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I think everyone on the show did a fantastic job. I would like to suggest that it is not as easy as it looks to do design under this kind of intense pressure. I enjoy the different personalities, qualities, and ideas. Each is an individual and inspiring. Whether or not I like and/or agree with any of the contestants is totally irrelavent to appreciating what I they are accomplishing. Another thing I have to say...is I absolutely get engaged in David Bromstad's work. His ideas, color coordination, placement, accessorizing, etc. is a true piece of art. I find his paintings are calming, quiet, subtle and thoroughly enjoyable. I would love to have just one original David Bromstad painting. A few tips at the end of the show for people with a limited budget and no head for design would help tremendouly. Overall, great show!!!! Good work..

Posted by Ceda – July 29, 2008 9:16 PM

Matt seems like a really nice guy, but his designs are not good. I loved the chandelier in the dining room, but what is with the boring bamboo blinds? And painted brown cabinets? Ugh! Not imaginative at all. And his parents' game room was weird: No chairs for the game table, big white rectangles on the wall, huge black chairs, and why cover up the kiln with that giant moving wall? It looked very awkward to me. Jenn has a style that the usual hgtv homeowner can use--I love her wall paint decor. I could do that and feel I did something different but not out of place in my home.
I agree with other bloggers that the show needs revamping. Why give unrealistic challenges like a whole kitchen in 2 days. And Vern is horrible! He has way too much say apparently, and his show is AWFUL! I feel so sorry for the people who had their living room painted in wide horizontal orange stripes...I still have nightmares about that one! How did he get a show? I am also disappointed with Kim's show. I really liked her, but her show is too forced and she tries to do too much in a room. I'm not feelin' it.

Posted by Elizabeth – July 29, 2008 1:10 PM

Michael and Tracee were ugly people who did not deserve to remain in the show. In fact, the only reason I understand for letting Tracee stay so long was to keep up the conflict and strife. She was a terrible leader and could not work as part of a team if her life depended on it. I love Jen, Mickey V, Trish, and Matt, in that order. I hope Jen wins and that Mickey V comes back as her assistant. They are both great designers and beautiful people in every way that counts.

Posted by Lucé – July 28, 2008 7:48 PM

Was definitely not as excited about this season as compared to last. Stronger designs and much stronger personalities made season 2 better TV.

I also agree with other viewers that having both Matt and Jenn share a show would blend two interesting design styles. I would be much more likely to watch a show like that rather than just another rehash of a designer remaking another room!

I did vote for Matt. I felt that his technical approach brought something different to HGTV.

Posted by Lois – July 28, 2008 1:37 PM

I have been reading over these blogs after spending a good bit of time reviewing this season. At the begining of the season, I was excited to see a fellow Kentuckian getting the chance to shine.... After watching the season, I'm extremely disappointed in Tracee. I expected to see the Southern charm and talents that I have seen from Kentucky and Tennessee all the years I have lived here. Instead I saw practically the opposite. I've read several where the opinions were that Tracee failed because she had no support as leader, well, I'm here to tell you, in my opinion, Tracee came off as a self centered "I'm the best" arrogant, non-team player from the begining. Tracee has some talents, granted, however she demostrated such poor skills in leadership and team work that cost the owners of the kitchen, as well as her team mates. I've watched this episode several times. I commend Jen, Trish, Matt and Mikey V for stepping up and ensuring the kitchen wasn't a total flop. A word to Tracee, yes you tried to map out a plan of action, however, you were in a very time restricted challenge. you can't spend 2-3 hours discussion it looking for someone else to come up with the design. You ended up with leader, it should have been your time to shime. if you had went into that challenge with a specific design, plan of action and layed it out to the rest of the team in a 15 minutes presentation, I have no doubt they would have all grabbed their part and ran with it, giving the outcome of a fabulas kitchen. Instead you wanted to hem-haul around fishing for ideas, almost as if waiting for one of the others to jump up and present the design to be used. Sorry Tracee, that was your job as leader. That's why a leader is choosen, to lead and execute the plans they make. The back splash not getting done was a HUGE mistake, your mistake. you claimed that it was never discussed for you to pick the tile, bring it back and then go finish shopping, that was common sense. The tasks are set with huge time restraints, that should have been a given and furthermore a leader should not have to be told to bring back materials that are obviously needed immediately. maybe the clients you have back home aren't worried as much about time, but i seriously doubt that you go into a job and expect the customers or your workers to tell you make sure you get the materials back in time for me to do my job. The way i see it, all the others worked as a team waiting for a leader to be their guiding star and were left to manage, practically leaderless and do the best they could with what they had, which is what they did.

As for your departing words and attitude when your show was cancelled, I'm ashamed to see someone from Kentucky being so rude, ungrateful, and overall unprofessional. Everyone choosen to be on the show were choosen for talent and given the chance to display those talents and everyone else did so as well as learning something in designing as well as making friends that are irreplaceable. I am sad for you that you didn't leave with the same happiness and feeling of achievement and gaining that the rest that were eliminated did.

Congrats to Jen and Matt on making the final two. Trish and Mike V, I adore both of you and wish there could have been 4 winners, but I was so proud to see you two back helping Jen and Matt. The four of you came out in the end with something far more than just a show in HGTV, you all finished with the selfworth and accomplishment of showing your skills and style while helping others. The rewards of helping others and making friends is priceless.

Posted by Barb – July 28, 2008 7:23 AM

any red, orange or any other 3-4 coat color.. wall or room should be primed a gray it works every time...

Posted by Shareese – July 27, 2008 9:44 PM

I think it is laziness on the part of the HGTV staff to not create new, different challenges -
the white box..done it move on.
Decorate the living quarters.. done it- move on.
I have a couple of great ideas I would love to share.

If I had been chosen to go on the show I would have already planned the bunk bed layout (Matt did I know) and a kitchen design- colors, appliances, etc. THe show is becoming a bore.

Mikey V-when you smiled on the show, the whole place lit up. Be a ham like the rest of them. I wish you well in the future..hopefully a place for you on HGTV jp

Posted by janice paschall – July 27, 2008 1:40 PM

I was so glad to see Tracie finally eliminated.
She could not get along with anyone, even when the others made an effort! Her taste, in my opinion, was tacky. What was with that cartoon room? Who would want to live in something like that. Her coments when she left the show, proved her true personality.
I was sorry to see Mickey V go. His skills were numerous. However it is a "design" show.

Posted by Mary – July 26, 2008 11:42 PM

This year has not been very entertaining .I have not set through a whole Design star show this season.Producers something has gone wrong from the first season to this season.Maybe you need to look at a REDESIGN for your DESIGN STAR show.It is getting weak and WATERED DOWN.

Posted by FLOSSIE – July 26, 2008 7:00 AM

I have to say that this has been the most disappointing season yet. From getting rid of stephanie instead of tracee and then keeping trish after the whole ring sabotage. I understand that she needed her ring cut off, but she waited until time started to make an issue of it. Once she knew who was in charge, she did her best to sabotage her. Tracee did not have a clear design, but she also did not have the support of the group to get one together. With all of them on the block, that should have been when they wanted to stand out. I think Mikey V, Matt and Jen should have been the final three and I believe that Mikey V would have blown Jen out of the water in that challenge. I loved what Matt did to make that unwelcoming space into one that serves multiple purposes without it looking like it serves multiple purposes. Jens wall painting is what ended up setting her room apart, but other than that I wasn't impressed. Trish hasn't shown anything to get to the final three and that episode just made it even clearer. I can't believe that they let the best contestent go after the kitchen. At least they got it finished this year! If Trish would have made it to the final, I would have turned my back on Design Star for good. I was so disgusted with them cutting Mikey V.

As far as the judges go, they need to focus on what is going on in those rooms and forget about who they picked to win in the beginning. I have not been impressed with them at all this season. Put Ty or Carter or Genovie or any of the truly good design stars in their to judge and I would be a whole lot more impressed. Design knowledge comes from more than deisgn school and connecting with the audience comes from more than a couple of on the spot blurbs. Matt and Mikey V should be the two duking it out and I am not so impress with how things went down.

Posted by Wendy – July 24, 2008 11:35 PM

Thank goodness Michael is gone. He was the consumate backstabber. Always being so fake and then making nasty comments away from fellow competitors.

However, I am even more happy to see Tracee leave. She was rude and condescending from the get go and she was constantly placing blame on others. Oh, wow...did she really screw up with the Kitchen challenge. Good Lordy! She made the schedule herself. Mikey V. clearly told her he would have to start the tile project by 2:30 to complete it. So...DUHHHHHH. What was she thinking?? I would hate to have her design my house because it would probably take longer and be more costly due to her inefficiency.

As for television presence ..well...that person has been gone for a few weeks.

As for who may win? Well, I am torn on for Jen (she needs a good hair cut) becaue Matt did demonstrate with the kiln problem (by the way Sparkle Josh...it is used to fire pottery, you ninny...surely they have those in Tenn.) that he could work with a very unusual obstable and make it a functional solution as well.

We shall see.........

