Starting another thread since the other was gigantic...

-- Anonymous, March 11, 2002

Answers

I'd always suspected that there were extra people helping (sewing coordinators, carpentry assistants), and all the "behind the scenes" stuff I read here certainly confirms that. This bothers me in that it totally negates what is supposed to be the whole premise of the show. I'd rather see the honest efforts of 2 homeowners, a designer, and half a carpenter... to me, that's worth watching. Let's see exactly WHAT they can manage to accomplish all on their own!

If they'd be honest about the true manner in which the renovations were done, I'd still watch. But... I feel lied to.

And am I the only person who is irritated by the fact that they all call Amy "Amy Wynn?" At first I thought her name was "Amy Lynn," which made sense. But why can't they just call her Amy? What's with the Wynn?

-- Anonymous, March 11, 2002

Is Amy Wynn from the south maybe? We like the unusual two part names around here.

-- Anonymous, March 11, 2002

Hey fellow TS fans, It's so cool to find other people addicted as much to the show as me. My roommate got me watching and now I have my boyfriend hooked. He won't admit it though. I found this article about someone who went to a TS shoot to watch. It's quite interesting..

http://www.bluearmadillo.net/journal/2001/06/22.shtml

-- Anonymous, March 12, 2002

Isn't Amy married?

'Cause I think Wyn is her maiden name. That's why everyone calls her Amy Wyn, but the credits list her as Amy Wyn Pastor.

I'm just guessing, though. Realy, I'd hope she wasn't married.

-- Anonymous, March 12, 2002

They call her Amy Wynn because Amy Wynn is her name. Like Mary Beth or Ann Marie or Sue Ellen. That's her name. Pastor is her last name. She's single.

-- Anonymous, March 12, 2002

Could anyone tell what kind of stove top Gen painted? If it was electric with raised burners it could be painted without affecting the performance. Maybe a gas range too. But a glass or ceramic top stove would be ruined.

I have nothing to say about the straw on the wall that hasn't already been said. But if I ever see Hilda? I'll smack her.

-- Anonymous, March 12, 2002

I don't know what kind of paint Gen used - I only saw bits and pieces of the show - but it IS possible to paint appliances effectively but only if you use appliance paint, made specifically for that purpose. Somehow though, I'm guessing she just slapped some interior latex on that thing.

-- Anonymous, March 12, 2002

a)thanks for rolling this thread over

2)i've seen a lot in my time but i can honestly say without hyperbole that im a million times more excited about seeing the repeat of the hay episode. missed it first time around.

e)a hay wall would fail any fire inspection, they should sue for damages. i'm serious, not for millions but for their time, say 10K, just to give the trading spaces producers a wake up call. i know they signed a release but those things arent worth crap if you violate building regulations (or at least they shouldnt be). if you could get 3 million for spilling coffee on your lap a hay wall should be worth a few bucks.

6) still dont get the amy wynn thing. paige is cuter, annoying yes, but who isnt on that show?

-- Anonymous, March 12, 2002

Gen did say something about demagnatizing the refrigerator and she was using spray paint on it which I believe appliance paint comes as. I'm fairly certain if their stove was inoperable they would have mentioned it in the article. The reference seemed more to just allude that they found it odd. As did I. She did the room in white, blue and yellow. The stove top was white already. Do the appliances really all have to match, especially when they are the only black in the room and looked really out of place?

-- Anonymous, March 12, 2002

If you're right, Slickery, that's cool. Like I said, I was just guessing... and hoping she wasn't.

-- Anonymous, March 13, 2002

I've heard of suspension of disbelief, but what they expect us to do on TS is ridiculous! The designers say goodnight and assign their homework, and then leave for the evening, and they reappear in the "morning" WEARING THE SAME CLOTHES! Do they think we don't realize this? (I think Gen probably would wear the same clothes two days in a row in real life, though!)

-- Anonymous, March 13, 2002

According to the FAQ at discovery.com, they do ask the cast to wear the same clothes both days because later they can edit out of order sequences.

-- Anonymous, March 13, 2002

Okay here's an article in the San Francisco gate concerning the aftermath of the Straw Wall house. $3000 dollars and a choking baby.

-- Anonymous, March 13, 2002

Re: the sfgate.com article about the Oakland houses - I live across the bay from Oakland so this story got a lot of coverage here and I was agog when I first read about this. Hay on the walls? What? And the homeowners apparently have about 2% input on the design contrary to how it seems when you watch the show. Bleh.

-- Anonymous, March 14, 2002

ok, so i finally saw the hay episode on yesterday's repeat. it was just as bad as i thought it would be. funny, because hilde did my favorite room (the one with the gray walls and wood panel suspended ceiling) and now she has done my least favorite. it was sloppy, cheap, ridiculous, just plain awful. and as for gen's kitchen, fine except for the spray paint on the appliances. i own a paint shop (spray cars). i cringe at their technique. can't they at least read the directions on the cans. you cant sit still and spray, run city. anyway, wish me luck, im applying for a mortgage today. and if i get it trading spaces crew will be shot on sight if they come on my property ( or at least what i hope will be my property)

-- Anonymous, March 15, 2002

Doing a random search of "Trading Spaces" lead me to this thread which I find quite amusing. Have to say a few things though:

I HATEHATEHATEHATED Alex. She was such a biznitch. Paige is light years better.

Gen is my favorite designer. I trust her with anything in my house.

Hilda is now my least favorite designer. Her stuff just keeps getting worse. Doug is hit or miss, but mostly miss. I did LOVE his room that the woman ran off screen and cried about. I thought it was very cool.

I'm glad more people noticed that the show has changed from a how-to show into something MUCH different. I like it better now but the most recent episodes (Season 3?) are getting a bit strange....

PLEASEPLEASEPLEASE bring back Dez. At least her stuff was original *ahem*vern*cough*ahem*.

The episode that was just on had Doug and Gen. Gen's room was *of course* perfect. Doug went overboard, as usual. I liked the sofa, though.

-- Anonymous, March 16, 2002

Just saw the Willoughby ep. Wasn't that the dude with the late night talk show on Comedy Central? The crazy one who would strip? I'm positive it was him. (I missed the beginning of the show, where they might have explained.)

-- Anonymous, March 17, 2002

"I HATEHATEHATEHATED Alex. She was such a biznitch."

Blasphemy!

-- Anonymous, March 17, 2002

Yes, to answer my earlier question two posts up, the one dude from the Willoughby ep *is* the dude with the show on Comedy Central: http://www.comedycentral.com/tv_shows/chris_wylde/

I'm not a big Doug fan, but I have to say he looked really hot at Willoughby.

-- Anonymous, March 17, 2002

I thought Doug's room was fun. Over the top but fun. I am torn about whether I could live with it or not but it definitely seemed to go with the furniture they already had.

I loved Gen's room. I've decided Gen would be the Trading Spaces designer for me.

-- Anonymous, March 17, 2002

Am I the only one who hated Hildi's blue "orthogonal" basement room? It looked too Logan's Run for my taste. The dark blue walls, the dark blue ceiling, and the powder blue carpet...ugh. Also, the only thing she really did, besides tape and paint, was put up a curtain and stick everything behind it. I don't know what I was expecting, but I wouldn't last more than a few minutes in that room; it does not look inviting. (Maybe because I'm over 30, and in a Logan's Run world I would already be "recycled.")

On the other hand, I agree with Melissa about Gen's Cuban MOMA room. It was fab. I think I would have liked to see a furry white rug or something on the floor, rather than just the black floor, but maybe they ran out of money.

-- Anonymous, March 17, 2002

how could anyone live in the red/white room doug designed? i just don't understand. gen's room was cool, but thought she should have gotten rid of the futon.

-- Anonymous, March 17, 2002

I thought it was funny that Doug was working with younger, cool people, and just happened to ditch his normal 'Dockers' look for the vinyl pants!

