john carollo wrote:

I wish you would wear socks ... so de classe

posted on February 14, 2007 at 10:52 PM

daffy duck wrote:

This episode made me so sad. That one chubby girl that kept saying how "classy" st. tropez was...it was just, well, sad. I think that these contestants are not really worthy of being critiqued by the editor of Elle Decor, or any other magazine for that matter, (possibly the editor of the Ballard design catalogue?)-- this seems like a waste of that poor woman's time. Maybe more attention should be paid to getting better contestants? People that have actually, say, travelled to France for starters? This group has no sense of fun or color or even spatial relations -- P.S. I suppose it is just as sad that I am at my computer at eleven o'clock commenting on a television show. See ya later decorators...

posted on February 14, 2007 at 11:37 PM

Claire wrote:

I think your show exhibits a certain snobbery: "one client didn't even know the meaning of the word 'cabana.'" "Gee, your cabana doesn't look like anything we would ever see in St. Tropez!" ""Don't take the postcard so literally!" Clearly if you are accepting contestants with limited professional and world experience, they are not going to be resort afficionados and world travelers!!!! ASSESS these kinds of things about the contestants before production starts, for goodness sakes, and devise appropriate challenges! Just 'cuz a contestant has never been on a beach where you pay for a a cabana or is not familiar with the "blues of St. Tropez" does not mean that they don't have great style sense, knowledge of color, how space works, etc. Challenges should be "do-able" by a talented new designer -- If they were working with a client and hadn't traveled to St. Tropez, they would have been able to ask a million questions to find out what about St. Tropez was significant to the CLIENT! Here they weren't allowed any time to research, discuss, etc. they were given a postcard and 30 minutes to come up with a whole design plan. Ridiculous -- and so the results sucked for you, the judges, AND for us, the viewers!

posted on February 14, 2007 at 11:49 PM

Jeff wrote:

I must say, your comments tonight were presented with a keen lingua franca, as you say. Unfortunately, I am left wondering how much credibility I can put in your vision of what makes each of these places nonpareil. And while on each of these group projects you have pointed out how important it is to not only be heard as an individual but to mesh as a team, I wonder with every glare of Maggie's eyes at Kelly's misguided comments just how well you as judges, present a unified view.
Perhaps you should refocus your eyes on the qualities that define the cabana experience. While you were mesmerized at Goil's light structure and the etherial vacuity of the Tahitian villa, you brushed over their lack of experiential richness in favor of their lack of decorative qualities. Instead of showing any interest in the program, you sounded off with questions like, "Did you intend not to paint that roof structure?" The strongest concept was the indoor/outdoor Miami structure, with the louvers providing a strong phenomenolgical experience between the spectator and the subject.
Another sad statement was your insistance on the use of the purple and the chartreuse. Strange that so many new developments like Icon on South Beach and many of Chad Oppenheims projects use the very same green. Or perhaps the purple neon signs dotting Ocean Drive are not as "Miami" as the geriatric sherbit colors of Boca Raton. I'm confused, please explain.
Perhaps what is most frustrating is your attempt at humor when trying to provide a foil for Saint Tropez. How are wicker chairs and cotton fabrics like Buffalo? Next time you attempt to denigrate a place you have little knowledge of, at least try to pick one that has something to do with your argument. Perhaps it was an honest mistake; maybe you really did want to imply that Buffalo was the epitome of cozy as opposed to the airiness of Saint Tropez. I suggest you ponder it sometime while staying at the Mansion on Delaware in downtown Buffalo, recently rated one of the Top 5 Hotels in America by Zagat, ahead of any that you, Kelly, or Kathy Ireland (oh excuse me, Kathryn) have decorated. What is ironic is I recently returned from a trip to the Cote D'Azur having stayed at the Hotel Byblos at Saint Tropez. Maybe I should forward you a photo of the blue chair with red pillow on my hotel porch, of the very same hues that adorned the rejected villa.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 12:11 AM

Billy wrote:

I love the show & like Project Runway, the challenges are mean't to test the contestants abilities not reflect the reality of working with a client and designing/decorating a room. I look at it as a test of their creative skills & enjoy seeing the various solutions. But you can't compare the challenges on the show to working in the real design world. Apples and oranges..........

posted on February 15, 2007 at 12:16 AM

DallasDave wrote:

Hmhhh, it's sad that Jonathan "planted the seed" that caused them to change the colors. Even though the original colors didn't pop--the judges might have sent 1 of the 2 "drama queens on the other team" home instead. Miami, does have those colors, perhaps a bit sun-faded, but they do have greens and purples and even neon greens!!!!
The judges should have taken into account the original color thought and that Jonathan "sort of made them" change the colors. In Jonathan's blog, he thought they "popped" and worked. The judges are ALL annoying! What do you expect when you give the decorators "4 hours" to do their "electrical work".

posted on February 15, 2007 at 12:20 AM

DallasDave wrote:

Sorry, I meant to say that it was sad that "TODD" planed the seed that caused them to change the color scheme--Team Miami. I wrote that Jonathan did it, by mistake. Hmhhh, see no one is perfect.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 12:22 AM

ruthy wrote:

I agree with the snobbery. I am really having a hard time watching this show. I have loved all of the other Bravo shows... ALL OF THEM.... but your show seems kind of "up yours" ... "I'm a famous decorator and designer and you don't know anything". I don't like it at all. I really can't stand how the judges slander and cut down the designs and then have a "Pow Wow" and say how much they loved the design and it was their favorite. I changed the TV to my local news. If this show runs another season (which it will) please, please get some different judges.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 12:43 AM

Suzie wrote:

All I want to know is if Ryan ever explained his pillow purchases to the judges. I thought they were a great choice! And the fact that Carissa covered them up with her badly chosen fabric and color choices. Maybe it is just bad editing on your producers part, but something is just not right with this show.
I might stay tuned in for one more viewing... but I hope it gets better.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 12:48 AM

shawn wrote:

Please get rid of the CHEESY "see ya later, decorator".........

so very, very, very sad......... oh and the cards you read from.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 12:49 AM

Cley wrote:

I love Goil's work. I hope he wins. His ingenuity and taste is impressive. He's detailed, organized, and clean...luvs it. I live basically in miami, well in the city to the north of it, but it's home for me. The judges were correct in their analysis that team miami's cabana did not suit their venue. Those colors were truly icky. Last note, I luv the way Jonathan Adler speaks and how you write makes me feel like i'm actually talking to you...luv luv luv.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 12:59 AM

Adriane Coros wrote:

Why are almost all the positive comments made once the designers have left the judging room. It really feels like the judges overwhelmingly negative comments are depressing the cointestants - to the point where even the winners of a challenge are pretty subdued. I'm enjoying the desins and the challenges are interesting, but the show feels rather grim.
Please add some positive enthusiasm - it will pick up the energy for everyone!

posted on February 15, 2007 at 1:54 AM

Adriane wrote:

I'm stunned you sent Elizabeth home because you didn't like her color choice! She was an exciting, interesting designer. every choice has been bold. She worked well alone, worked well in a pair, and worked well in a trio. She was willing to put her vision out there, but didn't railroad anyone into agreeing. So you don't like the color - so what? And PS - read the remarks - most viewers liked the colors, or at least understood the concept.

But you kept the guy that designed a cat room last week, then brought in horribly heavy furniture for an innovative modern structure this week. And you kept another fellow who basically was invisable in this challenge.
BAD CHOICE. BAD BAD BAD choice.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 2:05 AM

Lisa S. wrote:

There is one thing about this show that really gets under my skin. I am an interior deisgner in Chicago, and to clarify for all who are reading this, there is a huge difference between a "designer" and a "decorator". A designer employs the concepts of form, function, and delight into a space with a great deal of focus on structure/architecture. A decorator fills a space with colors, furniture, and accessories. I am not saying that either profession is any better than the other, but it must be pointed out that designers typically have a much larger and more comprehensive educational background and vocabulary that decorators. HERE IS MY POINT!!! It is so incredibly rude of Jonathan Adler to say to the desiger that is asked to leave at the end of each show "see you later decorator". That would be like Heidi Klum say "auf wiedersehen [seamstress]" instead of "auf wiedersehen [fashion designer]"...what a cheap shot to that designer, and also, what a cheap general comment to make about all decorators - very poor taste.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 2:08 AM

Sue wrote:

To continue
Todd good luck with this. I hope it is a success. I must comment on the pirate bedroom winning. To 98% of one's clients this bedroom would be a complete failure. Who wants a bedroom like that in their home for more than a month? Overkill! And where is the creativity? Long John Silver's would have been insulted. After this week the judges have now failed at judging creativity and function. As I stated eariler, how does a cabana lose because of a color and one with no shade and billowing fabric to hit you in the face when the wind changes, win. Come on judges. Function does count for something in the design world. Speak up Kelly, I know you get it. Bottom line is - I am watching. And good luck Elizabeth in your career.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 2:15 AM

Tom wrote:

Well, I got into Top Chef, and now Top Design, and I have to say it's disheartening how soon (episode 3) I hate these TD judges in their ridiculous hair and outfits, sneering at the contestants who've worked their butts off under impossible conditions. Supposedly, in this episode the contestants were to be judged for their design and their "teamwork," but since each team had a major flaw, shouldn't the team with the worst teamwork, Goil, Ryan and what's her name, have lost someone? Instead, as on Top Chef, we get rid of the "old" people so the under thirties can whine and bitch and claw each other and pretend to be a top something or other who has no real experience. To send Elizabeth home was probably a production choice: she was confident and got along with everyone, so no fireworks would probably be forthcoming. Too bad she cried at the end; she seemed to have so much going for her to take being on a reality show seriously. I loved her smile while being whalloped by Ms. Elle Decor. Let's see more of that! But we won't, so I probably won't watch this show again.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 2:59 AM

donna wrote:

I'm really sorry they got rid of Elizabeth. She is a classy lady. I appreciate her quiet demeanor and how she really cared about the people she worked with. Did anyone notice that another "experienced" contestant is gone. Never in my wildest dreams did I think she would go before Karissa. Got to keep the controversy flowing....

posted on February 15, 2007 at 3:19 AM

Barb A wrote:

If Top Design lasts another season, BravoTV must, must, must get different judges. These characters are so incredibly rude and unappealing.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 11:04 AM

Barbara Solis wrote:

Watching Elizabeth get eliminated last night was painful, it felt like it was the wrong decision and I can only hope that your show redeems itself by bringing her back with an opportunity to win a challenge and return to the competition in the very near future! Elizabeth clearly has talent, she proved this already on the show. Clarisa and Ryan should have both been eliminated. Elizabeth was a team player, Clarisa and Ryan were not. Clarisa and Ryan had poor color choices made by themselves whereas Elizabeth's color choice was that of the team. The judges are not thinking clearly. Something has to give here. I can guarantee you that neither Clarisa or Ryan will win this competition. I honestly think Elizabeth could win. I am not sure if I will be able to watch the show any longer. Disappointed!

posted on February 15, 2007 at 11:15 AM

Tracy M. wrote:

I would like to say to the other viewers to please give the show a chance, it's just starting off. Later on when you get a favorite designer you'll be more interested like you were with the other two shows. Jonathan is my favorite judge, the women seem glassy eyed and cold. Aside from the judging, I enjoy watching the designers and their challenges.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 11:49 AM

Stephanie wrote:

I'm about as far away from being a designer as is possible, but even I cringed when I saw Carissa fuzzy material in the cabana. Egad. That's something I want to snuggle with in the winter. Can you imagine that material near the sand? And what was up with the throw? Does "cabana" make you think that you need a blanket? Thought Goil's design was just perfect but the stuff in it surely wasn't!

posted on February 15, 2007 at 11:55 AM

Claudia wrote:

I personally like the show and found that although the comment on Team Saint Tropez looking like a burger shack was slightly harsh. That overall the comments are spot on. I was slightly sad at Elizabeth's depature as she along with Goil seem to exhibit a more sophisticated perspective on the designs.

I was also wondering (as Suzie commented) on whether Ryan explained how his pillows were destroyed by Carissa!?

posted on February 15, 2007 at 12:13 PM

becky wrote:

OK people, get off the snobby and harsh complaints. Anyone who has survived design school knows that this jury is easy on the contestants. In fact, it looks like a relative cake walk to me. They don't deserve to have their hands held and their designs lauded unless they have done something really amazing, and as someone else put it, DESIGNED instead of DECORATED.

As for Goil's structure, although it looked fresh compared to the other entries, it's been done to death. Check out any architecture school's design-build a bus stop assignment and you will find many similar structures. Did anyone else notice that the fabric on the roof was not providing any shade within the cabana? Someone from that team deserved to go instead of Elizabeth. I'm thinking Carissa the Complainer. When you're on a team, you suck it up and pitch, not b****.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 1:45 PM

Michael wrote:

Jonathan,
Great job. I'm really enjoying the show, and last night's challenge was great. I was suprised the teams didn't have more fun with it, however. They end results were all kind of dour. I agree completely with your elimination of Elizabeth. I like her and thought she'd go far, but that choice of colors was deadly...and Miami could have been so festive looking.

