Cathy&Frankie wrote:

I love Matt's room but I need to know what is the COLOR he used for tha walls???....Incredible, luxurious...I want to float in the middle of it.!...Thank you Matt!

posted on March 28, 2007 at 11:09 PM

Dottie wrote:

Well, my favorite designer, Goil, is gone. :-( I have to say, however, that all the rooms were so beautiful that it had to be hard to send someone home. Matt's room especially was incredible. I am continually amazed at how these artists create such fabulous rooms every week.

Goodbye, Goil! You are such a talent with the kind of personality that you can't help but adore and you will be missed.

posted on March 28, 2007 at 11:18 PM

jeff / orlando wrote:

Goil is the best! He has the talent, personality and looks to beat anyone! His designs are imaginative and so full of energy. Talk about spicy, hot and fabulous....... Fire was the most difficult and it wasn't perfect but admire him for not being afraid of anything.

posted on March 28, 2007 at 11:25 PM

Rich wrote:

I cannot understand the judging process based upon the continuing support for Carisa. Goil is the single most creative designer and embodies the best of the design world. He is by far the best educated, most intelligent and his sensitivity to the world around him is evident in his designs. Instead, the show "rewards" Carisa and her incompetence and unsubstianted creations. She is pathological, petty, and would never be able to serve as a model for those wishing to pursue this profession. Young people seek role models which they can emulate. Rewarding her ongoing incompetence, lack of creativity and deviciveness brings down the quality of what I think the program is trying to achieve. Peop;e like Goil who are intelligent, educated at the best institutions of higher learning and who have unbrideled creativity are the ones all of us can admire and emulate.
Ditch Carisa before the whole concept of the program is lost!

posted on March 28, 2007 at 11:26 PM

Rich wrote:

I cannot understand the judging process based upon the continuing support for Carisa. Goil is the single most creative designer and embodies the best of the design world. He is by far the best educated, most intelligent and his sensitivity to the world around him is evident in his designs. Instead, the show "rewards" Carisa and her incompetence and unsubstianted creations. She is pathological, petty, and would never be able to serve as a model for those wishing to pursue this profession. Young people seek role models which they can emulate. Rewarding her ongoing incompetence, lack of creativity and deviciveness brings down the quality of what I think the program is trying to achieve. Peop;e like Goil who are intelligent, educated at the best institutions of higher learning and who have unbrideled creativity are the ones all of us can admire and emulate.
Ditch Carisa before the whole concept of the program is lost!

posted on March 28, 2007 at 11:32 PM

Bill wrote:

It was real dissapointing to see the one person who had some real ingenuity get kicked from the show because he lacked shopping skills.

This show really should be called top decorator because the one real designer got booted. :\

Also, what the hell is up with the stand-offish nature of the judges, compared to Timm Gunn and Tom Calichio the judges and host on this show are so ... bleh. We'd really like some more details on the decision making process. I learned way more about cooking on Top Chef than I have about interior design on Top Decorator.

Swing and a miss BRAVO.

posted on March 28, 2007 at 11:55 PM

LK wrote:

Good challenge for many reasons.

One really interesting lesson is how a room's dimensions can be "changed" by how the walls are treated. Carisa's wall treatment brough the end walls in, made the room seem shorter, almost cozy. Goils wall treatment, its long lines of color, stretched the room out, made it look expansive.

Goil: a bit too bold in color, in the wrong ways, for a high end room. Again its as if his design or thinking stops about eye level.

Andrea: Didn't like it at all. Very drab. She was so determined to not do what "everyone does" for earth, she didn't do much of anything typical, or bold, or earthy, just sort of uninspired blah.

Carisa: almost looked more water than Matts, as I tend to think 'blue' with water, not 'clear' But she got her act together. If only she'd quit blaming all that goes wrong on everyone else.

Matt: His would be a housekeeping nightmare as well. Try to keep all that from showing dirt and grime. Just not a practical room for my hotel. And I don't think it represented the element very well at all. If anything it was more air than Carisa's.

Andrea sucked, Goil was not enough elegance, Carisa's looked pretty good, but not a high end room either.

Matt won by default because even though its a horrible room to maintain, didn't fit the element for me, and would make most people uptight with the whiteness, he's the only that had that elegant feel of a high end suite.

posted on March 28, 2007 at 11:55 PM

Bill wrote:

ps: Shopping isn't Designing

posted on March 28, 2007 at 11:56 PM

Sarolia wrote:

I watch the show faithfully Tod and I must say you are a great host :D I enjoy your personality on that show. I have just watched tonight's show and I am sad Goil had to leave :'( why? why? whyyyyyy??? he was my favorite!!! This guy is a genius of decor, a true magician! Please, Please, Please tell me how I can get in touch with him. I am an aspiring fashion designer and i would love to work with someone like Goil.
Matt is also great, hope he wins :D Thanks for the show. I'll keep looking.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 12:07 AM

nann wrote:

goil has the most imagination of any of the possible candidates. what kind of message are you sending?!?! :( at the least, he should have been in the top three. his unconventional yet functional and unique views have been so inspiring. ugh! now, everyone left has more of the same homogenized look. what a shame, what a sham.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 12:07 AM

CG wrote:

I was sad to see Goil go! I think Andrea should have been sent home tonight. Her room was just "blah"

posted on March 29, 2007 at 12:08 AM

Jak Klinikowski wrote:

Matt's room was predictable and boring.

Clorisa's room looked like a badly painted jail cell.

