Dennis obenchain wrote:

I can't believe Carisa is still on... her attitude is terrible!

posted on April 4, 2007 at 11:04 PM

Harry LaRacuente wrote:

I think Adler & group blew it by picking Carissa over Andrea. They focused too much on Andrea's room being flat. Frankly Carissa's brick wall that Adler & company loved wasn't even the way Carissa wanted it -- if anything Karl should get an expensive dinner from Carissa by saving her butt.

That said, Andrea has much more talent and class than Carissa and Andrea's designs just looked better. Andrea "wuz" robbed.

posted on April 4, 2007 at 11:08 PM

Diane wrote:

I agree with both Harry LaRacuente and Dennis obenchain--the finalists should have been Matt and Andrea. There is no question that Matt's rooms have been awesome.

posted on April 4, 2007 at 11:17 PM

terri streuli wrote:

I can't believe that they chose Carissa over Andrea..I really think that throughout the competition that Andrea really proved how creative she really can be. She has the maturity and vision that I don't see in Carissa. I Didn't like the fact that Matt couldn't figure out how to compose a room for $7500..Hello not everyone has a budget of $75.000..To be a Top Designer you must be able to do rooms that are high dollar and rooms that look high dollar

Terri Streuli

posted on April 4, 2007 at 11:19 PM

lisa barron wrote:

I agree with the other comments. Carisa is driving me crazy with her whining and attitude toward her carpenter. She is on my last nerve. Andrea is so much classier. Carisa's rooms all look like a dorm room

posted on April 4, 2007 at 11:22 PM

Lulu wrote:

Carissa whines and whines, and her designs look repetitious. Orange, orange, orange. The room tonight looked too "kitsch" and not as upscale as the Elle Decor cover. How aggravating that we have to hear her continue to whine on the next episode. Andrea's work is more chic, intellectual, and cosmopolitan. Matt is consistent, but conservative. SO disappointing that they chose Carissa over Andrea. We were rooting for you, Andrea! Your work looks as good as recent work in Elle Decor. Carissa's looks like Trading Spaces, with a bigger budget.

posted on April 4, 2007 at 11:57 PM

LK wrote:

Carisa is delusional. Says Andrea never did a room. Hmm, Andrea's chef's table was the best room of the series thus far. Carisa's carpenter saved the day, Carisa takes the credit. (psst: she wanted fake stone panels folks, remember?)

Andrea goes home because she didn't know how to buy chairs. You'll never change Carisa's angle on interior decorating, but Andrea could be taught how to buy chairs.

Carisa's work all looks the same. Her final project will be no different.

Matt will win with "wow, a great floor" and anything remotely interesting, however his work is hardly unique, not very original, and fairly unremarkable. I've seen similar furntiture arrangements in catalogs and showrooms. Its nothing special. Sure, he decorates well, but he will not set the interior design world on fire.

One to go.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 12:13 AM

Delfina wrote:

After watching the final 3 I was pretty upset, their's no point in watching the final Top Design, Congratulations Matt. Overall we have not heard the last of Andrea, SHE IS A TOP DESIGNER.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 12:59 AM

Giedrius wrote:

finally, finally, finally!!!!! Finally we heard your voice Todd. Thanks for your input. I was thinking you would be some sort of mentor for all the contestans, but I guess I got it all wrong from the beginning of the series. My final thought - Matt and Andrea should be in the finals. No matter what anyone will say. Good luck to all of you guys!!!

posted on April 5, 2007 at 1:01 AM

JM wrote:

Andrea was robbed...typical Bravo fashion when it comes to these finale's...well I won't be watching the last episode. It's too obvious that Matt will win in a landslide.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 1:23 AM

Kathy Katsarelis wrote:

I am very pleased that Carissa was chosen over Andrea. Matt is brilliant. His rooms are always stylish.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 1:47 AM

Anissa wrote:

Carissa is very badly behaved, and I am sorry to still see her on the show. Her lopsided orange room reminds me of a basement bedroom I put together when I was 12 years old. Nothing new. The best thing in her room was actually the carpenter's idea. I agree that she needs to grow up. All of the eye rolling is unbelievable. I hope seeing her own behavior on TV will help her see herself as others do.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 3:47 AM

Seji wrote:

I really hate to disagree, but they got it right on. I totally throw up whenever I see Carissa, but I have to admit, her design was better than Andrea's. Andrea got nervous once again, doubted herself and blew it. She is capable of much better and we've all seen it and know it. It's just too bad she didn't put it out this time.

Carissa's color choices for that room were just gross, but look at how she dresses. Anyone as overweight as she is should not wear tight fighting clothing. Whoever dresses that girl should be slapped.

Andrea should have been in Carissa's place and it is truly painful to see her there. However, the judges did get it right and I do agree with them.

We're going to miss you Andrea. You are a very classy lady and it shows in your designs. You'll go far in this world.

Matt, we don't even have to watch next week's show. We KNOW you'll win. Your style is unique and evident in everything you do. Carissa is not in the same class as you are. You are the expert and she is the student. This is not even a contest.

There is a tiny problem brewing and that is the way that Carissa talks down to her carpenter. If she keeps it up, I'm afraid he will walk out on her and frankly, I wouldn't blame him. Grow up Carissa and treat people how you would want to be treated.

Good luck and our family can't WAIT until next week's show and we are eagerly antcipating next season.

What a great show and Todd, WE LOVE YOU!

posted on April 5, 2007 at 3:53 AM

Linda B wrote:

Everyone is so impressed with the "embroidered" baseboards. I found it like many other things on this show, nice to look at but impractical in real life. I have crocheted and knitted for almost 50 years. Yarn stretches and will collect dust faster than fabric. How do you clean it without getting on your hands and knees with a gentle brush and spending an hour lightly dusting? Ooops, forgot this was a luxury room so I guess that would be the maids problem.

On the HGTV show where they redo a room for $500, they are always using impractical items that will have to be tossed out in six month to a year because you can't clean the stuff.

However, on this show they are talking "interior designers" and major money and should be presenting designs that people can live with for at least 5 or 6 years. Most people might hire a designer once every 5-10 years and just add a few color changes in between. A well done room will hold up for more than a few months. Even the celebs don't have decorators in for yearly changes.

Personally I would have contrast painted some nice molding and made the baseboard design. Easy to clean and maintain but also appealing to the eye.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 4:03 AM

Carolyn Lindgren wrote:

I agree Andrea was robbed! Carissa's wild pillows did not look like "elle decor" to me! No way is Carissa a "top designer"!

posted on April 5, 2007 at 5:25 AM

Linda Palumbo wrote:

The designer judges may have truly lost their creative minds on this one. Perhaps there’s pixie dust in all those obnoxious pillows Carrisa consistently uses in every room that spray like a Glade air freshener and destroy the brain cells of the judges. The choice of Carissa’s room is an abomination. It lacked class, sensitivity and was a complete knock-off of the cover she chose. There was no luxury about it and no one other than Carissa could spend more than five seconds in there without wondering where they left their glasses. Any good designer should be able to take the finer points of another's design and improve upon it. Unfortunately, the judges were swayed by how much this looked like the original cover, which is an ego boost to the editor of Elle Decor. Shame on all of you.
Although Andrea’s room this week had some problems she has more consistently designed rooms with more class, style and beauty than either of the final two.
It should also be taken into account that a designer should be able to work with people. Part of choosing a designer is their personality and abillty to be knowledgeable and creative yet flexible, also giving credit to others when their ideas improve the final design. I have seen no indication that Carissa would be able to woo her client unless her that person was under the age of 17.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 7:41 AM