Posted by Tracey – July 24, 2008 7:02 PM

Really glad Tracee is gone!! She was not a good designer!! All she cared about was herself. She was only happy if she was getting the compliments and could not be happy for others! Especially when Vern told Jennifer that she was "a real contender for the next Design Star." She's a hater!!! I wish Michael could have stayed longer, loved him on the individual challenge. He killed me with the fakeness with Tracee. They should have kept him just because he was hilarious...LOL

Posted by Happy – July 24, 2008 2:52 PM

Tracee was a punk!!! All that crying and whining every episode, give me a break!!! Frankly, I'm glad she's gone the only thing I don't like is that I missed the episode when they got rid of her!!!! I love David on Color Splash. I'm still trying to get a feel for Kim. I think that they made a mistake in getting rid of Trish but at least the last three were actually good designers. I think that Jennifer has the best chance!!!

Posted by Ms Williams – July 24, 2008 2:41 PM

Well now that the true designer is gone I do hope the veiwers give the show to Jennifer, Matt is a duh, he sure is not going to design for me, I do think Jennefer can think on her feet, she is wonderful with her hand paintings Love those, and I do like her personality seems like a very sweet girl...I must say this season has been a big disappointment, I finaly got my husband to watch, and is no designer by any means, and even he says what the heck is wrong with those judges,he cracks up every week at the fashion disigner said what the heck is that around her neck a hoola hoop, he makes me laugh to.

Posted by Jude – July 24, 2008 9:47 AM

I am agreeing with a lot of other people that Mikey V should not have been eliminated. I have also been following David and Kim. This summer compaired to the other two is horrible. Mikey was the only one with talent and he is gone. Someone replied "DVR" Mikey did say he needed the tile for the backplash before 3 or he was not going to do it. To much drama and no talent. Only talent is gone. I will still watch to the end and probably follow the winner also. I will have to say David from season 1 is my all time favorite. I love color, it brings out peoples personalities.

Posted by Chrissy – July 24, 2008 12:46 AM

matt and jen are both so good.i can't decide who i like better.no one is as good as david bromstad(season 1) though;-)

Posted by Tigerfan – July 23, 2008 3:38 PM

I would love to see Mikey V. come back as a "Right-hand Man that works miracles". He could teach me anything or hug me if my finger was getting "cut off", or any aweful task. He might have been rough on the outside but he's really one of those "soft teddy bear types".

HGTV please change your host judging to include clips from the entire challenge. 20 seconds of staged hosting does not cut it. I am watching for someone I can relate to and connect with, even "fall in love with". If I see someone acting childish in front of the camera, I certainly wouldn't want that person to come to my home, no matter how good a Designer. Time after time, we saw Mikey V. giving a hand, teaching someone something. Isn't that what HGTV is really about???

Posted by Rhonda – July 22, 2008 8:18 PM

MIKEY V
The biggest complaint by the judges and the home owners was the lack of tile. MIKEY V was the only one pushing for it, and wanted to do it. That was sabotaged by TRACEE not bringing it
back in time. Who cares how he sounds on camera! Have you looked at him? The rest of them seemed as if they were content to let it fail, knowing that TRACEE would mess up. TRISH didn't need to do so much complaining about TRACEE. Juvenile! JENNIFER was a cheerleader for everyone, and I loved it every time she referred directly to "Mikey V"! Why not bring him back as her co-host, if she wins. Look at what a team David and Danielle are!

Judges lost their way! We don't watch for grade school back
fighting. We want to see design. I can still hear Rowleys words on David's first room! The Genius of the Room! That's what we want from the judges!

Posted by Carol Deters – July 22, 2008 5:30 PM

This season has been disappointing. Now that the show has gotten popular, HGTV likes to up the "drama," which makes the show hard to stomach. In the beginning, the competitors were given cool challenges which were things that they might really face in the design world. This season, they've been given things to look good on television. Tracee should have been eliminated long ago, but instead of eliminating Trish, who was being a jerk and wasting time in the beginning of the episode (not the ring thing...that was really an issue, even if they called the fire department for some stupid reason) when she was being deliberately unhelpful to Tracee, they got rid of Mikey V, who didn't even do anything wrong. Go back to the way things were in the first season---the drama needs to be back in the rooms and not on the designers and commercials.

Posted by Kelly – July 22, 2008 3:36 PM

Can anyone tell me where the table and chairs in the kitchen episode came from? Thanks.

Posted by Diane – July 22, 2008 11:23 AM

Even though this is a Design Show competition, it's obvious that Hosting any show is 75% of the selection criteria of the current judges. With that having Micky V. go was a true mistake for his hard work and creativity.
I hope the department heads at HGTV will consider the possibility that he can develop into his own...once given the opportunity like other previous carpenters featured in collaborative efforts: Tye & Ossterhouse have gone on to greater things.

Posted by DeeDee – July 21, 2008 10:24 PM

I am still in shock. They sent home the best designer, though all three are talented, don't get me wrong. Yes, Trish played it safe, but it was her parent's living room, for pete's sake! It was well done by being inviting,comfortable and funtional for her aging parents (and sick Dad). Matt's mom told him exactly what she wanted, from the curtains to the game table. I like him alot, but building a cool disguise wall is not necessarily good design, is it? The room had NO style or decor. Big chairs that were out of place. I did love Jennifer's room, though the wood floors would have made more sense with 2 kids, it was beautiful. Oh well. I hope they do a MUCH better job next season. I love HGTV but this has been a bummer.

Posted by Kelly J Smith – July 21, 2008 9:39 PM

Oh wow...so sorry to see Trish go, from a fellow Michigander. I think she had a great amount of class, and it reflected in her work, I think doing a family members home would be very stressful..so I think she stayed on the safe side with her parents home and she mentioned she had to do certain things because of her Father having to have a recliner for his health, gosh we need some new judges for sure, the past shows have really been super this year I just got angry at the judges, and yelled at the tv, haha, and Matt come on! That room was horrible one or two good ideas doesn't make a designer, those black chairs were hidious so overwhelming, what are they thinking? I thought MikeyV should have stuck around and not Matt for sure, next year I hope HG gives us some actual designers as judges...this year was just not good
Jude

Posted by Jude – July 21, 2008 5:08 PM

I can't believe they did this to you Mikey, that kitchen would not of gotten done without you!! You gave direction to all the other "designers" and if she would of gotten the tile back to you, you would of gotten that done also!!! I hope you continue to design, you were my vote to win.

Posted by cindy – July 21, 2008 4:46 PM

First off, I have to say, I hate David Bromstad's show. He does NOTHING for me. ugh. All he talks about his how much "fun" they have. Give me some design tips to work with, will ya? Kim Myles - totally great. Would have her design one of my rooms in an instant. I do love watching Design Star - it's a good concept for a show because you get a ton of different ideas from different style designers and different settings. But I don't think they chose great designers this year. And as someone said, they leaned toward showing more "drama" this year, than design challenges and solutions. Matt and Jen are the obvious remainders, but still they are not as great as last year's contenders. I kind of think they both should win and co-host a show...that I would give a shot at viewing.

Posted by Caitlin – July 21, 2008 1:12 PM

Since the first challenge I believe Tracee was a bit full of herself and often found an excuse for why things did not go as planned. Yet, there was an evident transformation from the beginning of the series until her elimination last week. She began by attempting to draw in fellow craftspeople for their input into the design plan, but was immediately met with comments such as, "You're the captain, make a decision." Yet during elimination she was accused of not soliciting input. While the final three were probably the best artisans, I was disappointed in the behavior of the team that would turn on an individual (Tracee) in such a manner. While Tracee suffered elimination unjustly, the family who did not benefit from a well functioning team suffered most. By the way, for Shelly-Ann et al, Vern Rocks!

Posted by dsimpson – July 21, 2008 2:22 AM

The behavior of the designers was deplorable towards the team leader! As far as I am concerned I will not watch any show hosted by the designers that were left on the show. In my opinion the reason Tracee spent so much time shopping was because she kept trying to second guess the rest of the designers and I truly believe that they set out to sabotage Tracee. Shame on the judges for not recognizing this juvenille behavior for what it was. When she was allowed to be creative she did a wonderful job. I would gladly DVR any show she hosted.

Posted by Mrs. Z – July 21, 2008 12:51 AM

DVR alert!!! Mikey V stated in the kitchen episode that he had to have the tile by 3:00 or he wouldn't do it. Also, there are other options for a backsplash in a kitchen.... not one "designer" offered up any other suggestion.

Posted by Chrissy – July 21, 2008 12:11 AM

I can't believe they sent Trish home!! I agree with whoever said they need to send Vern home!!

Posted by Shelly-Ann – July 20, 2008 10:16 PM

Huge mistake eliminating Trish! She is the most elegant and professional on camera and has the best designs. I am sure she will be successful far beyond Design Star.

Posted by Julieanne – July 20, 2008 10:09 PM

As much as I have not enjoyed the kitchen team leader, we all have to admit she was not given a chance to do a design plan with the team. They would not sit down with her. Having said that--waaaay too many hours shopping for things a non-designer could purchase in an hour or less! Judges were correct on cancelling her show.