-- Anonymous, March 18, 2002

is it just me or did i see doug's room in a Target commercial? but i kinda liked it. my suggestions to the designers of trading spaces 1) dont paint decent furniture 2)dont paint wall paper 3)dont paint the floor or the ceiling 4)slapping some lousy doodles in a frame doesnt make it art. 5)use more straw, hilde really opened up my eyes. Hay, it's not just for horses anymore.

-- Anonymous, March 18, 2002

The hay walls sucked, but it's a classic already! Whenever something in our house pisses me off (including my husband,) I threaten to glue hay on it. As for the walls, I imagine gluing random things on them depending on what I'm holding: yarn, lettuce, cat fur.... I've never gotten this much comedic mileage from one of Vern's designs. Hildi really brightened up my week with that moronic hay idea.

-- Anonymous, March 18, 2002

C'mon guys, all the designers rock. They all have strengths, weaknesses, quirks and annoyances. I have loved and hated something each of them has done at some point...even Dez!

A FEW PREDICTIONS FOR NEXT SEASON:

Paige will grow on everyone ...Like a cute little wart.

Frank, Doug and Vern will all come flying out of the closet. Not that it's a bad thing.

Ty and Gen will knock boots (literally) back in the hotel room after a few too many drinks in the hotel bar discussing "homework." Amy Wynn will inadvertently walk in and join them.

Laurie will continue to be a true lady...except for in the bedroom.

Hilde will continue to try to be a lady, but that broom will keep getting in the way. Not to mention the pearls.

They will go to Alex McLeod's house to tape an episode. Her snit fits will finally be caught on film, sabatoging her chances of winning an Oscar for her role in a major feature film.

Dez will get caught robbing a 7-Eleven. In prison, she will make lamps from cigarettes to keep herself sane.

-- Anonymous, March 19, 2002

This show has pulled me in like an old Hoover vacuum cleaner. I know it's somewhat fake, because nobody in their right mind could ever expect to have a room truly redone for a thousand dollars, but I still love to watch them try. When I first stumbled onto this televised gold mine, I wondered just how long the various additions to the room would last. I'm betting that most of the stuff isn't built to last much longer than the reveal. Like someone said earlier in the thread, at least it gives some folks different ideas for their homes.

When my wife and I first watched this show, I must have said "the designers are fun, but Paige and her cam are annoying the hell out of me" at least three different times. I have since learned that she is an actress who seems to specialize in musicals. That explains the contrived energy. Hey kids, why don't we put on a show?

I love what people will do just to get on TV.

-- Anonymous, March 19, 2002

one other thing .... Did you folks have as much fun as me watching the Hollywood comedian get on Doug's nerves?

-- Anonymous, March 19, 2002

FYI - there is an article in this week's issue of Entertainment Weekly about TS. A lot of the focus is on the Seattle episode and the "danger" of Doug's design. The funniest thing is that at the end of the article, EW asks Doug whether he would allow TS to design a room in his home and, crying with laughter, he says, "Are you crazy?".

-- Anonymous, March 19, 2002

In response to Sean, regarding what people will do just to get on television...while I'm sure there are those with cynical motives, I think that many of the homeowners who participate in the show are fans like the rest of us who are eager to work with their favorite designers. They are not as clued-in about the deceptive quality that a mere $1,000 brings to a room. And besides, it looks like fun. Before I decided to get online and research the show, I had no idea there were so many controversies. I could tell that some folks were unhappy with their results, but I didn't realize just how bad some of these renovations were (as in posing dangers). I don't read the magazines that have been running stories on TS...it's easy to miss. Just wanted to throw that in there, to stick up for some of the people who have participated.

-- Anonymous, March 19, 2002

Great call, Julie. It's almost as fun to watch the different tastes and temperments of the homeowners as it is to watch the designers and forever complaining carpenters. Sure, the final edited production we see on TV is different from the homeowners' experience (sewing coordinators, duct-taped furniture, repeating things for the cameras), but that's what television is, right? Reality can be quite mundane. Contrived reality makes much better television.

-- Anonymous, March 19, 2002

I hate to make a blanket statement, but I have not seen a Doug episode yet where I could not resist the urge to dropkick him across the nearest Home Depot parking lot. His prima donna schtick of never lifting a finger if he can bitch-sneer the homeowners into doing it for him is just retchworthy.

Maybe he's a sweetheart, and it's all an act...

yeah, right.

I hate all his rooms, too, by the way.

-- Anonymous, March 20, 2002

Nancy, I have to say that I agree with you about Doug acting like a real jerk most of the time. His personality just plain sucks.

But I do like his rooms. I think his rooms usually turn out really cool. (exception: the home theatre episode!)

I also, for some odd reason, like watching him. I think he's the guy that everyone loves to hate! :)

-- Anonymous, March 20, 2002

Does anyone know where Hildi got the doll cut-outs for the child's table she did?

-- Anonymous, March 20, 2002

Re: the previous question about the doll table. If it is the episode that I am thinking about (the table where the dolls are holding hands around the edge of it) then the dolls were hand drawn by the homeowner. I believe that the team was a mother and teenage daughter and the daughter drew the design for the little girl's table. She definently has more talent then I have for free-hand drawing.

-- Anonymous, March 20, 2002

Carina Chocano of Salon.com has written an article on TLC's ultra reality shows, which include TS. Haven't finished reading it yet, but Carina is always entertaining:

http://www.salon.com/ent/tv/diary/2002/03/21/tlc/index.html

-- Anonymous, March 20, 2002

I WANT YOU, YOU, YOU, AND YOU OFF THIS WEB SITE NOW!!!!!!!!! YOU NOT WELCOME ANY MORE.

-- Anonymous, March 21, 2002

^^ What's her problem? ^^

"If it is the episode that I am thinking about (the table where the dolls are holding hands around the edge of it) then the dolls were hand drawn by the homeowner."

I thought they were printed out...

-- Anonymous, March 21, 2002

I don't know what that girl's problem is. Man, some people...

-- Anonymous, March 22, 2002

Do they even air first season episodes anymore? I never see them.

-- Anonymous, March 23, 2002

I love this board! I am so glad I found it...have been reading and laughing through the entire thing. One comment, I am watching Paige's A Wedding Story right now.....PAIGE PLEASE STOP CRYING! I thought I was emotional....she takes the prize.

-- Anonymous, March 23, 2002

I also watched Paige's Wedding Story after Trading Spaces - I was embarrassed for her. Those tears were pretty phoney if you ask me. Perhaps from the heart when talking about her grandma but otherwise I think it was her best acting yet (and that isn't saying much). Also, how long would it have taken her to walk down the aisle if she had to stop 17 times to get a flower. The ironic thing is she always natters, bitches, squaks and complains on TS about the time and doing things efficiently and she takes god knows how long to walk down the aisle. Prior to watching her corny wedding I was pretty much sitting on the fence on whether or not I liked her (most seem not to) now I have whole-heartedly leapt onto the anti-Paige side. What a dork!

-- Anonymous, March 23, 2002

OMG!! I'm watching Mindy Paige Page's "Wedding Story." What a crying, simpering sob-fest! I think the tears from both of them could have filled that backyard pool! Very sappy indeed.

-- Anonymous, March 23, 2002

Ponderings - were the wedding rings from Grandpa? - when will Divorce Story be airing, anyone know? - is that dude really straight?

-- Anonymous, March 24, 2002

So what did yout think of Hildy's "Nautical Dining Table-inspired" condo room with all the vertical wood "stripes?"

As an idea, I liked it but NOT I repeat NOT with black as the underlying color!!! Sheesh, woman!! The male H.O. hated it, you could tell. He kept saying he "wasn't sure if he liked it yet." Ladies, we know what that means, don't we?

