HGTV's Chip Gaines Says To Think Twice Before Making This Controversial Design Choice

David Bromstad, a prominent figure on HGTV, known for his shows like 'Design Star,' 'Color Splash,' and 'My Lottery Dream Home,' advocates for a specific design trend in kitchens: white kitchens. Having won 'Design Star' and hosted multiple successful series, Bromstad has extensive experience and influence in the interior design world. His current show, 'My Lottery Dream Home,' highlights his talent for identifying both desirable homes and compelling narratives. Bromstad has also participated in other HGTV productions such as 'Rock the Block,' but 'My Lottery Dream Home' remains his most recognized work. Bromstad consistently advises his clients on 'My Lottery Dream Home' that white kitchens are a popular and stylish choice. In a recent episode from the 17th season, he enthusiastically pointed out the features of a "deliciously white kitchen," including its color scheme and elements like open shelving. Despite some differing opinions among other HGTV personalities regarding white kitchens, Bromstad maintains that they are very much in vogue. However, Bromstad emphasizes that merely having a white kitchen is not sufficient; it requires thoughtful execution to avoid appearing cold or sterile. He suggests incorporating warmth and texture through various methods. One simple yet effective technique is the integration of wooden elements, such as wooden shelves, which can instantly make a kitchen feel cozier. He also recommends using cabinets to store items that do not align with the white aesthetic, thereby maintaining a clean and open appearance in the space. According to Bromstad, the key to a successful white kitchen lies in moderation and attention to detail, preventing it from looking bland. In addition to white kitchens, Bromstad endorses manufactured quartz countertops as another crucial component of this trend. He views manufactured quartz as the optimal choice for countertops, citing its durability and ease of cleaning, which make it ideal for daily use and cooking activities. While quartz is available in various shades, white is the most frequently used. Bromstad has been observed praising manufactured quartz on his show, describing it as "indestructible" and expressing a desire to extend its use beyond just island countertops to the main counter spaces. He firmly believes that manufactured quartz is a timeless and enduring material for kitchen design. Bromstad's design philosophy extends beyond kitchens to other areas of the home. He champions the use of wallpapers with distinctive personalities to add depth and character to rooms, drawing on his expertise in color. He also highlights the importance of wood elements, whether in the form of window shutters or ceiling beams, to introduce warmth throughout a home. Above all, Bromstad encourages individuality and personal expression in design. He recommends accent furniture to infuse a home with personality and suggests that even exterior elements like landscaping and shutters can significantly enhance a house's overall appeal. Bromstad asserts that these design trends, particularly white kitchens paired with manufactured quartz countertops, are essential for anyone looking to update their home's aesthetic. #DavidBromstad #HGTV #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #WhiteKitchens #QuartzCountertops #MyLotteryDreamHome #HomeDecor #DesignTrends

Chip and Joanna Gaines, renowned design figures from 'Fixer Upper,' have significantly influenced home design. Their evolution in style, moving beyond the modern farmhouse aesthetic, allows them to identify design trends that have become overused or outdated. This article outlines several such trends they now advise against. One trend Joanna Gaines has nuanced is maximalism. While she has incorporated elaborate styling in projects like 'Fixer Upper: The Castle,' she cautions against maximalist styles that lack curation. For Gaines, excessive clutter that doesn't feel meaningful detracts from a space's impact. She suggests that true maximalism involves making a bold statement with a few key, purposeful pieces rather than simply filling a space with numerous items, an assessment echoed by other interior designers. Another trend Chip and Joanna Gaines are reconsidering is painting exterior brick. Previously a common method to modernize dated home exteriors, painting brick is now viewed with more selectivity. They argue that unique, antique brick should be preserved, as its character can be a valuable asset. Beyond aesthetics, there's a practical concern: brick is porous, and non-breathable paint can trap moisture, compromising the brick's integrity and potentially leading to costly repairs. Therefore, homeowners are encouraged to think twice before painting exterior brick, especially if it possesses inherent charm. Shiplap boards, a trend Joanna Gaines popularized, have also seen an evolution in her approach. She acknowledges her style has grown over the past decade, moving away from the thick shiplap boards she once championed. Instead, Gaines now favors 