Posted by Lynne – July 20, 2008 9:45 PM

I hated to see Mikey V go. I think he was the best one on the show. I think he was better on the camera than Matt!

Posted by Charles – July 20, 2008 9:21 PM

I miss the cop..is it Mickey? He really got let go poorly and was such a talent and had more potention. Trish may talk well but is so full of herself that who wants to listen? Not me!!! Tracee should have been gone LONG before her boot and if left with a final choice It would be Matt. This years contestants did not equal any of the past shows....like they are getting professionals to show polish and shine not skills.

Posted by Christine – July 20, 2008 9:20 PM

I did not like any of them for their behavior. Though they had personality conflict with Tracee, they all could have suggested a design plan and established times for her to bring back the materiels that she should be purchasing on timely manner so none would be left wondering what happened. Mikey V did not indicate that he needed the tile to finish though the chart had time table, with Tracee being scatter brained as she was, these four should have made an effort to over come their conflicts with her and made the kitchen a beautiful work of art. Mikey V was more or less the well rounded experienced person in my opinion. He helped everyone and showed them how to do the work. I was disappointed in seeing every one of them show such a nasty and pettiness towards Tracee. She may not be the best person to be around but HGTV picked her to be the leader so the other four should have helped her make decisions better. I really do not care for any one of them and I would not have allowed even a single one of them to do any of the design work. They did not show professional behavior at all and acted stupid and silly most of the time. Sorry I was more or less disgusted with the entire episode. I did not like the kitchen design at all. It looked like miss mash and the dullest I ever had the misfortune of watching.
Judges made a major mistake removing Mikey V and hope they will be better judges for the next show. I may regret watching the next one.

Posted by Bea – July 20, 2008 9:00 PM

I did not like any of them for their behavior. Though they had personality conflict with Tracee, they all could have suggested a design plan and established times for her to bring back the materiels that she should be purchasing on timely manner so none would be left wondering what happened. Mikey V did not indicate that he needed the tile to finish though the chart had time table, with Tracee being scatter brained as she was, these four should have made an effort to over come their conflicts with her and made the kitchen a beautiful work of art. Mikey V was more or less the well rounded experienced person in my opinion. He helped everyone and showed them how to do the work. I was disappointed in seeing every one of them show such a nasty and pettiness towards Tracee. She may not be the best person to be around but HGTV picked her to be the leader so the other four should have helped her make decisions better. I really do not care for any one of them and I would not have allowed even a single one of them to do any of the design work. They did not show professional behavior at all and acted stupid and silly most of the time. Sorry I was more or less disgusted with the entire episode. I did not like the kitchen design at all. It looked like miss mash and the dullest I ever had the misfortune of watching.
Judges made a major mistake removing Mikey V and hope they will be better judges for the next show. I may regret watching the next one.

Posted by Bea – July 20, 2008 9:00 PM

This season's designstar has been disapointing on many levels -- the judging, the contestants, and the challenges have led to a boring season.
It's possible the designers had more talent than they exhibited but the style of challenges didn't give them a chance to show it off, as compared to the first season. Instead of design, Tracy's dramatics dominated the show. The judges failed the show in not eliminating her early on.
Fairness took a backseat when more qualified contestants left and she remained, and especially when Mikey V was eliminated in a challenge that was a team effort where he contributed the most. Lastly, the challenges themselves have been -- well, simply said, boring too. The Dimestore Design was a cheap trick - out of a craft store not a design magazine. The International Design Idea might have worked if the designers had been given time to do some research. To combine the two wasn't fair. Let's hope the final three designers can save this season's show. Best of luck to all three!

Posted by ddouglas – July 20, 2008 7:49 PM

When Tracee was made the leader for the kitchen, I didn't even have to watch to know that she would be eliminated. Jen's rudeness spread to Trish and they both were extra rude. Perhaps their lack of cooperation could have been because they were afraid of Tracee's ability, so they undermined her. That prank about Trish's ring, made me want to throw up...on her. Totally phoney. Perhaps Tracee wasn't the best, however, Jen and Trish did their part to make sure she failed. They even had the men starting to be critical, rather than helping. It does not matter how good Jen & Trish do, I will NOT vote for them. When this year's DS started, we were told the bar was to be raised, but there is no doubt it is a failure. For sure the women left are the tops in rudness and hatefulness, despite their design abilities. Their behavior(and judges ignoring what was going on) made me so upset, (even after a week) that I am not sure if I want to waste my time watching this again. I'm very disappointed.

Posted by Ruth – July 20, 2008 7:45 PM

I"m very glad Tracy is gone. She should of been eliminated along time ago. I'm a fan of HGTV and think that these designers are not designers at all. They need more than just help. They need to know how to work with other people as a team. Tracy was an arrogant woman who thought the world was hers alone. She had no conception of time at all, and left her team alone to design the kitchen. Which was bla.... and nothing but that. I'm very sad to see Mikey V go, I agree with all in the previous comments, Mikey has a lot of talent, and the judges seem to eliminate people that have some kind of talent. shame on you Vern and the rest of the judges for not getting rid of Tracy from the beginning, her comments were way out of place, when Clive told her her show was cancelled, she didn't say goodbye to the team at all. She just walked out, and made a nasty comment about the people that were being judged. How could these judges not see the arrogance in this lady. Shame on you. For the next season 4. Please have more sense of pride for HGTV. I hope you choose better people that know how to work as a team, and have better respect for themselves. This has been the worst design show ever. Please have some pride on the next season.

Posted by AJ – July 20, 2008 7:26 PM

I just need to say, after having lived and worked in Goodlettsville, Tennessee for 10 years, how the bejeebees do you spend 7 hours shopping. There are at least two Home Depots within 20 minutes of any location in G'ville, a Sears, a Michaels, and several furniture stores. She would have had to travel between Franklin and Clarksville on all of the back roads in a Yugo to waste that much time. Tracee needed to go.

Oh, yeah, there is a hospital (in Hendersonville), and several jewelry stores (many in the mall with a Sears),where Trish could have gone, she did not need to call the Fire department.

Posted by Sandi – July 20, 2008 7:24 PM

It was time to let Tracee go. She was never a team player. She was manipulative and backstabbing. She was arrogant and selfish. She failed to take any responsibility for any of her failed decisions. She tried to throw all of the other competitors under the bus. Her ego is so big that she was unable to handle having her show cancelled. She cried and assured the audience that she had friends and family who still loved her. Then she insulted all of the other competitors. She is a sore loser and blames everyone else for her own poor judgement, poor decisions, and extremely bad attitude. She was the most obnoxious person I have ever seen on Design Star.

I was very disappointed to see Mikey V's show cancelled. He is very talented. He shouldn't be blamed for Tracee's lack of design skills. Mikey is very talented and never should have been asked to leave the show. He was my favorite.

The kitchen lacked design because of Tracee. Mikey V., nor anyone else, had a chance to show off their design talents. Mikey V. was the worst choice to pick to leave. He deserves another chance; either in this episode of Design Star, or an upcoming episode.

As for Vern: He does not have a warm personality. He is too "green" to be a Design Star judge already. He needs more experience behind the camera. He appears cold. His show, "Deserving Design" seems to be trying to make him appear to be a warm person because he is giving things away to deserving people, but it isn't working. He is still boring and appears to have little compassion (or any other emotion) for the people who are receiving his "gift".

I would love to see the judges be more critical and honest with the contestants. For instance: Tracee should have been scolded harshly for her poor decisions and attitude. It would have hurt her at the time, but she would have learned some valuable lessons. Unfortunately, her fragile ego make it difficult for her to think she needs to learn anything.

Posted by Jill – July 20, 2008 6:35 PM

Well the only thing that they could feel good about is the fact that they finished. However, it was a bad result. I hope that HGTV sent someone to complete the kitchen with the tile that they had left over. They were diserving but the came up short. I am glad that the leader was cut but there needs to be accountability regardless of your participation. She lack orginization. She was too busy trying to compete and shine rather than being a team player.
It was unfortunate that 2 had to be eliminated because the other was attempting to do his best.

Posted by Aminah – July 20, 2008 6:26 PM

Season 3 has been such a disappointment! I don't think there's a single cast member this season that has either the design talent or the personality to host their own show! Although I think the best person won in each of Seasons 1 and 2, both of the top two contestants in both seasons easily had both the talent and personality to host their own shows. I would not watch a show hosted by any of the contestants from this season. Hopefully HGTV will do a better job of selecting talent for season 4!

Posted by Jenny – July 20, 2008 6:18 PM

Please please please do not choose Trish to be the winner, she's been crabby at Jennifer (remember the accident whereby the item was broken??) and she has just been snippy and rolling her eyes at Tracy (even if she didn't like her she should be a better sport, after all sportsmanship should count). I swear I will never watch HGTV again if she is chosen. It would be unthinkable for HGTV to chose someone with attitude over someone like the smiling faces of Matt and Jennifer. Yeah Trish smiles alright, when she's complimented. She's a good designer but not equal to Jennifer, HARDLY. Go Jen, go Jen, go Jen, or GO MATT, GO MATT, GO MATT....lol, Trish is a crabby person it has already shined through MORE than once.

