided to see that for myself and went to the Kalamazoo Gazette archives (and had to pay $2.95 for the online article!) This is what the article quotes Tracee as saying:
"'Nobody knows who wins yet...We have filmed the majority of the show and it's down to two of us. I can tell you I'm really happy how I did. I do a lot of really good things on there that I'm really proud of.' Her friends who've watched sneak peeks of "Design Star" and perused the designer profiles at hgtv.com assure her that she's a shoo-in. No matter how it comes out, Dore said she's determined to host her own TV program. 'If by some chance I don't win, I'm still going to go have my own show,' she said." We can only hope the "two of us" Tracee mentions, refers to two of the whole group - not her. We'll see.

Posted by Kersplash – July 10, 2008 1:49 AM

I am wondering why the judges are putting such restrictions on the designers and not letting them have more free reign on their individual designs. In season 2 they only had to shop at the Dollar Store to get there items. Why make the season 3 designers restricted to a country. Let them have more options to show their own abilities and show their actual talents. Also, why so many team shows, we need more individual designs to really get a good look at their talents,

Posted by Carolyn – July 9, 2008 9:37 PM

I LOVE HgTV My kids think I am addicted to this channel but that is ol I have redecorated and sold three beautiful home from things that I have learnt from this channel. I would love to see more gardening shows especially on saturdays. I feel like HGTV has gotten more away from gardening and more toward decorating and houses. PLEASE put on more gardening shows.

Posted by Jennifer – July 9, 2008 8:12 PM

I miss Michael!!! I love Michael!!! I am going to marry him!!! LOL I wanted tracee to go home.. I hate her!!!!

Posted by Abby – July 9, 2008 3:14 PM

I hated all Tracee's designs. She should hav been gone after episode 1. My favorite are Trish and Mikey V. and maybe jen. the only reason y i like tracee is because she brings drama. good luck to trish and mikey.

Posted by Jen – July 9, 2008 12:37 PM

Great episode this week! MikeyV and Trish and yes...even Tracee did a fine job. Thanks for skipping the drama Tracee!

MikeyV truly deserves his own show - He and Matt are the true talents in this competition. Next I would rank Jen and finally Trish. Trish - just a suggestion - you're an attractive woman - cut your hair please - that's for younger girls!

Posted by fanatic – July 9, 2008 6:43 AM

Re Nancee- Post of July 8,2008 7:46 A. M.

Your post is right on the money. Couldn't agree with you more!! What a shame - IMHO, which I believe I am able to express, The "H" in HGTV could also mean Hype.

Posted by Lynn – July 9, 2008 3:47 AM

What is all of this noise about David B? He may be a genuinely nice guy but no way does he compare to Candice or Michael Payne. They are true designers in every sense of the word. Whatever happened to Michael Payne, anyway, HGTV?

Posted by Nancy – July 8, 2008 7:55 PM

After reading most of the comments on this season's show, I just had to add my two cents. After all the rumors about how rigged last season was,(and realizing that those rumors must have been true), because Kim is the second worst designer on HGTV (Constance Ramos holds 1st place). This season just re-emphasises the fact that this show is not about design or talent or even personality. It is only about ratings. It won't matter when they get to the final two (when America supposedly votes), I'm sure the winner has already been decided by HGTV.

Posted by nancee – July 8, 2008 7:46 AM

I loved Michael's design. You can't stereotype all of Spain into one traditional style. Michael's room was awesome and totally reminded me of clubbing in Barcelona. Overall though, the designs this year are just plain boring. The time limits are too short for them to do anything interesting. I actually thought Michaels was the best one and I can't believe Tracee has survived two eliminations now where she obviously performed the poorest. They are just keeping her around for the drama and it's really turning me off of this show.

Posted by Melissa – July 8, 2008 1:39 AM

Stupid pet tricks, not design

Posted by Nancy – July 8, 2008 12:56 AM

Mickey V. is doing GREAT! Loved his and Trish's design of the room this week. Tracie did better this week but she still needs to go! Whomever is saying there is a lack of designers this season and more drama, you need to open your eyes. There are definetly a few people with a lot of talent this year, Mickey V. being one of them! Ryan if you are reading this, love ya kid. =) Tina G.

Posted by Tina G. – July 7, 2008 6:42 PM

Design Star is a complete disappointment this year. It seems contestants were chosen based on the level of drama they can deliver – and not good drama, silly day-time soap-like drama. Design Star, during last two years, created anticipation between episodes of the next innovative and inspiring design that would be created. This year, that anticipation has been replaced by apprehension over witnessing juvenile behavior and less then mediocre design. The most recent episode, designing a hotel suite inspired by Sara Evans, was lighter on the drama but further emphasized this year’s lack of talent. I feel like I’m watching a show of designers who didn’t make the cut – not those who are supposed to be raising the bar.

Posted by Ila – July 7, 2008 2:55 PM

Design Star is a great concept, but your viewers are telling you something, and I hope you listen. It's evident we want to see good design. These ridiculous 'gimmicky' scenarios are not design. Give your designers the time and budget to produce something worth viewing. Let them shop at stores real designers shop at, not Michael's or the Dollar Store. We might keep watching.

Posted by Marsha Kirn – July 7, 2008 2:11 PM

On tonight's show it was interesting to see Tracee displaying the talent that has obviously kept her design firm in business. To me, the most disappointing component of this season's Design Star is the editing. The cameras are rolling constantly, right? They can slice and splice any way they want, cutting out the "nice" and leaving in the "nasty," manipulating the viewers into choosing a villain. But then again, they did that with Robb last season, too. HGTV should be above such cheap tricks - they don't really need them for ratings. I still think all the kids are good designers - I'm just not sure yet if they are GREAT designers. The judges' choice tonight was the correct one. Stephanie knew that, and her post-elimination comments were very gracious. Good luck, Steph!

Posted by Syl – July 7, 2008 12:19 AM

That room was so adorable! Hey Mikey V, Trish, and Trace, could you please make my room look like that?
Though I coVuldn't afford it, I would save for that look. I have seen many beautiful rooms on the show but that was my favorite so far. The bedroom was so well done you should be out there decorating for people already. Ask for a break so that you can come to my house as soon as possible! The minute that room was revealed, I was so amazed, I was wondering where I could find everything to match it.
Very well done!

Posted by Yakirah – July 6, 2008 10:22 PM

Ok it's Sunday night after the Hotel make over. Now that was a design star show. Very well done. I do agree with this weeks pick. I feel bad for Stephanie,but you must take credit for what you did. Hope the next weeks are as good as this week was.

Denise

Posted by Denise – July 6, 2008 10:05 PM

Trish's room reminded me of the movie "Beetlejuice". You know, where the furniture took on a life of it's own toward the end? Where is the talent this year? Actually, Michael's room was not that bad, but it did not bring to mind any other country.

Posted by Christine Guest – July 6, 2008 7:52 PM

what is wrong with the judges... maybe michaels wasn't the greatest but it was better than Tracie... she needs to GO NOW!!!! why are they keeping her. she is nasty, not a team player and not a very good designer... and where was Mexico in the other two rooms... they were Mexico just as much as Michaels was Barcelona...PLEASE JUDGES GET TRACIE OFF...

Posted by Liz – July 6, 2008 7:48 PM

So far none of the designers (?) have shown any talent. I hope tonight it better. With that said, Stephaine should leave.

Posted by Barb – July 6, 2008 7:42 PM

I overheard one of the women participants saying "I should have went with...". I think a design star needs to use correct English. Of course you hear a lot of design stars using dangling participles (By painting the room caramel, "it" makes the room more welcoming) and saying lay when they mean lie, but overall they use good, literate English.

Posted by Beverly – July 6, 2008 6:32 PM

Unbelieveable! Yes the designs are terrible this year but also the judges are just horrible. What makes a fashion designer a good judge of interior design??? Cynthia is the kindest one there but still...come on HGTV! Surely you could come up with somebody other than a FASHION DESIGN editor. Vern acts like he thinks he has to be the "bad guy" or he can't be on there. That's so wrong and really turns me off, not to mention making the designers feel like a piece of trash. I'm very very disappointed in this season. AND I agree that Tracee should have been sent home instead of Michael. Her design was just sick.

