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Emily A. Clark

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Dear HGTV: Bring Back the Decorating Shows

August 16, 2017

I don’t know about you, but as much as I love decorating, I almost never watch HGTV. The only exceptions being Chip and Joanna (very occasionally; love them but our styles are way different) and Tiny House Hunters, which I personally think is one of the funniest shows on TV. (Look how small this kitchen is! I was hoping to have a place for my four large dogs to sleep. This fold-down wood bench will be a perfect place for guests to sit when we entertain. It won’t be *that* big of a deal to brush my teeth in the shower. We got everything we wanted in our tiny home except for a bathroom.) Seriously, did you see the one where the young couple bought a yurt and had to trek across the campground to go to the public bathroom?! But, I digress. . .

cottage exteriorimage via The Cottage Journal

 

Remember when we all soaked up every episode of Trading Spaces? (It’s coming back in 2018, btw!) Granted, it was early in the days of the DIY craze and there was some really bad decorating, but it was decorating nonetheless. We got to see real room transformations and the process behind it. Not everything was a complete demolition (although those are fun to watch, too) and we occasionally took away an idea or two for our own homes.

 

I don’t dislike the real estate shows, but more of us are in the market to improve where we already live rather than searching for something new. (And, aren’t you almost always disappointed with the way the homeowners have decorated the new house when they check back in with them at the end of the show?)

That’s why I wanted to tell you about (or remind you of) a new show that HGTV is testing out, starring one of my favorite designers and her husband. I know Lauren Liess through her blog and she has always been gracious as she’s become more and more successful. Her HGTV pilot Best House on the Block will re-air tomorrow (Thursday, 8/17, at 1pm EST), in case you missed it the first go round.

 

Lauren and her husband find neighborhoods where every house looks the same and add their special touches to make it stand out as “the best house on the block.” There is some demo involved, what I really love about the show is that Lauren is a true designer with a great eye and takes time to explain some of her decorating decisions throughout the 30 minutes. And, while there were some hands-on DIY projects (that wall of beautiful botanicals!), they’re not necessarily designing on a dime, which I think a lot of homeowners can appreciate. She sent over a few images of the finished project that prove how talented she is as a designer and stylist. (You never got these kinds of rooms with Trading Spaces. . . )

Did I mention she’s due with her fifth baby this week? (Hopefully, she’s in labor as I type this!)

 

hgtv-decorating-shows-lauren-liess

 

Did you catch the show when it aired the first time? Would love to hear your thoughts. And, let’s all set our DVR’s and tell HGTV how much we like it. ;)

 

 

 

 

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Filed Under: inspiration rooms, Uncategorized Tagged With: decorating, interior design

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Neha says

    August 16, 2017 at 8:21 am

    I completely agree, Emily! I miss decorating shows as well. I’ll have to check out Lauren’s show. I’ve followed her through the years and love her work. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  2. Kay says

    August 16, 2017 at 8:38 am

    I am in complete agreement- HGTV morphed into little more than real estate shows. I stopped watching years ago and have since cut cable completely. Waste of time and money. However, I was excited to see Lauren has a show as she’s got an amazing eye and design sense that doesn’t look generic. I hope HGTV has the sense to extend her a contract and win back viewers.

    Reply
  3. Karen L. says

    August 16, 2017 at 8:39 am

    Thank you for telling us about this–will check it out! I totally agree with you about the shows. (On a side note, one reason that I don’t do those large grid gallery walls is shown precisely on that wonderfully staged and photographed botanical gallery. Even THEIR grid has crooked pics and they were taking the pic for a mag or show! So, for me it’s just too precise a way to hang them and, unless one adheres those pics to stay perfectly straight all the time, I just can’t deal with constantly straightening them.:)

    Reply
    • DeniseP says

      August 16, 2017 at 7:08 pm

      This is too funny! Went back to check out the gallery and it would drive me nuts keeping all of these pics straight!

      Reply
    • Susan says

      August 18, 2017 at 9:13 am

      I was shopping for Command hooks recently and noticed that they now offer a type that uses strips of Velcro to secure the frame to the wall. Has anybody tried these? Seemed like the perfect solution to hang a straight gallery wall. I love Command products because they truly leave no mark if you decide to remove them. (No, I don’t work for the company.)

      Reply
      • Mollie A says

        August 20, 2017 at 11:36 am

        I put a tiny dab of that poster putty on the underside of the bottom of my frames and it keeps all my pictures lined up straight.