Posted by Kathryn – July 20, 2008 6:08 PM

I think Mikey V should be given a second chance. I think he would get better before the camera given a little time. To my way of thinking Tracee was a big detriment to this season's team.

Posted by Jean – July 20, 2008 6:06 PM

I missed the kitchen episode and only caught the reveal and judges' decisions originally. I just saw the full show during a re-run, and I was fuming as I watched it! Trish totally sabotaged that episode and there is no way that I can be convinced that she should win this year as a result! Unless the producers asked her to include her finger debacle in the show, that is something that she should have gone to the emergency room the night before instead of starting off the challenge with her critical need for care. Then when Tracee tried to herd the wild cats to put together a plan, it was Trish who basically vetoed the idea and said that there was no time. That is ridiculous! The tighter the time, the more critical it is to have a plan! Everyone seemed to agree with having a plan after the fact, yet no one worked with Tracee to create one! Although I can't blame them too much for that one. Tracee has been a bit much to deal with from the beginning. So, I just wanted to put in my two cents regarding how 'itchy' Trish was in this challenge, and certainly not worthy of a chance at being the next Design Star!

Posted by shayla b – July 20, 2008 6:01 PM

I am so glad to see that many of the fans agree that Mikey V. should not have gone home. He was the only one who insisted on having a backsplash. I wish he had spoken up for himself and told the judges that he insisted on a backsplash and was willing to take the risk of getting it done while Mike flatly refused to have anything to do with it. On the van Tracee decided that decorations were more important than a backsplash. She said, "If they disagree, they can throw me under the bus." Tracee never even told them that she had til in the van. The backsplash would have made so much difference. Mikey V. should not have been eliminated. It should have been Mike. I was terribly disappointed.

Posted by Sarah K – July 20, 2008 5:59 PM

Miss Glamor puss took up too much valuable time with her ring and the Fire Dept. That was horrible to watch and should NOT have been televised.
You have the Blonde witch 'sabatour' who isn't very creative and Mr. "I won't do tile in the Kitchen" (what's up with that?)
These are your 3 best?
Terrible season NO winners!

Posted by Jo – July 20, 2008 5:40 PM

I agree that the kitchen wasn't exceptionally creative, but it looked good and they got the job done. I never cared for Tracee but the others, particularly Trish, weren't giving her much of a chance to organize (and she was trying). However, Tracee should have looked at her own schedule when it came to the time allotted for back splash installation! If she wrote 2:30, maybe she should have made sure the back splash materials (which WERE kind of blah) got there at that time. That was a good reason for sending her home. I think Vern is ridiculously biased in Trish's favor. Her hostessing skills, although smooth, aren't enough for the fulsome praise that he gives. I personally like Matt's style and they are always criticizing him (in my opinion) for no good reason. He is just as good and is way more original as the judges want. Trish is a clone of other hostesses. I wouldn't go out of my way to watch her, especially since I see that she is not very kind. Jennifer is more original, but she also was shown to be kind of mean in the second episode. Matt states his opinion but I haven't noticed him being obstructive or back-stabbing. There are simply not enough individual challenges on this show. One is not enough to show what someone can do on his/her own. When they have their own show they will be able to use their own ideas. When you have to compromise, nothing will come out as original. Please, next season have more individual challenges and more judge variation. Perhaps that would solve the issue of excessive back-stabbing and arguing that seemed to go on this season. That's not why I watch this show--I want to see what the individuals can do.

Posted by Louise – July 20, 2008 5:32 PM

Mickey V should be on television. I agree with the many other posters who believe he should be brought back to HGTV in some capasity. He could be on another home improvement show as a supporting cast member. HGTV execs would be smart to make sure he doesn't go far.

Posted by wini – July 20, 2008 2:25 PM

By far, the best challange they had as a group, was designing for Sara Evans, seems like they worked better as a team on that one than ANY of them. If they worked better as a team, I think the designs would come out way better, but when you single someone one out, as Tracee clearly was, to JUST SAY NO too, you are going to have division, and thats just not working for them. As I recall, its was Tracees input and work, that really made the Sara Evans challange the best.

Posted by Debbie – July 20, 2008 9:04 AM

First, I must say, I love watching the HGTV. My thoughts on the designs are First, Its been very difficult to see who has real talent, when they do all the designs as a team. I think that would be hard to judge. It seems to me, the cast, were set against Tracee from the very beginning. I agree she made some mistakes along the way, but hey, how would you like to work with people who totally tuned you out, and ignored you. I do believe she tried to employ everyones ideas, and they just ignored her. I was very happy to see the other MIKE go off, he was nothing but backstabbing trouble maker, and should have left when he didnt make the original cut anyway. But Vern chased him down. I totally did NOT like him at all. I think Micky V will be much better in the squade car, because his "back street" attitude just wasnt for TV.
I believe Trish will be the winner, she has great hosting abilities, and I really think thats what they are putting the focus on. However, I have yet to see how much talent she truly has, because of all the GROUP work, and I think the time frames in which they have been given to work with is UNREAL. As a Nashville resident, I can tell you, the traffic, distances from where they may be, etc, can really be a huge factor in losing the TIME they need. The whole idea of working as a team, just doesnt work when you have some many taste, its like making golish when its all said and done, Im surprised any of their challanges have turned out as well as they have.
Best wishes to all of them, and may the Best man/woman win!
One more thought, I totally agree with the people who said, Verns "Surprises" are not surprises. I think thats just plain goofy, Ive never seen a show, when he DIDNT do two rooms. Give us a break, but I do really LOVE VERN, I just think thats the stupid part of his show, he is warm and friendly, and seems very caring. I also agree that a design star, should NOT be a judge.

Posted by Debbie – July 20, 2008 8:59 AM

I love Design Star and will continue to watch because decorating is my thing - but yeah, this season is a let down. Nice to read Vern bashing! I grew to despise him so much last season that I flip the channel when his commercials run! Can't stand the sound of his voice anymore.

Vern's style is so absolutely boring and predictable. Modern, clean, couple of awful colors, always solids, symmetry. . . yawn. . . I decorate people's houses and want real ideas! Like I get from David and Kim!
Vern seems to think his one way of designing is superior to all others - and if they don't do it his way they get bashed. Well guess what - I love French country, old world, shabby chic - ornate curvy European furniture and lots of rich colors and patterns and dramatic little vignettes - the complete opposite of Vern. I hate clean lines and minimalism! But I can still appreciate a good modern design. I can appreciate that personal taste is subjective. I don't think he can.

Vern isn't qualified to judge other designers.

I agree with a lot that's been said about NO team challenges (it would cut the negative drama) and giving them reasonable time frames and carpentry assistance. Let them be judged based on their designs! The stress of "Do I assert myself and get labeled difficult, or do I go with the flow and get bashed for not standing up for my opinion" is a lot to deal with. Let us choose our favorites based on their talent alone!

So far I like Jen best because I loved the paint treatment she did on her Italy wall. Besides that one room I haven't seen anything even interesting! The kitchen was a ridiculous challenge - but duh, Tracee, bring them tiles quickly so they can be doing that while you're meandering in store after store, hour after hour, trying to find your vision for the space! Idiot! The mom wanted that pretty glass mosaic tile back splash everyone is doing now for the pop of color - and Tracee picked out boring bland tiles. She wouldn't have liked them anyway. . .

Seriously, though, HGTV, please get rid of Vern.
You shouldn't let someone judge the winner of their own TV show - when he himself has one that doesn't measure up to the others out there!! Let Karen McAloon judge - she's AWESOME! She's multi-faceted! She would be great! Just about anyone else would be better!!!
PLEASE GET RID OF VERN SO I CAN ENJOY THE SHOW!!!

Posted by Jennie – July 20, 2008 12:35 AM

I miss Mickey V. already! He is a true talent.He knows construction and is super at modern and minimalist design. I really, really wish and hope for Trish to be the next design star. She seems so approachable and nice.She is a leader, has great camera appeal, and most importantly can design! She is not just a "decorator", but a talented designer with vision. I see an opportunity to make a new twist on the next star's series; pair designer trish with designer Mickey V. This would kick!

Posted by Pat – July 20, 2008 12:12 AM

Bring Mikey V back!!! What a lame excuse to give him the boot. This is by far the worst season. Some major changes have to take place (starting with the program directors and the judges) to keep me watching. I believe the best talent on this season's show has been sent home. What does that say for the judges? Tracy should have been gone weeks ago. Again, what does that say about the judges? I'm disappointed.

Posted by Harold – July 19, 2008 11:59 PM

I hated to see Mikey V go. I think he had tremendous potential & could have become more comfortable with the camera. He was also such a team player when he worked with others. Of the three remaining contestants I think Trish is the most camera friendly and her designs are solid.