George wrote:

Carissa is in the finals? You have got to be kidding. The girl tries to take credit for everything positive (the wall was her carpenter's design and she was opposed to it's appearance, which won raves from the judges) and deflect responsibility for everything negative. Oh well, it makes no difference. If Matt doesn't win this the whole show loses any credibility. I honestly can't think of a single Carissa design I'd be comfortable in. Way too loud with her colors (what is it with her and orange?). And listen to what Margaret says... Carissa's designs are young and hip but lack a sense of luxury, which is what Elle Decor is about.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 7:45 AM

Jennifer B. wrote:

I totally agree with the previous comments! I would never hire Carisa based on what I've seen. The communication would be frustrating and the designs would be the same. I have to ask if she is being kept on because of the drama she brings to the show to boost ratings? Andrea has always been my top pick, she has beautiful taste in my opinion. Now that it's down to 2, Matt has always had what it takes to create top-notch designs, reasonable perfection. Go Matt!

posted on April 5, 2007 at 8:43 AM

Sam wrote:

I really enjoyed this challenge. I think all of the rooms were done well. There was no doubt about Matt being in the final two. He has a very classic and classy sense of style. Andrea and Carisa were a crap shoot. If Carisa's wall would've been done her way, I don't think the judges would have been as impressed with her work. She is colorful, that's for sure. (If only we could use some painter's tape on her mouth). Andrea's room was also beautiful. I didn't mind the low level of her room and I was thrilled she finally picked a decent color. That being said, I react more to Carisa's rooms than Andrea's.

My favorite part of the show is Todd. What a sweet, gentle man. I bet he makes a wonderful friend.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 8:46 AM

Lou wrote:

I was disappointed that Andrea was eliminated. I do understand that ratings supercede integrity but this was an obvious mistake. This show seems to follow in the same footsteps as the other Bravo reality shows. We get down to 3 people...one is usually the ratings saver (in this case it's Carissa) and then we eliminate the 2nd best person so everyone gets pissed off and watches the finale to make sure that the best person wins...or a close variation of that (Sam for example was eliminated so we could watch the 2 "badboys"...and inferior chefs...but great ratings catchers...on Top Chef). And the story goes on...and on...and on...and.....

posted on April 5, 2007 at 9:04 AM

Tutti wrote:

Evidently the main criteria for a winning design is to do everything in orange/red. Every one of Carissa's rooms reminded me of a dorm room and something I might have done in high school. She took all the credit for good things, even if they weren't really her ideas and anything that went wrong, blamed someone else. She has a lousy attitude, and usually looked like a slob herself which never lends itself to design credibility. Obviously I'm SO disappointed that Andrea lost to Carissa. I'm still not over her winning with that "road sign on the wall/orange/red" room that didn't even please her client!

posted on April 5, 2007 at 9:07 AM

Karen A wrote:

Carisa acts like a spoiled juvenile, not a professional. And her designs and colors are juvenile and discordant. I loved Andrea's style and elegant rooms. She will definitely go far in her career.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 9:27 AM

Mindi wrote:

Andrea the most professional of the group. I suspect in real life she has probably had the most success professionally. However, I found most of her rooms flat and commercial looking. Carissa needs to mature but she has a style of her own. Her rooms really pop.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 10:28 AM

Trish wrote:

Amazing job once again Todd!

posted on April 5, 2007 at 10:38 AM

kitty wrote:

I was pleasantly surprised that Carisa made the final two, especially after 70% of the online survey expected her to be dropped. I really expected Andrea and Matt to be the final two.

Carisa has a forceful personality and is very dynamic. A lot of people (particularly men) can't deal with her straighforward opinions.

She has a vision and goes for it, which is why she has succeeded so far. She is like a movie director who get under an actor's skin, but produces an oscar winning movie and the actor is better off for the experience.

I love her use of color; she can put colors together successfully that no one else would even consider.

I have a feeling Matt will win since he seems to be the darling of the judges, but I am rooting for Carisa.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 11:05 AM

SAR wrote:

I admit that I don't like Carisa's attitude and feel she should expand her horizons to a somewhat more simple sophisticated style BUT I really think her room was far superior to Andrea's. Andrea's work has charm and polish but it seemed to lack something -- seemed cold and tentative. It seemed to mimic some elements of Matt's design. It's as though she stands at the line and steps back instead of pushing into new territory which is what a designer needs to do. If I was inviting friends over for the evening, we'd have more fun in Carisa's room.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 11:13 AM

Jeff wrote:

Le sigh. Though I think Andrea is more consistently stronger than Carisa, I agree that this week was not her best.

Both Andrea and Carisa looked like they shopped at IKEA this week (even though they didn't) - Carisa had a variety of fun vibrant accents that played off her mod furnishings, and Andrea found some upholstered furniture that came off looking flat and cheap.

I will miss Andrea, though - she evoked a sense of refinement in all that she did. It's interesting how her weakest endeavors were the ones where she doubted herself the most vocally.

It almost seems like next week's finale will be a very uneven contest, and Matt should just win now. But, Carisa has really created some very together rooms, and their disparate styles will make for an interesting showdown.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 11:22 AM

linda ewers wrote:

Andrea by far out classed Carissa. Carissa is "snotty" she does listen to people she only cares about herself....wrong choice..Matt shoudl win hands down....

posted on April 5, 2007 at 11:56 AM

Maggie wrote:

I disagree with comments about Carisa. Her room was vibrant and wonderful! So what if you don't like her personality? This isn't a popularity contest. Carisa is obviously a talented designer. She's hit it out of the park on more than one episode. I was hoping she and Matt would be the final two, & I'm so excited that's the way it's turned out! Can't wait until next week.
Oh, and Todd, I think you're wonderful. Hope to see you back next season (assuming there is a next season?)
Maggie

posted on April 5, 2007 at 11:56 AM

Rita wrote:

I really agreed with the judges decision on this week's show. I thought that Carissa's room was actually nicer than Matt's, but I do agree that Matt's was more upscale. Carissa seemed to have put more thought into her room though. Anyway they are the two best designers. Can't wait to see who wins.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 12:44 PM

Caroline wrote:

Ugh. I am so sickened by the fact that Carissa is still in this. Mainly because I think it will inflate her giant immature ego even more. I am sure that the show is edited to make her seem even more obnoxious than she probably is, (to make it interesting I suppose... every show needs a villain) but she makes me sick. She only got in this week because Karl (who should smack her...) did a great job on the wall, his way.
I feel terrible that a classy lady such as Andrea is going home, while immature, eye-rolling, bitter, snotty bossy Carissa remains.
All I can say is GO MATT!!!!!

posted on April 5, 2007 at 12:51 PM

Tammie wrote:

Well, I don't think Andrea's rooms have been gloomy at all. I really like her designs. Carissa's designs are immature and disconnected.

I do think Andrea could have done better with teh Earth inspiration challenge for a hotel room. Natural woods for the furniture...stone wall, maybe a waterfall or something...