Your comments are always on target and insightfull...and always with a wonderfull humor. Keep it up.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 1:49 PM

2112 wrote:

Never mind the negativity. I checked out your website and found this in the About section:

"1978 Tries pottery at summer camp while wearing a Rush concert tee."

I don't know exactly how you felt about Rush then or now, but that's still enough for me to put you on my "People I Think Are Cool" list. And socks are way overrated despite what anyone says, but I don't have to tell you that.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 2:23 PM

John H. wrote:

Let's talk color. It seems to me that the designers were choosing colors using indoor lighting for a setting that would be exhibited in the bright sunlight. Making matters worse, the judges all wore sunglasses. Frequently, sunglasses make certain colors "pop", particularly if these are so-called "blue blocker" glasses. Thus, the designers should have been cautioned to think about color given the conditions they would be given later. Then again, there was truly nothing Miami about Team Miami!

posted on February 15, 2007 at 2:25 PM

Tracy wrote:

Okay, I'm reading most of the comments here...judges too bitchy, standards too elitist, challenges too difficult, aesthetic references too obscure...

So?

This isn't day camp where everyone gets a medal for participating. It's a silly contrived contest, and one based on subjective taste. And it's TV. It's supposed to be entertaining above all else-- and to me, there's nothing more entertaining than watching bitchy queens dish the clueless. I'm not sure I WANT to like any of you too much. It's far more fun to just watch you squabble and squirm. People-watching is only fun if EVERYONE is ridiculous. This show's got that in spades, baby.

Chartreuse or eggplant, color me a fan.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 2:59 PM

viewer wrote:

Sending Elizabeth home was a bad decision all the way. Her colors were mature and different, but did not NOT say Miami, just because it was lime green with egg plant. The whole team loved it, even after Todd kindly warned them the judges may object to the choices. It was a brave(?) choice, and the whole team made the choice. Many above have said that it should have been Ryan who should have been sent away, and I completely agree. Finally, what is up with "latered" and "see you later, decorator" stuff? So 5th grade. And definitely shouldn't be categorized with the more classy "make it work" or "make choices", if that's what he's shooting for.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 3:16 PM

Vicki wrote:

May I make a suggestion regarding team challenges and eliminations--Eliminate two contestants--One who clearly blunders the job, but took iniative and accountablity for it, and (this is important) the contestant who "hides" and is not willing to step up to the plate and be accountable. Viewers can see through the "lying low" contestant who "survives" his/her way to the next level of competition, and frankly, it needs to stop. These contestants should not be rewarded for their passivity and lack of commitment to the team effort. There should have been two contestants eliminated last night.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 3:37 PM

Ellyn wrote:

Frankly, I am getting a little weary of this decorator/designer nonsense. I have been working in this feild for some time now without having finnished my degree and I do a lot more than just decorate. I am constantly modifying rooms, building furniture and paying very close attention to the architecture and space the whole time. I'm beginning to think that all those CID's out there are just pissed off that they have student loans to repay while some of us can bank our money. In recent years the line between decorator and designer has been blurred beyond distinction so you might as well get over it.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 4:06 PM

palmers wrote:

This, the 3rd series about "top" whatever -- fashion designer, chef, and now interior designer -- is showing an increased cynicism in the choice of contestants. The designers chosen represent such clear stereotypes, and I wonder if that carried undue weight in the choices. It's great to include a range of age, gender, and sexual orientation, as well as stylistic bent (viz. Jeffrey in Project Runway), and a lot of this crew are really interesting; it's more troublesome when it looks like some were chosen for their drama potential. Watching this program I'd rather hear a lot less about the bitchiness of some and a lot more about how everyone is thinking about the assignment, their inventiveness, responsiveness to the client's needs, and awareness of trends in color and style.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 6:48 PM

Gene wrote:

I have been bothered from the moment I saw the judges with their superior attitudes walk in the room. What that say and how they say it bothers me. I finally turned the sound off until they were finished because what they were saying was pointless and nothing to do with the choices anyway and at least I wasn't bothered by their condescending attitudes.