'skinnylap,' a thinner version (around 1 inch wide compared to 5-8 inches for traditional shiplap) that offers a more streamlined and contemporary look. This shift was inspired by the lath — thin wooden strips found behind plaster walls — providing a fresh way to add texture without feeling dated. The Gaineses also advise against adhering to only one design style for an entire home. While Joanna Gaines helped establish the modern farmhouse aesthetic, she now believes that mixing various styles creates a more interesting and personalized living space. People are multifaceted, and their homes should reflect that complexity rather than rigidly adhering to a single theme. Integrating different styles allows a home to feel more authentic and reflective of the occupants' evolving tastes and experiences. Wood panel walls, particularly older veneer ones from the 1970s, are another trend the Gaineses suggest updating. In a 'Mini Reni' episode, Joanna Gaines demonstrated how painting these panels, especially in a rich, dark color, can transform a dated room. The paint helps camouflage the 'dingy' wood while highlighting the texture, making the space appear more complex and contemporary without a full removal. Finally, drop ceiling tiles are considered a temporary fix that lacks elegance. While they serve to hide infrastructure, Joanna Gaines believes more refined options exist for adding texture to a ceiling. In her 'Mini Reni' project, she painted diamond-patterned drop ceiling tiles the same dark green as the walls to integrate them better. For new installations, she prefers more contemporary and elevated textured ceilings, such as adding planks to create vertical lines, which she demonstrated in the same renovation, moving away from vinyl tiles. #DesignTrends #HomeImprovement #JoannaGaines #ChipGaines #InteriorDesign #RenovationTips #Maximalism #Shiplap #ExteriorBrickPainting

HGTV star and design expert Alison Victoria offers insights into interior design trends, advising on which trends have longevity and which are fleeting. Her approach emphasizes creating spaces that are both current and enduring, helping homeowners make informed decisions about updating their residences. Victoria, known for her shows like "Windy City Rehab" and "Rock The Block," advocates for a balanced design philosophy that incorporates modern elements while respecting classic aesthetics. One trend Victoria recommends keeping is the mixing of traditional and contemporary finishes. This transitional aesthetic allows for a design that remains relevant over time. For instance, she suggests pairing raised panel kitchen cabinet doors with sleek modern pulls. When implementing this, the goal is to achieve a natural look within the space. For cabinet colors, if a dark gray isn't preferred, warmer variations like Benjamin Moore's Driftwood are options. The strategy involves balancing modern and traditional elements; for example, classic cabinet colors like white or navy can be paired with modern knobs or graphic geometric backsplashes. Conversely, trendier cabinet colors such as forest green can be complemented by more traditional backsplashes like marble or white subway tile. Another trend Victoria supports is disguising the kitchen to integrate seamlessly with the living space, particularly in open-concept floor plans. She notes that kitchens, while hubs of the home, don't always need to visually appear as kitchens, with appliances often concealed. To achieve this, small appliances can be hidden in garage door cabinets, and larger appliances can be replaced with panel-ready models that blend with cabinetry. This approach saves the hassle of matching appliance finishes and contributes to a streamlined look. Integrating elements like trash cans into islands or sideboards further enhances this concealed kitchen aesthetic. Preserving historic elements rather than modernizing them is a trend Victoria strongly endorses. She believes in restoring the history of older homes, rather than stripping them of their original character. This includes maintaining fireplaces, original molding, exposed beams, woodwork, and flooring. Instead of painting over original materials like brick or wood, refurbishing existing finishes is suggested. Mixing antiques and thrifted pieces with a home's architecture and décor can further enhance this conversation between old and new, adding unique style and history to a space. Victoria actively seeks out historic pieces, breathing new life into them to create new narratives within homes. Using green as a new neutral is another trend Alison Victoria backs, particularly for kitchens. She considers green a timeless shade that can last for decades, unlike more ephemeral colors like yellow or pink. Green pairs well with wood tones, whites, and deeper blues, creating an optimistic and fresh ambiance. Sage green, like Benjamin Moore's Saybrook Sage, and Jojoba by Behr are cited as examples of subtle, earthy, and popular green shades that can serve as new neutrals. Conversely, Victoria advises against investing in trendy appliances, especially those that are expensive and