laura wrote:

good for him, he deserves it.

posted on April 11, 2007 at 11:27 PM

Lilacm wrote:

Last Episode
Looking forward to see your stuff in the MAgazine.
Matt Congrats!!!!!!!!!!!!! IT surely was a pleasure to see you design, and I think your wife is very lucky to have you. I know you will make it in no time. You’re Top Design Title says a lot of you. You have excellent taste, you really the Best, that is why you won. You have what it takes, and I saw it when I first saw in the show. God Bless you and your family.

posted on April 11, 2007 at 11:34 PM

Ricardo wrote:

I completely disagree!!!!!!! He has good stile, but I think that carissa HAS THE TOP DESIGN. Also Mat turned to be too greedy!!!

posted on April 11, 2007 at 11:36 PM

CG wrote:

Carissa's loft was 100 % nicer than Matt's ! She was robbed. Matt's loft was borrrring

posted on April 11, 2007 at 11:39 PM

Aaron Pitre wrote:

Congratulations, Matt! Todd, the show was absolutely fabulous. I look forward to the next season of top design!

posted on April 11, 2007 at 11:41 PM

Susan wrote:

Todd,

I can only say I was very disappointed with the Finale. I was really looking forward to the Finale, but felt that Clarissa was not given a fair chance.

1. Matt was given a loft on the 3rd floor and Clarissa was made to lug stuff to the 6th floor, thus taking out from her time for working on her room. They should've been given lofts at other ends on the same floor. Matt did say he was a more experienced designer and that Clarissa was a student, then he could've done with less time, not her.

2. I didn't see anything out of the ordinary with Matt's design. It was even claustrophobic, and looked too cluttered. Clarissa's bed was unique, and the loft appeared airy and open, with excellent design features. I can not see what the judsges found to be unique in Matt's design. Granted they have thier favorites, but it shouldn't ignore what they have done on the day.The flowers Matt chose looked awful, and the black bathroom would make a very depressing place to be in!

3. I was put off by the way Matt put Clarissa down whenever he spoke about her. Clarissa really showed maturity in this round- she didn't complain once, whereas Matt took every opportunity to diss her. I sense that he has to show more respect for colleagues if he is to be a reputed designer. I was impressed with the good taste Clarissa showed in the Finale, despite all the odds stacked against her by the show and the judges.

I can only say that after being an avid viewer of the Top Design show, I thought there would be more taste, fairness, and an equal opportunity would be given to each contestant. I am very disappointed, and feel very bad for Clarissa. I thought you were the only impartial person on the show, and thought you should know.

Thank you.

posted on April 11, 2007 at 11:49 PM

Angie Adair wrote:

I missed this week's show, out of town in a place with no Bravo. So thanks, Todd, judges, and Bravo for making this website a functional place that communicated a lot about the final challenge.

I was thrilled by this show and learned a lot. Brilliantly done!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:04 AM

Brenda wrote:

Clarissa was robbed. Her design was far more innovative and stylish.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:06 AM

Janene wrote:

I was thrilled by the decision!!! And the top 2 were decisively deserved. Well done. The lofts are so beautiful. This show has gotten me very excited for more as well. I have been asking people "Did you watch Top Design?" like, every week. And if any of you want to laugh your ass off at an amazing book that shows some disasterous designs please do yourself a favor and buy "Interior Desecrations". You will thank me later. Whenever you need to laugh during your busy day just pick up that book.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:13 AM

Lori wrote:

Hooray !!! You go Matt !!! I hae been watching this from the beginning. And I`ve liked your designs hands down from the beginning. Very Sheik and precise. I loved everyone of them. But this Loft took the cake. I`ll tell you what, If I had the money, I would hire you in an instant. And I`m going to be the first one out there buying the July edition of Elle magazine to see your spread. I am a 45 year old homemaker and I`ve learned so much from watching you over these past 12 weeks. Your use of space and design to acheive maximum effect is priceless to me. The simplicity in your design is another positive for me. I love color But I learned alot about using it in it`s simplest forms by watching you. I wish nothing but the best for you and your family in your carreer, and I remember when you said that your wife had said that if you had come all of this way to lose.....well, You didn`t lose, you won, HANDS DOWN ! Congratulations Matt !!!
From,
Lori in upstate New York

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:22 AM

monica williams wrote:

I love Matt everything he did was beatifull and I adore his personality. He got class and definible great taste.
viva Matt!
I am looking forward to see his gorgous face on the magazines and I will be suscribing to it becouse of the show I love it I can't believed how fun it was I feel bad for coil I thing he was good competition for Carisa, her personality was ugly.
Monica williams

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:28 AM

Rochelle wrote:

I wasn't exactly sure how the show was going to be. But, I must say--I absolutely enjoyed it! Huge Congrats to Matt and his brilliant mind. His got such a good eye for design. I was hoping Andrea would have been in the final. But, Carissa gives the show "the drama" side of it. I have a feeling Matt will start his own business and the offers will start pouring in. I wish him only the best. I'm looking forward to season 2 along with all the wall to wall drama. Great Season!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:36 AM

D Gilmore wrote:

Congratulations Matt! I knew you were the one. I have enjoyed watching you as you make your rooms come alive. What a fabulous loft...elegant but comfortable. It was also pleasant to see was our little Carisa grow up right before our eyes. She did a great loft, too. Her carpenter, Karl, must be a Saint. That man needs an award just for patience. In the end they appear to work together. Thank you Carisa for being gracious. You have a great future ahead of you. See you both later...designers!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:38 AM

Rob Richards wrote:

First I want to say that this is the first time I have read this board. Matt basically took an open loft concept of 1700 sq/ft and turned it into a series of, what appeared to be, cubicles.
Dressed the area with 150K of furniture and provided what appeared to be a minimally functional kitchen. Is Matt good? sure. Is he americas next top designer.... no way.