Posted by kristine lapointe – July 19, 2008 11:35 PM

OK, now that we all got through singing "Ding Dong the Witch is Dead"...Which of the final 3 gets eliminated tomorrow? It's going to be tough because SOMEBODY has to go home as we are only left with 3.

Trish seems a bit high maintenance in personality and traditional with her designs, but pretty and works well on camera. Jen seems to be pleasant to everyone and seems to be more of a painter than a designer. Matt, the jury is still out on you. I will have to see their individual efforts I guess before I can make up my mind.

I was upset that Mikey was kicked off as he was a hard worker. HGTV are you paying attention to these postings...b/c a majority of the posters want to see Mikey get some play on one of the HGTV or Discovery network channels. Read the postings and you will see that he has quite a bit of appeal with the ladies. Nice salt of the earth looking guy that many people can relate to, and you could tell he also had a sensitive side as he tried to calm Trish down.

On the last two seasons, I had a clear idea who I was rooting for, but on this one, I'm not quite sure as nobody really has grabbed me. Too much bickering this season--the bickering as well as the ridiculous short duration labor intensive challenges kept us from seeing everyone's true potential.

I think I'm probably going to root for Jen.

Posted by Kat – July 19, 2008 11:34 PM

I agree with those who think Tracee was set up to be the "drama" for the show. People who complain about the length of time she takes to shop seem to forget that David Bromstad talks to his clients and then goes shopping to get inspired. We only see the small amount of time it takes to show his choices, we don't know how long it actually takes before he finds the "perfect" inspiration. Leisurely shopping first, then design time. Frankly, if I hired a designer from out-of-town to come into my home, I would insist they spend time checking out what materials are available before just grabbing something off the shelf. I like seeing some of the construction and the how-to, but I am more interested in how designers come up with their choices. It is great to see the concept come to life. I can put a nail in the wall to hang a picture, install my own track lighting, and install a new commode. I have no clue where those things need to placed to make the room feel comfortable for me after I'm finished. True design shows allow us to view the ideas behind the design. Design Star has several faults: they need to give adequate time to create a design; they do not show the design time; and the first time a designer tries to back-stab or show a less than professional attitude toward another contestant the designer should be asked to leave, even if it means getting rid of everyone in the group and starting over. I watch HG-TV to relax, not to get knots in my stomach from watching people show they do not play well with others or to see people being set up to fail on a personal level. For drama I can watch Law and Order. None of the final three are the kind of role models I would like to see have their own show - they are obviously not professionals. If they build it, I will not watch it. And for the record, I liked Tracee's Italian room - It would make a good child's room. One flower in a vase sitting on a beautiful natural wood table that has been covered in paint and located in a room with black walls and a sea of white or grey carpet, is just not who I am. Modern is not the only style available. Variety is the spice of life and I like my home to reflect my personality.

Posted by Janice S. – July 19, 2008 10:45 PM

I just wanted to express my opinion. I have been very disappointed with the show this season. I don't feel anyone has shown very much creative design talent. It seems the designers are more interested in sabotaging the ones they want off the show rather than trying to show how well they can design. It seems the judges, who I always felt before were good at the choices they made, have already decided who they like best and it has mainly been based on how well they host. I remember when David Bromstad was on he was not that good at hosting, but was an excellent designer. It would have been a shame if he was eliminated because he wasn't a good host. I love his show and week after week he amazes me with his designing talent. Thank you.

Posted by Linda Green – July 19, 2008 10:45 PM

I LOVE LOVE LOVE David Bromstad although I never knew he was chosen from Design Star- shame on me! I love Kim Myles also - you just have to watch her and know that she is extremely creative. I believe that Mikey V is extremely talented and should definitely have a show of his own, if not be a designer/carpenter/etc on a show - he is incredibly talented and it shows. I also believe the 3 left standing absolutely deserve to be where they are. From some of the hateful comments from folks I think they should realize we only see a very tiny part of what is happening, the interactions, etc and should remember that before we judge the participants and/or the judges. Vern Yip is also one of my favorite shows to watch on HGTV - this man knows exactly what he is doing, has been doing this for a long time, and is very confident of the work he does for others. I would be grateful to have him, David or any of the Design Stars left standing to come and help me redo any room in my home!

Posted by Judi V – July 19, 2008 9:38 PM

sooooooo glad whiny Tracee went home, good grief she is just not nice, her parting comments will haunt her.
Too bad about the back splash being painted brown, boring........I agree with the judges, just boring. Hopefully soon we'll see some REAL designing. :-)

Posted by Beverly – July 19, 2008 8:31 PM

I'm sorry Mikey V. got voted off...he worked harder than anyone & deserved to stay...
But to tell the truth Design Star's only Star is yet to be beaten... David B. is the best and knowone has come close to him. He's a true Artist, Builder & Designer...True talent...and genuinely likable young man.
Kim Myles is just a designer...she doesn't come close to David B. ...But I still like her because she's enthusiastic...

Posted by Mona R. – July 19, 2008 7:43 PM

I don't really think Trish is that great so she will probably win just like Kim from last won, by not being horrible and just slipping by to the end.
I don't like her TV delivery. She is gushie, wouldn't watch her at all. As to last year's Kim, she is really nice but I don't think she really comes up with the ideas on the show she has and it is not inspiring like Color Splash is. David is spectacular! If Trish wins this year, I'll quit watching the Design Star show totally.

Posted by Joan – July 19, 2008 7:20 PM

YEAH!!!! Tracy went home! WooHoo!!
I think Micky V, should not have been sent home.
He is a hard worker and showed decitation to what he does. He can work with a team really well and he showed a great attitude to the others, They all had their moments because they were tense and was pushed for time. Where is the real reality in this show? It is not like the shows in the past.
And why have you not used new judges for this show? It is not fair to the contestants to use the same judges. you want fresh new people for the design contest????? then you should in all fairness use new judges. The contestants should be told to put themselves into their design, watch the camera as much as the situation will allow, and let each one's personality flow, with the room they are designing. tell them to practice taking small deep breaths and just relax it will help them to come across alot more relaxed to the camera audiance. Who is coaching these people befor each design is telivised? the coach is not doing his or her job very well. PLEASE BRING MICKY V, BACK? HE WAS GREAT!
Everyone is putting Vern down for one reason or another. Leave him alone!!! I love his show, and he does do really good designs in the homes he has to work with. Each person has their right to their opinion, but not the right to just badmouth a person. We all cannot be perfect, that is why our name is not "GOD". go figure!
Please put some some interesting inserts to the rooms to be designed so the contestants can have a little variety with the design choices they make. this is just my personal comments, no intential pun to any one peson except I really think you made a wise decision to send Tracy home. Thank You!

Posted by Nancy Fechner – July 19, 2008 7:07 PM

I agree with Mildred (July 17). I also agree with all the people who think Mikey V's show should not have been canceled. The judges complained about David's hosting ability the first season, and he certainly has done a good job on Color Splash.

The designers have not really had a chance to show their individual talent. Mikey V and Matt should at least be hired as carpenters on other shows (if Matt doesn't win). They are definitely talented and hardworking.

Matt has been my favorite from the beginning, but I was disappointed with his reluctance to go along with Mikey V on the tile. The two of them could have easily accomplished the task.

I also agree with whoever said Cynthia should be replaced as a judge. She seems to just want something weird for the show.

Others I agree with are those who say that David B is a great designer. I love Color Splash and hope it will not be canceled. Danielle and Ian are great additions to the show. I think teaming up some of the last four designers on this year's show would make a great new show.

I wish the "powers that be" from HGTV would listen to some of the views on these blogs and give shows to deserving people. They can make more than one new show. I am so tired of House Hunters that I have started watching any other channel on. I used to enjoy winding down at night with HGTV, but House Hunters has ruined that. Come on, HGTV, make some new shows with some of these new designers.

Posted by Brenda – July 19, 2008 6:34 PM

Mikey V. has a lot of potential and should be brought back as a carpenter in one of HGTV's show. He's got mad skills and comes across so likeable on TV. Hosting skills will come with more tv time and practice but can you teach someone to be likeable and truly talented? Mikey V. is definitely a DS fan favorite!

Posted by crys – July 19, 2008 6:00 PM

You need to bring Mikey V. BACK. He should not be punished for Tracy. She was the only one that need to go. She should have been gone a long time ago. Mikey V. has talant, we are only getting a hint of it. He can work on the hosting. Even David had to work on his hosting and see what a talent he turned out to be. I know mikey V. can and will give David a run for his money. And David is great. If you give mikey V. a chance he would prove it to you. It's a shame the judges don't see what's happening the way we do. They would have seen that he pulled more weight than anyone in the kitchen chalenge. HGTV Please bring mikey V. Back.

Posted by Sandra – July 19, 2008 5:52 PM

I am such a faithful HGTV fan and Desin Star fan. I have loved watching David and Kim from the beginning but I have to say you guys have really blown it this year. I don't know if this group were left over from the Survivor Show because they aren't designers. They are --Hateful --Mean Spirted --Backstabers --and pretty much Stupid. I agree with everything that Mary wrote on 7/16 and more.