I live in an upsacale neighborhood in Scottsdale, and I will say that upscale can be done very well on a budget. We recently re-did the kitchen walls and floors for under $500, and I know for a fact luxury can be done affordably. I also want to say, Carissa's rooms would not fit into any of the homes in my area. My neighbors would think someone had hit a garage sale. Matt's rooms hit the mark almost every time. Goyle was a little "out there" but had some good concepts. He just lacked the execution in a short time frame.

I am sorry to see Andrea sent home in lieu of Carissa, sho really does not belong in the final two, especially when it comes to high-end design.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 1:45 PM

Diane wrote:

I can't help but notice from previous commentary that Carissa is summarily dismissed based on the way she looks. Her weight is held against her. Speaking as a woman who fights the weight challenge, I personally find this attitude unfair. Just because she is overweight doesn't mean she doesn't have talent, and frankly, with the exception of the dining room challenge, I have noticed that her rooms do pop. I think if Andrea had used more interesting furniture, it would have been all over for Carissa, but at least Carissa accurately portrayed the idea and spirit of her room, and yes, I agree, she does need to tone down the colors a bit to add luxury, but I think she will learn this just as Andrea will learn how to make her rooms more interesting, which sorry, Andrea, you bore me.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 2:27 PM

FanFare wrote:

Hiya Todd,

Thanks for your insightful comments and for answering the open questions of your role.

I guess this week's challenge definitely proves the adage, "To each, his own"... For me, Matt's room was the least successful. I absolutely hated those pix on the back wall. I felt they were too distracting and overpowering for a tasteful effect. In addition, the curtain looked cheap and drab. In fact, the entire room screamed, "blah!".

"Miss Carisa's" room was the most fun and eye-catching. (She certainly did her share of "eye-rolling" throughout the episode.) It is difficult to fathom how the room was completed with her constant chiding of Carl, the Carpenter. She really does not seem to appreciate his innovative ideas and efforts! It is also annoying that she took credit for his work on that special wall.

Conversely, Andrea seemed the most kind spirited and least complaining of all of the designers. She seemed to work tirelessly and brought many clever touches to her projects. The embroidered baseboard was a brilliant idea! I rooted for her the entire time. Unfortunately, the furnishings were not of the caliber in taste as the archetectual details.

It is rather disappointing to be down to Matt and Carisa. The judges have shown their preference toward Matt by giving him the nod almost automatically. There really is not much tension or surprise to the finale. It is fairly clear that Anemic looking Matt will walk away with the BIG prize. Better him than "her".

posted on April 5, 2007 at 2:29 PM

Eileen wrote:

I too am not a Carissa fan. However, I do feel that she deserved to be in final 2 . We all know Matt will win.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 2:38 PM

raphael wrote:

Matts cover design was truly bizarre! Where and HOW do you sit in his space!? It was a weird, mirror image of itself with no color, personality or even TASTE for that matter. What on earth were the judges so crazy about? I think his work is extremely redundant....it's all been done before and BETTER by other designers. He has nothing new or original to say. Bad choice.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 4:02 PM

David H wrote:

The show ended last night. Until then there was a small hope that this was a true competition, but after last night decisions, it’s clear this is just another TV sit-com where ratings rule all.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 4:24 PM

designing mom wrote:

I am very disappointed with the choice this week. The wrong designer went home. She remaining designer is honestly not mature enough or talented enough to be in the top two. That said, Matt has far outshined all other designers on the show. He has a maturity and talent that makes all the others look like gradeschoolers compared to doctorates.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 4:58 PM

Melinda wrote:

The most entertaining and most fun final would have been Goil vs. Carissa.
I don't quite understand the reverence Matt seems to inspire. His rooms, it's true, are lovely and elegant. But they're all cut out of the same cloth, and they're not practical. I can't imagine living, much less relaxing, in any of them. The effect he goes for would be ruined by one stray magazine or rumpled cushion. His rooms have been described as "serene," but it's a serenity that's imposed, rather than induced -- they don't invite you in and get you to relax and enjoy the space.
As for Carissa, well ... she, Goil and Ryan were the only ones who refused to suck up to the viewers and alter their behavior because they were being filmed. She is who she is, and she puts it all out there and you have to admire that, even if you don't like her. All the others, Andrea and Matt included, are holding back to try and shape their public images. Don't forget that Matt had that snickering little exchange with Michael during the garage episode about something being as difficult as getting Carissa in stretch pants. Not elegant, or very nice. At least Carissa has the cajones to be, unapologetically, who she is. And her designs ARE good, even if her attitude isn't.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 5:46 PM

Donna wrote:

So this is another show that can be added to the pile of FAKE shows. This show is obviously rigged. How can you judges possibly think that Carisa is a better designer than Andrea? Did you guys penalize Andrea for being an architect? Were we all watching the same designs? It apparent that "no talent" Carisa is in the finals in order to secure a land slide victory for Matt. I am totally disappointed in your show. I hope that your show will not return next season. You people got it all wrong.

Congratulations Matt, you are the Top Designer (by default).

posted on April 5, 2007 at 5:49 PM

Bob wrote:

Carissa's annoying, but she has a point. Karl is supposed to be working for her, not arguing about everything he's asked to do. Last week, he almost ruined a $10,000 table because he wouldn't listen. This week, his design choice was right, but it's not about him. Carissa can be a snotty little prima dona, but far superior in intellect and maturity than, say, Michael - who did nothing but provoke antagonism and flaunt his monumentally large and pointless (talentless) ego.

Yep, Carissa takes some chances and I really wish she could do something not based on an almost safety orange. I like the fact that she's trying, though.

Matt's designs always look classy to me. Not necessarily the type of classy I'd want to live in, but magazine spread classy, which is what the judges often seem to be going for. I like Andrea's designs, but in a very benign way. Her "Earth" themed hotel room from a recent episode was absolutely horrid.

Personally, of all the designers involved, I was really hoping Goil would take the top prize. I found him to be by far the most innovative designer; someone who always tried to do something really new, whereas Matt goes for elegance, Carissa for orange and Andrea for clean.

I wonder what Carissa's attitude would be like if she hadn't been surrounded by snots like Michael, and psychos like Ryan?

I'm torn between Matt and Carissa. I think Matt will win because he constantly pulls off a more polished design, but I'm kind of tired of looking at the catalog spreads of tomorrow.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 7:31 PM

Maria wrote:

On Top Chef, we hear that a Top Chef must inspire those who work for them in order to consistently persent the best food. On Project Runway, I learned that the best fashion designers draw inspiration from the environment around them, but must also be able to work with models and seamstresses, make presentations, and still produce a product that is marketable. Why is it then that on Top Design, the snarkiest, whiniest, most immature designer - the one who cannot work on ANY team and who cannot work with ANY carpenter - is in the final two. Even if I didn't think Matt was guaranteed to win weeks ago, I would sincerely hope that her behavior and attitude is not rewarded by the title, Top Designer. Personally, it wouldn't matter to me how much I liked her work, I would find it very hard to hire her.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 8:06 PM

hildymarie1 wrote:

I must say I agree with the judges on their decision. Andrea's room was really flat. I commend the judges on maintaining their objectivity. Who even likes Clarisa???? She is difficult, really is nasty to everyone, has a monumental ego -- but has the talent to back it up.