Posted by Silversis – July 6, 2008 6:31 PM

Yeah, I can't believe that they sent Michael home. I mean he has had ONE bad design. ALL of Tracee's designs have stunk. I guess we need to have her on the show so that we have someone to hate - that's the only reason I can think of as to why she's still on. The Omarosa of Design Star!

Posted by Alison – July 6, 2008 6:24 PM

I tuned in this year thinking it had to be better than last year, but sadly it's not. The thought of ANY of these people as a Design Star is appalling. I can't believe this was the BEST in the pool of people who applied. I'm still reeling from the colossal mess that was last year's Design Star. Most of these people did not know what design was appropriate for the country that they visited. To have actually visited the country and not gotten it shows they have little concept of what it means to be a Designer. I agree that Michael's room was not worse than Tracee's. In fact I would have chosen his over hers, but he is not suited to be a design star. The results of last year's final 2 shows that talent is not the only basis for Design Star. The fact that he was crying that he wanted his MOM after he was dismissed shows he's not mature enough to handle the job or criticism. I don't think anyone at HGTV listened to the complaints of the MANY fans last year. This year is just more of the same with less talented people.

Posted by Jaye – July 6, 2008 6:13 PM

I think the casters for this show really missed the mark this year. They should just cancel the season and recast. Compared to the last 2 seasons we're dealing with designers that took design class 101 and read a few Martha Stewart Home living magazines. Very disappointing.

Posted by J.P.G. – July 6, 2008 6:00 PM

Jennifer's design was the only creative and unique one. And she's the only one who keeps a smile on her face! Personality is what we will also be viewing with the designs!

Posted by Doris – July 6, 2008 5:59 PM

I have been a devoted watcher of Designstar through the first two years; and I was was looking forward to this year. Unfortunately, I have been nothing but disappointed by this year's program. The worst participants from the last two years exceed the best from this year. I'm not sure that whoever wins this year deserves a program.

Posted by Marsha Dick – July 6, 2008 5:57 PM

I think there is some great talent this year, but what is up with keeping Tracee? She surely has not shown that she has design talent yet, and her time managements skills are horrible. Her personality will not get her any clients, and if she does, she won't keep them as clients. They will definitely get sick of her attitude. I feel she has been on the show too long. She should have been one of the first ones to be booted off.

Posted by Russanne – July 6, 2008 4:16 PM

Seriously???? What were the judges on last week??? NO WAY should they have let Michael go -- not enough SPAIN over the other three CRAP designs?? Seriously???!!!

Tracee was/IS the worst -- the other Michael chewed off far more than he should have - the other Thai guy was the worst Asian restaurant design ever -- AND THEY Selected MICHAEL because it wasn't SPAIN enough for them??? It was a 2008 Michael VERSION -- and far better than the other three!

Tracee is NOT a designer -- I cannot call her one -- she's a CRAFTER at best -- and we all wonder how she got ON the show, let alone lasted this long???? Cartoonish, tacky in the worst way - mean spirited to boot -- kick her back home where she can design anyway she likes!!

My heart went out to poor Michael -- he deserves to come back and the judges should be ashamed for their inaccurate choices they made! For shame, for shame!

Posted by Sallie – July 6, 2008 4:11 PM

You know what's really funny? We all watch this show and get upset and make comments and keep watching it!

So - don't we?

Listen to this;

Matt, Mikey V, Trish and sorta Jen are gonna be the final contenders in this season. I would really like to see them bring someone back - I'd say perhaps - Jerome. He does great work. He made a bad choice in his room but it wasn't horrid. He deserves to return to stir things up a bit.

These type of so called reality shows are made to bring in sponsors and that premise works. We viewers are sucked in and we get upset at various things but we keep watching. There is a bit of manipulations and con artistry involved in it all, hello, it's TV!

We just need to watch and voice and hope, that's all.

Now having said all that, I must state that TRACEE IS SO PHONEY BALONEY, isn't she? Yet, I predict she will last for a couple of more weeks because she so totally charmed the judges from moment 'one', that they can't loose hope in her, ...and the element that she creates, (drama and ratings), that's for dang sure!

Come on, all the cheers for Michael? He was so not qualified from the get go! He couldn't define his style? What's with that? He gets a second chance and then stabs the fellow designers in the back, disrepects them and talks to the camera after saying cudos, man - poop, cry to mommy, cry! He so deserved to go!

Matt is awesome! Mikey V is talented! Trish is creative and personable! I predict those 3 in the contender spots for sure. However, I was very disappointed in the individual single space of last week. No one really shined. I thought Jen's walls were very well done but the entire space was not tremendous. Her blue sofa things were sloppy and she should have outlined the white with blue not black. That was odd. The others designers spaces weren't that great either. I sorta agree with Martha, that no one really shined and the playing field is fresh again.

I have loved Matt's work and personality and work directives, etc. He could very well pull this thing off completely, but I really really enjoy Mikey V too. Wouldn't it be fun to have a cop/detective design show? Like: Arrest those that make design booboos - haaaaaaaa, fun! Trish is very pleasant and knows her stuff. I was somewhat disappointed in her single room, tho. What happened to Mexico?

Just gonna be patient with this groups and hope for the very best designer to win! Go Matt! Go Mikey V! Go Trish!

Have all the confidence you need and shine! Be yourself! Follow your ideas and design the very best you can! GO FOR IT!

Posted by Renae – July 6, 2008 11:25 AM

Get Michael back. That is all I'm saying.

Posted by Ann – July 6, 2008 10:37 AM

Only two people have risen above the fray so far, Matt and Jennifer, but they've both made mistakes, too.
The judges seemed to like Stephanie's modern Mexican cabana, but I didn't see anything modern Mexican or cabana about the design. At least Jennifer had a justification for her design.

Posted by Carol Pease – July 6, 2008 4:52 AM

I am very disappointed by this years Design Star and HGTV. HGTV is known for it's true design shows. When did they lower themselves to Reality Drama???!!! Tracee has been in the bottom since the show started and Michael has been in the top but he is the one to leave? If Tracee had any potential, it would have showed up by now!!!!! I am giving it one more shot and if she's not gone, I AM!!!!! This type of show will have drama no matter what, PLEASE, PLEASE, bring the focus back to design!!!!

Posted by Design Star Fan? Not soo much – July 5, 2008 10:05 PM

Did anybody read my post last week?
June 6 Kalamozoo Gazette quotes Tracee as saying that she is one of the final two.
Posted by CMS – June 30, 2008 1:10

SHE SAYS SHE IS IN THE FINAL TWO. We can complain all we want, but unless she is lying, it doesn't matter. The judges kept a nasty person who only creates animosity.

Posted by CMS – July 5, 2008 8:56 PM

I likee watching design star myself, I'm not sure how much better I could do given the budget and time constraints. I like Jennifer, her positive attitude is what draws me to her and I liked her pottery inspired walls. Thought Michael, who is a promising designer got too caught up in the drama and could not take any form of criticism, which does not bode well for working with difficult clients. Maybe this show will be a rude awakening for him. Tracee a, a much older and surely more experienced designer also can take the same medicine. Not a team player and far too into herself. Her room was an unmitigated disaster-nobody wants to live in a "theatre set inspited" room. I could have lived in Michaels but there wasn't even a hint of Spain in that room. I love Mexico too, but Stephanie's room looked more like something out of "Sweeney Todd" than a pool side cabana in Mexico. Mexican people CELEBRATE color. It is profuse and spills over everywhere. Black and white? Maybe after a nuclear attack or something. So far Matt is my favorite-the house he designed for himself must be a sight to see.Such creativity and engineering genius! hopefully he can figure out the time thing. I'm not sure about the others, not enough of an impression yet. So far the producers are following the same tired formula- "the cute blonde," the older "drama queen," etc. Which one will be the one to take his shirt off first I wonder? A newer,fresher take for next year please.....

Posted by staciee – July 5, 2008 5:23 PM

I agree with others that the casting this season was not good at all. But I'm also annoyed with the amateurish bait-and-switch attempts to create dramatic tension which have been used twice so far: namely, "you must build a house in 7 days!" and "pack your bag, bring your passport, time for some international inspiration!" But then we find out, "No, just kidding! We don't really send our contestants to fabulous places like those OTHER reality shows!" How lame. If the show was cast and structured well, those kinds of tactics wouldn't be necessary. Design Star, you can do so much better than that.