I liked Frank's room for those people. I think they got his style and liked all the painted touches.

What I think makes Frank's rooms ususally work better is that he makes a strong attempt each time to not just tranform the space, he keeps in mind that actual people will be living there. His need to provide art objects, painted finishing touches, and other stuff makes the finished room still look like a home rather than a photo in a design magazine.

The other TS designers get so hung up on the "Design" (with a capital D) they forget that it's still got to function as a living space once those trucks roll out.

-- Anonymous, March 24, 2002

God, did you see those dorky sofas that Broom Hilde had Ty build on last nights episode. Who the hell could sit on those lame things and be comfortable. I cracked up when Ty first tried them out (you had to see it). Note the Male homeowners question "Wheres my couches?" Paige says "You have new couches!" Geez.......Thanks.....I think. And the "The walls are Black!" statement, and Paige says "is that a problem?" Come on Paige, use the noggin! Its definately not one of her worst projects though. It just amazes me because she really does think she has Talent. Check out her bio at TLC's website. Its titled "I Love Me"

-- Anonymous, March 24, 2002

"Broom Hilde"

Heh-Heh... That's great. The Nautical room wasn't that bad. It actually looked kinda nice. Not sure about the black, though.

-- Anonymous, March 24, 2002

Hilde has obviously lost her damn mind. Her wannabe tiki room -- the fabric looked cheap and scratchy, the couches had a huge gap between the 45-degree angled cushion and the rest of it and looked uncomfortable, and during the reveal, behind the wife, you could see black paint slopped all over the white trim. Also on one wall, the tiki planks didn't even go all the way down to the floor, and there were walls in the entry painted black that didn't have planks at all. Even if you liked the concept, the execution was horrible.

I thought Frank's work on the other room was really good, and matched their style very well. But I wouldn't have covered up the wife's cool tack box.

-- Anonymous, March 25, 2002

Mark, dude I have to agree with you, Paige's husband is no way straight...He seemed way to comfortable in makeup. Paige really cried all through that "Wedding Story" episode wait til her husband comes out.

-- Anonymous, March 25, 2002

I live in Laguna Beach and let me tell you it is chilly here at night, especially in the winter. Uh...hello...a sub floor with no rug? BRRRRRRRRRR! And Ow! for the child that falls on it. I thought Frank was more sensitive to those little tykes' needs.

I think someone before said that the show has changed since the first season and I agree. It used to be more about the process of the projects--how to make the different pieces or do the different treatments. Now it's more strutting and one-liners. That isn't to say that I will stop watching on a daily basis.

I wonder if any of the producers peruse these forums. What would I say to them if I could? Need to think about that for a little while.

-- Anonymous, March 25, 2002

Well, they can always install new carpet or flooring, right?

-- Anonymous, March 26, 2002

Someone once said that they thought that Hilda and Ty were a couple? Do you think this is true? I like Ty but I'd rather see Amy... She can really work a power tool!! Has anyone seen Alex?

-- Anonymous, March 26, 2002

Olivia (first of all I just love your name!!!) I absolutely agree with you on the Paige thing. As soon as she came on the show I got a bad feeling. She is sooo whiny and dorky. Sometimes I just want to pinch her!!

-- Anonymous, March 26, 2002

Wouldn't that room with the black and wood walls have looked wonderful if Hilde had done a simple faux finish in yellow on the walls. I just hate her designs and her attitude. That was such a cheap and ugly look.

-- Anonymous, March 26, 2002

I agree Joyce.. that was UGLY. Did you see the episode where she missed up the fireplace with stones? I wouldn't let her near my house that's for sure.

-- Anonymous, March 26, 2002

All the couches they build always looks so cheap and flimsy.

Except for the ones Amy builds that is... heheh...

-- Anonymous, March 26, 2002

Hello! Man, I have no idea how I stumbled across this thread, oh yeah, I was doing a search on the hottest carpenter in the world, TY! But, this is amazing, I had NO idea that this many people were just as obsessed with TS as me. I have actually sat here and read all your wonderful comments, and I think that it has taken me at least an hour, if not an hour and a half. (Hel-LO, No life ALERT!)

But, I have to disagree with yall about Hilde. I think that she's great, she knows what she likes, and she know's what she's doing (I loved the beach-inspired bedroom with the grass). I mean, who doesn't have bad-design days (yes, I know, that DAMN straw shit...) Anyways, I like her alot, even if she wears stilettos while painting.

And, Doug is a MAJOR hottie too!! I liked his TARGET-inspired room, did someone say that the homeowner on that one is on Comedy Central? He was cute, too.

Does anyone know whereabout Ty lives in Atlanta, or where his Carpentry business is? I'm from Atlanta, and I might just have to have him come and build me a deck or something! :)

Oh, one more thing, Franks stuff is terrible! Well, no, let me take that back, he does cute kids rooms. But, his "Shakespearian" ideas are awful. And, the matching doggie bed, COME ON....

-- Anonymous, March 26, 2002

"I was doing a search on the hottest carpenter in the world, TY!"

Excuse me, but I think the hottest carpenter in the world is Amy Wyn... Oh wait, you're a woman... nevermind...

-- Anonymous, March 26, 2002

Well I think that Amy Wyn is the hottest carpenter in the world and I'm a woman.. and my husband agrees. Don't get me wrong, I'm strait as an arrow but she looks great in a tool belt!!!

-- Anonymous, March 27, 2002

ohoh trouble, im starting to get bored with trading spaces. i started watching for design ideas then i realized they are not that great. and the disregard for peoples homes turns me off. guess i'll have to watch something else or god forbid pick up a book. arrgghhh!!!! p.s. who would win in a steel cage death battle royale death match? i'd say hilde would be killed first and the winner would be the seattle homeowner (y'know, the "cryer") or the two hay lesbians.

-- Anonymous, March 27, 2002

I didn't mean to start a rumor about Ty and Hilde, I was just curious as to whether or not anyone knew if they were an item. I swear they flirt all the time and it seems like he'd bend over backwards for her but not always the other designers. Maybe they're just friends, but I think they'd be a cute couple (I know, I know, nobody likes Hilde, but she and Ty would be a perfect ego-match).

-- Anonymous, April 01, 2002

Nancy - Your post of March 24th 2002 is a very accurate statement. I don't think I could have said it any better myself, I think it really echos a lot of peoples thoughts.

-- Anonymous, April 01, 2002

Are you all blind?! Ty is a complete prick! All he ever those is roll his eyes and complain. And he is NOT cute. And that is not just in my humble opinion. Come on, look at him closer. He is not ugly, but surely not hot either. And those it matter that some of the designers seem to be homosexual. Those that mean that their sexuality is important when depicting their designs? Also, if the designs come out a bad mess, then it is more the home owners fault that it is the actual designers. They are the ones that give up a room in their house to let a complete stranger design their house without giving in any input. And also, you all must be living in the bunnies, if you don't agree with most of the designs. Because most of them are not even original. That is how we city people live. Clean lines and absolutely no faux finishes or cutesy little drawings on the walls. No offense Frank.

-- Anonymous, April 01, 2002

I wish I could live in the "bunnies."

-- Anonymous, April 01, 2002

Gee Sarah, for someone so refined, the use of the word "those" in your post is quite interesting. Maybe your from the Bunnies (wherever that is).

-- Anonymous, April 02, 2002

Ahh... I remember spending long summers as a kid down in the bunnies... Those were the days...

-- Anonymous, April 02, 2002

The bunnies - what's that about? Did I miss something here?

-- Anonymous, April 02, 2002

Read Sarah Reaux's post.

-- Anonymous, April 02, 2002

Sorry, I meant the boonies not the "bunnies," I am sure that you all knew what I meant.

