Finally caught last weeks episode of Bravo's Top Design. The one where the contestants team up to design a bomb shelter.
The question: was it the bomb?
So what do I think? A few thoughts.
Judges. What works so well on Project Runway is that the judges are both expert, and likable. How can you NOT love Heidi Klum and Michael Kors? I want to hang with them. They know their stuff and they are likable. Even when they are being brutal. Nina Garcia is perhaps the least effusive but she has a quiet elegance about her. And she doesn't wear silly hats. Now really!
The judges of Top Design are not so likable or real. It seems like they are trying to hard. I guess Tod Oldham is taking on the Tim Gunn role. But he's neither as brutally honest nor as lovable as he dispenses advice such as: edit or looks like a dorm room. He's a good addition to the show but he needs to find his voice. I love Tim Gunn for his sage wisdom. But I don't love any of the judges on Top Design.
In the real world of interior design, it's just not possible to design a good room in such a short amount of time. There are too many considerations for lifestyle, taste and availability of products. So as an insider, a run through Pier One like that is just crazy talk. (Are they an advertiser?)
Maybe fashion designers feel the same way about all the gluing and pinning in the "finished" garments on Project Runway. On that show I can look the other way. It's entertainment. But Top Design? Not loving it. I think I'll keep watching until I am sure.
The one thing I took away from the show to point out to my readers is that the designers did a good job of considering the ceiling. I recall a fabric treatment, reflective wall paper, and contrasting paint. So if a room in your home calls for it, why not do something fun?
What are your thoughts about Top Design? Do you like the judges? Do you like the show? The contestants? Would love to hear what you have to say.