Posted by Dana – July 5, 2008 5:00 PM

give me a S-U-C-K-E-Y SUCKEY,every time traccy makes fun of someone she is showing how many times shes designed,0.Michal is a texan freak and needs to get a life. in stead of talking about someone using the same color about last season he needs to shut up and go fall down some stairs, maybe his design won't be so screwed up

Posted by bryce – July 5, 2008 2:39 PM

Frankly, I think the judges are UNKIND in their critiques. Don't know if I am going to want to watch Vern in the future. A little more CONSTRUCTIVE criticism please.

Posted by D – July 5, 2008 2:14 PM

Tracee is the mole.

Posted by Ginger – July 5, 2008 12:21 PM

We have to go with who was chosen for this year's design star contestants. And, I am going with Mickey V. I think you have it in you Mickey and I am pulling for you. Shine like the star you are.

Kelly Ray, Ridgecrest, CA

Posted by Kelly Ray – July 5, 2008 10:13 AM

I don't like Tracee, she takes to much time. she doesn't know how to design. I didn't like Michael but now I feel bad since he cried at elimenation. My favs are Stephanie Cook, Jennifer Bertrand, and Mikey Verdugo!

Posted by Liz – July 5, 2008 9:08 AM

I don't like Tracee, she takes to much time. she doesn't know how to design. I didn't like Michael but now I feel bad since he cried at elimenation. My favs are Stephanie Cook, Jennifer Bertrand, and Mikey Verdugo!

Posted by Liz – July 5, 2008 9:08 AM

If the chick from Michigan is 36, I'm 20. Why does she have to lie about her age. Her face shows she has been thru 20 miles of bad road.

Jennifer has got it.

Posted by joan mertz – July 5, 2008 12:14 AM

I'm very disappointed with the designers this season. I was happy that the cry baby Michael, who by the way made a complete fool of himself cying for his mommy was sent home. On a positive note, I thing Mikey V is really cute.

Posted by Kathleen Smith – July 4, 2008 11:47 PM

Wow! Here it is July 4th and I am still reeling over the poor execution of the foreign-theme rooms. The Italian vase walls were beautiful, but really made me think of French Country, but it was a nice room. I won't even comment on the Grinch Whoville room, but Tracee should have gone home after the first contest, and Michael S after the second. Judges, you didn't even give Scottie a chance - and I think he would have surprised you. The rest are so-so, but Mikey and Jennifer seem to have some potential whcih could burst into flower later on. I still say that Marhta needs to be replaced. I can't diss Vern as much, because he is very open about his opinions. Being a judge is not the same as being a star on your own show - on your show, you have to be nice and friendly or you would lose your client and the audience. Sitting in judgment is being in the here and now with the person you are critiquing, and even if you like the person, you have to be honest with them about what they failed at. Michael was given a chance to re-audition, and he did not live up to the expectations he first seemed capable of. Cynthia is sometimes able to say it a little more softly, but sometimes I don't understand her choices, either! I think that possibly the producers need to stop worrying about keeping people excited about conflict, and get rid of those who can't be gentle while firm, and perhaps give them a decent store to shop at (Target or Wal-Mart) where their imagination can soar, rather than stores with a limited repertoire of the same genre of product. Or maybe a HomeStores type of place. And give them the money to buy the furniture - don't pre-set the furniture items and ask them to do something like a foreign theme on those horrid retro sofas which bear no resemblance to Spanish, Mexican or Italian! It was marginally usable for the Thai decor. A lot more thought needs to be put into the different contests by the judges, producers, etc. Ask Sarh Richarsdson, Karen McAloon and Candice Olson for ideas! Now, THEIR shows are wonderful! I don't like this season, but I'm an HGTV fan, altho not as much lately - what did you do to some of the good old shows? Give Alice Fakier a quarterly show or something - she is a doll and has class. I also liked Ed and Rachelle's show where they took up visiting other famous people and went over their houses to show what could be done to green them up - bring it back!

Posted by Connie – July 4, 2008 11:41 PM

Oh my god, here we go again. these are supposed to be real designers? I absolutely love David from season 1 and he was not a professional designer. What are they thinking of keeping Tracee. she should have left week 1. No i did not like Michael's laziness & snide remarks but his room (even though it did not match what he was supposed to be doing)was a nice regular room.
I also think they got rid of the wrong one last week, i think D. Paul had some talent, his time was just off.
Please judges lets shape up, and see Tracee for the failure she is, or you are probably gonna lose a lot of people. I'm a devoted HGTV fan but this is getting rediculous

Posted by paula – July 4, 2008 11:19 PM

I do think Michael needed to go this week-however, I think Tracee should have been gone the first week. I am disappointed in the whiners that are supposedly potential design stars. They don't even come close to the caliber of David or Kim. Kim had a difficult session last season with one of the other designers but she handled it with professionalism and tact, stood her ground, didn't lose her cool and didn't whine. I also think it is time for new judges--can't they find anyone else?

Posted by denverslady – July 4, 2008 10:01 PM

Michael, you didn't deserve to be voted off but you do need to grow up if you expect to have your own TV show.

Posted by Jason – July 4, 2008 8:51 PM

Three Cheers For Tracee! You know i might be just a young twelve year old boy, but i know every one is being rude to tracee not only the crew but the blogers and i think tracee is a wonderful designer but when she wins design star you all will be sorry. If tracee reads this message... Ignore what other people say just pay attension to your plans and good luck with your new show.

Posted by Nick – July 4, 2008 8:30 PM

I've read all these comments and couldn't agree more. Tracee, do everyone a favor and vote yourself off the show. Judges, right your wrong and bring Michael back.

Posted by Jason – July 4, 2008 7:39 PM

I liked some of the rooms(MikeyV., Matt?, Jennifer, Stephanie, and Trish)but Michael's and Tracee's rooms were bad but Michael's room was WAYYYYY BETTER then Tracee's!!!(like always!! lol)i really think Tracee needs to go!!! she is a bad designer!! she has no style and if she had a show i would never watch it or want her to do a room in my house!!!! and i think ALL the people who left the show already should still be there instead of Tracee?!?!?! i never really did any home designing before but i know i could have did a way better job then that!!!her room doesn't feel like a place you could go and it would be real!!

Posted by Miranda – July 4, 2008 7:30 PM

Who is Tracee and why is she still on this show???????? Is she related to someone at HGTV?????
Do they feel sorry for her because she cries so much or can't they see the way she is tossing everyone around her under the bus while she cries foul and unfair??? What a joke.. I'm shocked that Michael is gone, no one really came through this episode and perhaps it
was a good time to fire the bad seed.

Posted by Susan – July 4, 2008 7:15 PM

Well, its obvious that Micheal and Tracee should go, however, I did not get Stephanie's room. After watching the repeat episodes, I still cannot see the 'pool side' cabana. I thought the twigs she used were very tacky and that it looked like no thought was put into the room. I love this show. I watch for entertainment not for ideas. The contestants are very mediocre. We cannot expect them to be Candace Olsen or Kenneth Brown.(remember him from Redesing).

Posted by Tracy – July 4, 2008 7:08 PM

This season is UNIQUE! I don't have a favorite, even the comradery is different; some seem to smile when constructive comments are given to their peers. Last season they seemed more professional. No one really "stands-out" this season. Season 1 and Season 2 were super with David and Kim Myles (Myles of Style)...but this one I'm not quite getting just yet. I'll watch this Sunday-but once again I just don't have a favorite YET.

Posted by AJR – July 4, 2008 6:59 PM

i was extremely disappointed last season when todd didn't win - i didn't think kim had design skills then, and her show seems to confirm that. Compared to this group though, she is a shining star. I find it hard to believe that this is a group of supposed professional designers given their lack of talent and originality. I understand that this is a tv show that panders to ratings, but please, it is embarrasing to the integrity of the show and the judges to protect tracee in hopes of promoting viewership through controversy. I agree that this season has been a total disappointment. I can design better rooms than most of these people. Perhaps hgtv wants to give me a show.