permanent. She views trends as fleeting and believes that major kitchen investments, such as retro-style or colorful refrigerators, offer little long-term payoff and are costly to replace once they become dated. Instead, she suggests experimenting with trends in less permanent and costly ways, such as swapping out hardware for a trendy look or using peel-and-stick backsplashes for temporary pattern experimentation. Finally, Victoria votes against painting exteriors a true black. While she appreciates black in décor, she notes that dark black stained siding will inevitably fade to gray. As an alternative, she recommends incorporating black through accents like window frames. For those who desire a dark exterior but find true black too harsh, deep hues like charcoal gray (e.g., Farrow & Ball's Hopper Head) or dark brown (e.g., Behr's Espresso Beans) are suggested. Painting window frames or trim in a high-sheen finish can also add visual depth and emphasize architectural elements without committing to a full black exterior. #AlisonVictoria #HGTV #DesignTrends #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #HistoricPreservation #ColorTrends #HomeImprovement

Christina Hall, known for her modern SoCal style from HGTV's "Flip or Flop" and "Christina on the Coast," demonstrates how to achieve timeless and fresh designs using traditionally 'safe' choices. Instead of focusing on fleeting trends, Hall integrates elements from various styles to create enduring aesthetics. A notable example from Season 5, Episode 13 of "Christina on the Coast" features a bathroom renovation where Hall utilizes a medium-sized, champagne-colored honeycomb tile within an otherwise all-white bathroom. This approach results in a classic, cool look enhanced by a subtle pop of color and texture, described by Hall as having "champagne vibes" and by her client as "timeless." Honeycomb or hexagon tiles, with roots dating back to the 19th century, have evolved from a trendy item to a timeless design element. Hall's design showcases how these tiles can be effectively incorporated to avoid an outdated appearance. She uses the honeycomb tile as a focal point in the all-white bathroom, complementing it with elements like penny tile and wood to revitalize the space. The strategy for replicating Hall's look involves making the honeycomb tile backsplash a central feature of an all-white bathroom design. In her project, she opted for a medium-sized, champagne-colored tile with white grout for the vanity backsplash, extending it to the ceiling. LED vanity mirrors and a wall sconce provide additional lighting, illuminating the tile. The rest of the bathroom maintains a minimalist aesthetic with white walls and white cabinets, allowing the honeycomb tile to stand out elegantly and evoke a 1920s Gatsby-inspired feel. To complete the design, Hall incorporated complementary elements that harmonized the overall aesthetic. She used a subtly textured off-white tile in the shower and a white and beachy gray penny tile for the built-in shower nook and floors. For the main bathroom flooring, natural light hardwood was chosen, alongside the same understated penny tile around the tub. Hall emphasized the synergy between the honeycomb and penny tiles. To emulate this design, one would pair an oversized champagne honeycomb tile vanity backsplash with delicate white and gray penny tile accents for showers or floors. Hall's application of honeycomb tile extends beyond this single bathroom project, as she has used it in various spaces including other bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchen backsplashes, demonstrating its versatility. For those who appreciate the sophisticated yet playful nature of honeycomb tile, Hall offers additional design insights. If more color is desired, Hall's approach in Season 6, Episode 1 of "Christina on the Coast" provides inspiration. Instead of a monochromatic white scheme, she combined white hexagonal tiles and white grout with white walls and earthy-toned cabinets for her parents' laundry room, a concept equally applicable to bathrooms for a modern and elegant outcome. Furthermore, honeycomb tiles can contribute to creating a dark, dramatic bathroom. Hall's design for a powder bathroom in the same episode involved pairing the tile with a dark blue and orange floral wallpaper. This aesthetic was further enhanced by white and gray marble countertops, dark natural hardwood cabinets, and gold accents. This Art Deco-inspired space exemplifies how timeless elements like honeycomb tile can be adaptably integrated into diverse design schemes to enhance visual appeal when executed thoughtfully. #ChristinaHall #HGTVDesign #HomeRenovation #BathroomDesign #TimelessDesign #HoneycombTile #InteriorDesign #CoastalLuxe #DesignHacks