-- Anonymous, April 02, 2002

Saw the episode where Hilde replaced the ceiling tiles with wood. There sure was some bad blood between Hilde and the Daughter. I can't stand Hilde really or her work, but I must give credit where credit is due, her room really looked fairly good this time. She didn't have any strange ideas. Vern's Shueng fein (or however you spell that) theme was also very tastefull. Amy sure didn't like cutting those tiles!

-- Anonymous, April 02, 2002

I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to have Vern decorate my home. I think his style is very classy. Plus, he's easy on the eyes *grin*

-- Anonymous, April 02, 2002

Hmm... I didn't get 'boonies' from 'bunnies', but to each his own.

And it's Feng Shui.

-- Anonymous, April 02, 2002

In response to someone's observation, some posts above...more than once I've noticed what appears to be flirting between Hildi and Ty-- enough to make me think "Get a room already and spare us, please."

Sarah, your "bunnies" slip was cute, and yes, I knew what you meant.

-- Anonymous, April 03, 2002

but I have to disagree with you, Sarah, that cityfolk have dibs on good taste, and that good taste is always clean lines. Clean lines as an interior design style developed out of the limited space of urban apartments. Out in the bunnies, there's more room to be whimsical. So why not?

-- Anonymous, April 03, 2002

So did I hear correctly? People are coming to live on us? I am certain that the majority of us will be squished by your human weight. We will be glad to share some carrots and give directions to that nasty turtle's house. He has a hard shell. You can go live on him.

Speaking of, I think Hilde might eat a bunny just to make a small child c

-- Anonymous, April 03, 2002

..it cut off. it should have read "I think Hilde would eat a bunny just to make a small child cry .

-- Anonymous, April 03, 2002

^^ Ha-Ha ^^

I've been watching Changing Places (that's the name, right?) and Ground Force lately.

They're both really good shows, but I wish Changing was longer. And some of those Brits are hard to understand!

But then there's Anna... Mmm... Anna...

-- Anonymous, April 04, 2002

Some of you might want to check out Television Without Pity's new area for recaps and discussions about Trading Spaces as well.

-- Anonymous, April 04, 2002

I just saw a re-run where Alex was expressing her "Queen-Bee-Diva" side. Frank was making a pretty hokey mirror with nailpolish and sheet metal, so Alex decided to sit down and get a manicure. Frank proceeded to gush about how he frequently gave his wife manicures, while Alex gazed at her newly ruby digits. It was comedy. There was also an incredible shot where Gen stood up and her cleavage poured out of her top, ooops! The rooms turned out nicely.

-- Anonymous, April 04, 2002

okay okay, if i paint my room cement gray what color should my blankets and curtains be? beige? want something a little more lively, suggestions?

-- Anonymous, April 05, 2002

I have created a new word for a room that has been horrendously designed: Hildacious. Perhaps some day it will be in included in Webster's dictionary.

It was difficult not to scream at the TV when Hilda put hay on the walls. Or ripped out a beautiful mantel. Or covered up two perfectly good windows which are part of the design in an Arts & Crafts style home, and, uh, add light and air to a room. Light and air are Good Things. Or added PINK plaster to a perfectly good ceiling. And all of this horridness cost considerable time and money to repair. It's just plain nasty. Their homeowners insurance should have covered it as an act of vandalism.

I believe Hilda is the only designer who has NO training. Too bad she has no sense, either. It's a dangerous combination.

I hope she never has kids. Some people just shouldn't. If she can't intuitively understand the needs of children at her age, she never will.

I read she is originally from Raleigh. As a Raleigh resident, I am glad she left. I think she does a great disservice to designers everywhere and certainly to the TS show's ability to get more victims to participate. Who would want to hire a designer -- or participate in the show -- if there's a chance in a million you'd end up with a room like the ones she designed? I believe ONCE -- recently -- she designed a room a homeowner would like. It probably killed her.

There is nothing wrong homeowners being surprised with new, exciting, beautiful designs they may never have considered. But it's really sick to see an innocent couple's home destroyed in that way.

It's too bad the show can't just show how a room can be vastly IMPROVED with $1,000. I plan to re-do my family room. With hand-sewn drapes, slipcovers, paint, a new area rug, inexpensive art, and things moved around, I'll spend less than $1,000 and the room will look totally different -- and great. And I won't even have to destroy anything. Imagine.

Well that's enough meowing from me. (And the others: I love Laurie, Frank, Vern, and Amy Wynn. But Gen, Doug and Ty seem self-absorbed. I don't think Paige is that bad. She grows on you. Thought it was Paige- overload to have her "wedding story" and avoided it.) Okay. Time for me to get a life.

-- Anonymous, April 05, 2002

How is Gen self-absorbed?

I agree with you on Ty and Doug, though.

-- Anonymous, April 05, 2002

I defenitly do not agree with Mrs. Romance on the "Gen is self absorbed" comment. Gen has never been anything but "sweetness and sunshine" on that show. While her designs may not be to your liking, and this very possibly could be influencing your opinion, she as a person (as far as we know her from good ol' television) is very kind, and very compassionate. She is always interested in TS guests input, she is constantly hugging, hand-holding, and even kissing her TS clients. She has never said a thing to convey that she is even remotely self absorbed, and I think that is an atrocious and completely unfounded accusation. Gen is so caring, and so "real" on that show, she is the girl you love to love! She doesn't ever come off as uninterested unapproachable, she takes everyone on that show and makes it her job to have fun. Surely a self-absorbed person *cough* *hilde* would not take the time to make an attempt to accomidate (sp?) and make the TS guests who are almost always just regular humans who don't spend alot of time on camera feel comfortable. She doesn't even wear shoes on the show because she "doesn't want to get a pair of perfectly good shoes dirty, cause hey, feet can be washed!" (rough quote) As for Doug, he does seem to be somewhat self-interested, but I think this can be often confused with his very passive aggressive tendancies. So "Mrs.Romance," I am curious as to why you would be compelled to call her self-absorbed. You sound more like a "Mrs. Fridgid" to me...

-- Anonymous, April 06, 2002

Yes, I agree that Doug is self absorbed, but not Gen! I have to agree with polyester polka dot in that expect. You are so correct about Hilde though. If the producers of the show would focus more energy on showing us viewers how to actually tastefully improve a room and not wreck it! I know thats a matter of opinion but come on! Some of things that are done are definately for the Drama aspect. Take the HO's likes and dislikes and build on them. My wife and I hired a designer a few years back to help us change our living room. She did a great job with colours and room ideas. We were quite happy and it was worth the money we spent. Just because the HO's signed up for a free room makeover on Trading Spaces, it shoudn't mean a free ticket for the designer to showcase his or her so called talents. Lets make the most important people in the Show happy. The Homeowner! However with that said, there has been some real nice rooms on TS also. I really like Laurie, Vern, Frank and Gen (however after the moss episode...........I attributed that to momentary brain fart). Should be a good one tonight. I saw the preview where Vern was sledge hammering a dining room wall ledge.....and Laurie will do a basement. Two of my favorite designers, should be a gooder.

-- Anonymous, April 06, 2002

Yeah, I want to see those episodes tonight too.

They're also showing the episode where Doug made a theater. I've never seen that one.

And I'm glad I'm not the only one who thought Gen was cool.

-- Anonymous, April 06, 2002

I like Gen and (some) of her designs. Can't wait until tonight though and catch the home theater episode..

-- Anonymous, April 06, 2002

ahh yes, the home theatre episode. Never saw it either. Doug does it, so it may be interesting to see what design he comes up with. I saw his Pullman Car Bedroom last week. The Male HO loved it, however the Female hated it and why wouldn't she. It had absolutely nothing that would appeal to most women's tastes. Why not just put a racing car bed in the room.....

-- Anonymous, April 06, 2002

The Pullman Car room was an absolute disaster. All that heavy fabric?!? The room was a fire hazard. It was awful, dark, and stuffy. Imagine the dust that would collect on the folds of the material. Yuck.

