Excuse me while I gripe a bit.
I am not one to complain too often, but someone has to point out this television tragedy. As I was watching a program on TLC the other day, I was horrified to see a commercial, for the revamping of Trading Spaces. Their motto basically says, Remember years ago, when people liked this show, and it was hosted by Paige Davis? Well, she's back! Oh, and now ex spouses, and kids and parents will trade rooms. What! I got an immediate knot in my stomach. This show stopped being, even somewhat interesting years ago.
I admit that when Trading Spaces first aired, I though it was fun and creative because the designers had such a novel approach. Unfortunately, the program quickly took a turn for the worst. My personal belief is that this program and others like it are almost completely responsible for poorly designed homes in America. First of all, the idea that any type of design can be done for $1000.00, $500.00, or whatever is absolutely ridiculous. These programs can claim that is all they spend, but just the amount of labor it takes to pull off that kind of work, would blow their budgets out of the water. There have been times I've watched these programs, and known for a fact that what they claim an item costs, is not anywhere close to reality.
The thing that bothers me the most, is not the absurd budgets, but the absolutely HORRIBLE design. The results of these "makeovers", often make me shudder. I find myself thinking that the room looked better before the makeover.
I'm sure some of you are thinking..."Well, if you don't like the programs; don't watch them!" I agree with this statement, but the problem is, how many people out there don't realize just how bad this design is? They think that if they see it on t.v. it must be good.
Wouldn't it be wonderful, if "Design" shows were hosted by actual designers, and not just t.v. personalities? Like, whatever happened to Kenneth Brown's show on HGTV, or Sheila Bridges' program on Fine Living? Their programs were very interesting, and their designs were great.
I am not one to complain too often, but someone has to point out this television tragedy. As I was watching a program on TLC the other day, I was horrified to see a commercial, for the revamping of Trading Spaces. Their motto basically says, Remember years ago, when people liked this show, and it was hosted by Paige Davis? Well, she's back! Oh, and now ex spouses, and kids and parents will trade rooms. What! I got an immediate knot in my stomach. This show stopped being, even somewhat interesting years ago.I admit that when Trading Spaces first aired, I though it was fun and creative because the designers had such a novel approach. Unfortunately, the program quickly took a turn for the worst. My personal belief is that this program and others like it are almost completely responsible for poorly designed homes in America. First of all, the idea that any type of design can be done for $1000.00, $500.00, or whatever is absolutely ridiculous. These programs can claim that is all they spend, but just the amount of labor it takes to pull off that kind of work, would blow their budgets out of the water. There have been times I've watched these programs, and known for a fact that what they claim an item costs, is not anywhere close to reality.
The thing that bothers me the most, is not the absurd budgets, but the absolutely HORRIBLE design. The results of these "makeovers", often make me shudder. I find myself thinking that the room looked better before the makeover.
I'm sure some of you are thinking..."Well, if you don't like the programs; don't watch them!" I agree with this statement, but the problem is, how many people out there don't realize just how bad this design is? They think that if they see it on t.v. it must be good.
Wouldn't it be wonderful, if "Design" shows were hosted by actual designers, and not just t.v. personalities? Like, whatever happened to Kenneth Brown's show on HGTV, or Sheila Bridges' program on Fine Living? Their programs were very interesting, and their designs were great.
What if Apartment Therapy, produced a television show? That would be so cool, Or maybe; Domino Magazine. Talk about two sources that have their finger on the pulse of modern design, never mind their huge built-in following. What about a reality show based on the life of Kelly Wearstler? Imagine, following the style icon as she works on her amazing projects, while looking as fabulous as she does. I would kill to watch that! If there are any t.v. execs. reading this, here are a few suggestions from me.
I realize that not many designers can uproot their lives and businesses, to make a television program, but it would be nice if producers could offer a little more than goofy design for tiny budgets. Perhaps, I am only dreaming; but there is nothing wrong with that. I guess for now I wait for the few weeks a year when Top Design, airs.O.K. now that I have that out of my system, I will go back to being my more positive self :)