Scandinavian design, known for its tranquil, functional, and well-ordered spaces, traditionally relies on serene, neutral colors, especially whites, to achieve a sense of cleanliness and order. These spaces also incorporate natural elements like wood, textural accents, and occasional color pops to create a comfortable, rather than sterile, environment. HGTV's "Home Town" star, Erin Napier, recently showcased a unique twist on this aesthetic by introducing a bright teal color to the cabinets of a Scandi-inspired kitchen. Her innovative approach involved painting only a portion of the cabinets, specifically the faces, while leaving the frames in their natural wood finish. This design choice captivated enthusiasts due to its unexpected nature and the unique application of color. Napier's design philosophy prioritizes functionality and personalization. She integrates 'storied pieces' that resonate with the homeowner, creating what she describes as an "imperfectly perfect homescape." This approach often involves embracing unexpected elements rather than strictly adhering to traditional design rules. For the featured kitchen, the jewel-toned teal on the cabinet faces, contrasted with the light-colored wood frames and white countertops and backsplash, creates a visually striking yet grounded space. The natural wood frames beautifully complement the wood floors, while the white surfaces contribute to the room's brightness. Another distinctive feature in this kitchen is the inclusion of two large sinks, aligning with the functional aspect of Scandinavian design. The overall aesthetic maintains the clean and orderly characteristics of Scandinavian style, with minimal items displayed on the countertops. The chosen accents adhere to a warm-toned and neutral color palette, featuring copper, orange, and brown shades that enhance the cohesive and calming atmosphere. The vibrant teal is strategically limited to the cabinet faces and pendant lights, ensuring it acts as a captivating accent rather than an overwhelming presence. This design exemplifies how a bold color can be integrated artfully without disrupting the core principles of Scandinavian minimalism. To replicate or adapt this approach, one can begin by decluttering and simplifying storage in a kitchen space. Prioritizing unadorned, smooth-front cabinets aligns with the minimalist nature of Scandi-inspired designs. When considering the color palette, incorporating the undertones of existing natural wood elements as a primary color, such as yellow or deep brown, can provide a warm foundation. Complementing this with a calming, contrasting color like a jewel-toned blue, green, or pastel, while keeping other colors neutral, is key. Strategic lighting can further enhance the warmth and welcoming feel of the space. Another method to incorporate Napier's inspiration is to selectively paint cabinets. Options include painting only the lower cabinets in an accent color, leaving the upper ones natural, or painting all cabinets in a neutral shade and then selecting a few at random for an accent color. Reversing Napier's technique by painting just the cabinet frames and leaving the faces in natural wood is also a viable option. Regardless of the specific application, these methods allow for a personalized and stunning Scandi-inspired kitchen design. #ScandinavianDesign #ErinNapier #KitchenDesign #HomeTown #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #Cabinetry #DesignInspiration #HGTV

The article discusses the divisive nature of glass block windows in home design, a feature that was popular in the 1980s but now elicits mixed reactions regarding its contemporary relevance. While some homeowners consider retaining these windows, others advocate for their removal due to their outdated appearance. Drew Scott, co-host of HGTV's "The Property Brothers," suggests that homeowners should consider removing glass block windows promptly, citing potential financial benefits from selling the blocks due to high demand. Glass block windows offer advantages such as privacy and ample natural light, particularly in areas like bathrooms and kitchens. However, they also present notable drawbacks. A significant limitation is the lack of ventilation, as these windows typically do not open. Although smaller hopper windows or vents can be integrated to improve airflow, these additions may compromise the aesthetic integrity of the glass block design. Another critical concern is the safety aspect, especially in emergency situations where rapid evacuation might be necessary. Unlike traditional double-pane windows, glass blocks cannot be opened, posing a potential hazard. Despite the ongoing debate about whether glass block windows are becoming obsolete, Drew Scott presents a compelling argument for their removal. He encourages homeowners to replace them with more modern and functional alternatives. For those seeking decorative privacy windows in bathrooms, Scott suggests frosted or stained glass options. These alternatives offer similar aesthetic benefits to glass blocks by allowing light in while obscuring visibility, but they provide the added advantage of being available in larger, operable versions that enhance airflow and safety. Furthermore, Scott highlights the potential profitability of selling existing glass blocks, provided they are in good condition. With modern homebuyers increasingly valuing energy-efficient and updated windows, replacing outdated glass blocks with contemporary solutions can be a cost-effective decision. Used glass blocks, particularly those with unique designs or colors, can fetch upwards of $15 per block. New blocks typically range from $10 to $60 each, with prices for used materials varying. Depending on factors such as size, pattern, and color, homeowners could potentially earn $100 or more by selling their glass blocks online. This financial incentive can help offset the cost of upgrading to a more timeless and functional window style, aligning homes with current design trends and practical needs. #DrewScott #HGTV #HomeImprovement #GlassBlockWindows #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeRenovation #WindowReplacement #PropertyBrothers #HomeSellingTips