Also, the comments that were made about the guest judge were completely uncalled for, truely tasteless

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:05 AM

Cathy Mazur wrote:

Way to go, Matt!! You really deserved this. You are such a cool, collected person, even in the heat of things. You always treated people with respect, and I would be honored to be able to live in any room you designed. Continued success to you and your family!!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:14 AM

holly wrote:

SHAME ON YOU JUDGES!!!
I think you can pick ANY magazine from ANY stand and find work and design VERY VERY SIMILAR to Matt's.
He is not original. He is great at copying and putting his LITTLE spin on things.
He also has NO CLASS or ELEGANCE!
Carisa's design was not that great either.
But, then the ACTUAL COMPETITORS got eliminated earlier.
Goil would have given Matt a run for his money!
Matt has NO idea! He is just a GREAT COPY CAT!!!
Shame on this program for being so biased that about 2 months ago, everyone knew Matt was SET UP TO WIN.
Wonder how much it cost him!?!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:25 AM

holly wrote:

By the way, I will not be surprised not to see my comment on the site, since no one in this entire procedure has been FAIR!
I think someone said it right on another board;
YOUR JUDGES ARE SCARED AND INTIMIDATED BY REAL TALENT, OTHERWISE GOIL AND ANDREA WOULD BE FINALISTS.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:27 AM

LK wrote:

Carisa designs a room that is so unlike her, its pathetic. She decided that to win she had to try and out Matt, Matt. This entire series she has expressed herself, to the finals no less, by using her personal choices of bright color and hip design. When she strayed, as in the chef's table, she went down in flames.

Well she strayed tonight. She's so full of herself, there's no room for talent.

And she is one mean you know what. Insults Matt at every turn, blames everyone, thinks she is the best in the world. She's wrong.

Now imagine the room if Goil had been there. Or even Michael. We would have seen their true and obvious personalities on display. But Carisa cheated only herself in the end.

Matt did a great job at the end, deserves all the success he has and will have.

As for our guest judge: She is so enviromentally aware she flies a helicopter between ONE of her homes and town in England to avoid a 90 minute train ride. Imagine the enviromental impact those two people have with EIGHT homes, dozens of vehicles, etc.

And a word about her comment regarding there not being much architecture: Honey, this IS a decorating show! The architects were all FIRED!

Not a bad first effort for the show. I do think the final challenge should have involved a true, somewhat demanding, client. That's the real world.

See ya later decorators!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:28 AM

Jarrett Tran wrote:

WOW! I don't think I have ever been so excited for someone else winning a contest on TV. Matt's win was spot-on and hard-earned. Nearly every room he has touched this season radiates elegance and sophistication, while maintaining warmth and comfort. I have spent four years working for designers while finishing school, and I also take on part-time design jobs when I have free time. Based on my small bit of experience, it seems that this guy has the extra bit of talent that makes the difference between a garden variety designer and the next Barbara Barry.

Best of Luck Matt!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:40 AM

Angie wrote:

I think Matt's design was great, but I feel Clarisa went above and beyond. I think her design was very inventive. She will do wonderful things in the future. I really enjoyed this series.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:40 AM

misty wrote:

Just like Design Star, the one who did the same type of thing week after week wins. Do not get it. Loved Carissa being out of the box and young and hip. Some of Matt's stuff was good and great other stuff boring, boring, boring. Saw it before, like the last week. Was hoping for better judgement.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:55 AM

Rick Beaty wrote:

Great show and ended with the appropriate decision for a winner. Matt clearting desinged and executed a solid space on each challenge. It was disappointing that Clarisa seemed to blame everyone but herself for results. Her support pulled her out of the fire on several occasions. I would have hated to have ever worked with her. Congratulations Matt!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 2:03 AM

Anissa wrote:

I am surprised, I actually liked Carisa's loft more than I expected. Matt's master bedroom was dull. Carisa's kitchen was better. Carisa's personality detracted from her design. Matt is more classy. I'm glad Matt won.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 2:04 AM

C Villarreal wrote:

I would have liked to see how well Matt would have done creating a space for a fun, single 20-something and Carissa for an older couple with a daughter. That would have been the ultimate challenge for these two - create a loft for the other person.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 2:10 AM

ely wrote:

Which loft would I buy? Carisa's! Without a moment's hesitation.

It was sculpture. The cube screen was so right, the colors luscious, the space was perfectly maximized, The balance was a fabulous mix of maturity and playfulness,and I WANT WANT WANT the bed pit!

Sorry, but Matt's was predictable, not cohesive, the long corridor squandered the architecture and view, the bedroom curtain was both useless and superfuous, and the pink girl's room made me gag.

Am I surprised? No. The fix was in since the beginning. Disappointed? Absolutely.I applaud Carisa's graciousness at the end.

To me, Carisa was the clear winner. She has a fantastic future, and I look forward to seeing her work in future publications. I'll skip Matt's Elle Decor edition, thank you. If you've seen one Matt room....

posted on April 12, 2007 at 2:36 AM

Linda Ponce wrote:

I rooted for Matt, however, after seeing some previews with some of his comments, I was embarassed. He should be more humble and appreciative. I was very impressed with Carissa's comments and how happy she was for Matt. And, her loft was very nice. The cranberry color added punch; the room divider was very nice; and she was very supportive of her carpenter and he was of her.

I very much enjoyed the show and wish I had seen all the episodes from the beginning. I look forward to the next series and hope there will be many more seasons to come. I think it's especially important for people that have interest in this field. I, personally, enjoy the artistry and the competition. Fabulous judges with their knowledge and different personalities. Thank you!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 3:09 AM

Walter Webb wrote:

How much better this show would have been if Andrea was still in it. There would have been some doubt as to the winner. Andrea would obviously have a chance of beating Matt. Carisa had none, and Matt knew it.

Matt as usual stuck with boring rooms except for his daughter's rooms. Then he overdosed on pink. Andrea knew that Matt would not take any chances. She could have come up with something to beat him. The single best design in the entire competition was Andrea's Chef's dining room.

Matt won with designs that you can find in any catalog of home furnishings. He has not the least bit of creativity.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 3:14 AM

Alyssa wrote:

yay!! i am so happy Matt won. he deserved it!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 6:09 AM

Joanne Flanagan wrote:

What a disappointment. I feel that the vote was based on personality. Carisa's loft was much more creative than Matt's. Even Jonathan appeared to like Carisa's better. It looked like the ladies overruled him.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 9:22 AM

juni wrote:

I think this show will inspire a lot of people to be aware of design and take a chance with designing their own environments. This can only have great consequences. Maybe it will extend to only building beautiful or artistic buildings from now on instead of the horrendous strip malls that line the megalopolises of this country.

The squabbling was a play for drama and many of the viewers could do without it, though we realize it is part of the Reality TV profile. You always presented yourself as a gentleman, with kindness and sincerity. I could see that you felt empathy for the ones who were later'd. Never once did you trample or stomp on a budding talent, but guided it with your suggestions, as any great teacher must do.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 9:27 AM

babs wrote:

Matt certainly deserved to win. His designs have had much more polish than the designs of the other competitors.