-- Anonymous, April 06, 2002

Hey Lee......if Hilde thinks she could really gain any business by showcasing her terrible roomson this show..me thinks she really is a dumb stupid bitch

-- Anonymous, April 06, 2002

Personally I would rather watch Amy Wynn rather than Ty. No offense to those who think different ( that way I don't get a thousand e- mails about how wrong I am)but it seems like amy is more serious in her work than ty is he tends to screw around alot. Along with the rest of you guys Dez's 15 minutes of fame were up the first 3 minutes of her first episode. Alex was a little obnoxious for my taste though Paige does get grating at times. I personally would rather have Frank redecorate any room in my house, he tends to be more practical with his designs and funcuality of the room. Trading Spaces need to come to north texas some time we know how to have fun. I personally think that a episode were the do something with college students would be cool. They need to come to UNT!!! Thanks for reading this is a cool board

-- Anonymous, April 06, 2002

By the Way I found a site that said that Wynn was amy's middle name and was her grandfather's name if any one was interested

-- Anonymous, April 06, 2002

Thanks for the info on my favorite carpenter.

I saw the home theater episdoe. I thought it looked really cool, but it was also really impractical. If they had a bigger TV, and all they did in that room was watch movies or TV, it would make more sense.

I also saw the one after that where Vern tried to take down that built-in. Man, that was so funny watching him pound away at that thing.

And Doug seemed more obnoxious and annoying that usual in that home theater episode. What was with the alkaseltzer?

-- Anonymous, April 07, 2002

If anyone lives in the Y100 (Philadelphia) broadcast area, Y100 is doing Trading Offices. It's like $200 and a designer, I think. You switch offices with a friend and have at it. Something to think about if you live near here. Maintain the sanctity of your home and all.

-- Anonymous, April 07, 2002

I agree, the home theatre looked good in its final form, however totally non functional for any other activity other than watching movies. Doug totally didn't give a damn about any of the HO's input. He was hell bent on putting in that home theatre. I mean, didn't I hear that the kids had sleep overs and did their homework and played games in there. Not anymore! It was funny because during the reveal the HO's were really good about it. I think it was a free ticket for the male HO to get a big screen TV, unless he wanted to watch with binoculars. Yes I agree, Doug seemed really pompus this time around. Must have been his time of the month. Vern's room looked fantastic! I also laughed at Vern trying to get that ledge down. Man did he come on to that thing! Talk about solid. Is it just me or does it seem like Amy Wynn gets on with the job in a cheerful fun manner, but Ty seems to be a bit of a whiner.

-- Anonymous, April 07, 2002

"Is it just me or does it seem like Amy Wynn gets on with the job in a cheerful fun manner, but Ty seems to be a bit of a whiner."

It's not just you. Amy Wyn is clearly the better carpenter... In my opinion.

-- Anonymous, April 07, 2002

Doug the Lazy Slavedriver is at it again! The home theater episode was hilarious, but I couldn't help but feeling really sorry for the HO's. You can't fix an entire home theater like you could some ugly stencils that they put on the wall, or a questionable throw rug. That whole room was wasting the HO's space. It was nice to see the tropies go though...I wonder where they will put them now. (the kids room) My favorite part is when the female HO was sewing some of those monstrous curtains and Doug is kicked back in the office chair with his feet up sipping on some coffee. Then he smells some of the curtain fabric and says, "Ewww! I sure wouldn't want this musty fabric in my house!" The HO looks shocked. Why is Doug such a whiner? The Alkaseltzer thing was a little in your face. Why is he a miracle 48 hour decorator if he can't take it? And Vern is oh-so-sexy, I have no idea why you guys are hung up on Ty. Ty is such a doofus, and he is a whiner too...Amy Whynn (sp?) kicks ass. That was great when she was holding the board and then just snapped it in half without meaning to, she was like oh? was that my brute strength?

-- Anonymous, April 07, 2002

It's Amy Wynn. ( http://tlc.discovery.com/fansites/tradingspaces/bio/photo/amywynn.html )

I think I was spelling it wrong too.

-- Anonymous, April 07, 2002

Your right Polyester! Doug is such an ass! Did you see when he was assigning the homework, "I want this, this, this, and this done....Got It"! "Now I gotta get out of here". Vern is so polite about it, asking the HOs if "thats ok"? and "its not too much is it"? God what a difference between those two. And you could tell Doug was probably out drinking all night. As soon as he returned he started complaining about the loudness of the Fan, and the clincher was the Plop Plop fiz fiz. He sometimes seems uninterested in what he does. One other observation I had about that episode is that the Female HO working on Dougs Theatre really did not care for what Doug was doing to the room until about three quarters way through, and then she started kissing his ass about it all. Maybe its because she started to see it all coming together. Doug is starting to surpass Hilde in the lousey attitude department.

Ahhhhggg.........Hilde is doing the Celebrity TS with the Dixie Chicks girl and her Mom. Check the commercial out, it actually shows Hilde joking around and having fun. Usually when she walks into a room "The Fun light is Off".

-- Anonymous, April 07, 2002

Doug's attitude was a bit much in the "movie theater" episode. He can't take it when people give the tude back to him however....I loved those gals from the first season that went on dates and didn't do their "homework." That was great! Although his home theater was a kinda cool concept, it was totally impractical for the homeowners. But what does he care. Doug usually doesn't annoy me, but lately he has the tude in full effect. Maybe he is going through some personal turmoil.

-- Anonymous, April 08, 2002

"Hilde is doing the Celebrity TS with the Dixie Chicks girl and her Mom."

Oh... Is THAT who that was? I'm not a big country music fan, so I had no idea who that was.

And what about Chris Wilde? They didn't consider that a celebrity show?

-- Anonymous, April 08, 2002

Forgive me for not knowing, but who is "Chris Wilde"?

-- Anonymous, April 08, 2002

No problem.

Did you ever see the episode in Hollywood with the two couples that lived in the same building one above the other? And they were all kinda young? One of the guys was Chris Wilde, (sp?) who hosts a show on Comedy Central.

-- Anonymous, April 08, 2002

I just have to say one thing, **DOUG** lOOKED HOT in the home theater episode!! That awesome beenie he had on was very attractive! I don't know why, but, Vern gets on my last nerve. He acts like he's so superior, and that his designs are to-die-for, whatever! I like Gen's stuff, and her personality - She smelled the damn wood! And, Ty is totally lickable. That's it for now! See ya later fellow TS junkies!

-- Anonymous, April 08, 2002

Oh Ya......If my memory serves me correct he acted really nutty. Made me laugh watching his antics, and I think he almost fell down the stairs..

-- Anonymous, April 08, 2002

"Vern gets on my last nerve. He acts like he's so superior, and that his designs are to-die-for, whatever!"

First of all, anyone that ends a sentance in "whatever" is no TS friend of mine. Secondly, How dare you! Your allegations are horrifying! Vern is so gracious, and is anything BUT superior. Doug is the pompous asshole. Vern is always evaluating the functionality and flow of his designs, questioning his plans, and keeping the HO's in mind. Vern is so far from self righteous, he is kind and gentle. I think almost all of the designers on TS are a wee bit narcissistic, but Vern hardly ever even shows an ounce of selfish pride or glory in his work. His usual remarks to the finished product are "Oh yeah, it did turn out nice" or "Yeah I liked this one," while Paigey-Poo stares at him like a drunk puppy. Vern is the sexiest most un-pompous tight shirt wearing sweet smiling ambiguously gay hunk of sweet testosterone on that show!

-- Anonymous, April 08, 2002

How can anyone say that Vern acts "superior"! Especially when compared next to Doug! Holy Cow!

-- Anonymous, April 08, 2002

Thank You Lee!