I do hope Matt wins!!!

posted on April 5, 2007 at 9:06 PM

donniemac wrote:

The crew at top design needs to take some lessons from the fashion guys. No matter how good your design is, if it does not hit the target (upscale vs. fun and vibrant) or if you cannot finish (an undone hem is a killer), say putting up a mirror, then you are toast. And I think a review of the tapes made during the construction of the rooms would be in order. To praise Carissa on the back wall is wrong! And if that is why she got picked over Andrea, then the judges are guilty of an injust act. I suspect that the competition abd rivalry between disciplines does architects in, although in every instance of these reality shows, the architectually trained tend to be at the top, although not necessarily the best. I am an engineer by the way, and have run into bias against architects, almost all of it naked, and uncalled for, prejudice against the profession.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 9:24 PM

Nora Gordon wrote:

I agree with those who think Andrea was robbed. She had far more class than Carissa. I think it was fixed by the network or show producers because with Carissa in the mix there will be lots more whining and conflict and thus garner more viewers.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 10:05 PM

cas b wrote:

I have been glued to my wednesday-night couch since the show evolved to six designers... everyone involved with Top Design deserves applause because you are all brilliant !
Andrea, Ccariisa Ggoyle and Mmat, your solutions ahve energised me so much that i am returning to my studio (i make artist's books and mixed media pieces) with fresh enthusiasm and new ideas to consider. It's been a giant shot of Kona, guys. you are each the best, no matter what happened. It is wonderful that you are getting years of big world experience over the course of the season without sitting in school racking up debt. And free publilcity! And the bruises are comps, too! Gonga!
the show's finale will be a thriller, but the education and passion for design is the real payoff for me. I commend all of you Designers (Icons and Competitors), for showcasing experience and sharing good, tough critiques on why things work, why they don't, and why are rules to be broken, trusted, or tossed.
heyTodd,
a special Thank You to you, somewhat because we have a similar aesthetics, haha ( no, to be honest, that's true...and I'm a fan) Also for the compassion you show for each designer's feelings. your approach to working with people on the show is such good stuff for us all to consider in our dealings with everyone, no matter what the situation might be.

And any of you Big Guy Designers ever come to Tucson, you won't be allowed to pay for your beers. And I don't do that for just any old designer, plonk down 4 bits for suds with a parasol.

great stuff!
Cas B.

posted on April 5, 2007 at 10:28 PM

Dandridge wrote:

Todd, thank you for your comments on your role with the show. After reading what you had to say, I understand completely. One of the reasons I watch the show is for your enthusiasm and support. You are so nice to all the designers, and you are so kind to those that are voted out. I was very surprised to see how kind and gentle a designer of your caliber and fame can be. How great is that?! (mean alert!) Maybe J.A. can take some lessons?

posted on April 5, 2007 at 11:04 PM

Juli Novack wrote:

I agree with so many, Andrea should have stayed. The project was a luxurious room. There was nothing luxurious about Carissa's room! What is with her and pillows! Andrea will go far still and Mat will win. I am sorry, but Andrea is a much better designer than Carissa. Wrong choice for final two!

posted on April 6, 2007 at 1:21 AM

kathy wrote:

OK, I understand the formula. When it comes down to the Final Two, one of them should make you scream "What are they thinking!?!?" It's always a truly obnoxious human with marginal talent capable of only chewing the scenery and stirring dissent. I get it. An honest match-up would've been Andrea and Matt. Carissa exists only to boil the blood of the viewers, dying to see her finally "latered." She has yet to do a room that looks like anything other than a dorm room. Sorry, Andrea, but you will not only survive - you will succeed. Matt, you may not push the outside of the envelope, but your rooms are always beautiful. You can come decorate my home any time you want.

posted on April 6, 2007 at 5:05 AM

Karyn wrote:

I love Carisa! I have been a fan of hers since the beginning. Everyone else makes a "safe" room and Carisa always adds a "punch" to the rooms. As far as her whining as everyone says, I don't think so. Her carpenter just doesn't do what she asks all the time. I understand her frustration and so should everyone else. The carpenter has to listen to the decorater, so she has the right to whine all she wants if he's not doing it right. Go Carisa, Go! I hope you win, best of luck!

posted on April 6, 2007 at 11:20 AM

Doug wrote:

Don't you think the whole show would make much more sense if the judges reviewed the concepts/sketches at the beginning, then judged the designers based on how well they executed their design vision? Or at the very least how they adapted it as necessary to budget/space constraints?

The show seems too much like a "race," and how often are designers put through the challenge of creating their room in just three days? In reality, designers / decorators are notorious for falling behind schedule, are they not? To force the contestants to design and create a space in such a short time shows only how they work under pressure (Carisa, not so well). The designers should be judged on the design process, not the implementation.

posted on April 6, 2007 at 11:30 AM

Katie Stanfield wrote:

I have three words for Carissa's style: Hildy Santo-Tomas! I'm surprised she hasn't painted a room 1/2 purple and 1/2 gray and put gound-up glass on the walls!

Andrea was robbed, Matt rewarded, Carissa was saved by Carl, yet again. ( Let us not forget that she picked him, afterall)

One thought, it does seem that on these shows, the king or queen of whine manages to make it to the finals-Marcel, the tatooed wonder that actually won Project Runway this time out, and now Carissa. I guess it makes for good TV, and it will keep the majority of us in line to watch the finale, but it just doesn't seem right.

posted on April 6, 2007 at 11:40 AM

mdw wrote:

I know I'm in the minority, but I'm SO glad that Carissa is one of the final two! Matt's and Andrea's aesthetic sense are so similar that having them as the final two contestants would have offered no contrast, no interest. True, Carissa's cheeky attitude gets irritating, and her clashes with Carl have gotten old (that said, Carl has a crap attitude much of the time, so they're both annoying), BUT, I find her spaces bold and energizing--and never dull. Which is more than I can say for Andrea's frequently dry, cold spaces. Yet, Margaret is spot on when she says Carissa needs to learn how to edit herself. She goes overboard with tchatchkes and pillows, and that distracts from the impact of her rooms. Still, I find Carissa's work interesting and fresh, and I'm glad she made it to the finals.

Matt is extremely talented--as is Andrea for that matter. But Andrea was right in saying that he plays it safe. I often have a hard time warming to his spaces because they don't feel liveable. In this week's room, for example...how do you comfortably hang out on that narrow day-bed, with no back support? There was nothing to sit on in tha room that inspired relaxation. it's a prissy, tea party room--not a LIVING room. pretty on a magazine cover but i wouldn't want to live there.

posted on April 6, 2007 at 12:38 PM

Mommy C wrote:

I would not be surprised if Carissa will have another fight with Carl and he walked out. She needs to be careful not to burn her carpenter. He may just be what saves her in all this.

posted on April 6, 2007 at 12:58 PM

Connie wrote:

Hi Todd,
I think this weeks show was really good. I'm sure it was a tough decision between Andrea and Carissa. While Carissa may annoy people, her design was full of color and I liked that. I especially liked the lighting for the artwork.
Now, short of begging for help here...can you PLEASE tell me what's up with the online challenge links not working for me? I have not been able to submit any of my challenges. I have a really cool one this week (still working on it). But I would like to submit it. The links just won't work, not even for the registration form. My email is:
LucidHighways@yahoo.com
Thanks so much!

posted on April 6, 2007 at 1:38 PM

Susan wrote:

I love the color wall that Matt used in his "Air" room. Can anyone tell me what color it was and from what paint company?
It was beautiful and as someone said it was "dreamy".