Posted by Toni – July 19, 2008 4:41 PM

If you want to know why you have the contestants you do, you need to look at none other than the judges. When the contestants are chosen, HGTV VP's & allll 3 judges personally pick the contestants. If you want "new blood as contestants", then get new judges each year. That is really the only way the show would seem fair. As it is, Vern did not have his "set up show" deserving design until before this years DS3 challenge began. In the last 2 challenges & at the beginning of each show (WAAAAAY to much if you ask me) they introduce the judges and what they do CURRENTLY for a living. In the past Vern was introduced something like world renouned interior designer, Vern Yip. Then Martha's intro was her magazine and Cynthia's intro is Fashion Designer. I guess Vern had to be legitimized so HGTV gave him that show.. The 1st 2 or 3 episodes were great and now, how do you expect him to go into anyones home and "surprise" anyone with a 2nd room.. This is a cheesy pretense. Change the show to be a 2 rm makeover. I feel the show was given to Vern just for Design Star. He is loosing the edge he had before.. I can remember when Vern could pull off a Room with 1 candle and he did NOT have to hang it from anywhere and he also did NOT have to use mirrors all over the room because he ran out of ideas.

To be honest, Most of the designers on Design Star can pull off a better room than Vern can do at this time in his life.. He needs to do something... NOW, HGTV, please help him to be the Vern he used to be.. He was NOT hateful and he was talented...

Posted by Debbie – July 19, 2008 4:05 PM

I think this DS season is not as good as the previous ones. It seems that the group of contestants wasn't the right one, I haven't seen real design skills nor creativity. It seems that the contestants were chosen by their hosting skills rather than their talent. I hope you can do something to improve the show and the contestants can show they are really designers. I can't think of anybody I can vote for this season. It has been a disappointment.

Posted by Blanca – July 19, 2008 3:54 PM

I agree with everyone this season has no design approach. The final three are the final three. Let's see what will happen. The ones that were voted off deserved to go, they didn't know how to play the game. Yes, next season we need to see a change, different judges and a guest judge every week for that particular challenge. For all of you that loves David B. I agree he is wonderful. The ones who can't get with Myles of style keep watching the show because you don't have a clue, get out of your comfort zone traditional. Kim is just fantastic!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by Tracey – July 19, 2008 3:29 PM

I LOVE Mikey V., He is an extremely talented contractor & designer and per the "Judges" they sent him home because of his hosting abilities or lack there of. Does anyone remember an EXTREMELY TALENTED Young man from DS1 who consistently had challenges rushing when it came to hosting and it was a a big problem for him. This talented man is none other than our Beloved David Bromstad. Remember after he won, HGTV showed how many different people they sent David to so that they could teach him to settle down in front of the camera. It was quite an ordeal. Mikey V. was NEVER given this opportunity. That MAN is sooo talented and with the same amount of coaching that was given to David, I'll bet Mikey V. could be just as successful. Both guys are gorgeous,tatooed hunks. OK, how to communicate this carefully, & respectfully. David appeals to certain people, most of us, but, Mikey V. would appeal to a whole different audience. I LOVE David and watch each of his shows time and time again BUT, Mikey V. would pull in alot of manly men that would probably NOT watch David. Men will watch home improvement/contracting projects starring someone like Mikey V. & have him throw some design into the contracting, those manly men might even try to surprise thier wives with new projects..
I just think Mikey V. was given the heave Ho prematurely and the reason was NOT a good one.. Does the judges think the viewers have that short of a memory that we wont remember the hosting problems David Bromstad in the beginning.. Please do not insult the one to are the reason you have jobs!!!!

Posted by Debbie- Creative Design Pro – July 19, 2008 3:18 PM

Still think the clear HGTV star of past, David, has Vern so nervous he won't allow another "superstar" to over shadow his own show.
Also, thought Carters comment about finishing every job he began was a bit out of line since on his show he can control the hours needed to complete his job, unlike this show with perhaps an unrealistic time frame imposed on the designers. HGTV needs to give us new judges next year, so we don't have insecure designers like Vern afraid he will be once again shown up!

Posted by DavidThayer – July 19, 2008 3:10 PM

HGTV has been the only program for a very long time that I would rush home to watch something. Design Star has been #1 since its start. I wish it had 52 new episodes a year! That being said, the producers are getting their signals crossed. This season has been a real disappointment. We watch HGTV because it emmulates creativity, newness, and beginnings...things we often are looking for in our lives. Drama is what we are trying to get away from! If your idea of team is to create dissention than you are successful, if it is to weed out those lacking "star" quality, you've failed. David B. and even Alice, and Myles brought CLASS to the show and HGTV. If we want trailer trash we'll watch regular TV. Have you ever asked why you have such a strong following?! Our own lives are filled with enough negativeness, why would we seek more? Hence...guess why I do not watch realty shows, soap operas, or the 11 p.m. news. Your viewers come for positive reinforcement and knowledge-NOTHING LESS. I'm not talking about goody-goody shows, but ones that promote the rewards that come from meeting challenges successfully using creativity, ingenuity, and hard work. We are too savy to expect or desire less. HGTV has the opportunity and know-how to offer the best quality - Don't just go for it -- expect it!! Your viewers do.

Posted by Terri – July 19, 2008 12:40 PM

Trish has a great show host style and personality and I can definitely see her winning this Design Star. However, it was an absolute shame to see Mikey V go. He has a great attitude towards constructive criticism and he has a good eye as well. I didn't think that he should have been sent home just yet but given another chance to warm up to the camera. I would have liked to have seen a show on HGTV with both Trish and Mikey V as the hosts!!

Posted by Shelly-Ann – July 19, 2008 11:47 AM

It seems obvious why DS doesn't attract the talent people are craving. The unrealistic expectations for quality work done in a fraction of the time is ridiculous. The way the designers scramble like chickens with their heads cut off is deterring a REALLY good designer from wanting on this ratings-seeking show. I think the exposure is more harmful than helpful to the losers for their careers. It is so fixed on who gets what, and whom, even with which paint can they stand behind. I also love the design process, but how can you be creative when you are playing beat the clock? The judges are saying whatever the network "planned" for them to say, I have lost respect for them. It is so transparent this year, and taking away the entertainment value knowing it's so rigged from the start. Better luck next year, if there is one.

Posted by Dee – July 19, 2008 10:52 AM

The editing on this show makes the contestants look like absolute idiots, and the way the judges slam them makes me wonder why I would bother to watch a show hosted by anyone involved. The snipping and sniping might make good soap opera drama, but it has seriously given my family pause as to the professionalism of HGTV. If the contestants are truly acting this way, then shame on them. If it's HGTV and/or those editing the show, then you've gone from unprofessional to pathetic.

MelissaS
Reno, NV

Posted by MelissaS – July 19, 2008 1:44 AM

Finally, Tracee is gone. That woman didn't have a creative design thought in her head. Seven hours for shopping! Unbelievable. I was amazed at how restrained the others were in their reactions. And that kitchen had absolutely no flair. I'm glad the season is almost over. It seems to me that this whole group was completely intimidated by the challenges they faced. I think that Trish is the obvious winner.

Posted by Myra – July 18, 2008 11:56 PM

I'M SO RELEIVED!Tracee has finally been eliminated!She definitely was not meant to be a desighn star. She had no style. I was wondering when she would finally be gone.

Posted by Katie – July 18, 2008 11:42 PM

Was so excited with the new season, love David and Kim and there shows. First show was ok but going down hill fast and to see the lame excuse the judges used to get rid of Mikey V. just makes me sick. He has been the back bone of the show since it started and if the judges really watched it they would have seen that. I love Vern Yip and watch his shows faithfully, but to see him go along with this makes me mad. I hope you do better on the finals.

Posted by Linda – July 18, 2008 10:45 PM

I agree with most of what has been said over the past few weeks and posted in the past few days. While I recognize that this is reality TV and not a documentary this show has become almost rote...very predictible...over the top cast members, lectures from judges and crisis events.

I was amazed and disappointed that the producers chose to call and film a 911 response for a situation that could have been handled in an urgent care center. Aside from being absolutely silly HGTV failed to understand the ramifications of keeping an emergency unit out of service and the danger that responding crew and public face due to a lights and siren response for a non emergency.

Surely HGTV has the resources to employ medical personnel for first aid on set or shuttle folks to ER as the van goes off on a shopping run

Posted by Alan – July 18, 2008 9:46 PM

Mickey V. needs to be brought back. It is obvious that the audience does not agree with the judges. I challenge HGTV to take a poll and bring him back!