Posted by mj – July 4, 2008 6:57 PM

That mess by Tracee was acceptable and she was allowed to stay on the show??? I could not believe the tackiness and gaudiness of the room. This would have been a great room if it were a project being done by elementary students for a school play, but a designer?? I think not!! It was too obvious that the judges were not judging for pure design capabilities. HGTV is purposely trying to pull the wool over our eyes and doesn't hide the fact that all Tracee brings to the show is drama and the ability to create havoc in the group. Change the name to Drama Star and leave the word "design" out of it as this seems to be more their direction at this point. If the judges truly hated the room design, Tracee would have been out of there.

Posted by liz8186 – July 4, 2008 6:22 PM

It seems apparent that the reason tracee is still competing is to provide controversy for the show. No one would ever believe that she has survived on her talent - her designs (and i use that term loosely) are laughable. I agree with everyone else - where did you get these people? At least the tv personalities you recruited last year could put a room together - todd was one of the most original designers that has ever been on the show- this year, i could be the next design star- want to give me a show?

Posted by mj – July 4, 2008 6:18 PM

I decided to watch design star today. Today, Scottie got voted off.

I was a tad disappointed at what seemed like the wholesale rejection of a cultural or otherwise 'ethnic' design perspective.

I'm always a little leary of watching reality shows with judges who usually base their decisions on their own personal tastes and preferences and background, yet while trying to convey an air of unbiased, 'professional' judging.

Scottie was voted off because he chose a more 'urban' 'ethnic' palette and design concept...and he wholeheartedly stood behind it. His palette was a warm rust with shades of browns, etc and a cool 'tie-dye' motif, etc....as he said, a 'throw back to the 70s'.

Let's be real here: African Americans tend to be drawn to warm, earth tones that reflect their heritage and Caucasians tend to lean towards cooler tones with straight lines and conservativeness....and these are the themes that seem to consistently win the approval of the judges.

Scottie's deep rust color was described as 'too intense' shocking, and yet in the followup episode, the next team painted a room black with white furniture....what's REALLY intense and shocking?

Is there really any 'objectivity' when an all-white judging team (and yes, I'll count Vern Yip as White in this instance as well) is judging an all-white crew of contestants who all seem to be drawing from the same comfort level of design and inspiration?

HGTV has made considerable efforts to diversify it's lineup the last few seasons...(.I'm glad someone realized that people of color buy, remodel, and yes, actually decorate their homes!)

Yes, I'm a Black Woman and of course, Black folks usually always rout for the ONLY black person....but I actually really want to see someone who pushed some design limits win; regardless of their race.

But can the show really be all that competitive or interesting if everyone competing AND judging are all coming from basically the same design vein?

Just a thought.....

Posted by Anika – July 4, 2008 6:13 PM

It sure looks like no one likes Tracee and most were not sad to see Michael go. Both seem quite immature to me. Could the judges not find better talent than this entire group?
I suppose you want a guy selected this time. Better judges would be helpful too. Candace Olsen is the ONLY designer with any real class on HGTV. She is extraordinary. In fact all of the Canadians are far superior than any of the Americans. I wonder why.....
Vern is a nice guy but his designs are always predictable, lots of candles everywhere.

Posted by Pam – July 4, 2008 6:08 PM

Tracee needs to go.... don't like anything about her.... although Micheal was a backstabber, neither need to be on the show.... the contestants had to work from a 99 cent store last year and did much better that these did this year from Micheals.....I voted for Kim last year but I am disappointed in her show, and hardly ever watch David's .... need more like Decorating Cents on HGTV that's what you call creative.. and I hate they have moved their time slot!

Posted by Viv – July 4, 2008 5:53 PM

As stated, this year is not great. David's Color Splash is my favorite program and Candance Olsen is also good...but that Kim from last year.......yuck, yuck and double yuck. Guess the first year was the best.....now it is all repition stuff.

Posted by joan walker – July 4, 2008 5:40 PM

SEND TRACEE HOME NOW!!!!!!
If she is one of the two left, I will NOT vote for her. If she wins, I WILL NOT WATCH HER show.

This year's Designstar is definitely not as good
as the 1st & 2nd ones. Although in the 1st one,
I voted for Alice, David's designs are good.
The one I wanted, & voted for--Kim--luckily was
the winner on the 2nd show.

I felt that Tracee should have been booted out
after the 1st episode. She has a big problem
personality wise. She has shown that 2 or 3
of her teammates & herself clash. She is also
quite bullish & pushy. She tries to get her
way on most everything so far. She may not
be a crybaby yet, but as someone stated, it will
be a different story if she is booted off.
Also, she is two faced. I noticed that she was
glad when Michael was eliminated, & yet just
before he left, she comforted him when he was
crying.

I could design circles around most all of them
except that I have minimal training.

If I could take myself back to younger years,
I might well have become a designer.

Posted by Alice Craig – July 4, 2008 5:31 PM

This year is a joke. You said you raised the bar, I think the bar was dropped. I would not hire any of these people to design a room in my home. The vacuum lady from the first season was more creative. Bring her back!

Posted by Tony 163 – July 4, 2008 4:50 PM

Michael was a cry-baby from the time of his first presentation to get chosen. He started the whole thing with Tracee (who also needs to go). At least Tracee says things straight to somebody's face. I think calling her "mommy Dearest" in a previous episode and then stabbing her in the back after complimenting her in the most recent episode takes him out of the running. He's not a nice person and I sure wouldn't watch any design show he hosts for that reason alone. He looks for trouble and conflict and the way he carries, speaks and conducts himself is repulsive. He's also not a good designer. All he knows is dark walls and stark furniture. His design this week was only one tiny notch above Tracee's. She needs to be the next one to go.

Based on thier personal conduct, both Michael and Tracee should have been booted before D.Paul.

Kim Myles's designs on her show are lousy. She seemed to have a really nice personality, but now I find her to be cocky and more about herself than design. I quit watching several episodes back. So I hope Design Star does better this year than last year.

Posted by Kit – July 4, 2008 4:15 PM

HELLO JUDGES!!!!!! Try and salvage the rest of the show, GET TRACEE OFF ASAP. How in the world did she even make it through to get this far???? Someone must have been sleeping. SHE IS A TERRIBLE DESIGNER AND A CRY BABY!

Posted by Penny – July 4, 2008 3:11 PM

Let's review this season!

First, Scottie was taken off the show because he was a wholesome type person. I watch the show because I thought it was somewhat of a wholesome show. Producers must have thought he was boring.

Secondly, D Paul's design was masculine, but very tasteful. If the designers were actually there, they would have noticed the ceilings. D Paul was a long-term contender. Perhaps he wasn't such a backstabber or trouble maker? Or perhaps the designers like to live in a "barbie or wedding cake" environment. Not me. I like elegant, clean, sophisticated and that's what D Paul brought.

Thirdly, the reason that Michael was given the boot is that he did not stand up for his design at the review. Let's face it, his design was good; he lost his show when he stood there and beged forgiveness. There is no rule that says you cannot be proud of your design in the face of criticism.

Finally, I'm getting a real clear picture of the by-play with the producers and the judges. This show is not what it is advertised to be. It is my hope they learn from this debacle for next year. Clive is the only reason to turn this program on!

Posted by Cathy Harris – July 4, 2008 2:34 PM

O.K., I just have to add my two cents worth. Tracee's room looked like a cartoon nightmare. I know a little about cartoon design what with Disney World practically in our backyards. The difference is that Disney does not pretend to be great room designers, only great cartoonists. What is wrong with the judges? Michael's (as annoying as he is) room at least was a decent looking room. In my judgement, none of the rooms looked like the country they were supposed to represent. How could they when they were given only those dumb cushions to work with and only $500 to shop at Michael's? This is not a knock against Michael's because I shop there, but I would not try to design my house from that store. I have read an enormous amount of interior design books (my favorite hobby) including design from other countries and NONE of them are based on square, beige cushions. Matt did try but it just did not come off. I think he will do better next time. One of the problems with this show, in my estimation, is that the producers misjudge the intelligence and know-how of the average viewer. People who faithfully watch this chanel are very up on what is happening in the design world. Give us a break! I will say that Jennifer went a little overboard in trying to keep Tracee on track timewise. Unfortunately, it did'nt work. She had to do most of the grunt work herself. Judges you need to look at all aspects of these designers. If I remember correctly Stephanie and Jennifer were upbraided on the first episode for lack of time management, possibly that is why Jennifer was so adamant about time management. Are the rules different for Tracee? Get rid of her!!!!