posted on April 6, 2007 at 1:47 PM

Lisa wrote:

Once again, the most obnoxious person (Carisa) gets to stay on the show simply BECAUSE she is so obnoxious -- I know she's only on for better ratings! It is very trashy of the producers to choose rudeness over talent just because they want more controversy. Carisa's rooms are just retro - nothing innovative or thoughtful there at all. I've been watching the show because I love Andrea's designs and the mature, professional, articulate way she conducts herself, but that's gone out the window. Thanks, Bravo.

posted on April 6, 2007 at 2:48 PM

Connie wrote:

Never mind my begging episode! After only 11 weeks I figured out that I have to go through IE to submit. I don't even care if I don't win...I'm just Happy to be Here! :-)

posted on April 6, 2007 at 2:51 PM

Al wrote:

I'm glad Clarissa made the finals. OK, so she whines and rolls her eyes like nobody's business and even takes credit when she probably shouldn't, but I find her to be rather hilarious all things considered. More importantly, though, I find her designs reflect a clear vision which is versatile enough to take in the theme or the client, but still speaks confidently of her design sense. Andrea is a class act and by all means appears to be a terrific architect, but as a designer she was tentative and didn't make the right design choices. This really showed the past couple of weeks, and I think she was lucky to make it to the final 3. It wasn't Matt's best week, but he's been a consistent performer and still turned in a good design. Barring catastrophe he looks to be in good shape to win this whole thing, and it will be well deserved. All in all, GREAT SHOW, GREAT FUN.

posted on April 6, 2007 at 6:13 PM

joy wrote:

Wow, there are so many opinions here! So - I'll just add another one. I never liked Andrea and I'm glad Carisa made it this far. That said, I think the show producers really tried to "package" everyone into a recognizable personality - Carisa rolling her eyes, Goil talking about Star Wars, etc. etc. I thought Andrea was dark and dingy in appearance and design (although her restaurant design was by FAR the best of them all) and her weird ponytails were so hideous. But when I read her bio and went to her web site she seems much more multi dimensional. Why don't they tell you anything personal about the candidates on the show? Anyway - she seemed so haughty on the show and Carisa seems so "real" - not bone-thin, a bit on the rash side, clearly an East Coast urban attitude...but at the same time she makes fun of herself and she has a design confidence that is great. Karl the carpenter is a doofus but you can see how they sort of feed off each other like an old married couple.

Matt is a great designer but his spaces don't excite me. Andrea is multi talented and she'd be good at probably just about anything other than hair styling. Carisa is loudmouthed and brash but fun and irreverant. I hope she wins.

posted on April 6, 2007 at 7:19 PM

pam wrote:

Todd - Could we get the store credits from this episode posted online? Awesome finds, I want to go furniture shopping!!!!!

posted on April 6, 2007 at 7:34 PM

TJ in C wrote:

Does anyone remember what store that was that Andrea visited in LA this last episode. I thought the name of it was Apartment Space but now i don't think so.

posted on April 6, 2007 at 8:19 PM

Ken Laney wrote:

Having watched most of the designs and the results, most of the designers were fodder. There were at best 3 or 4 designers who had the art, style, mechanics and coordination to design the rooms in a competitive environment. I agree with the majority of the above that Matt and Andrea were two of the most capable. I am not sure what planet Carissa is from but I do not want to go there. She has no business in the finals. Some of the comments by the judges such as "flat" may have made sense to them. I think Andrea's design called for the "flat". We all have our opinions. I disagree with most of the judges.

posted on April 6, 2007 at 8:33 PM

michael wrote:

Todd, I love the way that you are able to give friendly advice to the contestants (and it's easy to follow who follows the advice ;) , but I wish you had more of a judging role in the show also. I would love to hear your thoughts on the show.

Best, Michael

posted on April 6, 2007 at 8:49 PM

chris wrote:

Andrea exhibited quite an attitude throughout the series and didn't think twice about demeaning other decorators when the opportunity presented itself. Did like many of her rooms, though. Really wish that the finals had included a more secure and self confident Goil. Now that would have been exciting! As for Todd, he has really grown into his role as a pleasant, knowledgeable, albeit, impartial advocate. Nice job, Todd!

posted on April 6, 2007 at 10:56 PM

Ann-Marie wrote:

Did I just watch a different episode than everyone else? Carissa did give her carpenter credit for the wall. Carissa and Carl seem to be a match made in Hell yet they seem to work well together. I honestly do not think anyone else could of worked with either of them. Does the carpenter win something if he is with the winning designer?

I really do not understand why some people seem to think that Carissa did not deserve to be a finalist. Carissa managed to get in the top 2 spots more than anyone else and honestly the design on the bacardi limon challenge was totally hers and yet Matt took the credit for it with no one getting angry about it. I do believe Matt is going to win but Carissa totally deserves 2nd place. I have wondered why the main promo that shows only the judges shows Carissa breaking a wall. Its kind of like Top Chefs' promo showing the judges and a shot of Ilan in a cooking pot. I hope its not an indication that Carissa won because I am really cheering for Matt.

posted on April 6, 2007 at 11:29 PM

jusbisous wrote:

Todd, i love the feedback you give to the designers and your always astute observations that you share. You have a definitive point of view that is so right on and you are always so gracious. Love you!

posted on April 7, 2007 at 12:34 AM

Gigi wrote:

Andrea's room was more stylish than Matt's. He had two goofy skinny lamps and an empty corner. In general, I prefer his designs, but in this design, hers was obviously superior.

posted on April 7, 2007 at 1:18 AM

Javier Garcia wrote:

I can't believe Matt won the last challenge. I guess I had to see it up front to believe the judges when they said his room looked expensive. From my TV it looked very thrifty and old!

I'm glad Carisa is one of the final two. Through out the show she's been miss-treated by the other designers and was never viewed as a threat. Hopefully the underdog will be triumphant!

posted on April 7, 2007 at 1:42 AM

Angie_Adair wrote:

I love this show! I like Matt's work but had to ask whether his design this week even qualified as a living room ... it was more like a sitting area, and the furniture was just floating in the middle of the room. Three or four people couldn't sit around and converse, and I'm not sure I would even want to sit down in it and read a book or anything. Totally impractical and, on TV anyway, looked jumbled and unanchored. Andrea's room didn't quite work--the various pieces didn't hang together. Carissa went a little haywire with all the objects, but at least a person could spend time there from a practical vantage point. I agree that just being retro is not all that innovative--is she doing anything novel with her retro aesthetic?

Carissa does seem immature and keeps rubbing people the wrong way, BUT I have wondered with many exchanges if she's being looked down by some people because she has a certain combination of qualities--fat, smart, assertive--that aren't culturally acceptable in women.

posted on April 7, 2007 at 2:41 AM

Trix wrote:

I don't like Carissa's taste in design either like many here but I think it would have been really boring to have Matt and Andrea in the final. Carissa may not be a more tasteful and refined designer than Andrea but I do think she's one to branch out more and is willing to have more fun and take advice from others to improve her work. Andrea strikes me as someone who's very set in her ways and therefore will never grow. In fact Matt and Andrea are very similar, they are actually very seasoned at what they do but they lack imagination and they are always safe. Choosing Matt and Carissa is a good balance and I don't mind seeing Andrea eliminated since she should have been axed last week anyway and not Goil.

posted on April 7, 2007 at 4:19 AM

gigi wrote:

Karissa's designs always look like 1970s frat houses. A sea of senseless color, complete inability to accessorize, and a poor attitude, these all confirm her immaturity. Refreshing and young? No. I would not step foot in any of her rooms, much less vote for them. More specifically, that last orange aircraft carrier of a couch was ugly. And for the chef's dining room, the sad blue with just two wine bottles displayed on those giant shelves was depressing. And her holier-than-thou attitude in the garage challenge and in the numerous instances of conflict with her builder are uncomfortable to watch.