-- Anonymous, April 09, 2002

Vern is by far my favorite designer. His stuff always kicks ass and he is the nicest one out of the bunch. He's always so polite...

-- Anonymous, April 09, 2002

Yeah I agree Vern is the best!!! Always smiling and polite .. How can you say something so negative about him? Do you remember the episode he did while he was sick? He could barely speak but like a true champion he made it through.

-- Anonymous, April 09, 2002

Ditto, Vern-lovers! If I were going to be on the show, I would definitely choose Vern.

By the way- exactly how does the selection happen? Do HO's get to pick which designer they want? Or do they just make you take what they give you?

-- Anonymous, April 09, 2002

I think its the producers that choose because I remember reading an article about how the "Producers" try to pair up the meek homeowners with the Bolder designers for the Drama effect.

-- Anonymous, April 09, 2002

Does anyone know why Alex left the show and what has she been doing since she left?

-- Anonymous, April 09, 2002

BTW-Amy Wynn is hands down the BEST carpenter! For all you 12 year old girls who leave these TY gaga comments have you lost your minds? He is such a whiner. The reason he doesn't get his projects done is because he spends most of his time showing off for the camera. He thinks he is so funny (funny looking maybe). He belong on MTV's JACKASS. Or his own show "Ty and my huge EGO". Please, you women can't be serious...

-- Anonymous, April 09, 2002

Hey Grissom, go to the following and I think you'll figure out why Alex left. She seems hard to work with. I totally agree with you in requards to TY, what an ass! http://www.bluearmadillo.net/journal/2001/06/22.shtml

-- Anonymous, April 09, 2002

Amy rocks, and Vern's pretty cool.

-- Anonymous, April 10, 2002

Hey Kim, Thanks for posting that link, very interesting reading!

-- Anonymous, April 10, 2002

Did you guys catch the episode with the female african-american HO and her 16 year old daughter, they lived in L.A. Well, their designer was Laurie, and at one point in the show Laurie is talking about what they are going to do with this futon that has had some lovin' and was looking a little thrashed, and Laurie says, "Well this futon is looking very nappy." ACK!!! I couldn't believe it, how ignorant is Laurie! It was really awful, I couldn't believe she said that in front of two african-american HOs! So un-PC Laurie. It was a TS moment not to forget.

-- Anonymous, April 10, 2002

I saw that episode, but didn't really notice anything rude coming from Laurie about the Futon. What does any of it have to do with the HOs beign African American????

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2002

What's a HOs?

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2002

Never mind duh .... yes, yes Home Owner!!!!

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2002

She really used the word "Nappy" in describing the futon?

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2002

Are you sure she didn't say "Un Happy"?

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2002

Actually, The daughter is the one that said the Futon has to go, at which point Laurie said it looked "sad" and all three of them agreed it had to go. Laurie certainly was not rude about it.

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2002

Yeah, Laurie doesn't strike me as someone so inconsiderate. You're probably mistaken Exclamation.

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2002

Sorry, you are right, she did say nappy, but totally nice and not ignorant. Anyways I gotta stop obsessing with this. I guess you gotta look at the big picture and ask youself........Who Cares??

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2002

tisk, tisk, tisk....

-- Anonymous, April 11, 2002

" I guess you gotta look at the big picture and ask youself........Who Cares?? "

I know I don't. Heheh... Laurie is really nice. And I just saw the episode with Vern and that green room he made. (first season w/ Alex Mmm.. Alex) He was sooo considerate. He was so worried about their kid that it seemed like he covered everything in foam.

-- Anonymous, April 12, 2002

Well, I didn't think it was very professional of her to be so culturally ignorant on national television, and I think the very worst part is that it was so nonchalant. Of course it's just a word, but a word with several negative conotations. Nobody was obsessing about it, but I think it's too bad that you guys don't see the reality behind it. "Just one word" can turn into so much, cause so much pain, and have such a profound impact, that I think the situation has been over-simplified. Of course the HO's said the futon was ugly, it was, but that in no way justifies Laurie calling it "nappy." She should know better. "Who cares?" You should.

-- Anonymous, April 12, 2002

I'm sorry Exclamation!, I certainly agree with you on most of your posts but I gotta tell ya, I just don't see where your coming from on this one.............

-- Anonymous, April 12, 2002

Okay, guys, I really thought that I liked this message board thing, but, it turns out that you guys are so rude! I can't believe that someone can express an opinion and then get ripped apart because somebody else doesn't agree. What does it matter to you that I think that Ty is hot? I have never said anything to you about Amy Wynn or Vern, I think that everyone is entitled to their own opinion. And, whoever said that "only twelve-year-olds like TY" couldn't be anymore wrong. Don't limit someone to a stereotype, its ignorant. I am not twelve, wait, even if I was, what does it matter? Does that make it wrong to say how I feel? And, onw more thing - EXCLAMATION, what is your deal? You go off because I said "whatever", have I ever said anything to you about your vocabulary?, and who said that I wanted to be your friend anyway? Gosh, you need to get a life, other that TS and analyzing everything that everyone comments about.... WHATEVER!!

-- Anonymous, April 12, 2002

changing the subject .... Does anyone know when the show with the Dixie chick will air?

-- Anonymous, April 12, 2002

I think the Dixie Chick on is set for late April. (Last Saturday in April, perhaps?)

I saw that last-season episode (Vern's green room) also. The blueprint paper-drawing of their home was such a great touch!I also liked the idea (and the respect it showed) of the suspended mantel, preserving their lovely stone fireplace facade. Had anyone else been doing that room, I just know that stone would have been ruined forever.

-- Anonymous, April 12, 2002

Tina, its actually a week from tomorrow, Apr 20th. Hilde is one of the designers, so should be interesting to see what she comes up with this time. Yeah, Vern's drawings are really perfect. I guess it does not hurt to be an Architect by profession. The carpenters (or handy persons) must just love working with him, so percise and well explained projects.

-- Anonymous, April 12, 2002

Actually, did you see that episode? Ty was having problems following Vern's plans because they were so detailed and precise.

And I thought it was cool that Vern left the stone alone too.

And Jamie, I think the majority of people here are pretty considerate and polite.

-- Anonymous, April 12, 2002

He he! I’m so delighted to learn there’s a whole world of crazy people as obsessed with TS as me! I’ve been living in shame, trying to change the channel really fast before my boyfriend comes in, hears the music and says, “you’re watching that again??!”

I personally think that Hilde is way beyond bitchy, I think she’s downright diabolical! I think she knew damn well that she was destroying the HO’s place on the infamous hay episode. She was smirking through the whole thing! I used to want to punch Doug in the face but now he just makes me laugh. I think he knows he’s a character on a show and wants to portray himself in a certain way. At least he has a sense of humor. Hilde is just plain evil!!

-- Anonymous, April 13, 2002

True enough about Doug. I have heard that behind the scenes(sp) hes a pretty decent guy, however I still question some of his ideas, oh, and I almsost forgot, he says the designer he would most like to do a room for him is Hilde........I guess thats ok if you like black...hehe

-- Anonymous, April 13, 2002

That is true about Doug. A lot of the time, I think he is just playing a part - the lazy designer that makes the HO's do everything for him. So he's not soo bad in my mind. I still occasionally yell 'Shutup Doug!' at the TV, but that's just force of habit.

-- Anonymous, April 13, 2002

Hilde must have been given a wake up call since the Straw debacle. Her room actually looked good!

-- Anonymous, April 13, 2002

"Wicker Chair gone terribly wrong"......hehe I loved that. Hilde also had her usual lack of personality going when the HO showed concern about using a staple gun to the chair and Hilde snapped back with " Ok I'll just get the jigsaw...I'm trying to be generous here." What a twit she is.