I do wish, though, that the producers had focused more on design and the design process than on personalities. Other reality shows have personality conflicts up the wazzu. This show could have shown more of the creative and construction processes.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 9:34 AM

margaret wrote:

WHAT A GREAT SHOW THIS HAS BEEN!!!! No big drama ever, people on the whole were genuninely nice. and no back stabbing like top chef was. PLEASE DO NOT CHANGE. THANK YOU , LOVED EVEN MINUTE OF IT.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 9:42 AM

marylou wrote:

Good first season and a well-deserved win for Matt. If there is a second season, could we please enjoy more diverse challenges, so all the stuff doesn't look the same, ie...all contemporary, Elle Decor looking furnishings. It's getting boring and I want to see some Country Living type rooms. Whatever, I'll be back for more. Thanks.......

posted on April 12, 2007 at 10:06 AM

Scott Raymond Schaffer wrote:

This was a great show... I miss some of the drama from the earlier episodes, but it ended well. While ultimately I feel that Matt deserved to win the entire competition, due to his consistancy, I feel Carisa should have won the final Challenge...so in short...Congrats to Matt on his TKO... Carisa...CONGRATS on a great design! Good Luck to ALL!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 10:39 AM

joani wrote:

not sure if my first comment took..........thought matt had the best overall designs throughout....very consistant. don't usually watch reality tv, but this was interesting and different. the judges gave reasons each time for their decisions and that is very important, it is always somewhat subjective but also important to find out what was being looked for on each design.
do another soon joani

posted on April 12, 2007 at 10:43 AM

Susan Johnston wrote:

I have to say that Todd is the so wonderful. I'm so glad I got to see the human side of him as I've always loved his designs. He was so encouraging, gave great hints on how to get that straight edge on the chaise and open the flowers for Matt's loft, etc. I was rooting for Matt and loved Carissa's spunk and style. I love this show except for the garage challenge.
Thanks so much

posted on April 12, 2007 at 10:46 AM

Jaime wrote:

i think carissa did a fantastic job!
i really liked her design. her kitchen and bed were fantastic!
matt's space wasnt planned that well. and it was dark and a little depressing.
i still think carissa should've won.
CONGRATS CARISSA I WAS ALWAYS HOPING TO SEE U WIN!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 11:24 AM

hildymarie1 wrote:

What a great ending -- Matt and Carisa both delivered!!! I look forward to future episodes of Top Design.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 11:25 AM

Sally Wilson wrote:

It *was* the best possible choice and Carisa was most gracious to say that. She is clearly a much nicer person than the impression we were given in the name of drama. I'm glad we were given the opportunity to see that.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 11:38 AM

FanFare wrote:

Hello Todd,

Love ya, mean it!!!

Before this program, I had the impression that you were a very serious person. However, each week you presented the challenges & rewards with a light hearted air. You seemed like a "Mr. GreenJeans" from Captain Kangaroo from "back in the day." Was that the persona you were going for??

This last "challenge" was subpar because of the 2 remaining contestants. Everyone knew that Matt had in the bag because the judges tipped their hand so many times before.

Carisa's space seemed bright and airy, but with silly elements (i.e., a ping pong table without the paddles or net. "Andrea's" dining room chairs surrounding another black table with a fur rug on top. Once again, where were the table settings?, and so on. Her kitchen was fantastic, though).

Matt's space was Matt, Matt, Matt! Dull palate overall. His little girl room was cute and the bathroom was very chic (although it did not go with the Master Bedroom, which seemed pedestrian).

The 2 remaining designers were not of equal strength, period. Carisa has been shown to be lazy, dumb, loud and bitchy throughout the competition. However, she really redeemed herself with her closing comments. She GRACEFULLY conceded defeat to Matt. She was so humble and accepting as opposed to Matt's chicness throughout. However, his pomposity came out in the end -- ("Really, is there a surprise that I WON?"). With this comment, he came off as kind of an ass! The two final contestants switched personas, in a way.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 11:46 AM

Lizz wrote:

Well...you couldn't say we didn't see this ending coming. Way too predictable. There will always be parts of Carissa's style that I truly liked. Regrettably, she would not have been able to make it so far without a capable carpenter who had great ideas. Boy, in real life , her treatment of her staff would and could result in lawsuits. I will choose to call it immaturity. Matt...for the most part, too conservative. New Rule...no more of the drapey, cover it with curtains, cop out. Andrea, now there's class.......

posted on April 12, 2007 at 11:50 AM

nicole wrote:

Matt was consistent throughout the entire competition, so on that alone he should have won.
I would have loved for Carissa to have won. She absolutely blew Matt out of the water on the final challenge. She should have won last weeks challenge, she is very original in her ideas.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:26 PM

Nancy S. wrote:

I thought both lofts were beautiful, but Matt's was more realistic. He also had a lot of finishing touches - food and a towel in the kitchen, flowers, plants, etc. - while Carisa's was not as finished.
I think Matt deserved to win, however. Carisa is a bit of a one-note.

One question: Am I the only one who noticed that Carisa's dining chairs are exactly the same as the ones Andrea used in the restaurant challenge????

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:30 PM

Faith wrote:

Thank you Todd for your wonderful insights. I wish I could say that I learned a lot about design on this show, but you hit the nail on the head when you mentioned the focus on tension between characters instead of the process of designers. The latter would have been just as interesting but we didn't get to see much of it. I especially enjoyed the parts of the show where you interacted with the designers and helped their designs (or re-upholstery) along. If the show comes back for a second season, please please please show us more of that! It balences out the kindergarten hijinks that seemed more the focus of this season.
Thanks.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:39 PM

Ethan wrote:

Todd and the Judges,
I liked the show in that showed every designer can approach the same project and bring something unique to the table.
I was extremely dissapointed with the outcome of the final. Top Designer was to take the best designer of the group through all the stages and in the end determine the designer who succesfully overcame each challenge and the end product was to pbe superior to the competitor. Carissa through all the odds as far as i could see was the ONLY student and she made it to the final. In my opinion, the show caved in and allowed Matt to win. Carissa's loft design was far superior and professional in all aspects, the Judges comments supported it in ever sense. While Matt's space planning was akward, dark and narrow taking little advantage of natural light. The overall design was inconsitent and would not pass any school critique let only professional. The bias towards his family and daughter was evident in the Judges reaction to the child's bedroom. The Judges found the bathroom fixture the edgiest in the apartment, the least public space. The master bedroom was boring and amateurish.
Carriss truly sculpted the space with designed screens, almost perfect planning in the apartment with the Judges falling all over the sunken bed and kitchen areas. Carrissa designed a loft for living. It's unfortunate the show did not showcase it's real top designer who has no formal Interior Design training nor any professional practice. I was also dissappointing with the arrogance and negative comments of Matt, that is not what a top designer should represent. There is confidence in design but his attitue left a negative impression.
Hopefully next season, if there is one, the show will judge without preference and it give the title to those who truly deserve it.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:39 PM

Connie Smith wrote:

I think Matt ended up being a pompous ass. I think Carissa should have won. Her loft was great! I think she should patent the bed idea. Loved it!!!!!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:51 PM

Shannon wrote:

I agree that Matt deserved to win...his designs are contempary but classy. Carissa actually suprised me with the design of her loft which was really GOOD but truthfully speaking the hottest design of hers was the bedroom...besides that, her designs were either flat (example: bathroom mirror-can you actually use that thing) or already done (the black blocks that can serve as vents or room separators has been done...HOTEL ROOM). And I have to disagree with the judging panel...that kitchen was boring and the house was too theme-eee (black and white theme not very original). However, I do agree that Carissa did step her game up at the last show....Her designs are usually TOO childish but during the last show she carefully choose her colors to add spice without making the loft a child's den. I DEFINITELY HAVE TO GIVE CARISSA MUCH RESPECT FOR THAT!!!!!!!!! Finally, although Carisa is a great designer, I still believe that it would've been a CLOSER COMPETITION if MATT and ANDREA were the LAST TWO STANDING.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:54 PM

Maya wrote:

Todd, you're such a lovely person. Such serious talent combined with a great heart and a great mentor. Bravo is lucky to have you.

I wish Top Chef had a mentor like you so it would not have turned so ugly. Then again, I don't think there are enough people like you to go around.

Good for you for saying that the editing did not show Carisa's positive side. I could see that too.

Bravo should take this hint from the viewers: YOUR CAMERA WORK IS GREAT, YOUR THIRST FOR ONE-SIDED PERSONALITIES IS NOT.

I get it, you have to tell a story, but going for the stereotyping of Carisa (I can't even bring myself to say the words) was so unfair especially since Todd himself said her sweet, fun side was not even shown.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 12:54 PM

kadyk wrote:

to make this show and all the bravo reality shows fair and to ensure that the most talented not the most favorite contestant wins is to keep their work anonymous. i know this would be hard, but just show the work and don't let the judges know who did it until they ( the judges) have made their decisions. the audience could see the contestants working and know but this would absolutely keep biased decisions from taking place. many people have been eliminated merely because they were not liked by the judges or it came down to personality,i gaurantee that the judges don't all have the greatest personalities and have had much conflict in their professional lives. and might i add the Ms. trudie "no"styler was a snobbish, priggish, tasteless, arrogant, sanctimonious wizened hag and should have never been allowed on the show as a judge, contestant, janitor or viewer. she may have 8 houses and may have interviewed and highered the best designers to fill them but that does not make her a designer, she was awful and i agree with matt about her. Please make this show better by making it fair and getting guest judges who know what their doing.........

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:02 PM

kbf wrote:

Although I loved the things in Matt's loft, Carissa was the top designer in this challenge. She did something different while maintaining the character of the open spaces of the loft. Matt basically chose beautiful furniture. You could have been in any apartment building -- all sense of the "loft" was gone with those chopped up spaces. And what was so wonderful about the daughter's room that made everyone rave about it?

My one criticism of Carissa was in the dining area -- weren't those Andrea's chairs??

In the end Carissa was gracious and Matt was a little too full of himself for someone who squeaked by on previous weeks' works in my opinion.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:07 PM

jacalyn wrote:

BOO BOO BOO cariss's loft was 10 times better; Matt's was dark with wasted space; hers was good up close or as a whole

I think Matt won because of consistency not because his design beat hers; she will go far; Matt is another design clone

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:11 PM

Michael wrote:

Matt took $150,000 and made it look like $300,000. Carisa took $150,000 and made it look like $15,000. Why would anyone hire a designer, give them a $150,000 budget only to end up with something that looked like an Ikea catalog. She's a dorm room designer, plain and simple.

Congratulations to Matt. Well deserved win.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 1:46 PM

dt wrote:

I thought the finale was great. While I was turned off by Carissa's personality, I have to say that it was interesting to see the two completely different styles go head to head for the finale. I do think that Matthew won based on the sum of his work, and I believe he is the overall better designer. Carissa's style is really fun and she does take risks and I think that she will go far. The thing that kept crossing my mind watching this challenge was that, while they were given the same/similar spaces to design in, the two were unfortunately on completely different playing fields. You wouldn't move a family into a LOFT! The curtain "walls" were in reality, ridiculous. Adults need adult time. Matthew had to take the same square footage and adapt it to 3 people, to Carissa's single person. I wish that they had told/encouraged him to design a space for himself *as if he were not married with a child*. I think then we could have seen a true (better) competition.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 3:01 PM

Cristina wrote:

"I know the core of reality TV is less about the process and more about the behavior."

Which is a shame, because Bravo's competitive reality TV series used to at least purport to be about the process. The process of fashion design, the process of cooking, and now the process of interior design. The most recent seasons of Project Runway and especially Top Chef, combined with Top Design, have done an awful lot to disabuse the viewing public of that notion, though. (Hence the bitterness and hatred many of us now feel toward Bravo and the Magical Elves.)