I cannot recall any of her designs winning anything. In stark contrast, Andrea won or almost won at least two recent challenges that I can recall. Her chef's dining room was rich, solid, and functional, and I believe the chef liked it. Her bedroom of white was wonderous. Architecturally based designer, yes, which beats the heck out of Karissa's immature view. If the show wanted a wild card, Goil at least had talent.

posted on April 7, 2007 at 7:43 AM

Mollie wrote:

I dont understand why Andrea was voted off last week?! It should have been Carissa, because she just rolls her eyes at everything and her rude comments are annoying. Some of her desighns are pretty cool thhough considering im an eclectic designer as well but designing is more then painting and putting in furniture, no 1 will hire you if you have a horrible attitude like her. If Matt doesnt win the TOPDESIGN final challenge im going to go crazy!

posted on April 7, 2007 at 12:05 PM

Carol wrote:

I think that Matt and Andrea are too similar in their designs. Carissa always uses color and does something very different than the other two. She deserves to be there for that, to keep it interesting. I guess no one remembers how much Matt was whining when he was having so much trouble with the upholstery. The clock showed only 4 hours left and he had SO much to do. How did he pull it all off? Yes, I agree Carissa whines and gets frustrated with Carl but why doens't she get another carpenter then? I think the best choice was made for the last 2 standing/

posted on April 7, 2007 at 2:25 PM

Jon Dough wrote:

The ONLY explanation for retaining Carissa to the end is the drama needed for the show to survive. I would never employ her. Her attitude alone would not be worth the bother, but her choice of colors, design elements, and fabrics are fixed to a distinct period in time. She expresses no originality or for that matter creativity, incapable of moving outside her self-imposed box.

Congratulations to Matt for the less than challenging designs. Although very often elegant and tasteful, his rooms were less than inspirational.

Ultimately I think I would consider Andrea, Goil, or Erik for my next project!

posted on April 7, 2007 at 4:47 PM

kbf wrote:

I liked all 3 rooms this week but I think the judges went more for variety than style. Matt and Andrea are too similar -- both rooms were gorgeous but us tv viewers need to remember who is who and Carissa is easy to distinguish with all those colors and all those pillows.

looking forward to next week when I assume Matt will blow Carissa away.

posted on April 7, 2007 at 7:11 PM

ely wrote:

I agree with Kitty, Connie and SAR. I am simply awed by Carisa's talent and vision. Her "air" hotel suite was brilliant. Her mind works like no one else's (except Goil's, but he cannot quite translate his wonderfully wierd concepts into actual living space. Perhaps he should consider sculpture?). Carisa's concept for the vents was genius, and the colors breathtaking. I would love to stay in that room. Andrea's was dreary, as usual. If I were paying for a high-end hotel, I would have asked to switch rooms at first sight. Like many architects, she masters line and space, but has no feel at all for the color that gives the space life. If we lived in a black and white world, Andrea's work would have validity, but we do not. Her dining room was fabulous only because, for once, black and white and brown were appropriate. She failed to understand the concept of "earth", because earth is life, and her rooms are simply spacial abstractions. I also loved Carisa's modern living room, and fail to understand how Margaret Russell did not consider it "upscale". It exactly captured the essence of Margaret's own magazine cover, and frankly, I thought it was far superior. The fireplace had better proportions, as did the room in general, there was exciting spacial tension in the furniture design and placement, and as usual, her colors were dynamic and alive. There is so much talk about Carisa's personality, but this is not a personality contest. If the show only presented the finished products, I am quite sure that there would be many, many more Carisa fans than Andrea fans (or perhaps all the favorable Andrea comments are coming from her students?) I agree with the person who said that Carisa is like the billiant but difficult-to-work-with directors who produce fabulous films. She will need to learn how to work with contractors, but that will come with age and experience. She's only a 26-year old STUDENT! At least with Carisa, you know where you stand, and her bitching is an understandable product of her perfectionism. When she learns to control her exasperation(and eye-rolling) she will be incredible. I am so fed-up, on the other hand, with Andrea's passive-agressive whining and unfounded bragging ("I'll win because I always win"). Good-bye. She should have been sent home after the hotel episode. All that having been said, I suspect that Matt will win. He is the most experienced and stable of the group, and his work is more commercially acceptable. He hasn't produced a bad room yet (although I was not as impressed by the Elle Decor room as were the judges), but I would love to see him manifest some of Carisa's wild genius.
I think the choice of Matt and Carisa for the Final episode is perfect. They represent totally opposing points of view -- both legitimate and both aesthetically valid -- and I can't wait for the final episode. Although I'm sure Matt will win, I find myself rooting for Carisa. Whatever she does, I'm sure it will be memorable and fabulous.
Todd, you are wonderful! You are artistically helpful, quietly supportive, and just the gentle touch needed to salve bruised creative egos!

posted on April 7, 2007 at 7:54 PM

Deborah Milne wrote:

As soon as Andrea was sent packing, I immediantly thought to myself, "Congradulations Matt, your next weeks final winner!". It would of been a nail biting episode next week had the two left standing had been Andrea & Matt. I agree that Carissa has some maturity issues to resolve, however she is still young & most likely can be that great designer if she tames the attitude. Andrea is certainly more professional, polished & shows a stronger consistancy for outstanding design. Much more a total package.
Good Luck Matt!

posted on April 7, 2007 at 8:19 PM

jodi sabin wrote:

would you please tell me what paint and color Matt used on the walls of episode 8. It was such a lovely blue I'd love to integrate it into my home. Thank you.

posted on April 7, 2007 at 11:28 PM

Lynda S wrote:

The judging inconsistency is really disappointing. Matt's room showcased a curtain rod to nowhere. In addition, his room was an incomplete drab space that may have been fine in a museum (the "do not sit here" sign on display)... Miss Carisa got to squeak by creating a room that was overdone with tschochkes and pillows of every persuasion. (During the chef's table ep, she provided no flatware and the room looked depressing & incomplete!) Andrea is sent home for not providing the chairs that guest judge would have preferred. (During the chef's table ep, her design was deliciously creative!)