-- Anonymous, April 13, 2002

Actually I finally see Hilde's reaction justifyed. Those to HO's were a pain. You had to cut her some slack there.

-- Anonymous, April 14, 2002

I have a question. WHERE IS PAIGE GOING! I dont really like Alex. Paige just has a spark about her. I like Geniveve, she is my favorite :-)

-- Anonymous, April 14, 2002

Paige is leaving? You mean we will have to go through another akward host transition period...oh dear...not another Trading Spaces bump in the road.

-- Anonymous, April 14, 2002

Who said Paige is leaving?

And please speak not ill of the Alex. The Alex is wonderful...

-- Anonymous, April 14, 2002

Jamie, I visit a lot of other message boards on a regular basis (mostly boards about music), and you'll always have that one person who feels they have to rip you for your opinion. Unfortunately, that's just the way it is on boards. I think it has something to do with the fact that we have anonymity here, and people feel that they can say thing they wouldn't normally say to your face. Don't sweat it! This board is actually a lot better than some in that respect. Peace. :)

Alicia

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

Brooke, where did you hear Paige is going somewhere? Does that mean she is leaving the show. We need details... Actually I'am going out on a limb here but I think Paige is ok. She kinda grows on a person. Isn't typical that when you finally get used to something it changes.

Jamie, you went off on a couple people about their opinions not matching yours. Isn't that a double standard? You have your opinion and they have theirs. Move on and don't sweat the small stuff. That's what makes this thread GREAT, peoples DIFFERENT opinions, if we all thought the same what fun would that be?

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

I love this site. You all have wonderful opinions even when I don't agree. However, I see a real downward trend in TS. It's more about comedy and one liners now and less about decorating. All TV shows are predicated on the idea that they must sell ads but someone in charge has taken the idea that got them where they are today and decided to imporve on it. Too bad. I find myself watching TS less and less. I've become tired of watching the train wreck time after time in some nice family's house.

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

Actually.....I thought the designers (with the exception of the hay) have toned down the shock value a little. Even Hilde has had some good rooms lately.

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

I agree they seemslightly less destructive but the furniture they make is sooo tacky. Stained or painted plywood or MDF does not make fine furniture. So often they take good looking furniture and destroy it or send it to the garage. It is not possible to make a couch, even when Vern does it. Fireplaces are not made to be destroyed. Drapes and curtains should have straight hems and be full enough for the window. Children are a part of the family and need to be protected from Hilde and Doug. I love good decorating ideas even when I don't use them. I'm not seeing any on this show. I guess I need a new fix or the show needs a couple of new decorators.

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

Good idea! House clean the decorators.........or at least some of them.

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

"Children are a part of the family and need to be protected from Hilde and Doug."

Too funny, ahahaaa. I think my least favorite TS design that they seem to try again every once in awhile, and I am pretty sure I have never seen it actually work is The Painted Couch. It doesnt even really seem logical because the couch would just suck up the paint right? And I can't imagine it being comfortable...and the flaking ...yuck. I always cringe when I hear the designers suggest it as the cheap miracle fix.

I think some new designers would be great...but I do love the TS designers right now, maybe some "guest designers" then. They could have some crazy-famous-architect-designer-craftspeople guests that they throw into the mix every once in awhile for some variety!

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

'Changing Rooms' and 'House Invaders' on the BBC channel is pretty good. The producers of those shows don't seem to be going for the whole 'shock value' thing. They're worth a look if you can understand the english through those accents.

-- Anonymous, April 15, 2002

So is Paige really leaving? Or is that just a rumor?

-- Anonymous, April 16, 2002

Yes...Guest designers......how bout Martha Stewart, she could whip up some fruit cake or something and then push her own paint line....lol

-- Anonymous, April 16, 2002

Yes Lee that would be a "good thing"..

-- Anonymous, April 16, 2002

I like this idea of the guest decorator. How about Madonna coming in to do a bedroom. We could learn how to put shackles and chains on the wall. Or how about the whole Osborn family with a leather look den. They would never tear out a "stoned" fireplace. I think Martha might make us some vegetable base dye to paint the walls as well as painting the couch. I want Carol Duval to do a child's bedroom filled with sock monkeys. Julia Child to do a kitchen....glorious. I think we're on to something here. I would want to match Vern up with the Osborns. and can you just see Hilde working with Madonna!!!!!

-- Anonymous, April 16, 2002

Hah ha! That's great.

-- Anonymous, April 16, 2002

Joyce, I agree so much with your comment: "However, I see a real downward trend in TS. It's more about comedy and one liners now and less about decorating. All TV shows are predicated on the idea that they must sell ads but someone in charge has taken the idea that got them where they are today and decided to imporve on it."

Last week I saw many first season episodes I'd never seen before. The whole tone of the show is so different, and the changes are as you describe.

Each person (hosts, carpenters, designers etc., even the homeowners) are extremely conscious of the "role" they are to play. You begin to expect certain behaviors from certain people, just as you do your favorite sitcom characters. Sometimes it's a comedy show in which a little decorating gets done...

Good or bad? I don't know. But it's starting to annoy me WAY more than it used to.

-- Anonymous, April 17, 2002

hate to play devil's advocate...ok, i love to...but getting back to that nappy thing. nappy is a word that accurately described that couch. If Laurie was helping Puerto Rican homeowners would she be chastised for saying "ok, let's get this room spic and span?". there was some politician a few years ago who had to resign after he used the word "niggardly" in a speech (def:grudgingly mean about spending or granting). the word was used in the proper context and the root of the word has absolutely nothing to do with the racial slur. but it sounded like it so he was forced to resign by some overly sensitive, uninformed people (white and black). If were gonna be so sensitive I guess we shouldnt use the abbreviation H.O. lest we offend the female community.

p.s. Doug rules. Not his designs, just his lousy attitude makes for great TV.

-- Anonymous, April 17, 2002

Thank you so much for that comment ... when you guys and gals began writing "HOs this and the HOs that" I thought for a minute and began to ponder why would anyone call those women HOs ... but after a few seconds I understood the abbreviation stood for Home Owner so it would be politically correct if we used H.O. instead of just HOs .. .. BUT DOES IT REALLY MATTER!! I THOUGHT THIS WAS A JUST FOR FUN BOARD NOT A NAG, NAG, NAG, BOARD!!

-- Anonymous, April 17, 2002

Took me a while to figure out why HO's could be taken wrong... Then it hit me... Heheh.

-- Anonymous, April 17, 2002

Everybodys getting awfully sensitive...........

-- Anonymous, April 17, 2002

Indeed Lee. I mean, I thought that was over, and I was the one that brought it up. I wasn't trying to be some hyper-sensitive-in-your- face-aggressive-fan-page-destructor. I was just surprised by it. Sorry if I got you guys all riled up.

p.s. everything said on here doesn't have to be taken so literally. it's hard to really express yourself in a typed correspondance like this because there is no tonality, it all just sounds like bitching.

-- Anonymous, April 17, 2002

Very true. I find it hard to express my true sarcasm...

I guess I can always use my sarcasm code:

[sarcasm] I want hay on my walls! [/sarcasm]

-- Anonymous, April 18, 2002

hay...it's not just for horses anymore.

i just saw an episode where frank paints the floor with latex paint and makes a brick design. is it me or will that look like crap after a couple of weeks of walking?

-- Anonymous, April 18, 2002

My wife said exactly the same thing when she saw that Kevin.

-- Anonymous, April 18, 2002

Yeah... I wasn't too sure about that either. That kitchen had a little TOO much paint effects for my taste.

-- Anonymous, April 18, 2002

Come on now guys, we all know none of thier work needs to last longer than the reveal!!!!!!! Poor HO's

-- Anonymous, April 19, 2002

I guess you're right. Those' HO's really seemed happy, though. I guess in their case, it wasn't SO bad. The could always put down a new floor when that one smears off on all their clothes. I'd actually like to go to a house with painted floors. Just to see what it's like.