Andrea's looked like a cheap Holiday Inn.

Goil's was dynamic, inspiring. and looked like a great place to take your boyfriend and have hot sex. And, buddy, that's my idea of LUXURY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You should have judged Tod. You should not have left it to that panel of talentless posers.

Oh well, I'll never watch again, neither will the many others I know who hung their last hope for a truly inspirational winner on GOIL. I'm SURE y'all (YES I'm from TEXAS) will be cancel anyway.

There should have been a lot more of you on the show Todd, and a lot less of sockless-johnny.

Fix the problems Todd and maybe I'll watch again if y'all get another shot.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 12:14 AM

marisa wrote:

As a Broadcast Producer I know color you shoot doesn't show the same on every monitor....and on this week's epiosde all the judges gushed about the light blue paint color in the winning room. Can you share what paint color it was and by which manufacturer?

Thanks!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 1:27 AM

david kahauolopua wrote:

rooting for goil he's a brilliant firecracker. TODD--I am really confused about the online challenge! why have people vote at all when as in the case of challenge #6, the entry that ended up at #3 to my "Blue Hydrangea" gets declared the winner when my entry was one tenth of a point higher than than #2 and 3?? I have tried to post several times and since Challenge #6 ended none of my posts have shown up.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 2:53 AM

victoria wrote:

I love this show... It gives you ideas about a room and what it takes in every aspect of the room coming together... I watched this show since the very begining and I was a big fan of Goil. I was kind of upset to see him leave this week.. I thought his room was at the top of the design although I did like the winners best... I just wanted to see him go to the end... Now i have to wait and see what happens in the final episode.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 2:56 AM

Lynn wrote:

How can I find out what brand and color of paint Matt used in his room? I've been looking for a blue just like that for my bedroom. Thanks!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 2:57 AM

Walter wrote:

You've got to hand it to Matt. He's got this competition figured out. Goill, Carisa, and Andrea strive to create something unique and different. Matt keeps it simple. The colors should be plain: white, off-white, and black. Put a carpet on the floor, and add a little molding to the wall. Most of all concentrate on picking out basic coordinated furniture from the showroom. Don't do anything unusual that the judges could criticize. Let the others take the heat by doing something different. Less is more. Keepi it simple. Matt is a cinch to win Top Design. He's got the secret. The way to win Top Design is to do as little design as possible.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 5:34 AM

FanFare wrote:

Dear Todd,

Great blog. Thanks for your insight.

I just don't get Goil. His ideas may be interesting. However, his execution is really junvenile. His painted walls seem so inept, like a child painted them. Plus, he has little sense of time management to completing his spaces. Hopefully, in time, he will mature. He just needs to get out more and live!

Matt's room was sublime with the exception of that dirty looking area rug. It really detracted somewhat from the ethereal theme. Overall, his room looked expensive!

Andrea's and Carisa's rooms were only okay. Neither had a luxe package. But both represented their elements more or less. However, I found Carisa's room cramped like a prison cell, and Andrea's open feeling and serene.

The challenges from the past few episodes are definitely improving and fun to watch. Bravo!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 8:41 AM

Kitty wrote:

On tv, the two most colorful hotel room designs came across the most effectively. The two that used lighter colors were a washout on the TV screen.

It was curious to me that one thing that was to be judged was whose design most effectively represented their chosen element. In my opinion, Goil's design said "fire" and was the hands on winner at representing his element. The drapes, especially looked like flames.

I was extremely disappointed to see Goil go when his design looked so fabulous and represented his element so effectively.

Goil, if you read this, you are my favorite of all the personalities, an exceptional team player, and your avante garde designs are special. You go Goil!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 8:51 AM

Kitty wrote:

Carisa continues to make her mark with eye catching designs and exceptional use of color.

Notably, her hotel room was the only one that had a focal point, the relaxing blue grids. The use of the various colors of blue with the grid created wonderful depth. I could have spent a week in that very relaxing room.

Carisa has a take charge personality, and is a doer who likes to jump in and get the job done. I wonder if she will continue to use the same carpenter. She seems to appreciate his attention to detail, even though sometimes it drives her up the wall when he goes slowly.

Clarisa, you are one of the very best!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 9:00 AM

Trish wrote:

Todd, I think you do an amazing job on the show! I've always been a fan, but now that I get to see you in action on a weekly basis, you come across as very sincere to the designers. I appreciate that! Keep on "making it work"!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 9:06 AM

Kay wrote:

Todd, I enjoyed and agree with your parting comments for Goil. He is unique and I'll miss watching him these next few weeks the show has left.

And, I always enjoy your commentary and positive presence that add so much to 'Top Design'. I think you're pretty 'magic' yourself.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 9:11 AM

gayle wrote:

I actually liked Goils design. I was bright and cheery with his interpretation of fire. It was a difficult concept and I felt he captured the essence of the project. Yes the chairs in the suite could have been more comfortable, but I am sure he spent more time on the background as he is so meticulous.
Goil, give yourself credit you are a brillant designer and graduating from Carneige Mellon is in itself an acceivement to be proud of. You need to have more conviction that what you are doing is the best. Good Luck!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 10:03 AM

Stef in Steeltown wrote:

Todd, you are the superstar of the show! You have to help it out. I love this show, the premise, the drama....almost all of it. However, in my opinion there is a definite drag with the judges. The chemistry is all off. As soon as the judging starts, I tune out. I can't stand it. There is a scripted vibe that is obnoxious. On the other shows (Top Chef, Project Runway) there is a sense of "realness" (which may or may not be a word...) that comes through in their judging. When the Top Design judges talk to the contestants, they seem like they hardly know the people. The other shows are not like that. So Todd, I beg you.... If there is another season of Top Design (which I hope there is), insist that the producers do something about the judging. See you later Decorator! Ug....

posted on March 29, 2007 at 10:38 AM

bdaniels wrote:

I am most disappointed Goil was eliminated. I wish his room had been so much better. He is a brilliant young man. May God richly bless this young man in all his future endeavors!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 10:50 AM

Yvette wrote:

I, too, like Lynn, NEED to know the brand and color of Matt's room. It will be perfect for our unborn baby boy's room. Please help!!!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 11:30 AM

Dodi wrote:

I'm so going to miss Goil... I thought his designs were charming and original. Matt should win it all - he's so chic. But, I wish Goil were going to be there until the very end. He's really got amazingly original talent and I pray that he goes on to great success.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 12:00 PM

Gayle wrote:

Hi there- I love the show. I think the right decision was made to award Matt with the top design. His room was gorgeous. Can you PLEASE tell me the name of the color he used on the walls in his room in the hotel challenge! I want to redecorate a room in my house and would love to use that color.
Thanks!
Gayle

posted on March 29, 2007 at 1:03 PM

Heather wrote:

Why is it that the designers are only given projects designing for the uber rich or the uber rich's spawn??!!! I couldn't bear more than 5 minutes of the garage challenge. In Bravo's world, only the upper class exists. Get with the program Bravo.

The snootiness of Matt and Andrea are a real turn off... and oh god, the judges? I won't even go there. That said, Carissa, I hope you win and I hope Todd gets to host and judge next season...if there is one.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 1:47 PM

Jeni wrote:

I agree with most of you that the decision by the judges to send Goil home was the worst one yet! He really does have the most original designs out of anyone. It is this kind of closed- minded crap that make the fashion industry so detestful.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 1:47 PM

chum wrote:

Goil is exceptional, he is always viewing the challenges with a unique eye. His designs were always the most interesting to watch because he is so creative. Is there anyway to get in touch with him I would love to work with him. His room was the only room that did represent the element he had, FIRE. Just on that alone he should have stayed because between air and water i didn't know which was which and Andrea's could have been air or water as well. Even though I don't think Carisa is a great designer, at least she pushed the envelope with her grid vents. It did however make the room feel too cramped I can't imagine staying in that room with my husband and our luggage I would feel so cramped! Matt has a great eye for clean design, but it's very boring I think i saw his design in the Nordstrom's bathroom lounge the other day. Andrea's room was just a mess of unrelated ideas. It was pretty but just didn't seem to make sense to me or suite the challenge.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 1:55 PM

Julie wrote:

Goil gone? Really? The judges messed up. I think that the judges were distracted by the tacky hair and dress of one of their own. Todd: hire Goil now before he is gone!!I

posted on March 29, 2007 at 2:17 PM

Marie Clowers wrote:

I could not believe that Goil was sent home. I now have NO reason to watch the show any further. He was the star of the show!!!!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 2:43 PM

Goil fan wrote:

Please, call Goil back for the finals, where he belongs. Carissa is still there? Can someone explain me, why? Goil design was always bold and beatuful, while Carissa's is camouphlaging her bad taste in fashion and design by saying: "I am a designer" Thanks for the remaining, I would never guess it looking at her week after week boring presentation and whinning manners. You've made a mistake, admit it, call Goil back and don't forget to apologize. Without Goil everything will be so predictable. And nobody has his smile...When it will be Carissa's turn to pack is she going to ask Carl to do it? Is she going to say "Don't put everything in one bag. You should've listen to me. It's all about ME leaving, it's not about you".

posted on March 29, 2007 at 3:12 PM

GregB wrote:

When Ryan enclosed his design student's bed with a wooden screen, you said that it looked like a cage, but when Carissa did something very similar with her 'slats', you liked it? I felt that it closed in the space too much.

I'm also dismayed to see Goil leave. Of all the designers on the show, he is the one that shows the most promise. I can see Goil designing the next Fallingwater or Farnsworth House (in his own style, of course, not aping Wright or van der Rohe), along with the furniture that goes inside. I can't see this level of artistry from any of the other contestants.

I also don't think that the artificial constraints placed upon the contestants (what professional designer in their right mind will design something without even meeting the client and discussing the client's objectives?!) allowed Goil to perform at his best.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 4:22 PM

Angelique wrote:

Goil was my favortie and now with him gone I don't even want to watch Top Design anymore. I think it was a big mistake for them to get rid of him. He was the best.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 4:25 PM

Joey Michaels wrote:

I agree with all the comments regarding Goil.

The judges seemed to spend a lot of time talking about how bleah Andrea's room was - and that she hasn't really changed that much over the course of the season.

On the other hand, they acknowledged that Goil was really trying to take their feedback and apply it - and that he made wonderfully creative decisions.

So, they choose Andrea, whom they think created a dull room, over Goil, who they think created an interesting room.

What the heck?

posted on March 29, 2007 at 4:29 PM

S.E. wrote:

Well my fellow Carnegie Mellon alum is gone from the Top Design competition. Bummer...not only is he an innovative thinker and a highly talented and creative guy, his was one of the few personalities that didn't rub me the wrong way. I think if he had paced himself better, his room as completed in his way would have been outstanding. As it was it was very intriguing...wish we could have seen more from him.