Posted by Ivy – July 18, 2008 7:26 PM

This season is horrible!!!Clive has more talent than any of those people you drug in off the street. Please Vern is the most no talent person on T.V. Vern does nothing but paint walls dark brown --those candles--is he trying to set the house on fire!!!!! Who ever you pick is a no talent and will not have an audience. Throw them all away and start over and get rid of Vern!!!!
You can tell by the comments how hated this season is--wise up HGTV. Rita

Posted by Rita Harlow – July 18, 2008 7:20 PM

i think i will stop watching this show very soon!there are 3 problems with the show. 1. they don't give them anytime to get anything done 2.where do they get these people from. i swear i could do a better job. 3. where are the individual challenges so you can see what people are capable of. the show needs to more closely follow the format of project runway and top design.

Posted by natalie – July 18, 2008 3:44 PM

What a mistake to let Mickey V. go! The witch was way over due!!! How about you correct your big mistake and bring him back....take a poll and you will see how the audience will vote him back in.
I dare you HGTV!!!

Posted by IM – July 18, 2008 3:22 PM

LOVED the show for the past 2 "seasons". This season, well, I'll have to see how things progress. Am shocked at the number of people blogging re-Trish and Mickey! Agree that the shows' producers seem to be trying to be one of those sleazy "reality" shows and I don't like it either. Please get back to the original premise of the show and give us some real design shows. Let us see what these people are capable of as individual designers, not as a group unless that is the purpose of the show. If your intent is to show us how well contestants work in a team then do a show with that as it's focus. Then don't call it a show for individuals, call it a show for design teams!!

Posted by disgusted – July 18, 2008 3:18 PM

Shame....shame...shame...on HGTV!!!
You have got to be kidding!! Do you really believe that the fans of Hgtv really want to see back stabbing and the abuse of another human being??? Is this what you think makes good television?? Come on!!! A person would have to stupid, not to see that Tracee was set up and treated terribly from the beginning!! How dare Hgtv allow such a thing. I thought this show was about talent. You keep saying you raised the bar this year....huh??? Did we miss something? Shame on the judges for not seeing the abuse this woman endured...or did they....hmmmm. I would never watch any show that hosted the people who abused that poor woman. Shame, shame, shame on Hgtv!!!

Posted by Pam – July 18, 2008 2:03 PM

I agree that Tracee should have been sent home a long time ago. She could not a good time-manager, and every time she was sent out to shop, she was gone all day, literally. One thing I do have to say, though, is that she TRIED to work with the group and formulate a plan for the kitched, but "the group" started tearing out panelling, etc., and just turned their backs on her. They would not listen to anything she had to say or give any input on the design. It was like they knew she would be the one to go home if/when it failed. The were right. Granted, she should have been gone a long time age, but this time she was set up to fail by the rest of the group. It was also unfair for Matt to criticizw Mikey V. for not getting the tile backsplash installed. How does Matt think it can be done if no tile were available for him to install??? Once again, it was Tracee who dropped that ball. She should have gotten the tile, taken it back to the house and gone back out to shop for other things. That way Mikey could have gotten it installed on time. It was a SHAME that Mikey went home. Personal note to Mikey: you said that you were going back to your "schlep patrol car". Don't EVER be ashamed of that!!!!! You are a hero to me and millions of other people for doing what you do. We need more REAL MEN like you who stand up to serve and protect the rest of us. THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU DO AND GOD BLESS AND PROTECT YOU!!!!!

Posted by Rose Beason – July 18, 2008 1:59 PM

Where is the design??? This year's show is all backstabbing and eye rolling.
Where is the talent these designers are supposed to have? Where are the individual challenges to show what they can do? What has happened to what was a REALLY GREAT SHOW? This season is over before the last show. Mikey V had some talent and showed it. The remaining designers can just go home. No individual talent being shown at all! What a disappointment this year is!
Read the comments producers - listen to your audience!

Posted by Mona – July 18, 2008 1:27 PM

I, like most, was very sad to see Mikey V go!
I think he had a lot of talent and we, unfortunately, did not get to see his true talent.
Tracy--good riddance! Now you can shop 'til you
drop, since that's all you seem to be good for.
However, your fashion style was the coolest. You
always looked very nice!
I don't have a favorite DS now--we'll just have to wait and see.

Posted by Gail W – July 18, 2008 12:12 PM

Unfortunately, I was unable to watch this week's episode because I was on vacation. By seeing all the recaps, and interviews, I know now EXACTLY what happened. Tracee I figured, would go home. Mikey V was awesome, and it's tragic to see him go. Final Four is serious, though, and the judges do need to look at everything. But a stinky kitchen is always, like, the ring of fire. Kitchens are cursed ever since season one, and looks like I will have to wait for another season for the curse to (maybe) break. Honestly, now, I think Trish is in the lead and will win, Matt doesn't really speak 'Design Star' to me, and as for Jen, she might have a chance, but might end up like Alice Fakier. Your still awesome Alice! And so is David Bromstad!!!

Posted by Dory Conor – July 18, 2008 11:43 AM

I'd love to see Mikey V show up as part of a team like the various crews who do Design on a Dime. Or bring him in as the support person for this year's winner's show. He'd be great for that.

Agree with previous people that they need to give them more individual challenges. Remember the apartment designs? David did a great one (of course) and the Tiffany blue room? Season One had more individual stuff and I think that helped.

It seems like this year, people aren't trying to win, they are trying to not get eliminated. I hope that changes soon and we see some innovative designs!

Posted by DesStarGazr – July 18, 2008 11:24 AM

I have never been so glad to see someone leave Design Star as I was to see Tracee eliminated. Her arrogant self serving attitude makes her impossible to work with. I would never hire her to design a room for me because a designer is suppose to listen to the clients wishes and she is all about filling her own agenda. The worst things is that she hardly did any work on the kitchen because she was too busy wasting time shopping.
I also agree with a lot of the other comments on this site, this years program is boring compared to the first two years. Maybe they need to rethink their way of selecting people to compete in the challenge.

Posted by Iris – July 18, 2008 10:18 AM

This is the worst season yet. Very little 1:1 contests and the judges rationale is beyond me. You left a two weak decorators over Mikey V for what reason? Now I know why the network is grasping for survival. If Vern hangs one more floating shelf with candles, the staion will be changed And Miles of Styles is about 1000 feet short. Martha, has the typical arogance of the new lot of editors so what do they know but arrogance. I see from the blog that I am not alone. I really liked the personalities when the show started BUT not the self indulgances of the judges is pathetic. Design Star lost me last week and wont return

Posted by Connor – July 18, 2008 8:34 AM

Vern STINKS. His ideas are always so impractical like wall hanging candles really out of reach and beds in the smallest part of the room. And the attitude of he and the other judges! All of them are so taken over by that phoney balogney Trish with all her coy camera shots and hip shifting like she studied from the "female" stylebook of HGTV and just seems like every other female host. At least Jennifer, Matt and Mikey V are unique. The judges should have critiqued how uncooperative every one was to Tracee but also how it's not the job of a team leader to be the one to go shopping, so in that way she is the one who should have gone home, but to send off Mikey and not Trish the imatative hack.

Posted by arggie – July 18, 2008 8:18 AM

I love that the show has 'inspired' so much blogging. It's interesting to note that there is agreement that 1) no other contestant, so far, can hold a candle to David Bromstad; 2) a revolution is starting to reinstate Mikey V., and 3) we are celebrating the cancellation of Tracee's show.

I agree with a blogger's suggestion that Trish should make a big donation to the Fire Dept. for taking up taxpayer's money and the Fire Dept's time for that dang 'ring' situation. She shoulda done what any normal person would have done: go to the e.r., go to a jeweler; or go to a doctor...way before her finger turned purple...and on her own time...not during the show. Pity party! Pity party! I didn't want to be invited. It didn't have to be on the show.

Last opinion: HGTV should create a new show featuring the 'nation's most wanted' from the popularity list: Alice from season 1; Sparkle Josh from season 2; Mikey V. from season 3. Wouldn't they light up the screen?

Thanks, bloggers, for hours of entertaining reading!

Posted by White Ginger – July 18, 2008 8:11 AM

Have you all seen the other 'chat' on this HGTV DS site? Mikey V. is in trouble with the law and has been put on administrative leave as a police officer. Check it out!

If that is all true, he has a bunch of us hoodwinked with his charm. I for one really liked him, but I have since re-watched some videos on this site (examining Mikey V. more closely) and now I am disappointed. Sorry, can't help seeing him differently now.

Thanks to all of you for your opinions and insight to this season of DS. It's been fun to read and see your suggestions.

I'm equally disappointed in this season, but want to see the remaining episodes. I agree the talent isn't as good as DS-1 (David/Alice). Last year I was annoyed with Kim and personally can't watch Myles of Style. (Kim isn't a very good designer and I have a very hard time sticky with her show and have only watched bits and pieces because her design sense is off and her talking and antics are annoying).

Eventhough I am frustrated, I will continue to watch DS-3 to the end. I sure hope one of these final 3 are better than Kim. If so, Kim may get cancelled. (watch out).

David is the best! He was so fun to watch and develop on the first season and eventually pull it off with his amazing bedroom design in the park in New York. That was tremendous!! However, last season in Hawaii was mediocre.