posted on February 15, 2007 at 8:18 PM

Narciso wrote:

The concept of this show is similar to Project Runway in that the results are very accessible for the audience. No matter how much I love Top Chef, I can't taste the creations. For that reason, I really enjoy this show. However, I must say that a certain degree of snobbishness pervades the show that is very offputting. Even the so-called catch phrase "see ya later, decorator" sounds condescending in this context. I can see it being used with friends and in fun, but these are supposed to be a new crop of talented professionals who are trying to reach the next level of success. A sing-song phrase that echoes a children's rhyme when a dream has been publicly crushed comes off as very condescending -- at least to me. I'm not even going to factor in the additional element that some "designers" consider being called a "decorator" insulting. There is no need to chastise Goil for his lack of knowledge of the word "cabana." His educational background is quite solid. So what? Todd O. seems very down-to-earth and fun and helpful but the rest of the show's cast seems to put down the contestants. Runway and Chef all have "nice" judges that balance the harsher panel members and it is those "nicer" judges that send the contestants on their way home. I like having Todd with the Tim Gunn role away from the judging panel but without his nice guy persona, the other judges come off as patronizing. Harsh criticism is okay. It makes good drama. And some of these designers might even learn from it. But a little condescension goes a long way.

posted on February 16, 2007 at 12:52 AM

cindiecindie wrote:

Elizabeth should NOT have been eliminated ... see everyone else's comments ... I need not repeat. She had a shot at winning the whole thing ... she should have a great career because of her experience, talent and willingness to please...

The video of the interview with Jonathon Adler and his "valentine" with their dog Liberace who was passing gas the entire interview ... now that is and was in the poorest taste. Gross. Those two playing ping pong every night while Liberace watches ... give me a break. See ya later decorator? Sounds a bit childish and first grade to me. How about something a little bit more sophisticated and perhaps clever.

posted on February 16, 2007 at 6:27 AM

Michael wrote:

Talk about sour, unpleasant bitches...and I don't mean the judges! I mean many of the petty posts on here.

Jonathan don't ever stop with the "See you later decorator" its perfect. And if you can work in any other "See you laters..." by all means do!

posted on February 16, 2007 at 12:38 PM

Angelica G. Basile wrote:

Please !!!
If I have to choose between red and yellow ...I certally prefer yellow !
You shoud sent Carrisa home , she was so full of herself , and made 2 mistakes color and texture

posted on February 16, 2007 at 1:42 PM

Mari Carmen wrote:

I could do without all of the drama and I wish the show would really deal with designs and why the designers made their particular choices. Regardless, I was just in shock with what Kelly was wearing! She is criticizing Elizabeth's choice of color and yet she is wearing bright green socks with dark green sandals and apparently two silver bowls as a top! OMG! I loved Top Chef (even with all the drama) and Project Runway, but I can't stand these judges (except for Jonathan). Todd is also great and I love his stuff. I wish I could learn more about space, who colors can make or break a room, and how different styles can be mixed to work well. I'll have to settle for watching the finished room for a few seconds instead. Kelly and the one from Elle Decor... go home!

posted on February 16, 2007 at 9:40 PM

Irma wrote:

I am just curious... You stated earlier that you are from New Jersey. Yet, you refer to your partner as your "bloke". Isn't that quite British of you? I think your inclusion of "chi-chi" words is pretentious. Not everyone is fluent in "design-speak".
Long story short - try not to impress us with your confused verbiage.
See Ya Later, Wordcreator!

posted on February 17, 2007 at 9:47 AM

Kathy wrote:

The contestants seem shell-shocked; the judges appear uppity - something about this show is entirely depressing. Why not give the designers more time and more positive feedback during judging so they're not so embarrassed... this show kinda makes me sad to watch.

posted on February 17, 2007 at 10:32 AM

Lisa S. wrote:

ATTN: Ellyn

Building on my previous comment that you seem to be responding to, I agree with you that the line between "designer" and "decorator" has become fuzzy. I have seen decorators run circles around designers. It should always be understood that the decorator/designer is as accomplished, educated, and inventive as he/she chooses to be (with no relevance to the degree or lack thereof). As a matter of fact, I would even say that MOST of what individual clients want is exactly what a decorator does - I know more in-demand decorators than in-demand deisgners. SO MY POINT HERE IS THIS:
Jonathan Adler's verbiage on the show is TASTELESS. If you watch and listen carefully, he uses the word "designer" throughout his entire appearance on the show EXCEPT when the designer is kicked off...he then refers to the designer as "decorator" (in a purely cheezy way, I might add). What a way to be rude and look down your nose at someone! I find his attitude toward designers vs. decorators offensive, one-sided, and SNOOTY!!

posted on February 17, 2007 at 2:10 PM

James G wrote:

I think the show needs to give the designers a little more time to actually CONSTRUCT their designs, especially if you're going to give them the old "switcheroo" at the last minute, as I see is becoming a pattern on the show.

