Design Star Finale Delivers

The final episode of Design Star presented the judges with a very difficult decision. Both designers, Dan and Antonio, created memorable projects through out the show's run.

Dan created some very 'pulled together' rooms, and like the judges, I also loved his use of space with the addition of the self-made metal boat skeletons that he suspended from the ceiling in the next to last episode. Dan also seemed very intelligent and educated in his field. Sounds like the perfect candidate, but here are the reasons that I, (and possibly the judges), were rooting for Antonio.

Antonio proved unique from the very beginning. On camera his presence seemed very real. When he spoke it did not feel like a presentation, instead we were treated as fellow participants in a unique creative journey. Though it landed him in the bottom, his use of paint to create a forced perspective in the white room challenge was memorable enough that I can still mentally recall the image weeks later. The dynamic use of line to change the feeling of space has me considering where and how I might be able to apply a similar technique in my own home.

In his redesign of a small boy's room his choices were creative and practical. The bed had storage drawers underneath where toys and other items could be put away; a feature any parent would appreciate! He had a custom printed, life-sized, image of the boy affixed to the wall, and large cut out boulders arched above the bed to make it feel as if it were nested in a cave. Pictures of dinosaurs helped complete the transformation into a room guaranteed to spark a young boy's imagination.

Antonio also exhibits great leadership potential, a necessary component for anyone attempting to work with others to create a single vision. Through his word choice and body language he placed himself on the same footing as the other carpenters in the final challenge.

The decision to make over the bathroom demonstrated integrity. The wall to the bathroom could have been dealt with in other superficial ways (like a folding screen to deflect the light) but Antonio chose to create something of lasting value for the homeowners. He went beyond what was required and expected. This is someone you'd want to work in your own home.

As the finale drew to a close I have to admit that I was nervous. Dan Vickery would be a safe choice and I felt that the decision could go either way. I was relieved by Antonio's win, and even more excited that HGTV will be giving me more chances to learn from such a talented individual. Tune in with me this Sunday at 10/9c to watch The Antonio Project as the newest Design Star remodels his own home.