Oh well, someday I'll hire him to design and build my little house in the country and have my very own Top Design all to myself (unlike Goil I'm not an architorture graduate...those folks go through way more hell than any other CMU major and I know I couldn't have hacked it).

The other rooms I thought were lame (Andrea's was the worst, Matt's was the one that sucked the least), but then again who wants to live in a hotel room (or shell out major cash to stay in any of them).

Oh well, like Andrew Carnegie I realize that your heart is in the work Goil...so keep up with it :)

posted on March 29, 2007 at 4:44 PM

cassie wrote:

I am so upset!Theonly reason I watched this show was to see Goil. He was the best and he saw things that were so incredible and he created what he saw.He also didn't get dramatic or annoying like Carissa.I hate her.Goil's personality was so good and he was really cute.I don't know if I will watch this show now that they sent the best one with the most imagination home.But if I had to root for anyone else it would be Matt.But I'm still miffed at the fact they sent the cute good one home.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 4:47 PM

mjh wrote:

Carisa's room: What's luxurious about feeling like your trapped in an air conditioning unit? Seriously, I didn't like the slotted screen in the middle of the room. Bad feng shui.

Goi's room: It was ok. Not as spectacular as some of his other creations but I liked it more than Carisa's room.

Andrea's room: I loved the grass. If I walked into a hotel suite and saw little patches of grass growing next to the couch, I would take pictures and post them online.

Matt's room: It seemed the most cohesive. Wish I could have seen that blue more clearly.

If I were judging, I would have sent Carisa home over Goil, but I'd love to see Carisa stop being a passive aggressive, whiny girl and become a confident, self empowered woman.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 5:27 PM

D Gilmore wrote:

Hello Todd,
Carisa's angels are working over time for her. How she manages to stay in the graces of the judges I don't know. Her room color was striking but there were too many partions. They made the room way too intimate...or should I say small. There was no luxury.

Andrea...I knew could not pull off this design challenge. She scored good for her Chef's table because she does kitchen design. She does not come out of her element well at all. Under pressure, Andrea's inexperience and insecurity took charge. Her room was dull. Had I been in a hotel with a suite that was finished like Andrea's room, I would have changed hotels or asked for a discount.

I am still trying to figure out why Goil is gone...like so many of the writers. This man is talented way beyond Carisa who tries to take credit for all the team design work... as is bascially stuck in the 60's. That is why she did not know what the Arts & Crafts period of design was. Anyway, Goil has designs that are inspiring, and thought out; and he and Matt are gentlemen. The only thing Goil's room needed was a bed dressed to give that final touch of luxury. His bed linens was too flat.

As for Matt's room...it was pure lurxury! I travel a lot and a well appointed hotel room is at the top of my list. I could very well see myself sinking into the bed linens and relaxing on the sofa. Maintainence of the side tables would be expected purly because this is a luxury suite. The judges took to this room instantly. You could tell by the way they moved in the room, touched the furniture etc... Congratulations Matt! He has been consistant in developing a design plan and pulling it off. He takes into consideration scale, color, space
planning, furnishings & an element of surprise. That is design.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 7:19 PM

Kitty wrote:

After reading all the comments, I totally agree about the judging. I do like the lead judge, but overall, the judges come across as hypercritical, pretentious, and cold.

I agree that it is really strange to go on about the unfortunate results of the "earth" hotel room and then turn around and boot the person who best represented of his element.

From what I can see, the judging has turned in to a personality contest. It seems that the designers who confidently sell their product to the judges fare better from week to week, even if their design is a complete wash up. I think Goil was just too genuine and self effacing for the judges' pretentious taste.

It is fortunate for the show that Todd's warmth and encouraging attitude offset their aloofness.

Also, the comments about high end hit home. Why give a person A $30,000+ budget to send them to a store where a lamp costs $4,000? How much can they creatively accomplish under those conditions?

The one most creative item that will remain with me from the entire series was Goil's Flower Chandelier. How bold and unique!

I will keep watching the show to see who wins, although it is as plain as the handwriting on the wall who will win.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 8:25 PM

tc wrote:

I would be so appreciative if I could I find out what brand and color of paint Matt used in his room? I'm in the process of building a home and would love to use this color...it's perfect! I love the show and will miss Goil! Thanks for your help!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 9:08 PM

Nick wrote:

GOIL WAS THE BEST OF THE LOT!! SAD TO SEE HIM GO :(

posted on March 29, 2007 at 9:21 PM

Ben wrote:

The only comment I have to make is while maybe this most recent project didnt show what Goil wanted it to, I'm sad to see that the judges once again looked over his amazing design abilities overall. He is, in my opinion, one of the primary reasons that a lot of viewers kept up with the show. Even his own self appearance shows the amount of care he places on how the world sees him and anything he creates.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 9:24 PM

dan wrote:

Doesn't Bravo know that it's the fabulous gay boys who make all these Bravo shows a big success? It is us to tune in, talk about it at work and put in our 2-cents online. Having said that, Goil was obviously the only eye candy on the whole show and yes his humbled personality, individualistic approach to design and emotional breakdowns were great too! I'm telling you Bravo, bring the guy back! It's very evident that 99% here feel he got robbed. I will miss his cute face for the remaining episodes!

posted on March 29, 2007 at 10:35 PM

Jack W wrote:

With Goil gone, there is absolutely no reason to continue. As far as I am concerned, the show is done. I do not care which of the others wins, because I will not be watching. Goil was the only designer left on the show. The other contestants are good decorators, but the show is "Top Design", not "Top Decorate". Hopefully, a smart exec/producer will see his tremendous appeal and give him a show of his own.

posted on March 29, 2007 at 10:56 PM

Vendula wrote:

****** Hey Todd.. ******
You know > I just keep searching to find out how can I possibly get on your show and kick some ass, hehe and nothing. When will the casting for Season 2 start? Do not listen any comments such as the show is .... because > somehow all these people keep watching it and keep posting, so believe me > you just keep up the good job! and > anyone can get back to me > so I could get the opportunity to get an application > it would mean the world to me, Thanks! :) Vendula

posted on March 30, 2007 at 1:22 AM

Josephine wrote:

How could you get rid of Goil?!? His refreshing perspective, use of space and innovative designs are a breath of fresh air. He was the only one that consistently did something inventive every time. I appreciated his passion and honesty -- there was nothing derivative in him or his designs. Goil, you have a talent that surpasses these others -- keep the faith -- I believe in you! Todd, thank you for making the comment about Goil's magic -- sweet words that are very true.

posted on March 30, 2007 at 4:34 AM

LoyalViewer#7 wrote:

We just watched the taped episode 8 tonight. I was disappointed but not utterly surprised that Goil was eliminated... not surprised because the judges have consistently shown themselves unable to appreciate the simple beauty of his clean, expressive, original designs.

In fact his room was, by far, the best design of the four. A fact that is all the more impressive given his disastrously bad luck in drawing "fire" as a theme. (As one of the judges said, "fire" and "hotel room" are two ideas you never want to meet.) While it wasn't a perfect room (a little too much red and orange), it was a very nice room, with a thoroughly contemporary feel, and it was the only room that successfully completed the assignment of representing one of the four elements.

Carisa's room was claustrophobic. I laughed at her intellectualization of the black jail-bars as representing air because they contained negative space. I mean, come on.

Matt's room, as usual, was elegant and completely uninteresting. He's the guy you'd hire if your life literally depended on having a generic "luxury" suite ready in 24 hours, without any of the stitches showing. I thought his room completely failed to capture "water" as a theme (ironically Carisa's room was the better water room...unfortunately because entering it summoned up the sensation of being trapped in a fish tank.) Matt's room had kind of a Miami Vice aesthetic: dated, self-conscious luxury without fingerprints.

Andrea's room was a failure, though I appreciated her effort to incorporate grass into the design. (Lets be real, though: where there's grass, there's bugs.) It just didn't look good, at all. I felt Earth was the most interesting card to draw and besides having a planter in the room she didn't run with it; in fact she ran away from it.

So Goil gets canned despite having the toughest task, and ending up with the best room. When I look at the three designers who are left it's either a sad reflection on the judges, or on the state of design in America. I hope Goil leaves his business card with us before he disappears because he's the only one I'd hire to design anything. Unless I needed to design a dorm room (that job would definitely go to Carisa.)

posted on March 30, 2007 at 4:39 AM

Peggy wrote:

I was sorry to see Goil go. His room absolutely took my breath away. It was truly lovely, brilliant, innovative, artistic. The visionaries are being whittled away quickly. Matt will undoubtedly be next though I thought he would win this competition. He's a star if ever there was one. I'd love to have either of them design a room for me. Why don't the judges like visionaries? Todd does (I'm pleased to see), but he's a visionary too and takes delight in the brilliance of others. Is it that they think outside the box some of the judges live in and that makes the judges feel threatened? Competence, which is what I see mainly in Andrea and Carissa, is a good thing, but don't people expect more than just competence when they shell out the kind of money a designer charges? I'd like to see Matt, Goil, and Ryan's names up in lights before long just to see them have the last word. And you know what? I'll bet money that we WILL see their names in lights. Incidently, the show isn't as much fun since Ryan left, but I'm glad to see the meanness of Jonathan Adler has been tempered with Ryan's departure. Who would be the first to go if the viewers had a vote on the judges, I wonder. But not much.

posted on March 30, 2007 at 8:02 AM

wendy wrote:

I am just wondering if you have ever considered Stan Topol to be invited on as a guest judge? According to AH&L he is regarded as one of the countries leading interior designers. I have seen his work in my boss' home and his design is timeless and beautiful. I think his personality is wonderful and his southern charm would translate well on TV. Just a suggestion but he is truly great.

posted on March 30, 2007 at 10:39 AM

Liz wrote:

I hope this isn't posted twice...I keep getting error messages when I hit "Post".
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The designers are real people...you see their good sides, bad sides and bitchy sides. They are individuals with strengths and weaknesses. But the judges? They are so phony and cold. I think they must be self-conscious about appearing as "experts" on a national television show. Instead of helping to educate the audience about design and mentor the designers, they seem to have a "love it/hate it" simplicity about their judging decisions. Perhaps that is due to editing of the show, I don't know.