It would be nice if it could be about the process again.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 3:08 PM

ben wrote:

why didn't this building have a freight elevator? it's a loft lease building, considering the lofts are customed built- there should be a freight elevator that can accomodate any building material, equipment and furniture. i don't understand why everything was being lugged up the exterior fire escape stairs.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 3:11 PM

Debra Beck wrote:

Boring! We all knew that Matt would win before the episode aired -- he was the "Chosen One." But, it was a less that stellar finish for designers who had two entire months to work on their plans. Matt's loft had no clear design integration and flow. It IS possible to do a little girl's room without making it such a prissy my little pony princess space.
At least Carisa provided some much needed liveliness into her design, and she clearly delineated her space as a loft. Bravo Carissa -- you surprised me. I'm not a twenty-something, but I'd vote for your loft over Matt's. The judges seem to have intimidated you into too much "editing" of your tastes. You needed a bit of art here and there.
Todd and producers, you should work on this premise before doing another series. In the end, you let the viewers down by not giving more edge to the show. Pick more for talent and less for drama when casting next time.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 5:18 PM

Sarkika wrote:

Is there a possibility that the next show COULD focus on design, not drama? I always found myself a little disappointed by the show, like "Is that all?" There are enough drama-reality shows on TV. Can you turn that around? For me, it would make a very hot show. Thank you. I didn't need to hear Carissa's every swear word and see Matt's judging lip pursing over and over. I wanted to see people come up with great ideas and solve problems.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 6:14 PM

Wonkista wrote:

Carissa definitely had the top design of the loft. Matt's bedroom was sterile and the layout he chose was terrible. Just because he thought to have fruit loops and a photo array of his daughter shouldn't have made him the winner. Her design was more imaginative and stunning visually. The pieces looked very comfortable while his looked like a three out of five stars hotel--pretty generic but for the pink and purple little girl's room, as if that hasn't been done, what a hundred times a day, in a country with 300 million people. What a rip-off to see a finale that was such an anti-meritocracy. Bravo needs some new judges that have some credibility after this fiasco.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 6:29 PM

abigail wrote:

I'm so glad that Matt won! He is such a great designer. I hoped that he would win since the first episode. I ruted for him all the way! but to Carrisa, you are a great designer,i say it dosent matter what they say, you dont need people judging you, and telling you it wasnt good because it wasnt their style. But any way best of luck to you and your dreams! Matt you are a great success! i hope that you will follow your heart in every design that you put forth!

-Abigail

posted on April 12, 2007 at 6:39 PM

Elie wrote:

I will not dis Matt, but I honestly think that Carisa had the best final design. I was actually surprised -- the judgest usually reward risk taking and innovation. No doubt, Matt was a comfortable choice. His sophisticated but standard treatment of the loft would go down easy for most people.

You go, Carisa -- best to you. By the way, Matt's final remarks were pretty petty and revealed him to be mean spirited in success --

posted on April 12, 2007 at 7:07 PM

Alona wrote:

I can see why Matt won- you would never even dream that his loft cost "only" $162,000- but you have to give Carisa her props. Her loft was bright, cheerful, and fun (the only room in Matt's loft without a dark, depressing color was his daughter's room). Also, she may have lost but she backed out maturely like a good sport. However, I don't think it's fair to hate Matt because he was a little (okay, more than a little) arrogant about winning. I mean, two weeks ago two out of four contestants say that he's their biggest threat. Then he wins two weeks in a row, then he wins the whole competition. That's enough to inflate anyone's head.

Congrats to both finalists! You both did an amazing job!

posted on April 12, 2007 at 7:17 PM

bree wrote:

So..... the judges have problems with Matt's space, nothing but kudos for Carissa's---- and yet Matt wins? I know they've got a serious hard-on for Matt in general, but he clearly just repeated his old rooms in the loft and, like the judges stated, he did not use the architecture at all besides throwing a shoe-box bedroom in the center for his daughter. His bedroom was painful and looked like an expensive hotel for business travelers---- not for a husband and wife.
*sigh* it just feels that Matt was decided upon before the final challenge was started.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 8:04 PM

Kathi wrote:

I knew Matt would win, but not because of his talent as a "designer." He made all the politically correct, passive-aggressive moves throughout the series. He always managed to be portrayed as a put-upon-nice-guy, except during the last challenge, when he revealed himself as an insecure arrogant twerp. On the merits, his furniture arrangements (I wouldn't call them "designs") were always presentable, but they were hardly innovative. They were always dark and predictable. His loft was just tacky looking. I really didn't enjoy seeing the family photos of his swollen wife and drooling child. Carissa seems to have come across badly because she said what she thought, for good or bad. She had the guts to challenge idiots. If it wasn't for her, their team would not have won the party room challenge. Her loft was far superior to Matt's. I don't think the final decision was based on the actual appearance or design of the lofts. It was based on Matt sucking up to (or sucking on) the right people.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 8:56 PM

zoeme wrote:

Hi Todd,

I think you're the sweetest. Your're helpful advices and supportive answers always gave me such joy to watch the show. The way you interacted with the designers inspired me. You have such a graceful, tender way of expressing your thoughts. Splendid. Lovely. I hope there will be another season of Top Design and we get to see you and the other judges together again...

posted on April 12, 2007 at 9:15 PM

Diane wrote:

Todd,
It was a geniune pleasure to watch these people work. I think you had a great group of talented people, and maybe it was more of a test of creative endurance than anything else. I certainly learned a lot and because of this show, I was able to redesign my own living room finding excellent deals in gently preused furniture found at the American Cancer Society Discovery shops. In fact, you could make a challenge where your contestants shop for living room furniture using this store in Southern California, and you would be absolultely astounded with what you can find for $1500 to fill both a small living room/dining room combination. I think Matt was a very worthy winner, but he needs to keep in mind that people do have budgets unless he expects to only work for wealthy people, which may or may not be his future. Anyway, I really enjoyed the show. If the worst behavior I saw was Carissa in a stressful moment or two, that's nothing. Who wouldn't be stressed out! These contestants were all rather well behaved (except for John in the first episode and even he leveled out.)

Good choice in the winner although I thought Carissa also did very well, and she was a very good sport.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 9:27 PM

Kai wrote:

I like Matt's style, but I think Carissa's design was better (except for those Asian pieces-Buddhas or Boddhisativas perhaps which are over-used imo just like people who put on Zen for a trend. I suppose Carissa COULD be Buddhist, but...as a design element it's trop.)

I think Carl did a great job.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 11:45 PM

Kai wrote:

Todd,

I enjoyed watching you work. You are a good mentor/teacher.
You are so pleasant.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 11:46 PM

kittycuz wrote:

The judges continued to contradict themselves this week and show favoritism toward Matt. Last week they advised Carisa to tone it down and when she did she was told her loft design seemed cold. Listening to them did not pay off.

Also, they dissed her black floor, but they made no objections to Matt's black floor.

There was a great bias toward elegance and that seems to be why Matt kept winning, as he knew the judges' tastes and continued to use glass & mirrors. He mentioned that he, wisely, kept the one judge in mind when conceiving his designs.