Posted by Eleanor – July 4, 2008 2:14 PM

We were really sad to see Michael go! Michael if you're reading these comments you should know that we're looking forward to seeing you on TV another time! We really enjoyed your designs and we feel the judges made a HUGE ERROR in letting you go!

Posted by jane – July 4, 2008 2:00 PM

This season is entertaining as usual. I love the challenges........I do not like that Tracee seems to still be there because she is a problem. D Paul was much more talented. Matt is probably the best, but I can see Mikey V as a great member of HGTV also. I hope a better choice than last year's winner, Kim Myles, is chosen. She is horrid. I do not watch her shows and am annoyed by her commercials. David Bromstead is awesome and so talented. Design Star is overall a winner. But please, Kim needs to be off the air. I hope her contract is for only 1 year.

Posted by Brenda – July 4, 2008 1:04 PM

I liked Micheal's design much better than Tracee's! I wish we could have seen why they picked to boot him off over her.
I do, however, think that the producers should have allowed the designers more time to come up with their idea for the individual challenge from the materials that are available, buy their stuff, present their sketches, get a good night's sleep, and then work on their room for twelve hours. I think that we would see much better designs from this group as a result.

Posted by Rhonda – July 4, 2008 12:11 PM

This is the first post I've made this year. I'm a huge fan of the show and haven't missed an episode. I'm rethinking that as the season goes forward. Disappointed is putting it mildly.
MICHEAL WAS RIGHTLY LET GO! Look at his track record; oh,sorry. What track record? The only talent he showed was his ability to let the other designers create the rooms and take the chances. He was a rip roaring assistant, who patted his own back every chance he could. Clive gave the reason he was let go, he couldn't hide behind anyone else anymore. Micheal was stunningly un-unique. The glass floor idea, very '90's.
Tracee, hideous. My Italian soul cringed. At the same time I recognized the rococco lines she was trying to follow in the room. I give her credit for understanding that these lines are found in historic Italian design. I believe that is what Martha was crediting her for, and why she stood up for Tracee's design. Would I watch Tracee? Probably not.
Matt...Matt...Matt,(sigh). Well, okay. Just don't do that again.
Trish is a decorator. Trish is not unique in her artistic view either. Great design is not a replica of the same room and color week after week.
Stephanie, the lighting was okay, the look was wrong as you could get.
Mikey V. I give you credit for a space that was a bit over the top.
Jenn, your walls rocked, but it felt like you forgot about the rest of the room. Where was it? It just faded into the walls. Rooms aren't supposed to do that.
I think a lot of the blog viewers this year have gotten the judges wrong. The bar was raised by bringing in only professionals. If the criticism is harsh, it is justified. No one is standing out, or being particularly spectacular in their design concepts. The judges have the right to expect better for the viewer. If they are harsh it's to get the designers to accept that there is a lot to live up to. These people are coasting and not giving the talent and efforts that their own portfolios have shown from their pasts. We the viewers do deserve better than these designers are giving us. So hurray for the judges.
In the end, my hope is Jennifer and Matt as finalists.

Posted by advolpe – July 4, 2008 2:45 AM

Great idea about letting the designers have two chances before the boot. Please though get some realistic challenges and stop with the ridiculous store choices. Seriously - Michaels!! No one decorates an entire room with that craft crap. And to call Michael V's "Thai Take Out" - WELL HELLO - you sent him to Michaels remember! Have the decorators do something new each season not the same old thing with just a little twist. The show needs major revamping. Love the judges and Clive but give some thought to challenges or I'm afraid the viewers will be gone.

Posted by Linda – July 4, 2008 2:44 AM

I was watching the show last week and it struck me, Tracee is this seasons Rob! The show needs an antogonist, she's clearly not a likeable person, no talent, but she gets the cattiness going. It's all about ratings!

Posted by lena1102 – July 4, 2008 12:50 AM

tracee can not design my closet. I certainly would not watch a show she stared in,or a net work she is involved with. Get rid or her or i get rid of hgtv.

Posted by sue ellen – July 3, 2008 10:25 PM

Micheal's room wasn't the best but Tracee should have been gone a long time ago like episode one. I know sometimes drama is needed for ratings but this reminds me of Sanjaya of American Idol how they were keeping him on the show even thought he couldn’t sing, and kicking off the ones that were really good. The same thing is happening is here except their kicking off the really good designers. I don't know what the judges are looking for this season, because it isn't talent.

Posted by Rae – July 3, 2008 5:35 PM

I thought it was me, but I see so many people thinking that this season has no talent at all.
It is hard to imagine that these contestants are the best in America!!! I have never seen anything worse than their work, well may be in "color correction" that show also sucks.
And that guy crying and and saying "I'm sorry , I'm sorry " on tv. that was so shamfull, I couldn't even watch, I have to cover my face, so pathetic!!!
This season, : the producer should have canceled it until they had some good material to show.

Posted by george – July 3, 2008 4:33 PM

I waited this year for Design Star to begin. Now I'm forced to watch it hoping against hope that it will improve. The judges seem more and more disappointed each week. We are spoiled by David and Kim. I love both their shows. Does anyone at HGTV read these blogs? Are you just keeping Tracee around so we will watch to see when she finally gets the ax? It just has to improve. Good Luck Sara Evans!

Posted by Judith L Farrar – July 3, 2008 4:10 PM

This year's competition is very disappointing. The judges seem to be disappointed as well. No one person there has convinced me as a viewer that I care who gets a show this year. I didn't think Michael's design was the worst but he wasn't mature and seem to spend a lot of his time not being very productive on the last challenge. His portfolio showed high design and he produced something not better than myself. That can be said about most of them. As far as Tracee using her creative license to make her space as a theatrical set design is ok, but as a viewer I am not looking for set designing. If what she showed us could have translated into something I could live in sure but it didn't happen. She has spent more time crying. How can you work that way. The temple had no statues or anything else that if I looked it told me that this was a meditating or place of worship. This is a serious competition and these people are not wowing me. I don't care who get's a show because I continue to watch, David, Kim, Candice and all the other stars that I already respect and love.

Posted by Meliniece – July 3, 2008 1:56 PM

I have never blogged before, but this last episode evoked more feelings than I could contain! Everyone's right in saying that we are not seeing ANY talent to speak of this season! But those of you who say Michael should have stayed, do you really want to watch some whiney, spoiled immature brat host a weekly show? Not me! His mommy has obviously been feeding him this crap about what a good boy he is and nobody loves him like she does, blah, blah, blah. Get over your girlie self, Michael, and grow up. I for one would not watch a show hosted by him. And isn't that what this is all about? The girls don't even behave that badly. Take a hint from Christopher Lowe's short-lived career; folks don't want to watch some drama-queen design homes!

Posted by Jan – July 3, 2008 1:47 PM

Design Star 3 is a disaster! Design star one and two was filled with the RIGHT amount of drama, and a ridiculous amount of talent. If the producers want to create drama, its HAPPENING. The producers will be dramatized when they find out no one is watching! Tracee is just like Robb from last season only she's more awful. Sorry for being cruel, but... FACE THE TRUTH! I loooove design star, and HGTV, until some people RUIN IT ALL. I will still watch, but next year, you better make like season one, or else goodbye Design Star, and hello again to the Next Food Network Star. Step it up producers!

Posted by Dory – July 3, 2008 12:51 PM

I have read several of the comments posted below and it seems as if we are all in agreement and screaming the question, "Where O where has all the talent gone?" The one thing I always appreciated about Design Star as opposed to other shows on television seeking talent of some sort is that they stayed away from the individual drama and emphasized the qualities of getting along with others, being good people, being talented people. David Bromstad and Kim Myles both remained true to this concept and I cannot recall in either of the 1st two seasons where 'awfulness' (in several forms) was actually promoted. I like nice people with talent. I say, "BRING IT ON, BABY!!"