HGTV you need to pull this season out of the dulldrums and get a great star from this season or the sponsors and viewers will see where it's headed and bail on you for good. Sorry -

Posted by Megan – July 18, 2008 7:11 AM

FINALLy, TRACEE is gone- what a whiner! she should have gone long time ago! I agree, this
season is boring but i still enjoy watching
the show- thanks to clive davis!

Posted by tc2 – July 18, 2008 3:27 AM

Most of it has been said... Tracee was kept for the drama when it was obvious she should have gone earlier, show is becoming stale. What about a twist next season? Design Star Team? I don't care if you say what a team should consist of, or whether you leave it open to interpretation. We could have business partners, husbands and wives, mothers and daughters, best friends, or you could say one designer and one carpenter to a team. How many of HGTV's carpenters ended up with their own shows?? Just change the dynamics a little.

Posted by Jill – July 18, 2008 3:02 AM

I need to make one more comment here. Whoever it is who decides what promos to show, PLEASE stop with the hyped-up ads and previews for the show. Was it just me, or did anyone else out there think there was going to be some serious emergency in the kitchen episode? We heard sirens and someone crying and moaning in pain as if they were horribly injured. I thought a refrigerator or something fell on top of someone. Then it turns out that Trish can't get her ring off! Not that I wanted someone to be seriously hurt, but come on - don't make it look worse than it is just to get people to tune in next week. How deceptive. How cheezy!

As far as calling the fire dept, I thought at first, too, why not just go to the ER? But they probably would have taken longer and wouldn't have the tools to get the ring off. Trish may not have made the decision to do it on camera, it may have been the producers decision in order to create more drama.

Can't wait to see Sunday's episode and to read all the comments. See you then.

Posted by Conni – July 18, 2008 3:00 AM

I was disappointed they let Mikey V go he has a lot of talent and does very well on camera when not put on the spot this is something he can improve on with minimal help. Tracee needed to go she was so conceited about herself and he self proclaimed design ability and did nothing that I saw to back it up she was nasty to the others and threw people under the bus by trying to shift blame off herself on to someone else she never ever thought she was wrong.

Posted by Sheri – July 18, 2008 2:37 AM

Mickey V should be brought back.

Posted by susan – July 18, 2008 2:01 AM

I had Tracee cut in the first episode- only the man who was cut then was worse. I know Mikey V. was a cutie- but he really didn't have it. I miss the dynamic of the first episode- the creativity and passion seems to be lacking from this group. Jennifer is cute and great on camera- but she doesn't seem to have the cutting edge talent previous winners have, and Trish does nothing for me. Her pithy comments need to be replaced with some constructive contributions. Matt's my vote to win this season- he's got the most going for him: creativity, ingenuity, construction... just tune him up for the camera!

Posted by Juliet – July 17, 2008 11:47 PM

I'm really disappointed that Mikey V got canned. He had some good ideas and has the skills to bring them about. For my own taste, I tend to lean towards the designer who can create a space that has color and space and a bit of drama and an extra helping of class. I'm not a fan of black walls or putting fabric across an entire wall or ceiling. Kim is pretty good, although she tends to be to cutesie and not enough substancial. I feel that families would change things after she leaves or shortly there after. I think the Brom is the bomb!! He has some great and classie designs and he ain't bad to look at as shows in the way his program is staged with a little tease of his chizzled body. I think Matt and Mikey V are both good designers and hgtv would be served well if they could work them into a regular show and bring them up to speed as they get experiance. Everyone can't be great in front of a camera but with experiance would come proficiency I'm sure.

Posted by bill – July 17, 2008 11:43 PM

Mildred very intelligently stated her case for the next season, if there is one. I agree. The show doesn't seem very well thought out or planned. That isn't the fault of the designers per se. I had a problem with the judges saying, on the last show, that since there wasn't a design to judge the other contestants, they had to judge by the hosting videos. That is such a small snapshot and something someone can grow into. What are the design skills of each contestant? I like HGTV and like both David B. and Kim M.'s shows. Their shows inspired me to watch this season. However,I am not too impressed, not just with the contestants but how the contest is planned,organized and executed.

Posted by janice – July 17, 2008 11:18 PM

It was wonderful to see Tracee go. Trish is the least innovative of those remaining, so it will be fun to see what happens next week.

Tracee sends a message that the ability to collaborate is key in any setting. Her consistent lack of grace--combined with the hideous cartoon Italian room-- should have resulted in an earlier departure.

Posted by Gillian – July 17, 2008 11:17 PM

I was very glad to Tracy go, keeping her for the drama went on 4 weeks too long. Like many others seeing Micky V go was a disapointment, but 2 of my final 3 picks made it. I hope they end up the final 2 when it becomes our choice to pick a winner. The producers and editors at HGTV should take Mildred's suggestions (made on 7/17 around 11am) and run with them for next year's show. Had this been the first season I don't think the ratings would have supported a second.

Just my humble opinion.

Posted by Jeanette – July 17, 2008 9:49 PM

I think this season's designers lack creativity and professionalism.
David Bromstad and Kim Myles were standouts in prior seasons. Even their runners-up had more creativity than most of this year's picks.
I will still watch the show because I enjoy it.
I just wish the designs and the people were more interesting.

Posted by Lynn – July 17, 2008 9:29 PM

Hears an idea--have Mikey V team up with Trish. Their chemistry was dynamite, and they compliment each other. Mikey V is a fan favorite appealing to both women and men (a REAL man), and Trish has the polish. The two of them really seemed to like each other and work well with each other. Personally, I would love to watch a show hosted by Mikey V, but since the judges booted him, and seemed swayed by Trish, BRING BACK MICKEY V TO TEAM UP WITH TRISH. Now that would make a hit show for HGTV!

Posted by Belinda – July 17, 2008 9:28 PM

I agree with some of the other posters: The contestants are WORN OUT with painting, building, etc. Give each one a team of professionals so they can present their design, oversee the execution of it and polish it with accessories! Good Lord! They spend most of their TINY time budget with PAINTING! What the heck??

Posted by IntuitionInteriors – July 17, 2008 8:42 PM

I have a question? What happened to that promotion where we the viewers suggested the challenges we wanted to see? Are these it? Somehow I doubt it. I thought we were going to see some fresh changes but instead these challenges seem to be getting worse. I myself wanted to see more individual challenges. Do any of these challenges seem like anything any of you suggested? I'm curious.

Posted by Rick E. – July 17, 2008 8:25 PM

Are finalists being kicked off elimination shows in 2s now to make seasons shorter, since fewer people are watching? If it's a design show, let's see the contestants be able to design. Poor Vern moans about not giving the homeowner a design, when what he gives them are amateur carpenters, floor layers, tilers, etc. You're telling me Sears donates the appliances but won't install them? Let's call the show Laborer Star. And yes, Tracee did try to get her team to plan. They refused and were rewarded for it.

Posted by Marcia – July 17, 2008 8:04 PM

i have to concur with the consensus on this blog site. This season lacks creativity and excitement. I have loved DS for the past two seasons, and I look forward to it each week, but I'm constantly amazed to see that the designers have not grown one bit. Each week has been a disappointment. Where is the flare we were treated to the first year when David brought his talent to the screen? I wonder how many episodes this year's winner will actually be allowed to star in before his/her show is REALLY canceled. Please step it up next season and get back to the basics of good design!

Posted by Jan S – July 17, 2008 7:07 PM

I have found this years Design Star to be a disappointment. I would love to see more of the design phase, similar to what David Bromstad or Candice Olsen do. The challenges that have been presented this season do not show the Designers potential talent, how about more realistic individual challenges? LOVE Clive and would love to see more of him. As for the judges, how about bringing in guest judges, like Sarah Richardson, for every challenge?

Posted by Kathie – July 17, 2008 6:47 PM

Good- bye Tracee. Glad to see your attitude and lack of imagination and design expertice go. I'm no design expert or even very good at imagining how something can look better or how something might look, but the kitchen was BORING and lacked any pop or professional design appearance - or so I thought. It was o.k. - just now wow O.K.

Posted by Jonie – July 17, 2008 6:12 PM

Vern needs to go and Mickey V needs to come back. Verns show sucks and Mickey could do it for him. Tracee needed to go a long time ago, what a witch !!
HGTV are you reading and listening to your audience?? Read the comments here and maybe you will change a few things !

Posted by cindy – July 17, 2008 4:59 PM

Say it ain't so...Why did they send Mikey V home? I found that he was the most interesting and not a bore like some of the others. So he's not the best in front of the camera and I did not find him as bad as the judges did. He wasn't the same mondane, boring host. I yearn for someone interesting and different and good at designing and Mikey V is that person. David wasn't good in front of the camera but I absolutely love his show, Kim was good in front of the camera but I find her show boring. Come on HGTV. Get with the program!!!!!

Posted by Maureen – July 17, 2008 4:00 PM

WOW..what a year...I love this show...but I don't get some of the decisions the designers are making...and the judges...I thought this was one of those weeks when they should have let everybody try one more time...I know...Tracee is a whiner...and it's hard for her to take the blame for her mistakes....BUT...if her te