I liked Carisa's loft, but I have to say that the ping pong table was a wash up as the room looked very bare and probably was her biggest liability.

I also liked Matt's loft, it looked very sleek, particularly the gorgeous glass table. The child's room came across poorly on television since the colors clashed and it was too different from the rest of the loft.

I too tired of Matt continuing to extol his own virtues. He was no team player. He decided a few weeks ago that he was the only one who could use the Hotel room layout that they all came up with, like it was his right. That was a bit narcissistic.

This may be crying over spilled milk, but I found myself wondering what kind of loft Goil would have designed. I bet it would have been fabulous. Too bad he didn't get the chance.

posted on April 12, 2007 at 11:50 PM

Jennifer wrote:

First and foremost: Big CONGRATS to Matt! Both of their lofts were beautiful and they both deserved it. But of course there could only be one Top Design.
Second: Todd, you were an AWESOME host. It took me a while to get hooked on Top Design at first, but you definitely made the journey a lot more fun. You're so talented and down to earth, and by far one of my favorite 'reality tv' hosts. If there is going to be another Top Design, it'll be obvious for you to host again. But just so you're sure, I don't think they could find another to fill your shoes.
This show has been awesome. Thanks!

posted on April 13, 2007 at 12:40 AM

michael wrote:

Thanks Todd!! :)

You are one of the more happy, helpful and fun people to be involved in this show and you prove it once again with these final words.

Though I hope there will be a season 2 and you take a more prominent role in the judging aspect of the game.

Best wishes,
Michael

posted on April 13, 2007 at 2:05 AM

Franc wrote:

When Andrea lost I said I wasn't going to watch again, but I did. I just wanted to see how well Carissa and Matt did with the final design. Carissa's dining room looked just like Andrea's Chef's table or didn't anyone else notice that. Her bed was cute, but how hard would it be to change the covers? Next to Andrea, Matt was my second choice, but I was disappointed in his lack of humility. All in all I thought that Carissa proved to be the better looser! Matt is okay, but he was by no mean perfect!
Top Design need to show better shots of the areas or rooms. Often it is hard to catch all the features they have worked so hard to create!

posted on April 13, 2007 at 10:54 AM

beth wrote:

CONGRATS, MATT!!! I have watched from start to finish. Matt was my choice from get-go. You deserved the Top-Design. Carissa's loft I really thought would give her the top spot because of bed. I was holding my breath the whole time. Can't wait for next season.

posted on April 13, 2007 at 12:20 PM

aubade wrote:

I was really surprised, as I liked Matt's designs best all along..but in the end, I wish Clarissa had won! Her loft was sooo kool. If I had $$$, I would definitely hire her over Matt. Somehow he managed to make his loft look depressing and boring. Carissa's was so much more open, fun, comfotable, and useable looking.

I also think Carissa turned out to be the nicer person in the end. It definitely seemed like the problems she had with her carpenter were a bit of both of them. He did not seem to want to listen to her enough, and was kind of cranky. I don't blame her for not putting up with it. In the end they really came together, and it was nice to see. She also seemed very gracious and truly happy for Matt- whereas he acted like a complete egotistical snob. Which I had kind of noticed all along..especially when he had such a problem getting stuff at garage sales- he is just way too into money. Not everything has to cost a ridiculous amount and have some fancy name on it. People are starving in the world afterall- have some perspective.

All in all though, I have to say Top Design was a great show. I hated the first episode I saw (beach cabana) but then I got sucked in and ended up really enjoying it. I already liked Todd Oldham since I had seen some furniture that he designed & donated to an auction for a nonprofit organization helping homeless people with HIV. Now, I have even more respect for him as a person- he was very nice on the show. Keep it up Todd! :-)

posted on April 13, 2007 at 12:36 PM

Jaime wrote:

CARISSA YOU ARE THE WINNER IN MY BOOK
YOUR DESIGN WAS FANTABULOUS!
I LOVED IT:)
BEING AN INTERIOR DESIGNER I HAVE TO GIVE YOU A BIG ROUND OF APPLAUSE, KEEP UP THE GREAT IDEAS AND DONT LET THOSE "MICHAEL'S" OF THE WORLD EVER BRING YOU DOWN!
YOU GO GIRL!

posted on April 13, 2007 at 12:53 PM

Amelia wrote:

Amen to everything aubade said. Todd was the saving grace of the show, and I should mention that he volunteers for animal welfare also.

Carissa had more patience than I would have with Carl. Do I know him personally? No, so I don't know what he's really like.

But considering the fact that Carisa was in charge, I couldn't believe how disrespectful Carl was towards her. He wouldn't even have been there if Carisa had not chosen him.

Good job, Carisa, and you were ten times more gracious in the end that almost any other reality star out there. I think that sums up your essence perfectly. Good work.

posted on April 13, 2007 at 4:00 PM

carrie smith wrote:

i thought matt's design was boring and his colors were so drab. both lofts looked sterile, and i could not imagine a small child around all of that expensive, drab furniture. I think the IKEA catalog has a lot better design, and more whimsy with prices that an average person could actually afford. Why does one have to spend more on one piece of furniture than most people get to spend on a vehicle in order to gain the approval snobby hoity-toity "judges" who are obviously out of touch with what real people can aspire to.. Why not just call the show what it is "Top design for millionares?"

posted on April 13, 2007 at 5:01 PM

ThymeHBF wrote:

I loved all of you judges but BOY did you make a mistake! Through the whole thing Matt's designs were blah and you CAN'T say that about Carissa. I am older than Matt and I thought his loft was way to old fogey for me!! Carissa should have won for her creativity and appeal for ALL ages!

posted on April 13, 2007 at 6:03 PM

Elizabeth wrote:

Matt's rooms were indeed classy, his comments and graciousness were not. What a classless winner.

posted on April 13, 2007 at 8:44 PM

Michael Schaefer wrote:

i liked matt's designs throughout the show and i liked carissa's too.... but in the end..... the person that should've won for the loft design didn't...and it was quite surprising!....

considering they had better things to say about carissa's than matt's it was a complete spin....and his loft was f*ckin ugly and boring....

if i wanted to hire a designer - i wouldn't want something that looked both cluttered and dull - that wasn't a professional designers work...

i think they chose matt's b/c it was more personal with his photos and his little girl's room - but complete and utter crap it was....

carissa's looks like a loft..... RITSY - uncluttered....and MODERN....