They're given so little time to compensate, that they rush their designs and then they all look like cr-p at the end. I want to see beautiful products at the end, not a slap-dash of half-ass design.

Remember, they're designing, and often building, whole rooms, not dresses. There needs to be a little more time to plan it out if we, the viewers, are going to see something great at the end.

Otherwise I have no complains about the judges, as other people do. I think they're great. If the contestants don't know what the judges are talking about, or about "St. Tropez" (hell, I've never been there), then they should just ask! :-)

(But give them the damn TIME to ask!!!)

posted on February 17, 2007 at 6:43 PM

Patty wrote:

BAD, BAD, BAD choice eliminating Elizabeth from this show! She is one of only a couple who show any vision or taste. I agree with the previous post.....you need to BRING HER BACK!

posted on February 17, 2007 at 9:29 PM

AlbertCat wrote:

Sending someone home because you didn't like a color is just plain WRONG. The colors were agreed upon by the whole team, regardless of who came up with them in the 1st place.

The terrible funiture on the St Tropez cabana was a much more grievous mistake. One person shopped. It shows a clear cluelessness, not just a difference in oppinion about color.

Bad call!

posted on February 17, 2007 at 10:16 PM

LK wrote:

Got it wrong this week my friend.

One cabana, no walls.
Two cabana, no roof.
Three cabana, subjective judges don't like the color?

Cabanas should provide privacy, intimacy, things like SHADE.

Only one entrant wa a cabana. The others were an unfinished shack, and a big beach umbrella.

posted on February 18, 2007 at 1:35 AM

samm wrote:

I disagree that the, "See you later, decorator," needs to go. Jonathan is a nice, incredibly funny person who seems well-liked by all, and I don't think any of the contestants, regardless of their educational or professional backgrounds, are offended by the phrase. And it makes me laugh, so there's that.

I do think it's virtually one of the only entertaining things about TD, and I've started to record it and only watch the end. It's not just the judges--it's like the entire production doesn't flow well. Todd is nice, but doesn't connect with the designers like Tim Gunn does. No one seems to be having very much fun. The judges think they have much better things to do with their time and don't care about the contestants, unlike the judges on Top Chef. The challenges don't fit the range of designers, and the judges are rude--not in a good way.

Please step it up. I depend on Bravo for my guilty pleasures.

posted on February 18, 2007 at 12:41 PM

Kai wrote:

I know where St. Tropez is located (I know what the light is like there too...)and I know what a cabana is.

Elizabeth is older than I am, but I'm old enough to see that she is a talented lady. People bloom in different ages, I think.

I hate to introduce age, race or gender complaints, but I found myself wondering, like others, if it wasn't an "age" issue.

I'm not going to rent a cabana without a roof...

posted on February 18, 2007 at 5:11 PM

Suzie wrote:

The criteria of "color" the judges' used to make their final decision was inconsistent because if that was the only element brought into consideration, the colors in the other projects were perhaps even less appealing. I find the judges this season less objective. Last season, the participants were guided with postive comments on how to improve their projects. I see less guidance. Isn't part of the process to push the participants into creative areas they might not have considered?

posted on February 19, 2007 at 2:48 PM

camo40 wrote:

Was Elizabeth a little too close in age to the female judges, or perhaps they saw something in her that made them uncomfortable....or envious? They dissed and dismissed her in record time!

Note the snit meter peaking during discussion of who was responsible for Miami's color choices. The female judges made sure to mention that Elizabeth's behavior was at times "passive-aggressive." Huh?....were we watching the same episode?

Episode 3: Lame, empty reasoning. Contradictory, inconsistent decision making. Bravo production, listen to your audience. You can do a much better job!

posted on February 19, 2007 at 8:00 PM

Donna wrote:

O.K. Folks. I know this was taped and wrapped ages ago, but let's tell the Bravo folks what we think. Maybe next season, Elizabeth will get another chance. She was seriously robbed.