Posted by CeeCee – July 3, 2008 11:38 AM

This is the first season that I have watched this, I don't know where I've been! So I think I have a fresh take on this show. Frist of all I agree Michael should never have made it on the show.If you cann't even get through the interview that's bad! I'm glad they catch the behind scenes to see who is just so bad. Michael seem to have time to run around making comments about the other designers and putting no though to his(oh, that's right he has NO thought).
I thought one of them would have done like a Mexican Market Cabana, with all the beautiful colors, baskets, hats, etc. but I'm sure the judges would have said "That's not orignal" They need to be consistant on how they judge. It seems to be what ever hits them that moment. Anyway, I will continue to watch because most of the regulra channels are reruns!!!

Posted by JAN W. – July 3, 2008 10:36 AM

I was so looking forward to this challenge to see what these designers could do. Instead, Design Star threw a monkey wrench into it with making them try to design for a different country in the world instead of letting them be creative on their own. Frankly, if you're looking for a design star (and this group is pretty thin there) you need to have MORE individual designs and less group things. The judges need to know what they are looking for and be more consistent.

Posted by SuzyQ – July 3, 2008 8:44 AM

I have to agree with David D. I was giving them the benefit of the doubt with the group tasks. But they really are coming across as disasters! I don't expect them to be the same as him, but I can't imagine any of them doing what David Bromstad does. Let's see what happens over the rest of the season.

Posted by Kel – July 3, 2008 8:36 AM

they shoulda sent em both home... a design star has to be able to work with a team of professionals, right? neither tracee nor michael seem to be able to play well with others. matt and mikey v are the favorites in my book, and both seem very genuine. and the sharpie on the pillows trick I thought was really cool too... overall I think this season has a different style of talent, and the contestants are definately doing their best with what crappy resources theyre given.

Posted by eric – July 3, 2008 5:34 AM

Also was bored by the designers, designs and the judges. I like Vern, but think the other 2 need to be replaced. Can't believe they picked this group of designers, not impressed by any so far.

Posted by Teri – July 2, 2008 10:01 PM

I was so glad Michael was let go. He's such a drama queen. And he was so positive he was so much better than the others could ever hope to be. Tracey needs to go home also. She's so hateful. If she wins, I'll never watch.

Posted by Lynn – July 2, 2008 9:29 PM

Michael had to go! HGTV didn't want to deal with his emotional baggage and they new he was taking the other designers down. He is a crybaby and couldn't take a dose of his own medicine...PERIOD!

Posted by Cheryl – July 2, 2008 9:13 PM

I am stunned! Michael should not have been sent home. His room DID look like something in an upscale club or hotel. What is wrong with those judges????? Tracee was terrible. Michael has been in the top and now gone? At least his room was usable! By the design/function of the room, Tracee should have gone or Matt.
BRING BACK MICHAEL! Don't forget he is only 23 and his design far outweighs anything so far of the othersl....

Posted by txsgirl – July 2, 2008 8:53 PM

I have NEVER made comments about a tv show... but I feel compelled to comment on this seasons cast of, quote unquote designers. This is perhaps the worst selection of contestants on this show (or any show for that matter) that I have ever had the unfortune to watch, however I can not overt my eyes from this speeding train on the way to its fiery wreck. Where did these people come from? I can not imagine ANY of them that could be believable as an expert on their own tv show. HGTV you have created a real problem for yourselves when you promised one of these "designers" a show! Good luck!

Posted by Todd Conover – July 2, 2008 7:38 PM

Producers, your viewers have spoken: LESS HYSTERIA, LESS DRAMA, LESS HOLLYWOOD EDITING - MORE DESIGN!! Please keep this in mind for next season (if there is a next season).

IMHO, most of the designers have demonstrated good design skills, but those with the best overall potential for a design show host would be Matt, Mikey V, and Jennifer. They have talent and personality and seem to get along well with the others.

Based on their interviews, Michael and Tracee should never have made it to the final cut. Michael, whom I call "Scribble" because of his inability to express himself, could not even handle the judges' questions and seemed too immature and inarticulate to host a show. (Error in judgement, Vern.) Tracee pretty much said in the interview that it was her way or the highway, indicating that she was not a team player and not flexible enough to tailor the design to the client's wishes.

Everyone but Mikey V failed the challenge on Sunday's show.

Mikey V's room design was obviously Asian in flavor, if not strictly Thai. (I doubt the majority of Americans are intimately familiar with Thai style and culture.) There were enough organic elements to balance out the crisp, clean look of the black/red color scheme, and the asymmetry of the canopy and ceiling danglers offset the symmetry of the furnishing. Because the eye was drawn upward and outward without being distracted, the space looked larger than it was while still conveying tranquility. The large block of red on the upper walls was picked up in the tiny accents on the side tables, and the white of the ceiling echoed the light furnishings and cushions. And he was able to complete his design in record time!

Matt has shown his talent and vision previously, but he failed in execution this week. Still, he was able to rise from the ruins and at least make a really deluxe, high-end fort. It would have been better with a different, yet still serene, wall color. The temple dwarfed the space and made me wonder what was on the other side of it.

Jennifer's talent as an artist was well demonstrated, her design was adequate, and the colors were well coordinated. But my first impression was "oh, what giant wallpaper." Nothing about it said Italy, and the lingering memory was that of a giant hot-air balloon with a tiny gondola - oh, maybe that was the Italian factor.

Tracee, everyone's favorite person to hate, would make an excellent set designer. Her chandelier was beautiful but could've been anywhere, including Italy. The Snow White looking glass was not uniquely Italian. The gondola bed was definitely Venice, but one of the posts did look crooked. Hard to see where she spent the budgeted money.

Trish managed a very nice, dramatic design. However, it in no way suggested Mexico.

Stephanie's design was good but perhaps not quite as good as the judges seemed to think. It had very nice design elements but was lacking in color. Just a few color accents, such as in candles, cushions, and wall hangings, might have added to the design drama and made it less boring. Definitely did NOT suggest Mexico.

(Why was Mexico so difficult? Who hasn't at the very least been to a Mexican restaurant? The colors are bright and vibrant. Think fiesta. I'm not a designer, yet in 5 minutes I had a basic room flavor in mind: yellow side walls with a focal wall in red or orange, brilliantly colored throws to soften the contemporary lines of the furniture, colorful painted tiles, cobalt bowls, and lush green plants in terra cotta pots. All of this could have been easily achieved with items from Michael's. Maybe they shied away because of the judges' reaction to Scottie's orange walls in the first challenge.)

Speaking of Michael, poor little Scribble. The design of his room was actually quite good. Unfortunately, it looked like a generic, but very nice, airport waiting room. Is all of Spain this boring?

Personality-wise, I still go with Jennifer, Mikey V, and Matt.

The judges seem to be nice people, but they have been inconsistent. I would love to see Lisa LaPorta, Taniya Nayak, Monica Pederson, or Sabrina Soto on the judges' panel. They are skilled at great design done quickly and on a budget - and this is exactly what the Design Star contestants are asked to do.

Posted by Syl – July 2, 2008 6:49 PM

I think the designer on this year show are some of the worst but having said that I think this year's show is the most real one. I was getting to the point that all of the years looked alike. This year's show tells us that even a top designer can go in the wrong direction and the worst designer can do a good job. So far this year I haven't seen anyone who are on David's and Kim's par for designing!! Hope You can find a good designer by the end of the shows!!

Posted by Robert – July 2, 2008 6:01 PM

I think Michael if a BIG baby and not a nice person. Tracee is not a nice person either.
I'm not sure about any of these contestants as being "Design Stars." I've watched every Design Star show these last two years and they were top notch people with top notch designs. I LOVE David Bromstad and Kim Myles from the last two years. This year, I don't think any of these people have a chance.

Posted by Penny – July 2, 2008 5:32 PM

Micheal's room wasn't the best but Tracee should have been gone a long time ago like episode one. I know sometimes drama is needed for ratings but this reminds me of Sanjaya of American Idol how they were keeping him on the show even thought he can't sing, and kicking off the ones that are really good. The same thing is happening is here except their kicking off the really designers. I don't know what the judges are looking for this season, because it isn't talent.

