It will be interesting to see what each designer learned from their previous HGTV experiences. No doubt they have come a long way, too, in their designing careers since we last saw them compete. At first blush, I am leaning toward Hilari, who is such a treat to watch. She has a lot of spunk - and class ("grace under pressure").
This is off the subject, but I like the way Meg dresses. She has a lot of fashion sense and always looks "put together." It seems effortless. David could take some lessons from her. He has everything going for him - looks, body type, etc. - but his wardrobe choices detract from (rather than complement) his style.
Well done, Britany! The fans have spoken. Like many of those who have shared their comments, my family, friends and I think Britany Simon has a terrific eye for design - and will have much to contribute to HGTV in the years ahead. May this be a start of something BIG.
Hats off to Yuki for her gracious posting!
Thank you, Loren, for answering our questions so beautifully. You provide great insight into the show, and it is appreciated. I know it must be hard to read some of the overly critical comments, but I think it comes with any "product" that people are passionate about. We all want "our" Design Star to win and emotions run high because of it. In any case, it was a wonderful season and I personally enjoyed every minute of it. May your Design Stars All Stars show generate just as much excitement - and passion! Take care.
Our family and friends were all rooting for you, Britany. You dazzled America (and the world!) in every challenge. From the unique chevron fence to the yurt bed, your designs were creative, interesting, and fun. Your Hollywood Regency party venue was jaw-dropping! How you accomplished that in a day is nothing short of amazing. We were crushed that you didn't take top honors, but no judge's decision can diminish your genius. And we don't for a minute think the judges were sending that message. One could tell that they truly believe in your talent and struggled mightily over this decision. Arizona State University is proud of you, too! We look forward to watching your career soar.
Our family and friends were Team Britany all the way. For some reason, though, the way the final episode was edited, she was made to appear indecisive and lacking in leadership. She never appeared that way in all the other challenges. I also think it was difficult for her to connect with the camera. It's not easy to "act natural" on cue; and the design shows seem to revolve around "characters" (people with quirky personalities). HGTV producers know who is winning the ratings game and they have to choose those who are going to attract the biggest audiences. Britany must not have proven to them that she could make the camera her friend, without lots of takes, coaching, etc. Who knows?
Our family and friends were on "Team Britany"; it was painful to see her lose. I imagine it came down to a coin toss for the judges. They were also probably very concerned about the camera challenges and which of the two could "ramp up" the quickest to create that magical viewer connection. One almost has to be able to reveal one's soul when the producers call "ACTION!" Any reserve or hesitation has to be vanquished. I personally think it's more interesting when the focus is on the design rather than on the designer; but, I bet I'm in the vast minority on that score. They both worked unbelievably hard to win the prize, and Danielle - to her credit - impressed the judges more.
The day we all have been waiting for has arrived. May the best designer win! And may none of us be sore losers. Hilari showed us how to accept defeat with grace, humor and hope for the future.
Candice Olson, Sarah Richardson, Vern Yip, and the Novogratz couple (not sure what happened to them) are truly worthy of prime time. The others, not so much - they (the other HGTV designers) appear to be "propped up" behind the scenes.
Loren, how are the city locations chosen? No doubt it has to be a large city with lots of resources, like LA and NYC. But it might be fun - more challenging, too - to take the show to say, Billings, Montana, where the designers would have to be more resourceful, etc. Most people do not have the luxury of shopping for furniture, accessories, etc. in LA and NYC. It might be helpful (and inspiring) to viewers to see that great design elements can be found everywhere - in home towns all across America - and that every city has charming shops on which to draw. Thank you!
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