We want Elizabeth!
We want Elizabeth!
We want Elizabeth!

Take up the chant. Pass it along!

posted on February 19, 2007 at 8:57 PM

tinarina wrote:

I don't think I can watch this show anymore. The judges manage to be both negative and uncreative...letting Elizabeth go over color choices was truly depresssing. What did you want. a Miami Vice re-run? All in all, it was a great design and you let her go based on shockingly provincial ideas.

My Tivo will not be working tomorrow night. I hope this show can find some joy, but I doubt it.

posted on February 19, 2007 at 9:20 PM

Dogleen wrote:

The judges' criticism is tame compared to dealing with clients and, as someone said, surviving design or any kind of art school. That's just the way it is, and if you're going to get published in Elle Decor, better learn to deal with the editor.

I, like so many others, was completely baffled by the decision last week. The Miami cabana was by far the most interesting. Its structure was refreshing, it experimented with color, and it had a roof. Jonathan said it was "cramped" but outing a designer for a bad color choice when there were worse choices in terms of leaving off a roof, and then the Motel 8 look of the "burger shack..."

Definitely Ryan should have gone. That room with the awful mural on it? The completely dysfunctional relationship the guy has with color? Of course, so many of these design shows are more into "builders" than designers (or even decorators). Some constructions on Trading Spaces are more like the interior of Home Depot than fit anything related to a decorated room.
And I like the word decorator. It is not a lesser talent, to decorate. One can learn design, but decorating, like so many arts, is innate.

posted on February 20, 2007 at 12:51 AM

Naj wrote:

Bravo- toss out everyone but Todd and start again. This show is starting to really stink. I love the other Bravo shows but this one needs immediate reworking- perhaps new judges with some class? Anyone can be a snob - it takes class to be a judge that can really see the design elements. How can you have a cabana without shelter from the sun? A mirror in a cabana without a roof? What ? Are they sending signals to Africa after setting the magical curtains on fire? Oh yes and then there is the cabana without any curtains at all except for two flags flapping ten feet off the ground. Very few people are seeing the wisdom of your winning choice judges. Sit up and take notice and pull your noses down long enough to actually see what has been designed.

posted on February 20, 2007 at 10:43 AM

ArtDiva wrote:

I guess a better concept for Top Design would have been to take the designers to Wal-Mart, Target et al each week give them the budget and challenge and go from there. I believe the viewing audience would like to see the possibility that they could actually create something classy, beautiful, relaxing and affordable. I mean really give them a challenge. For instance my mother's kitchen (please). It is great to have all the world at your fingertips but, lets see them make a silk purse out of a sow's ear.

posted on February 20, 2007 at 2:19 PM

paola wrote:

Apart from the fact that it's really sad that Elizabeth went, for all the reasons stated above, and that it seems amazing that you judges managed to pick a cabana which was essentially half-finished and not fit for purpose, I really don't understand where this obsession for blue in St Tropez is coming from.

The blues you and Margaret were obsessing about seem much more Mykonos to me - the architecture of the South of France is all about terracotta tiles, brick reds and coral pinks which look fabulous against a bright blue sky and are often used for interiors in the area, particularly because they fade so beautifully. I agree that the actual fabrics looked too warm and cosy, but criticising the colour choice makes me think that maybe neither you nor Margaret has actually been there either.

posted on February 20, 2007 at 2:48 PM

Denise wrote:

I have to disagree with your last decision with the cabanas....Elizabeth should NOT have been let go because of the colors she picked...you can ALWAYS paint over something!!! Ryan and Carissa made an absolute mess of their cabana....what's wrong with you people anyway?????

posted on February 21, 2007 at 4:40 PM

Tara wrote:

Perhaps in my skimming of comments I missed this point but I believe it to be a valid point.
When we watch the show we are watching 5 minutes of the judges deliberations when in fact the deliberations last hours! On one of the first blogs it stated that the final decision was made around 4am. I do not think color was the only reason Elizabeth was dismissed. Not that I necessarily agree that she should have gone but we, as viewers, must always remember that we are only seeing what the producers want us to!
As for the decorator v. designer, I am not saying there isn't a different but I do not believe it "see ya later decorator" is a vindictive statement but rather something that was meant to be catchy.

posted on February 21, 2007 at 7:14 PM

Kai wrote:

I think most readers agree: It was wrong to send Elizabeth packing!

