Maybe it has just run its course, but I am not feeling this fifth season of HGTV Design Star. Contestants are all about playing the game, and I think they know less about design than I DO! As of the sixth episode – with the hideous blueberry bathroom, I still don’t have a clear cut favorite. In fact, I couldn’t link a decent design style to any of the remaining designers if my life depended on it.

Then, there are the judges. Candace, I love you and your style, but how can you, of all people, criticize a designer for doing the same thing again and again? Really, my dear. You’re the queen of sectionals, sparkly chandeliers, zero clearance fireplaces and mirrored bookcases. And Vern? You don’t have a leg to stand on either. Every pillow you have ever put in any space has had a square motive – a tan and gray square motive. Now, Genevieve, you’ve got some range as a designer and I think that comes from your Trading Spaces days. You know how to do a lot with a little money. So, you’ve got cred.

As a former TV producer, I was floored that Nina went home in episode five. She was the drama creator and drama is what producers want, especially for that production company. I thought they’d keep her longer. I also wonder if they cut the budget for the challenges – or if the designers really suck that bad.

Overall the structure of the judging and the challenges are painful. We’ll see if I watch any more of it. I hate Vern, by the way. He is an asshole.

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