Posted by Rae – July 2, 2008 5:24 PM

I FEEL THIS YEAR'S DESIGNERS ARE NOT EXPRESSING THEIR TALENT. THEY ALSO SEEM TO LACK THE FIRE OR ZEAL FOR THEIR DESIGN CREATIONS.
I THOUGHT THEY SHOWED AN EXTREME LACK OF IMAGINATION FOR THEIR LAST TASK (WORLD OF DESIGN.) JUST BLAH.
I TRULY HOPE THE DESIGNERS GET HOT AND SHOW THE TALENTS THEY HAD FOR BEING CHOSEN.

Posted by AUDREY – July 2, 2008 5:09 PM

AWFUL, AWFUL, AWFUL!!!! Who picked these people??? Hmmmm.

Posted by Jiggly – July 2, 2008 4:50 PM

I've spent some useless time wondering why on earth HGTV feels obligated to continue the "next design star" concept with the "winner" receiving a contract for 6 episodes. Given the paucity of talent on this season, I think it's time to reconsider this format. How about a quarterly focus; say country french (or any other design style, for that matter), with various competent designers around the country speaking to a room they've created, the elements that "make" a particular design style, with perhaps three budget points; $1,000, $7,000, and a substantial sum, perhaps $30K. I do get pretty tired of seeing decorating on a budget all the time, and I'm definitely bored mindless with the plain geometries and palid colors of so-called "modern" or "contemporary" design. One thing for certain, the format used for the "Next Design Star" really needs to be re-thought, and I do think there should be different judges each season.

Posted by bert – July 2, 2008 3:59 PM

I have loved the show in the past, but this year I just shake my head. Where did these people come from.

Posted by Mary – July 2, 2008 3:57 PM

TRACEE IS AN EMBARRESSMENT TO THE CITY OF LOUISVILLE!

Posted by BETH – July 2, 2008 3:56 PM

It seems to me that if you make the most mistakes you get to stay on the show. If you make all good and then 1 mistake you go home. Tracee has made 3 mistakes and she has stayed. Scottie made 1, dPaul made 1, and Michael made 1 but were all sent home. Come on we can all see that Tracee doesn't get along with others, she makes bad decisions and also can't design. How can you even consider her as a design star. She is so full of herself and she will never be a designer..ooops she could be a designer for a cartoon studio. If she were to win how can you give her a show of her own when it would be constant bickering on her part because she so full of it. Matt and Mickey V has the talent. So Matt failed this week but he has had beautiful designs so far. So has Mickey V. Tracee has already proven she can't design or get along with other so cancel her.

Posted by Linda – July 2, 2008 3:54 PM

I know Michael personally, and he is not a mean person nor is he catty as was written earlier. Those blurbs were taken out of hours of taping without giving the audience the benefit of what lead up to them. Michael is a very talented designer who has already proven himself. College Station, TX is very proud of him.

Posted by Debbie – July 2, 2008 3:48 PM

I am extremely disappointed with HGTV this season? The programming has always been one of my favorite channels to watch. The current programs aren't very interesting and you continue to show the same shows over and over again ie. House Hunters and Design to Sell. I really don't see any real talent or design ideas with the current Design Stars. I think it is ridiculous that we have to watch these big cry babies every week and listen to all of them putting each other down like little kids. GROW UP!! I think this is one of the worse shows you have had. It looks like we will be watching something else Sunday nights. Please bring back some of the good programs to HGTV.

Posted by Donna – July 2, 2008 2:51 PM

I enjoyed the first two years of Design Star. This year, so far, is b-o-r-i-n-g. Despite the personality issues the designs have done nothing for me. It's interesting that the best designers in previous years were not designers by trade. They were artists (David and Todd) and Kim was a hairdresser. By only having designers on this year the talent is limited. I think they COULD have done a lot with objects from Michaels, other years they did a pet store and a dollar store with stellar results. The other problem is making it too much like a reality show with unnecessary drama. Just give us unique and interesting designs.

Posted by charmscharms – July 2, 2008 2:44 PM

My question is, how do people in S. W. Oklahoma get picked to have a make over? I would love for you to come to Altus, Ok. and make over any room in my house. Thanks Karen Kneisel, From Altus, Ok

Posted by Karen Kneisel – July 2, 2008 2:12 PM

I thought these 'designer's were adults....all they do is cry everytime someone says something they don't agree with or their feelings get hurt.....come on put on your 'big girl panties'.

Posted by sharon – July 2, 2008 2:02 PM

I am sorry but Tracee has got to go. She has no talent and is a rude B----!

Posted by Beth – July 2, 2008 1:58 PM

That mean, self-serving, lack of talent Tracee needs to GO AWAY! Is HGTV keeping her on the show for the "dramatic" element? I noticed that the cameras very often pan Tracee rolling her eyes and making faces and even snidely laughing when other design contestants are having their work critiqued by the judges. Really makes me wonder what is going on with this show, which does not seem to be focusing of the hopes and dreams of young, artistic, serious designers. Tracee's last room looked like something from a Children's Theatre project, and NOT a good one at that. Also, wasn't one tip of her gondola bed broken at the top??? How did that pass the judges? Michael's design showed creativity, good time management, color that popped, a vision, scale, balance, a sort of Zen contemporary quality---but it did not scream Spain, which must have been the key point with the judges. I really did not understand why his design was judged to be the worst. What was worse about it than Stephanie's dark (rather weird) Mexican cabana? Or the Chinese Takeout via Thailand that Mikey created? That was pretty obnoxious. I especially hated the faux Chinese characters painted on the small panels...come on! I think Michael's Arts & Crafts has plaques for sale with real Chinese characters. I was disappointed in Matt's design, though I think he is probably the most talented designer on the show. I think he has genuine vision and know-how, but this time he had a vision that did not work out-trying to turn modular seating into a Buddhist Temple. However, it was not nearly as bad as Tracee's Venetian Nightmare Room. Jennifer is also very talented. Hers was an excellent room design, given the budget and time. The wall paint was very beautiful and creative. I think she is definitely a contender! Trish, just not sure. I did not like her design and it did not bring Mexico to mind in the least. Last point: What's up with all the tears?? And crying for your mama when you lose?? The contestants are under pressure, no doubt. But as a designer, one has to stand up to problems and issues, and not all of them pleasant. What the judges have to say is not aimed personally at anyone. They are just giving opinions. When you are a designer, your job is to go beyond what most people can think of or envision in any way (even these judges!). Otherwise, why would anyone want to hire a designer? Not all people are going to like it or even get it! The challenges are not meant to be easy.

Posted by Hebe – July 2, 2008 12:52 PM

THIS IS BY FAR THE WORST DESIGN STAR SEASON!
THE CONTESTANTS HAVE NO TALENT AND I DID NOT REALISE THIS WAS A SOAP OPERA.
YOU JUDGES, VERN YIP, IN PARTICULAR SHOWS NOT MUCH MORE DESIGN TALENT IN HIS OWN SHOW WHICH I NO LONGER WATCH. THANK GOODNESS I RECORD THE SHOW ON DVR SO I AM ABLE TO FWD THE SHOW TO THE END WHEN THERE IS NO SENSE IN WATCHING.I AGREE IT IS TIME FOR NEW JUDGES NEXT SEASON WHO HAVE THE TALENT AND EXPERTISE OF"CANDICE OLSON".HER SHOW IS THE BEST ON HGTV.
"ONE MORE WEEK",I KEEP TELLING MYSELF. I MUST ADMIT TO MYSELF THAT THE SHOW HAS BEEN A WASTE OF TIME AND AN INSULT TO MY INTELLIGENCE.
I AM CROSSING MY FINGERS THERE IS A FUTURE FOR THIS SHOW!
DONNA RAE, 4,2,'08

Posted by DONNA RAE – July 2, 2008 12:25 PM

Had I been Michael - I would have wanted my Mommy to - to kick some judge-ass!!!

This year's show is shaping up like last year's. THE WORST DESIGNER GETS THE SHOW!!!!