But on Project Runway, for example, the judges can have wildly different opinions of the clothes but they still seem to respect each other and have some affection for the designers and a desire for them to succeed, even as they offer them criticism about their design decisions. I wish I saw this kind of camaraderie and nurturing of talent in the Top Design judges. They just seem to take their job as looking good (or trying to) on camera and weeding out the lesser talent. They need a strong attitude adjustment or, at the least, have less air time on this show. Let us learn about something about nature of design, creativity and those who create something out of nothing rather than dwell on the seeminly arbitrary likes and dislikes of these few judges.

posted on March 30, 2007 at 10:41 AM

chilly wrote:

My fellow bloggers please!! This is not a popularity contest. If Goil had not gone home this time he would have gone home next challenge. I'm surprised he had not gone home earlier. He does have an imagination for new ideas but he was a lousy interior designer. He would make an excellent "Top Architect"....but that's not the name of the show.

posted on March 30, 2007 at 12:54 PM

mdw wrote:

Wow, this week was tough. I was sorry to see Goil go. I was particularly saddened to see his confidence and exuberance eroding over the course of the show instead of growing stronger, due to some interpersonal troubles he seemed to be having. Goil is clearly a major talent--and a more original voice than many of his peers on the show. I hope he won't let this get him down.

I have to say that Matt's winning room just didn't do it for me. Although it was certainly pretty and very luxe, it struck me as cold and uninviting. i honestly think that if i walked into that suite after a long day of business travel, i'd feel less relaxed than chilled. i actually found both Goil's and Carissa's rooms more inviting in some respects. Andrea's room had the potential to be strong, but it did seem like a bit of a muddle. still, all in all, everyone did very impressive work this week.

posted on March 30, 2007 at 1:31 PM

mdw wrote:

p.s. just read some of the other posts and wanted to second Bill's comments about the judges. holy cow, but these folks are duds! they have the combined charisma of a bowl of cold oatmeal.

one thing that struck me this week was that, in showcasing the Viceroy hotel, they displayed some examples of Kelly Wearstler's work, and i found it surprisingly impressive. it is literally hard to believe that that human being is actually a talented, creative designer. the way she sits there each week with as much personality and warmth as a painted china doll, and that priggish, tight wince of a smile...oy vey. i want someone to push her off that stool to see if she shatters.

posted on March 30, 2007 at 1:39 PM

juni wrote:

I would have chosen Goil's room to spend the night in. It was the most imaginative and special-feeling. I agree with the person who said it inspired passion, whereas Matt's would make me worry about messing up the pristine whiteness of it all.

I think it is also funny that there will be a rash of pale blue walls springing up across America, as I can see from the blogs that people are clamoring for Matt's color.

I just don't think Andrea is very interesting and that is a problem on TV. Bland personalities do not come across well. Goil has that cute, cuddly, and humorous style that communicates well on TV. Therefore, the show will be less interesting, now that he is gone.

posted on March 30, 2007 at 4:04 PM

G Hoffman wrote:

I hate to say it, but it was right to send Goil home this week. I was not impressed with his room this week, and the last few challenges he was so frenetic. His rooms look unfinished this week and last. I love the guy and was really rooting for him to pull it off. I personally would have loved the fire theme....I already had a mental picture in my head of what I would do. Goil's room did not inspire me at all.

I also had a mental picture of the earth room, and Andrea did not pull that one off very well, but she was better than Goil this week.

Carisa's room was my fav, but Matt's was so elegant. I would sleep in Carissas room, and I loved that she loved it too. She cracks me up. Matt seems a little cocky though...better watch that since the other parts of his personality (quirky, fun loving, sweet) are so more attractive!

Good job judges! I can't wait to see next week! This show is getting better by the weeek after a shaky start.

posted on March 30, 2007 at 4:16 PM

Angela wrote:

I couldn't believe that when the carpenter returned from the hospital, he again ran his fingers so close to the blade on the table saw! Anyone using the table saw should know not to put their fingers so close! You are supposed to use another piece of wood to push the board through. He really looks amateaur. Everyone should be thinking about safety.

posted on March 30, 2007 at 4:44 PM

jane wrote:

I have followed the show so far, and was always looking forward to Goli's designs. He unfortunately is gone, and so I'm I. Not that i'm a designer, off course, but I loved his originality, hard work , and passion. Hope someone is lucky enough to pick him right up!!. As for the other 3, "Good Luck."

posted on March 30, 2007 at 5:26 PM

Pamela wrote:

I just love Goil's work and vision. His room was leap years ahead of Carissa's . He is intellectual in the best sense of the word and his focus and execution is remarkable.
A high end lamp company should grab him! He would be a fabulous product designer..

posted on March 30, 2007 at 5:40 PM

karlyQ wrote:

I really hope Carisa wins. Ryan and Goil were also my favorites. I hope Matt will not win. He is boring, predictable and was lucky with the last challenge.

karlyQ

posted on March 30, 2007 at 6:14 PM

Julamy wrote:

I'm sad like evryone here because Goil is gone! I think he was the most creative person on the show and he seemed to be a really nice and hard working person! Instead of taking him off i think Carisa is worst!!! Her hotel room, like another user said, looked like a jail. I actually loved the colors Goil chose and the thing in the wall was really inventive!!! Now, I'm fan of Andrea because Matt is really ambitious and he thinks he is the best and his not and Carissa is just real bitchy!

posted on March 30, 2007 at 7:22 PM

hildymarie1 wrote:

Will miss Goil's energy and creativity. You know that guy is going places in his career.