I wonder if there is anyway to bring her back...maybe to help with a final challenge...

posted on February 21, 2007 at 8:23 PM

Kyle wrote:

The show is great, but the ending stinks! Think about it: the most memorable lines from our most favorite BRAVO challenge shows are uttered in the concluding moments of each episode. Heidi breaks the suspense on Project Runway with, "You're out! Auf wiedersehen!"--truly immortalized phrasaes. Padma provides resolution on Top Chef with, "Please pack your knives and go"--definitely memorable. However, Jonathan ruins the otherwise exciting climax on Top Design with "Goodbye," just "Goodbye"--so lame! C'mon, BRAVO producers, I had more faith in you! The solution is simple: you have to match the phrase with the craft. Something like, "[Designer]...you've been discontinued...goodbye"--much more apt. Surely (and unfortunately) all of season one has been filmed with this oh-so-boring concluding line, but I hope you'll consider it for season two...

posted on February 21, 2007 at 10:11 PM

Critical Kathy wrote:

I just don't agree with the reality of your judges. They may be famous, admired, adored, talented, well-educated....but design is soooooooooooooo objective!

I'm a fan, too, of the MIAMI CABANA because the elegance of an indoor/outdoor relaxation area is devine! I have never used a cabana without someone wanting MORE sun...while others wanted less. To me, this was a happy medium that was also decadent and sensual. Art (as well as design) should prompt the viewer (user) into a fantasy of the pressures of your job, fast lifestyle, the city, etc. This one did. It mad me feel romantic, and playful and ready to sunbathe or even read a book for the day!! The other two cabanas did NONE of this!

Your judges need to step back and think of these things a bit more as they critique the new designers. I think their personalities are varied enough to bring all sorts of the imagination to life! And THAT...to me....is what I want original design to be. Put me in a "mood" and sweep me awayyyyyyyyyy....

Wishing your show wouldn't be quite so technical, and more about creation.....Thank you for listening to a fan.

posted on February 21, 2007 at 10:15 PM

Michael wrote:

"I am just curious... You stated earlier that you are from New Jersey. Yet, you refer to your partner as your "bloke". Isn't that quite British of you?"

I really think Jonathan Adler is entitled to refer to his partner in a way he choose. Its really none of your business.

posted on February 22, 2007 at 10:46 AM

meliblu wrote:

The first thing that came to mind when I heard St. Tropez was blue and white striped awning and the color blue, many shades. Cabana itself brought to mind whitewashed furniture, and I agree that that awful acid green and grape purple didn't enhance the Team Miami cabana, but I thought the St. Tropez colors and furniture were so much worse. I loved Team Miami's inside and outside areas and didn't think the colors took the design below that awful heavy furniture and heavy grounded earthy color and I hated St. Tropez's blue and earthy red together. Loved the louvered semi privacy where people could sort of see them yet not explanation by Team Miami. Also thought this was supposed to be a teamwork challenge and that was supposed to count for something in the judging. Clarisa claimed that her voice wasn't heard, but what I saw was her inability to work well with her teammates and her stopping time and delaying the project insisting they listen to her and do as she said NOW. I also saw Clarisa being lazy on the beach and complaining and not working as hard as the others and spraying a carpenter with whatever instead of helping and Ryan and Goil trying to get her attention and help. Clarisa or Ryan should have been judged off, not Elizabeth. However, the judges also made the point that Matt just completely withdrew, so maybe Clarisa and Ryan and Matt should have been up there as the bottom three or two of those three with Elizabeth because the only good thing about ST. Tropez was the cabana itself even though my friend called that an inverted lawn long lounge chair. Did think that Team Tahiti deserved their win and loved the fantasy, dreamy quality and the raised floor, but wish that they had put a roof on it.

posted on March 6, 2007 at 12:02 AM

Natalie wrote:

Clarissa has not received the respect she has earned. The lemons in the coffee tables were clearly her. They were the best component of was credited to Matt for the party challenge. I'm wondering how the judges are determining who should win. Andrea's hotel room was bland, stupid, and boring, but Goil got cut. This show has educated me to the fact that I should never trust anyone who thinks they can tell me what looks cool.

posted on March 31, 2007 at 11:40 PM