What is WRONG with you judges??? This constest is a sham!
See ya later, "Terminators"!

posted on April 8, 2007 at 1:13 PM

ande wrote:

Truly I am disappointed, I’ve been a fan of top chef, and project runway, but the judges for top design leave me feeling confused. Who they sent home doesn’t bother me; it’s the winners they pick. They don’t seem to be following their rules for judgment, a cabana with no roof, the student was disappointed the one thing she stressed was storage, and there was no storage, the dusting, climbing nightmare of a pirate room, an indoor sandbox?, not impressed; how are real people going to live in these rooms? I don’t think I’ll watch shear genius.

posted on April 8, 2007 at 2:23 PM

Bev Petrosky wrote:

I just wanted to say how much I have enjoyed this show. I went to school for commercial art and interior design back in the 70's and watching this brought back memories for me. Carisa's designs are always fun to look at and I enjoy her fun qwirkiness. You have to be able to have fun and like what you do. Otherwise what's the point. She is welcome to come design my home anytime.

posted on April 9, 2007 at 10:18 AM

Beth wrote:

Why is every week a "Bash Carisa" fest? If the aptmosphere backstage is anything like it is in the televised form, I don't blame Carisa for appearing snotty as she struggles to survive in such a hostile environment. She may be immature and unpolished, but her results are cohesive and complete. I am not a fan of mod, but I have been pleasantly surprised and delighted with her designs. And gee, she gets criticized that everything is green, green, green and now she is being slammed that all she ever does is orange, orange, orange. Hang in there Carisa, not everyone is so nasty. I am elated that the judges see the Diamond in the Rough!!!

posted on April 9, 2007 at 1:40 PM

Wyntera wrote:

Throughout most of the show, I have thought that Andrea should make it to the final two. That being said, they have to judge on each individual challenge, not just the overall work. Also, it's about design, not about attitude or sportsmanship. Andrea's room was simply not on par with the other two designers this time. She might have gotten away with it in an earlier episode, but she dropped the ball on this one. Clarissa's attitude needs a serious adjustment (same goes for Karl, honestly...) but her room had some snap to it this week. As far as the final, I'll watch and I'm thinking Matt is a sure winner...but we saw him lose a little of his cool persona this week and the pressure could break. These boards will be on fire if Clarissa wins, that's for sure.

posted on April 9, 2007 at 4:53 PM

Mary Thomes wrote:

I sympathized with Sarah when she was Carisa's carpenter. When she went to Goyle, I dropped that sympathy and when she didn't finish Matt's room, I concluded that she is a major handicap. Hope Ed is back this Wed.
Sincerely, MGT

posted on April 9, 2007 at 6:12 PM

Heather Ortis wrote:

I agree that Carissa is a hugh whiner and is incredibly annoying. Tell Carl that he should get his own show. He is way to fine and sweet to let Carissa talk to him like a dog. The only reason she's left on the show is because of him.

posted on April 9, 2007 at 7:49 PM

juni wrote:

I agree with the blogger who said Goil and Carissa would make a much more interesting finale. I am sorry he was voted off. Matt's whining seriousness does not provide the levity of Goil's personality and creative ideas. Carissa has been taking the bashing and snobbery as well as she can. She knows that she has to fight for her vision and designs and will not be steam rollered. She has a voice and she wil express it.

Matt, on the other hand, has been freaking out over lack of funds, lack of time, and generally feeling sorry for himself in the ciips we see of him. Those Rorschach paintings may be the evidence of his mind decomposing under the pressure, because I diasgree with you about them. They do not complement the peaceful feeling of the room and create a jarring but pointless area of focus.

posted on April 10, 2007 at 9:38 AM

mona sinclair wrote:

I had never watched Top Design until I happened upon the episode of Andrea's elimination while I was walking on the treadmill in the gym. With no preconceived notions about people's personality, etc., I though Clarissa's room was much better than Andrea's. After reading the blogs, with mean spirited comments about weight, etc., I think it is the viewers who cannot separate talent from personality, rather than judges who are looking for ratings-grabbing drama. I look forward to watching all the back episodes!

posted on April 10, 2007 at 10:16 AM

Irena wrote:

I won't be surprised if Carissa would win after Ilan was named a Top Chef. Contestants who didn't deserve to win happened to be graciouslly rewarded by Bravo in the past. The moon is closer to Earth than Carissa is to Top Designer. I am rooting for Matt.

posted on April 10, 2007 at 12:58 PM

Hapy2cu wrote:

Matt is going to win, because the judges are inconsistent. He did NOT have the best room this week; He had a curtain rod to "no where", by his own admission his room was not finished (missing a mirror) and his finishes were rough (you could tell just by looking - the curtain rod was all smudgy and dirty).. the judges LIKE HIM!!!...His water room in episode 8 looked like air not water - he has missed the mark on more than one occasion and still has been rewarded. In order for Carissa to win she is going to have to hit it out of the decorating ball park....Can you say retro-modern? Carissa can and will - but will it be too much of the same? My personal taste is more toward Andreas' color palate, but I agreed with the judges her room was flat & it was BORING!! The color palate was wonderful but it really had something missing....I will miss her mature attitude.

posted on April 10, 2007 at 7:46 PM

Chelly wrote:

The great thing I have learned is just how nice Todd is! He has earned my respect and admiration. Now Clairissa! Yap, Yap,Yap.Blame, Blame. She reminds me of the girl you can't stand working with!

posted on April 11, 2007 at 12:43 AM

Jenifer wrote:

How is Carissa still in? Goil, Andrea and Erik were all better than her.

posted on April 11, 2007 at 1:26 AM

melanie kroft wrote:

I must say that early on, Carisa's attitude reallly bother me. However, each week, the show's director/producer chose someone to play the role of whiner, cocky, insecure, pleasant, confident. It varied from week to week in order to keep everything interesting.
With time, I began to like Carisa's rooms/ideas. I think there was a negative attitude towards her youth, her weight, her immaturity and her straight forward communication style. However, the same could be said of Andrea's pigtails, her Amazon build and her willingness to pit designers against each other. Or said about Matt's greasy appearance, snarl like smile and bland personality. Or.....on and on...
I can't help but believe the entire series of reality shows on televison are staged to entertain, to keep those ratings numbers high and to keep emotions hot and cold....
Yeah, Carisa should win...

posted on April 11, 2007 at 6:28 AM

Jessica Cooper wrote:

I love Matt's work. I hope he wins! Does anyone know how I can find out what color blue Matt used when he did Episode 8, the hotel room based on water? I've been trying to find the perfect shade of cool blue for my dining room, and think that the color he used would be perfect. Someone, please help me find the color. Thanks :-)

posted on April 11, 2007 at 1:59 PM

mimi wrote:

Well, tonite's the night..even though I know it already went down at a much earlier taping,. Let's pretend it didn't. Since my two favorites were booted..Michael and Goil..I sure hope the weiner is not Carissa. I would not let her into my house to design anything. She'd probably paint the whole damn place orange and then accessorize with her signature pea green. Ugh!! How could you judges? I would never let you design my hotel, Kelly, just because your taste must be somewhere in space! Shame Shame. Tom, our host, was the only one who really appreciated Goil's genius.. I guess he was way too lofty for the rest of you.. including "Chef Comfort Food" Tom C.!! What was he doing there anyway? Goil's chef's table was so creative and unboring. It is very upsetting to think that the magazine has settled for status quo. Ho Hum. mimi

posted on April 11, 2007 at 2:15 PM

Andye wrote:

I love you Todd! Its been great watching you on the show. I hadn't seen you since House of Style...I lost track.
Can't wait to see your future projects! I loved Goil. He was awesome and it was sooo sad to see him off the show!
I hope I can get him to design something for me one day soon!
Much love to you!!
-Andye

posted on April 11, 2007 at 4:11 PM

Natalie wrote:

I thought Carissa would be ruffling some viewers' feathers, and Matt is certainly Mr Nice. I have to say that I would hate a camera on me whilst going through the design process, it's never pretty and I'm a very calm person in general. But my point is, when else do you ever see the process and judge a designer/chef/whoever based on that? We don't get to peer at Kelly Wearstler mid-crisis, we just see a beautiful result laid out in magazine pages or on screen and we ooh and aah. Does it really matter who is bitchy or rude or near-breakdown as the end time approaches? The design is about the design so long as you get the results (and being a team player helps but does not necessarily overtake a psycho genius). However I think I know whom I'd rather work with, but that's not what this show is about, right?

posted on April 11, 2007 at 6:01 PM

turbogeek wrote:

Quite frankly I'm astonished by the acclimations for Matt's totally dysfunctional living room. Yes, it looked nice, but consider this:

How would it be possible for two couple to sit in that living room with the divan sprawled diagonally across it with two opposing chairs on either side, enjoy a beverage and a conversation?