The landscape of reality television is undergoing a significant transformation, with a growing emphasis on comfort, recognition, and the leveraging of established intellectual properties (IPs). In response to this trend, HGTV, a network known for its home renovation and design programming, is launching an innovative new series titled "Bachelor Mansion Takeover." This show represents a strategic move by HGTV to tap into the burgeoning popularity of reality TV crossovers, where familiar faces from one popular franchise participate in a new, often skill-based, competition. "Bachelor Mansion Takeover" brings together 12 former contestants from the "Bachelor" franchise—including "The Bachelor," "The Bachelorette," "The Golden Bachelor," and "The Golden Bachelorette"—to utilize their design and renovation skills. Their mission is to completely transform the iconic Bachelor Mansion, a location central to the "Bachelor" universe but never before seen in this capacity. The series is hosted by Jesse Palmer, the long-standing host of "The Bachelor," adding another layer of familiarity for dedicated fans of the romantic reality show. The competition aspect is enhanced by judges Tayshia Adams, known for her interest in architecture and interior design, and Tyler Cameron, who has already ventured into the home renovation TV space with his Prime Video series, "Going Home with Tyler Cameron." These judges will evaluate the contestants' creativity and craftsmanship, leading to weekly eliminations. The show's potential for success stems from its ability to merge two distinct but passionate fan bases: those who love HGTV's design competitions and the expansive "Bachelor" Nation. By offering a fresh perspective on a beloved location and featuring recognizable personalities, HGTV aims to attract viewers who might not typically tune into their network. The premise is designed to offer new insights into the "Bachelor" franchise while delivering the high-stakes, elimination-based drama characteristic of competition reality shows. Jesse Palmer highlights the show's urgency, noting that the renovation must be completed before the start of a new season of "The Bachelorette," which is set to feature "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" star Taylor Frankie Paul, creating a synergistic marketing opportunity for ABC. This initiative by HGTV is part of a broader trend in reality television where recognizability drives viewership. Networks are increasingly sourcing contestants from established series to draw in new audiences, rather than relying on entirely new casts. This strategy has been observed across various networks and genres, including Food Network's "Worst Cooks in America" featuring reality stars, "Survivor" and "Beast Games" incorporating crossover elements, and the success of shows like "The Traitors," "House of Villains," and "The GOAT," all of which thrive on bringing together well-known reality personalities. These crossovers provide comfort and recognition to audiences, offering a unique blend of familiar faces in novel situations. For HGTV, this approach signifies a potential blueprint for future programming, exploring what other IPs can be integrated into their renovation and design format. The network has previously featured former "Survivors" like Wendell Holland and Kim Spradlin Wolfe, indicating a history of leveraging reality TV personalities. "Bachelor Mansion Takeover" premieres on Monday, March 2, at 8:00 pm on HGTV, with all episodes available for streaming on HBO Max. This strategic move by HGTV reflects a shrewd understanding of current reality TV dynamics, prioritizing established appeal over the risks associated with entirely new concepts. #HGTV #BachelorMansionTakeover #RealityTVCrossovers #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #TheBachelorFranchise #CompetitionReality #TelevisionTrends