-- Anonymous, April 19, 2002

Well! Let me tell you about painted floors. After we found out there were high levels of formaldehyde in our carpets we immedietly had them torn out and dreamed of pine...cedar...or *gasp* cherrywood floors to replace them, but soon realized that would be a pretty penny. LATEX PAINT TO THE RESCUE! So after the floors were sanded we had the living room, kitchen, library etc. all done in a green/aqua and the bedrooms done in white. There is one spot in the living room towards the edge where after looking at my newly painted floors I ran onto them and started doing pirouettes...needless to say there are some little spiral marks from my feet. They have worn ok, I don't know if I would reccomend it, the paint has worn and chipped where there is heavy foot traffic, but it looks intentionally distressed. Kinda "Martha Stewart meets Crabtree and Evelyn." They don't get very cold, which people often worry about with wood floors, and I live in Alaska. Considering the price of our "dream floor," this was our less spendy substitute, which I have grown rather fond of.

-- Anonymous, April 19, 2002

Eeewww, no offense, but you painted you floors?? That sounds revolting! And, they are already starting to chip? Just think of what they will be like down the road... But, anyways, I loved that one room that Hilde did, I'm not sure if it was a rerun, but, it had purple fabric on the walls with a canopy bed with a chandelier (sp) hanging from the middle of the bed, it was so pretty and romantic. Awww, I like all of the designers on that show, they all have their highs and lows, and, yes, I GUESS I like Amy too, although, I'd much rather watch an episode with TY on it. Gen was on an epsiode on Sex In The 90's on MTV last night.

-- Anonymous, April 20, 2002

Hey, if it works for you, Exclaimation, great!

-- Anonymous, April 20, 2002

They have been painted for almost 6 years this June. So I think it's just normal wear on them. Varnishes, laquers, and sealants which normally go onto wood floors arn't really any different, they just lack the pigment of a more conventional wall paint. It's all just chemicals man, so I don't see why it's that gross.

-- Anonymous, April 21, 2002

Harwood can be very expensive, and laminate is getting up there too. So if painting a floor is a temporary much less expensive substitute, knock yourself out! Down the road when is really starts getting worn, you always know that covering it up will be very easy. On another note. I like the fact that Hilde drapes the walls in fabric, because if the H.O. does not like it, its an easy fix to take down without the hassel of repainting. Did you catch the episode before the Dixie Chicks episode? Talk about a Love Fest. Both those H.O.s were deleriously happy with their rooms. Which was really refreshing to see for a change, although I was not crazy about Frank's kitchen floor.

-- Anonymous, April 21, 2002

I really liked Frank's kitchen, and I'm far from his biggest fan. I think that all the cutesy painting shit really works best in a kitchen. The homeowners could easily go to Home Depot and get some stick-on flooring (a la what they usually use on TS) if they don't like painted floor, but I actually liked it. I really loved the faux finish on the walls and shockingly, the table.

I thought Natalie's new "extra" room turned out gorgeous, but really, really hated what she and Hilda did to her mom's sewing room. That "sofa bed"? Looked liked it was straight out of '72 and belonged in the room originally.

-- Anonymous, April 21, 2002

I really liked the walls in Frank's kitchen but the floor was a mess! The tile lines seemed to be all over the place and it seemed like the paint was already starting to come off.

The celebrity episode was interesting. Hilde seemed to be barely able to contain her enthusiam about working with a star. I think I prefer condescending, withering-look giving Hilde to celebrity ass- kissing Hilde. The highlight of the show for me was when she asked them which color they would like to pain the partition and they both said they wanted Ty's idea! he he

-- Anonymous, April 21, 2002

Yeah, that was a good part. Vern's room turned out great. It looked sooo cool. The downside was that it was an 'extra' room, and it didn't seem like anyone used it enough to really enjoy it. I would have liked to see that room belong to someone who was going to be constantly using it, and could really get the most out of it.

-- Anonymous, April 21, 2002

vern is not only sexy, but the best designer on the show. all frank does is paint on the walls and rub his belly in the paint...and frank just ruins people's homes...i mean, comeone, who turns the family room where kids do homework into a HOME THEATER???? not to mention, he picks fights with almost every HO he encounters! vern is the only one who has never failed...and he doesn't paint shakespeare quotes all over the walls!!!

-- Anonymous, April 24, 2002

I think you meant Doug. He is the one that did the home theatre, not Frank....

-- Anonymous, April 24, 2002

DOUG picks fights with HOs. FRANK paints whimsical art on the walls. DOUG is the brilliant scholar who thought it was a good idea to turn a family room into a theater.

This message board is great! Glad to see so many others need a Trading Spaces Anonymous 12 step program... I thought my family and I were the only ones!

-- Anonymous, April 24, 2002

wow...after taking an hour to read half of the other thread, I just decided to jump on over here and didn't bother to read this whole thing. LOL...i will, later. For now, I just wanted to say hi and introduce myself cause I plan to be here on a regular basis now that I know it exists.

I'm 18 from Ontario, Canada and originally started watching TS when my dad was channel surfing one afternoon and decided it was the only thing on to watch. I've been dedicated ever since (except for a month and a half when I was working right through from noon till 9 at night and missed it every day)

I admit that I feel a little disappointed when I find out that Ty or Vern aren't on the show, but Amy Wynn rocks and makes me proud to be a woman :) Being 18 years old and a huge fan of MuchMusic/MTV/BET, I love Genevieve's "out there" designs, but I love that modern look to all of Vern's projects...I was an art major in high school, but haven't really been able to grasp Frank's "artistic" touch. I don't know, it's just not me. And Doug's designs don't really strike me as something I'd like either. Laurie seems like she'd be fun to work with, but I wouldn't want her decorating my room LOL.

Anyway, that's my opinions. I recently started a TS website that features Ty. I'll post the address when it's done :) Hope to get to know most of you!

~Kris

-- Anonymous, April 25, 2002

I rolled this over again. Please post ONLY in the new thread located here.

Or you can cut and paste the new URL into your browser window:

http://www.greenspun.com/bboard/q-and-a-fetch-msg.tcl?msg_id=008suL

-- Anonymous, April 25, 2002

Are all the male designers homosexual? I know that Doug is because I have a friend that knows him personally. It really isn't that big of a deal, but I was just curious if anyone else knew the scoop.

-- Anonymous, May 28, 2002

I Love watching trading spaces To give my own personal opinion starting with the hosts from both seasons- Alex was okay she was pretty easy going, Paige Davis what an on-screen actress I hated her wedding story where was her family and enough already with the showtunes between her and her husband. Designers; Doug- lazy, "I dont give a crap about what you want attitude", he designs with either no style or a whole lot of nonsense that just ends up making people cry ( Remember the seattle show) Hildi- the linus sister Lucy lookalike enough said. Lori- okay but what's up with her geometric designs. Did she somehow miss geometry class in high school and finally realized what a 90 degree angle is. Gen- What's up with the one piece outfit (garage style ?) she's only designs for herself and her own pleasure. Vern - What a true designer Love everything he does!! Love ya Vern Frank- enough with the folk artsy faux painting stuff. Dez - thank goodness shes off the show Hated her lamps!! Carpenters, I really think they work the hardest.

-- Anonymous, May 28, 2002

In case you'll didn't know they wear the same clothes beucase sometimes the producers need to cut and add things and it's easier if they are waerning the same clothes. so it doesn't look weird.

Does anyone know amy wynn's birthday?

-- Anonymous, May 30, 2002

So, I am totally in love with Amy Wyn. I think that she is beautiful and powerful. I'm wondering if she could be a lesbian! Anybody know? Probably she isn't, *sigh* just to ruin my fantasy! :-(

-- Anonymous, July 05, 2002