matt's may supposedly have had lots of ritsy stuff - but the way it was all done - it looked like a garbage dump....

and btw - andrea was a snob and her one design in the 8th episdoe was completely horendous - carissa was the right choice to go against matt....

i think this show chose favorites and went from there from the beginning...b/c yah - carissa's design here was ultimately the best for a loft - or for anything that matter - it took more thought and was brilliant - something i'd see on a designer show or magazine - matt's - it's great u can buy furniture - just wish it'd work...

i still love the show - but was totally dumbstrucked by the outcome..... what were they thinking?!!!!

posted on April 13, 2007 at 9:50 PM

Anissa wrote:

Matt's exit video comments were in very poor taste. Carisa's video was unexpectedly gracious. Could it be that during the show's run, Matt's unprofessional behavior was hidden from the cameras while Carisa's behavior was openly displayed? Where they protrayed to maniuplate public opinion in favor of Matt and against Carisa to pump up ratings? I haven't cared for other reality shows because they emphasized conflict. It seems "Top Design" producers have gone the way of lesser shows.

posted on April 13, 2007 at 10:23 PM

Steve wrote:

It all depnds what you are looking for. Matt represented Chicago well. Now Carisa did have a interesting room, but, I wouldn't want to live in it. That bed popped, but, if you had a family it wouldn't work. Now what about Matt's awesome bathroom and kid's room. He consistently came out on top.

posted on April 13, 2007 at 10:30 PM

Boston Mom wrote:

Carissa, you are the real winner. The judges were too afraid of

Matt breaking down in front of the cameras to deny him the

title. Matt will never make it in the business world. Why?

Just listen to his comments from the show. He is mean & nasty

with a super-sized ego. The not so nice part of his personality

will present itself one day to a client and ruin Matt's career.

Talented? Yes. Great? Not at all. He is a phony. And his last

design was pretty boring except for the girl's room.

posted on April 14, 2007 at 1:15 AM

Derek H. wrote:

I agree with what Susan wrote earlier in the note. Looking at the final challenge alone, the task was to design a space that defined the individual and their life. Carissa did just that and in very fuctional way. Mat also designed a reflective loft, but had flaws that I think the judges overlooked based solely on his past performances. Although the room for Mat's Daughter was perfect for her, the rest of the house was extremely impractical for a family with children. Personally I also felt his room was lacking in architecture (as compared to Carissa's)and every room seemed to have a feeling of being slightly incomplete. I also believed the judges placed too much importance on the room looking "expensive". They were given $150,000 budget for a loft, so naturally someone with "expensive tastes" could produce something expensive. My idea of the "Top Designer" was someone innovating and who offered a new way of, well, designing. I don't think the judges shared in my vision.
Thanks

posted on April 15, 2007 at 3:27 AM

Maya wrote:

In the real world, you need not just a brilliant designer but one that will listen to you. If a designer has a huge ego they may be talented but they won't give you the design that you asked for. Huge problem!

I won't say who I think has a huge ego on the show, but I worry about the egotistical hairdresser syndrome, where the stylist gives you the haircut you "should have" instead of the one you asked for.

On a personal note, congrats to Carisa and Elizabeth, my favorite designers. And to Todd for making the show fun and enjoyable to watch.

posted on April 15, 2007 at 1:48 PM

claudia wrote:

i was so happy matt won.i watched all episodes and hoped
the final would be matt and andrea.i love to decorate but
my taste is so different then anyone on that show that its
hard for me to understand the judges.does anyone these days
get into antiques and primitives does everything have to be
contemporary.i also noticed that carissas chairs were just
liked andreas but i think carissa did a great job and was a very
gracious looser.i was disapointed in matts comments in the end.
i thought todd was a wonderful host very encouraging to
everyone.i watch all the other shows top chef and project
runway and todd was the best.

posted on April 15, 2007 at 4:20 PM

Dandridge wrote:

I wish we could have spent more time looking at the final designs. For Matt's bedroom, all we ever did is look in the door at the bed.

After reading Todd's blog, all I can say is, "Todd, you are really a class act!" I too wish we would have seen more of the process and less of the drama.

posted on April 15, 2007 at 5:45 PM

Anna wrote:

Go Matt! I was pleasantly surprised by Carisa's design this time around, but Matt is by far the superior designer. He's both chic and original, which isn't easy.
Mr. Oldham, you were a great host! I hope to see a new set of designers pushing themselves into style frontiers soon. Top Design rocks!

posted on April 15, 2007 at 11:13 PM

mimi wrote:

Hi fellow Top Design fans.. well most of us are happy Matt won.. even though many of us belive that Goil was the true visonary by far (albeit time being his nemesis). Let me remind that one of the guest judges (with normal clothing and hair) said she would take Goil home "this minute" to redo her home. I really do have a problem with one of the regular judges and one of the guest judges their choices of hair and clothing must be noted here. One looks like a lion who stuck her finger in a socket and the other stuck her head in a can of red paint. Sad one has to go to these lengths to be noticed... I could see it if they were college girls.. but over the hill girls.. ridiculous. The point being... I would not unleash them in my home for any amount of money.. O.K. maybe a million.. then I could afford to rip everything out and hire Goil or Matt to redo. I love the show Top Design and can't wait for the next season. I love you Toddy! mimi

posted on April 18, 2007 at 11:45 AM

G.C. wrote:

Carissa won the top design, in respect to the last episode. She glided her way through under the belts through most of the challenges. Although, I appreciate the fact that Carissa was able to adapt and take on diverse designs. She kept alot of her young hip designs, but she also moved up and shifted taking chances. She learned from experience, and took every challenge to a better plateu. Matt had his"Mattness," which was nothing new it's what you expect from any interior design, nothing bold, new, truely uniquely classy. In Matt's designs there was basically the same thing, over and over again. His stuff was nice but, there was no diversity. He would not be able to make something young and hip. The judges were overly bias in the final challenge, you could see the only reasoin they picked Matt was because he was a family man. You had judges from the same age as one of the competitors with there own aspect of family in mind. It's typical and was easily seen. His last design was blah... cubicle... dark... and the daughters room, typical. My own sisters room looks just like it, and it cost us less than $1500. Brought nothing exciting. Goil and Andrea, true top designers. Judges, the fact that you let Micheal slide by so many times with him being the finalist through every challenge, was just the example of lack of better judgement. He had innovative designs but they were horrible, it's like the judges were expecting him to pull some hidden roses out of his ass. Very disappointed, only reason I kept watching was because of Todd and a hope that the judges would judge. Saw a comment below, with a good idea, next time don't let the judges see who's it is, and maybe a more of a variety of judge designers, example: younger, older, hip, conetemporary, styles. Of course they would be experienced. Congrats, Carissa, Goil, and Andrea. Todd you are the best. Oh yeah, Matt is a pompous ass. Not even if he were probono would I allow him to desgin me place.