A Facebook post shared by 'How To Dad' has sparked a widespread debate regarding the 'correct' way to organize a cutlery drawer, demonstrating the unexpected passion people hold for household organization. The post presented an image of a cutlery drawer with the text: "I'm sorry but if your cutlery drawer doesn't go in the order of 'knives, forks, spoons' then you need to go." The caption further asserted, "Don't be an animal — it's knives then forks then spoons. There is no other way #cutlerychat." This seemingly innocuous statement has garnered over 9,600 comments, revealing a diverse range of opinions on cutlery arrangement. Many commenters advocated for an order mirroring table settings, with one user stating, "Forks, Knives and Spoons - just like you'd lay them out when setting the table," a sentiment that received nearly 2,000 likes. Another user elaborated on this logic, writing, "I beg your pardon: it has always been forks, knives and spoons. That is how you lay them on the table so that is how they go in the drawers." This view was reinforced by another comment that detailed, "Forks, knives, spoons. Generally, people use a fork in the left hand and a knife in the right. Then spoon on the far right because you use that for dessert (last). Logic." A more detailed arrangement was suggested by another individual: "Nope. From left to right: forks, knives, tablespoons (and long teaspoons in the opposite direction), followed by sharp knives for preparing food. At bottom: teaspoons. However, not everyone agreed with a predetermined order based on table setting or any specific logic. One perspective highlighted a more pragmatic and less structured approach, stating, "Forks spoons knives. Because that's the order they got chucked in when we moved. Who has an order for these things??" This comment suggests that for some, the order is simply a result of convenience or habit, rather than adherence to a specific organizational principle. The article concludes by acknowledging that there is no universally accepted 'right' way to organize cutlery and suggests that with increased time spent at home, individuals might be prompted to consider their own cutlery drawer organization. The discussion underscores the personal nature of home organization and how even small details, such as the arrangement of utensils, can elicit strong opinions and varied approaches. The debate reflects a broader human tendency to seek order and efficiency in daily life, even if the definitions of 'order' and 'efficiency' differ significantly among individuals. The article serves as a light-hearted exploration of these personal preferences in the context of household management. #CutleryOrganization #HomeOrganization #KitchenDesign #SocialMediaDebate #HouseholdTips #HomeDecor #EverydayLife

Mina Starsiak Hawk, a well-known personality from HGTV, has recently taken to social media to advocate for a specific kitchen design trend that often sparks debate among homeowners and designers: the combination of Carrara marble countertops with all-white cabinetry. Despite common concerns regarding the practicality and aesthetic of these elements, Starsiak Hawk remains a staunch supporter, asserting that their timeless appeal and versatility outweigh any perceived drawbacks. Her defense comes amidst a broader discussion about design choices that some find challenging or high-maintenance. Carrara marble, revered for its elegant veining and luxurious appearance, is frequently critiqued for its susceptibility to stains, scratches, and etching. Critics argue that its delicate nature makes it unsuitable for the high-traffic, functional environment of a kitchen, often recommending more durable engineered materials like quartz as alternatives. Similarly, all-white kitchens, while popular for their clean and bright aesthetic, are sometimes seen as sterile, lacking warmth, or prone to showing dirt and wear. These opposing viewpoints highlight the subjective nature of home design and the constant tension between aesthetics and practicality. Starsiak Hawk, drawing on her extensive experience in home renovation, presents a counter-argument to these common criticisms. She views the pairing of Carrara marble and white cabinets not as a fleeting fad, but as a foundational design choice that provides a 'blank slate' for homeowners. This blank slate, she suggests, allows for immense flexibility in decor and styling, enabling homeowners to easily update their kitchen's look without the need for a complete overhaul. She elaborated on this perspective in an Instagram video, emphasizing that this combination creates a timeless base that can adapt to various design styles through changes in accessories, paint colors, or lighting. While acknowledging that Carrara marble might not be ideal for every lifestyle or budget, Starsiak Hawk also champions quartz as a viable alternative for those seeking the marble aesthetic with enhanced durability. This demonstrates her understanding that while she might prefer a certain look, practical considerations are also important for homeowners. Her willingness to defend this controversial trend underscores her belief that certain design risks can ultimately lead to a stunning and enduring payoff, offering long-term value and aesthetic flexibility. Her stance encourages individuals to consider design choices that resonate with their personal style and vision, even if they deviate from conventionally accepted norms or involve a degree of maintenance. #HGTV #MinaStarsiakHawk #KitchenDesign #CarraraMarble #WhiteKitchens #InteriorDesign #HomeImprovement #DesignTrends #CountertopMaterials