It's impossible for all four people to be seated in a dignified fashion and yet still be able to see one another. Where could the beverages be set down or would everyone have to hold their cup or glass the entire time?

That living room should have a velvet rope across the entrances because clearly it's only to look at, not to be used.

--TG

posted on April 11, 2007 at 6:30 PM

Ren Fisk wrote:

Hey, Todd and Company...

I’ll be honest with you guys, I’m a man who knows nothing about the terminology of Interior Design. While I can articulate what I want and I’ve been pretty successful in designing and decorating a few rooms in my own house, but I’m no expert in this subject. I care a lot about style and substance and I like my own living space to look good while being obsessed with every minor detail, like my wife does. This might sound arrogant and even foolish, but I'm at least an expert in what looks good - if only as an expert of my own opinion. Put my question and comment in that context...

I'm at a loss at trying to figure out why Felicia Bushman was cut so early in this show. I just did a quick look at the websites of the other designers, the rooms designed for this competition and compared their work to hers, and in my opinion she was the better designer. She was better before she entered this competition, and I would argue that she was better then most of the others in the episodes she competed in. As for the actual projects she made or worked on in this show, I would argue that she was at least always in the top 3. Her rooms look like something my wife and family would actually want to live in.
The only exception is the room she made for the final episode "Another Man's Treasure," all of the rooms were dreadful because of what they had to work with. While her room wasn't as good as the ones she worked on before, it wasn't the worst of that episode. I'm drawing a blank trying to explain to myself why she was bounced for what I think was simply because she used the "Granny afghan." Sorry, but her room wasn't as bad as Ryan's.

If I had the choice between who ever is the winner of "Top Design," either Matt or Carisa, or Felicia, I'm sorry but I would have to go with Felicia.

In retrospect, do you ever think that maybe you guys made a mistake? If it wasn't for the "Garage Sale Challenge," I think the outcome would have been far different. Not to be unfair or cruel, but the final challenge would have been interesting and an actual competition if she was in the final 2. (As an aside... I'm also unable to explain what Carisa's doing there or how she got this far. She's only won one challenge... Ironicly for me it's the same challenge that elliminated Felicia.

Hope to see you next season, and thanks to the contestants who kept Vintage Style Alive!

posted on April 11, 2007 at 7:55 PM

Dandridge wrote:

Did you see Todd's outfit when he welcomed the designers to the White Room? I want a little T.O. doll!! I love his funky mismatched vests and shirts, and tousled hair? Wouldn't a little doll be cute??

posted on April 11, 2007 at 9:42 PM

chris gingrich wrote:

Wow!! What a surprise you went with the boring, stuffy guy!
The bedroom in his loft was cold,sterile and completely
uninviting!! Pictures of his pregnant wife for everyone to see
as they enter the loft! How trashy is that!! A whole devoted
to cute family photos. Not!!!
I loved Carissas' room. It felt like a loft and it had panache
and energy and style. The bed was so cool. It was the best
design element of the season. I knew before the program
started that matt would win. Carissa was a white woman,
wore glasses and was overweight. Matt was tall slender and
effeminate. Could not believe he was married and had a little
girl. The little girls room was atrocious. So glad I don't have
to live in that place. Glass talble!! How cold and ugly.
Sorry carissa. The best doesn't alwlays win.

posted on April 11, 2007 at 11:13 PM

Tiff wrote:

I don't like Matt's designs. I find them boring. I love Carissa's use of color. She's a breath of fresh air and who cares about her attitude. I don't care for luxury... I'd rather have something that stands out and looks creative. Chic stuff is just chic... what would you call Carissa? not chic... I guess more like fun and modern but then again I'm young so I might have a different sense of style then everyone.

Of course my favorite designer was Goil because of his fun ideas. I think him and Elizabeth made an awesome team.

posted on April 11, 2007 at 11:17 PM

chris gingrich wrote:

Todd Oldham is so adorable!! Loved his style of dressing and his
hair. The other 3 were really fun to watch. Jonathan Adlers
clothes made him look like a high class clown. The two skinny
women looked as though a strong wind could have blown them
over. Both came off as cold and unfriendly. The one next to Todd
looked so ridiculous the time she wore the curly wig! I thought
I would die laughing. The other one had the hair and design
style of a news anchor winab, I wouldn't let any of those 3 near
my home!! Carissa was too cool to win. Her loft was over the top!! Just needed some flowers and a few personal touches.
I am totally disgusted and will not watch next season. What
a joke.

posted on April 11, 2007 at 11:21 PM

Lila wrote:

Last Episode, I hope the show will print my blog. I honor Todd and Matt and of course, Carissa and Judges.
I am so happy that Matt won, he truly earned it. Carissa did well, but Matt did Excellent. I will miss Todd; he seems to be a terrific person. But, I rather thought that when it came to winning the Price, the show would celebrate in style, and allow Carissa stay, after all she is the 2nd runner-up. There was no need for Carissa to leave. Instead it was really done in very poor taste; we did not even get to see the price or Mattl's family to see him win Top Designer. You know the Show demands a lot from the designer and yet the outcome of the wining price was CHEAP, you all should and could learn from HGTV Top designer Show; it has a lot of CLASS when it came to the price. The Top Designer Matt, congratulations, you earned it. I am sorry the recognition was done in very poor taste. Well at least you will get the money to get started on your own, God Bless you and Good Luck, and you will definitely make it.!!!!!!!!!!! Love, your fan, Lilacm

posted on April 11, 2007 at 11:26 PM

anaglyph wrote:

I think both designs were great but the right person won. I especially liked the cleanliness factor. Cement floors, glass table, white bedding... Bleach, bleach, bleach... to your heart's content. You can't do that with a hard wood floor... You can't do that with colorful uncovered pillows. I don't know how many people truly get this but I believe time will tell. This is a truly modern home.

posted on April 11, 2007 at 11:28 PM

deeleeohh wrote:

All the Carissa bashing comes across to me as reactionary, conservative and close-minded, like many Americans unfortunately are these days. Carissa earned her place in the finals, she took chances Andrea didn't. And Andrea was just as catty as Carissa--she just hid it under her coolness.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:46 AM

Will wrote:

America.. you have such bad taste. It's so unfortunate that such a young person like Matt has such old fashioned and common taste. Atleast Carisa has developed a style and showed it. Matt went to the PDC and saw how they had the store set up and emulated that... unoriginal.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 2:10 AM

Connie Smith wrote:

I would love to have the directions on how to make Carissa's bed in the loft. What was used to fill in the bed? About how much it cost. GREAT JOB. Looks like some type of board was used to raise from floor level, then a hole was made and then the bedding went inside. Yes?

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:09 PM