posted on April 18, 2007 at 8:06 PM

CR wrote:

Sorry - no contest - Carissa's design was much better than Matt's. And we now know that he has no class.

posted on April 23, 2007 at 3:16 PM

Cameron wrote:

Many of those commenting seem to think Carisa was "full of herself," I disagree. I think she is really a good person with a great design aesthetic and she sticks to her style. In her parting interview she was ecstatic for Matt and truely grateful that she made it so far. I honestly liked Carisa's loft better but Matt had some great rooms throughout the the challenges, as did Carisa. all in all I think it was a great TOP DESIGN season.

posted on April 23, 2007 at 4:49 PM

Betsy Kardos wrote:

One of the greatest pleasures of watching Top Design week-to-week was observing Todd Oldham's emergence as a great mentor/host for the show. In the first couple of episodes, he wasn't comfortable in that skin, but by the end we had gotten to know more about him as a person who has a depth of both humor and compassion -- in addition to his FANTASTIC design talent.

Kudos to Todd, and many well-deserved congrats to Matt, who was a wonderful choice.

posted on April 26, 2007 at 5:08 PM

sue wrote:

I couldn't agree more with Susan. Carissa is a much more unique designer and I love her personality, she is so fun and upbeat. Matt on the otherhand is so dry, mundane and very insulting to Carissa.
If he is a true designer, he needs to think outside the box, his designs are so predictable and repatitious. Carissa, you have my vote for the "Top Design Star". You can decorate my house anytime.
Sue

posted on May 1, 2007 at 8:41 PM

Carolyn wrote:

Todd seems so compassionate, I hope he will pass this on to Andrea: I LOVED YOUR WORK. You were inventive, smart, and so far ahead of everyone that nobody got it. E.G. your grass in the bedroom--that was so very advanced, smart, and healthy--and great looking too. Check out the latest Metropolis--they know what you were doing . . .

Keep up the great work!

posted on May 7, 2007 at 10:54 PM

Erika wrote:

what color paint did Matt use? the light blue was amazing!

posted on May 20, 2007 at 12:24 PM

Kymberly wrote:

I really liked the show. My only complaint is No Reunion Show. With all these different personalities it would have been really fun and just what the season needed. I feel Bravo really missed the mark or were just lazy not to have included one. It made me feel while I was watching that Bravo gave up on the show and were just trying to get it over with. Lack of hype or excitement was definitely missing.

posted on May 31, 2007 at 2:26 AM

Phyllis Allen wrote:

I missed the final and unlike top chef which aired continuously i was just able to catch it today 2 months later. I cant believe that Matt's loft beat Carisa's. You need to look at it again guys what were you thinking. Like she was consistantly through the whole thing the final project was better too. Best of luck to you Carisa I loved your work. Especially the Air room. You go Girl.

posted on June 7, 2007 at 11:26 PM

Mary wrote:

I realy liked the shows I saw, however I really would had loved to have seen more individual chanllenges. Most design type shows have a designer and a carpenter, rather than 3-5 people working on one room. Need towatch HGTV's " The next Tv design star" show. The designers did well with what you had to offer them to work with. Can't wait to see season two and more individual challenges... Good Job...

posted on June 11, 2007 at 4:59 AM

kittyfo wrote:

I think Goil should have won! He was extravagant and Original. Matt was just ok but i hated his hotel room and would NOT have stayed in that cold and stark room. Carisa should have won despite having Carl as her Carpenter. Andrea should have been eliminated instead of Goil. I hated her hotel room and her griping about how horrible it was to have earth. Green is an earthy color and it’s not a boring color. She was so caught up in dirt to notice what color grass and leaves are.

posted on July 5, 2007 at 4:58 PM

Lisa wrote:

Wonderfully done, Matt! I grew up in a very small town close to Matt's hometown and am thrilled to see such talent come out of rural Minnesota! We are a fabulous group of folks. Enjoy all that you have earned, Matt!

posted on September 10, 2007 at 8:48 PM

Janet wrote:

I just caught Top Design at the end with the last 4 designers competing.

Although everyone of the designers are very talented in their own right, there was never any doubt who had the talent and it was Matt!! Obviously, come on people!!!! Love Matt!!! Congratulations!

posted on October 24, 2007 at 12:00 PM

Greg wrote:

Top Design ended tonight on the Canadian HGTV channel - I knew that Matt had won. Oy vey - I wonder if he actually does have talent. Too many comments about how he works only with big budgets...blah, blah. Get design happens on all budgets. Besides that - he is one peculiar individual - can't imagine hiring him.

posted on December 4, 2007 at 11:52 PM

SaraD wrote:

It was all in the body language - Matt was one of "them" - style snobs who are so removed from real life you would think "they've got white of egg in their veins". (to quote D.H. Lawrence). Though Todd poses as an everyman - he could barely contain his contempt for anyone who wasn't of his "class". Did you notice how when he went to tell Carisa time was up in the loft challenge - he told her she was "finished"? And did you notice how the jury couldn't look Carisa in the eye when they entered her loft? As if her spark of life might fry them from the inside out. And with Matt, well, they couldn't stop the eye contact.
I just got the end of Top Design here in Canada on HGTV. IMHO, Matt's design was "prematurely old". No life, no energy - just angles and expensive allusions. Everything he's designed looks like he is designing for dead, old Hollywood. Carisa's design sense is full of life, of color, of (dare I say) sensual, even sexual energy. And Goil - he really is the future of design. His hotel room design was expensive and sexy. I could imagine being in that room in Dubai or Tokyo. He is so advanced in his sensibility. Good Luck Goil. I want to get really rich and have you as my designer. In the meantime, don't dumb down, but perhaps you and Carisa could design products for those of us with more style than money.
Matt' sense of entitlement combined with his anorexic body made it difficult to watch him. I hope his daughter and wife aren't simply props in the narrative of his egotistical self. The only thing in his loft that had life was the room for the daughter, so perhaps there is a glimmer of life in the man.

posted on December 5, 2007 at 12:08 AM