Carisa -- I hate to admit that she did well. But she is just unbearable....oh, please just take her out in the next round. I want to see a match wtih Andrea and Matt.

posted on March 30, 2007 at 7:32 PM

Chuck wrote:

Goil, my favorite, is gone and now I don't particularly care who wins. Each of the three are fine designers, but none of them have a personality that would make me want to hire them. If I could hire Goil to do some redesign work on my house today, I would. Best of luck to you, Goil!

posted on March 30, 2007 at 10:58 PM

Melissa wrote:

Love Todd as the host, I think he's very supportive to the designers, that probably helps their confidence level a lot. Sorry to see Goil go, I think he's very talented. Too bad I don't have the money to intice him down to Florida and help me modernize my home...

posted on March 30, 2007 at 11:24 PM

s wrote:

I love love love Matt's wall! If anyone knows what COLOR he used! let me know!! I want it! I love that room! I wish that it was my room!! Does anyone know if they will let us know where to purchase all the colors and products at?

posted on March 31, 2007 at 2:01 AM

Jan wrote:

Matt's Blue - Pratt & Lambert "White Smoke" (26-2)

At least that's what was reported on "The Dish" section of the Bravo site. I knew it would be a Pratt & Lambert color since that's the brand you always see on the show. Here's the link to where I found the information ...

http://www.bravotv.com/blog/thedish/2007/03/matts_blue_wall.php

posted on March 31, 2007 at 12:29 PM

Irena wrote:

C'mon...please, listen to the viewers and bring Goil back. I can't believe Matt's room won. I would ask for the heater and extra blankets in this chilly room. I can't believe that the whole country is painting its walls in this pale blue color. Carissa'a room reminded me an MRI unit. The only way it represented the air was that it would cause the breathing problems in it. Andrea,as usually, was plain Andrea. The Top Designer should have a personality along with the taste and sense of style. Goil was the only one who had it all. He was modest, innovative and so cute. If Carissa would work in my home more than half an hour, I would take an Advil or two for my headache on 31 minute...On other hand, Goil - I would enjoy his work day after day and I would recommend him to other people I know.
Judges are too focused on themselves: how they look, what they wear, how they sit, how they turned their heads and these half-smiles should make us think that they are even more sophisticated that we can imagine(this doesn't apply to the guest judges)...Is it Top Judge contest or what? Matt is a good designer, but Goil is outstanding. Bring him back and we gracefully forgive your mistake.

posted on March 31, 2007 at 8:05 PM

Herbert wrote:

Goil is indeed the most unique designer in this group and if he worked for himself or a nifty design group he would not have goofy Top Design limitations that cost him a few times dearly.

I suggested in another post that the worstly styled/designed Top Design Judge should be judged too. Kelly Wearster in that previous episode goofy hear and Kiss type blouse looked aweful, and Todd you certainly could use some stylepoints too. :-)

posted on April 1, 2007 at 3:43 PM

cecile wrote:

How 's it possible that they chose drama queen Carissa over the endearing Asian guy who brings a unique flavor into the designs of the competition? What's the big deal with Carissa's retro colors and grills, it's like walking into a CB2 store. It's not bad but not that impressive. Andrea's style has been repetitive in the last two episodes, the limestones and those fabric prints have been used twice. It's gotta be Matt, love the guy's attitude, sadly it might be a predictable finale. Come on judges!

posted on April 1, 2007 at 4:19 PM

halfkoreanstudmuffin wrote:

I think the reason he was ousted was because the judges seem to 'agree' way too much and also suffer from a lack of owning their own opinion. And most of their opinions tend to side with safe and not unique or 'different'. They even contradict themselves entirely too much. It's painfully stupid-clear they should have gotten rid of Carissa!

posted on April 1, 2007 at 10:26 PM

Gretchen wrote:

**Hi Todd***

You are so kind and soft spoken. SUCH a breath of fresh air for a reality show. I love how you always have something nice to say about everyone and every situation. Wish the world were full of more people like you... you are a great inspiration and role model for us all. Thanks much!

posted on April 1, 2007 at 11:02 PM

chris wrote:

I have a couple comments. First of all, Amanda should have been eliminated as opposed to Goil on this episode. Her design was flat, uninspired and tacky. Goil's surround was absolutely beautiful, intricate, and time consuming. Secondly, I'd like to mention the judges. Good lord, were did these people come from? Talk about flat and cut from the same (yawn) mold. I wish Todd were judging as well. He, at least, is a real human presence. This show could make it, but the judges need to lose the "i'm too good to be true" aura. Lastly, I really hated the way the last three contestants treated Goil!! So much so, that, at this point, I don't care who wins!

posted on April 2, 2007 at 12:32 PM

chris wrote:

Sorry folks, I mean't Andrea, not Amanda, in my previous blog. (advice to myself-always review your material b4 you send-next time i'll follow it.)

posted on April 2, 2007 at 12:48 PM

lisa wrote:

Please. . . many requests but no answer to the incredible color that Matt selected for his luxe suite. . .
I am painting this week and would LOVE the info!

posted on April 3, 2007 at 12:19 AM

Surprised wrote:

Have you called Goil back yet? I borrowed this line from Jenny Craig commercial and altered it a little bit. Todd, do you really believe in Andrea or Carissa potential? Do you think it was right to send talanted and pleasant Goil home? Have you noticed some obsticles in judging, so far? I did. When Carissa is leaving the show? I like the way she is rolling her eyes, though. I've tried it, but no luck...It probably needs a lot of practice...her designs are not as amusing, as her facial expressions

posted on April 3, 2007 at 2:31 PM

susan wrote:

I have been nearly consistently disappointed in "Top Design" and feel that all of the time that I've spent watching every single episode could have been better used. But I continued to be optimistic in thinking that someone at Bravo would get it that the show is off it's axis. I agree with nearly every single posted message on this page. Carissa should have been off many weeks ago and Michael should have been first or second to go. Is Bravo keeping the most hated by the public for the controversy? hmmmm Well, it's not appreciated and it definitely takes away from what I'm sure most of us had expected. I expect more from Bravo than other channels with insipid and obtuse "reality" shows. Goil did not deserve to be kicked off in my opinion and I felt that he received minimal support and little appreciation. What irritates me most is the judges. If this show is permitted a second season, the judges need to all be changed. They come across as inconsistent, biased and perhaps not really qualified or have the personality to properly judge DESIGN. Many of the tasks were disappointing as well so whoever is in charge of that needs the boot or needs to undergo a major overhaul. This first season is very disappointing and besides the inexperience of the judges, I thought that the choice of many of the contestants were incredibly poor choices. I hope Bravo will get it together or drop the show.

posted on April 3, 2007 at 2:47 PM

MarryMeGoil wrote:

Ugh! I am still so upset that Goil was eliminated! To be completely honest the whole competition of this show came second to the main reason I watch this show...and that is to see Goil. I dunno, something about him just makes me happy, and I wish there were more people like him. I think I am going to enroll at Parsons just to see Goil, but he'll have to fail me for the semester because I would be too distracted by his charm to do any work. :(

posted on April 3, 2007 at 10:18 PM

julian wrote:

Hey! I just found these TOP DESIGN tshirts at BLUEFLY.com
They are awesome!

posted on April 4, 2007 at 4:52 PM

cheryl wrote:

Did we ever find out the color name and brand of paint Matt used in his luxury suite? I know it took him half an hour to find it and hopefully he will share with those that need to know.
Thanks!

posted on April 4, 2007 at 10:12 PM

timshellrivers@aol.com wrote:

Poor Poor Andrea, she pick the worst person.Antony Todd has survived on fabricated info on his background, smoozing smoozing. He was actually thrown out of that apartment featured, and thrown out of his previous apartment. I think no matter what his taste, (stolen taste) if you knew him as a person, you would be hesitant. I say this with proof , he and I have already been to court

posted on April 4, 2007 at 10:42 PM

Michael Adley wrote:

What was the color of Matt's room???
That Blue was gorgeous.
What paint did he use? Someone let me know!!!!

posted on April 4, 2007 at 11:10 PM

D Gilmore wrote:

Hi Todd,
Consistency and good design always pays off. Way to go Matt! I would hire this man at any time to do a space. I can not see where Andrea has interpreted his rooms as predictable. Consistency does not mean not taking a risk. It means Matt continues to give each room a personality and again an element of surprise, either in his floors, furnishings or floor plan.
I am not surprised to see Andrea go tonight. She is an architect in spirit...but needs to develop more in the area of interior design. Though her rooms have not been bad, just uninspiring...somewhat boring. That is not the case with our little "pillow girl". Yeh Baby...our little Carisa is the best designer for Austin Powers. But, surprisingly, she is growing up episode by episode. Carpenter Carl must be a saint. Anyway, I love orange and her cover design room did POP! I could not live in it, but it was striking. From the beginning, Carisa has used pillows as design fillers...she is fascinated with the patterns and mixture of colors which by the grace of some supreme being, she pulls off very well. Congratulations to her for making it to the final as one of the two competing designers. Next week I hope there will be less eye rolling.

posted on April 4, 2007 at 11:35 PM

allyson wrote:

I am so in love with the blue in Matt's room. I have been to several of the local paint stores and haven't seen anything quite like it.
I have been searching the blog's and can't find anything on it.
Will someone please share that? The whole design of that room was so on. I am definitely a Matt fan

posted on April 5, 2007 at 8:48 AM

Katie Stanfield wrote:

What was the color of Matt's walls? I want to live in that space!

posted on April 6, 2007 at 11:43 AM

Joyce Ogletree wrote:

Please tell me the color and manufacturer of the paint that Matt used in his room. It sounded like the color I am looking for. Thanks

posted on April 8, 2007 at 9:08 PM

Trudy San Paolo wrote:

Has anyone found out the color of the blue paint Matt used on his room yet? I would really like to use it in my room. Have been looking for a very soft blue.

Thanks

posted on April 9, 2007 at 11:55 AM

Tom wrote:

Well, with Goil gone, I won't be watching anymore. It's pretty obvious that Matt will win, and I cannot understand what the fuss about Carissa is.
Here is Goil, educated, proven talent, and cahrm to boot - Todd, get involved, don't just let the panel make the decisions - it's your show!
Too late, though now - who cares.

posted on April 11, 2007 at 9:06 PM

Tim wrote:

I really had enjoyed Goil's work, but I was really disappointed by this room. I wondered why he didn't approach fire as warmth and comfort as opposed to birth? It would have been so cool to see him design a killer fireplace and mantle to play off the bed.

But I get the benefit of watching the show and thinking about it afterward. I'm sure that in the heat of the moment, it's not the easiest thing.

posted on April 19, 2007 at 11:09 AM

Jan wrote:

Regarding Matt's blue wall color - I posted this earlier, but it appears many did not see it the first time ...

Matt's Blue - Pratt & Lambert "White Smoke" (26-2)

At least that's what was reported on "The Dish" section of the Bravo site. I knew it would be a Pratt & Lambert color since that's the brand you always see on the show. Here's the link to where I found the information ...

http://www.bravotv.com/blog/thedish/2007/03/matts_blue_wall.php

posted on April 22, 2007 at 11:44 AM