Posted by Bill – July 2, 2008 12:07 PM

I'm glad Michael went home but how dare you air Michael's continued breakdown. It's one thing to film it but another to air it. Michael definitely has some issues he needs to work through but by airing it he's going to be constantly reminded of it. Are you crazy? If he's a little unstable, this could push him over the edge. Do you want a suicide on your hands? HGTV needs to stand up and start thinking. I was embarssed and so were the co-host of the show. Stop it now. Use some common sense.

Posted by jackie – July 2, 2008 10:22 AM

I think they sent Michael home for the way he was conducting himself. He was rude, immature, and had his own lingo, that was annoying...PERIOD! He was an emotional wreck and would NEVER survive having his own show with all the pressure that comes with it. I don't think the elimination had a thing to do with design! They sent home the "brat" of the group that was more important to the judges. He was distracting to the group.

Posted by Cheryl – July 2, 2008 10:12 AM

I can't believe Michael got sent home! That was totally the wrong choice! Tracee sucks and it is clear now that she's only on the show to creat drama because the remainder of the designers are so super boring. I want a re-cast.

Posted by Qiana – July 2, 2008 8:33 AM

I must say, I feel a little guilty because I was on here several months ago giving my opinions on what challenges you could use this season, and I said I loved the dollar store challenge the best. It seems like most of the comments think designers shouldn't HAVE to use their creativity and imagination to do things on the cheap, like us poor, ordinary people who don't have big budgets. In the forum I have given several comments about the things that could have been done in each room with the $500 at Michael's. For instance, if I had Italy I would have bought cheribs and roses & a large shelf with other unfinished wood to make a fireplace. I would have bought pottery and some leather cases to make a coffee table and side tables. In the Thai rooms I would have bought more artificial orchids or other exotic flowers to use around the room and used upsidedown baskets with glass tops for tables. For the Mexican room I would have again gone to the unfinished wood aisle & picked up a ladder and stools and pottery. I mean, there's a lot of blame on the budget or the store but the only thing I would grant is that they should have had at least twice the time to prepare.
I also made the comment that there should be NO eliminations for at least two shows until we see what each person has to offer. Then for the first shows the judges could critique them all and tell them what they need to work on. And while I'm at it, I'd love to know what the criteria is for judging? Could that PLEASE be explained in some way? I THINK I figured it out last week when Michael was eliminated for looking the least like Spain (I could only tell where Mikey V was representing) and the week before D Paul was eliminated for not incorporating his bow and arrow in the design. Right?

Posted by Mary – July 1, 2008 11:29 PM

Just watched Sunday night's show on my DVR...
one word - PATHETIC - These designer's knew the "white box room" challenge was coming, so what do they do - NOTHING!!! There is no talent on this show, and if there was - even Candace Olsen couldn't make those cheap 80's style sofa's look good. And hey - anyone shop at "Michale's" arts & craft store for their cleints lately???
Seriously HGTV - Nashville - Michaels - Haunted Mansions... What the Hell are the producers doing? I can no longer take this show seriously, no more for me..

Posted by Juliette – July 1, 2008 11:22 PM

So far Season Three has been very uninspiring. So Tracee will remain on the show as long as she adds the drama and tension this season's "Design Star" is lacking. I wondered if the fix was on when they booted off D Paul. Now there is no doubt ... Michael wasn't the only one who's room did not reflect the country. At last it wasn't cartoonish.

Keep in mind, the last two seasons kept a troublemaker around far too long also. The only difference: the "disruptive influences" from those seasons were able to produce decent rooms. But, no need to worry ... Tracee won't make it to the final three.

Posted by Susan – June 30, 2008 10:17 PM

I think that we have to remember several things one being that they were required to do rooms from countries that they had no time to research and two they got to shop at a craft store and that was it. Now when thinking it over I can honestly say that I would have ideas for Italy, and Mexico and Spain but not a whole room full and definitly not purchasable thru Michaels Craft store. As for Thailand I would have to say no way!!! One hopes that they get better design assignments in the future as this last one was not a good one in my mind at all.

As to who has been eliminated I have to say we are only privy to certain things and have to rely on the judges to do their job. I do not believe Tracee was laughing about Michael being told his design was no good. Who is to say the editing for the film didn't do that for effect. Just like when you watch preview ads of shows just show you enough out of context pictures and hope it catches your interest. Also if the judges see it all then they saw how Michael was judging Tracee and going behind her and everyone elses back.

I also think Matt saying he did not achieve his
goal was a positive in his favor. We all have bad days and we all make mistakes and to admit them is the right thing -- To think you are better then everyone else ala Michael is not the way to win friends and influence judges.

Posted by Jane – June 30, 2008 10:10 PM

I too have watched this show since season one. This is definitely the most predictable and disappointing season. The only reason Tracee is still on the show is to create drama and get an audience reaction. I agree with other blogs that refer to the fact that this was the first bad room for Michael and yet they sent him home. (Granted, his crying antic was very annoying). I am very disappointed in HGTV's tactic this year. The network is more focused on drama than it is talent. Someone needs to tell HGTV that their audience is not a bunch of uneducated idiots. I happen to be a very successful lawyer who appreciates design. HGTV, give your audience some credit.

Posted by Julie – June 30, 2008 10:04 PM

Bring Todd back. THe guy is very talented. Let him do something on the show!

Posted by Dee – June 30, 2008 9:31 PM

Here we go again- we have had to pay the price for DS2-the Diva Doolittle and it looks like we will be victims again in DS3. The viewing audience has been sacrificed for lack luster ratings and getting sponsors to support this no talent series.

At this rate, HGTV is going to have a going out business sale soon. As for me, I am done with HGTV. I am no longer going to watch this fiasco.

Posted by Lynn – June 30, 2008 9:01 PM

Any of these designers would be better than Kim. Trish and Matt are the best, and yes, personality has a great deal to do with why they are good. I think Tracee's obnoxious personality gives the show an interesting edge.

Posted by Patty – June 30, 2008 8:59 PM

I have watched HGTV for about 12 years and most evenings my TV is on HGTV. The first two seasons of Design Star were good, but this year is not. You need new judges first and foremost! Also, how about either using guest judges or have the task given and judged by some of our favorite HGTV stars? And, most importantly, keep the show about the design competition and avoid the bad reality show stuff. Maybe if the producers were looking for good designers instead of people that they hoped would make for "good TV", you would have a better cast. I am sure it is about ratings, but this loyal viewer is disappointed. Clive is the best part of the show.

On a postive note, the individual challenges are the best way to see what the contestants are made of. I hope there is more of that this season.

Posted by Shelly – June 30, 2008 8:58 PM

I'm just letting the show ride and we'll see what happens...whether I am happy or not with the decisions. But what I do want to express is I think that the designers should have atleast two challenges before booting the first designer off. I feel it is too quick to make a truly informative decision. Let them get a little more comfortable with the process first. Also, there has to be a reason why the judges are choosing to keep Tracee on so please show us the talent I know she has but isn't being shown. Some drama is ok, but I really hope this show to be above other reality based tv shows and lets see the talent behind these people.

Posted by Kara – June 30, 2008 8:45 PM

These designers this season are the worse! I was expecting Todds and Kims and Davids and Kellys....but these are the whiningest, crying, designers! And not one of them yet has the talent of the past two seasons.....last night was SUCH a disappointment! I remember the "white room" challenges of last year and the year before and was underwhelmed!!!!! I had high hopes of Matt...that bed design on the first show was AWESOME! So innovative...but, it's been downhill ever since! I say, "kick them all out" and start over!!!

Posted by Angela – June 30, 2008 8:33 PM

What a bunch of talentless messes. Designstar 2008 has truly failed to shine in any shape or form, and another week has gone by with nothing short of less than mediocre design. Michael should never have been included initially with his pathetic attempts at articulation, which, for some reason Vern thought was worthy of a second chance. Once on the show however, he demonstrated great articulation regarding his own capabilites which were never backed up by any substance, and indeed exerted huge amounts of energy snidely patronizing Tracee; perhaps had he concentrated on the work at hand things might have turned out differently for him. Yes, Tracee should go, as should the rest of them, they would not be missed. The last thing I need is another boring show like "Color Splash" to make me cringe. Lets have some talent next time, this show is over.

Posted by David, LB – June 30, 2008 8:25 PM