        Reply
  4. marcie says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:03 am

    Agreed. I have not watched HGTV in years and I used to be a big fan. We have had a new cable provider for over a year and I don’t even know what channel number HGTV is :0 I’ll have to see if I can find out and watch Lauren’s show. I would like to see decorating ideas that I could use at home. Luckily since HGTV let us down a lot of good blogs like yours have come along to fill the void. I just read decorating blogs now instead of TV!

    Reply
  5. jane says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:05 am

    I have been a follower of your blog and of Lauren’s blog and Instagram for quite a while and love your styles. I did catch her show when it first aired and loved it. I hope there will be more and would like it to be for an hour – 30 minutes was not long enough for me!

    Reply
  6. Tandy Stutsman says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:05 am

    I agree! I had to get cable in the good old days just so I could get HGTV. Decorating shows…..I love them. Not so much watching people buy expensive beach houses or 2nd homes in other countries. Really? I watch Chip and Joanna but that’s it.
    Bring back decorating shows!

    Reply
  7. Emily says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:19 am

    I do hope her show is picked up by HGTV. On Lauren’s latest blog post, she also talked about Ashley Gilbreath’s new show on HGTV, Sweet Home Renovation. I’m new to Ashley, and after looking at her website, I love her work!

    Reply
    • Emily Clark says

      August 16, 2017 at 9:22 am

      Her work is gorgeous. Thank you for the reminder. It looks like her show will air this Sunday, 8/20, at 2pm EST.

      Reply
    • jennifer says

      August 16, 2017 at 10:09 am

      Yes! I was just going to suggest checking her out. Another talented designer with a sweet family. Different style from Lauren and the Gaines. Wish I still had cable to tune in!

      Reply
  8. Cynthia Reedstrom says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:23 am

    YES!!!!

    Reply
  9. Sarah says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:24 am

    Yay! Thanks for mentioning this–she is one of my favorite designers and I didn’t know her show had already started. Setting my DVR!

    Reply
  10. Jess says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:29 am

    Love, love, love Lauren Liess. Her blog has been one of my favorites for many years. And my own home is definitely influenced by her. She has a fantastic book called Habitat as well.

    Reply
  11. Esther says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:42 am

    I miss the decorating shows too!! I do love “Home Town” though – similar to Chip and Joanna and I always like how they furnish and decorate the home after they’ve “fixed” all the problems.

    Reply
  12. Jamie says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:56 am

    I completely agree with all of this! Bring on the decorating! Yay for Lauren’s show. Her Habitat book is my fav decorating book to date. I love her style (and goodness) thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  13. Calypso in the Country says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:57 am

    I couldn’t agree with you more! I barely watch HGTV anymore because I want to watch DECORATING shows NOT real estate!!! I remember loving so many of the old shows and I would watch every second I could. Designer’s Challenge was always one of my favorites because I loved the possibilities with the 3 choices each homeowner had. I guess Chris Harrison is making a bit more money hosting the Bachelor shows than he did in those days though! I do watch Fixer Upper and I did catch Lauren’s new show and loved it! Not only were her designs beautiful but they didn’t have the typical drama with the “unexpected expenses” which always prevents designers from completing the full plan. Just pretty design and the homeowners were happy – done! That’s what we want to see!!
    Shelley

    Reply
  14. Linda Mansfield says

    August 16, 2017 at 10:07 am

    I really miss Decorating Cents and Joan Steffend’s upbeat ways. We all don’t have a lot of money to spend, you know.

    Reply
    • AliJ says

      August 17, 2017 at 12:36 pm

      YES I totally agree!

      Reply
      • Cee says

        August 22, 2017 at 12:21 pm

        totally agree, HGTV needs to go back where it all started, how to decorate.
        Most of us are not into flip/flop or buying MILLION dollar homes or islands.

        Reply
  15. Erin says

    August 16, 2017 at 10:13 am

    I completely agree with you, my mom and I have this conversation all the time! I think HGTV has missed the mark by replacing a lot of the design shows with real estate type shows. Remember Sarah Richardson’s show? It was so good, I still love her style. Maybe they think couples don’t watch design shows? If it’s good design my husband will sit down and watch with me. Thanks for the reminder about Lauren’s show, I missed it when it first aired (it was my daughter’s birthday :). I might have to run home from work at lunchtime and watch it!

    Reply
    • Elizabeth says

      August 16, 2017 at 12:19 pm

      Love Sarah Richardson as well! HGTV Canada air her shows but sadly not in the US.

      Reply
      • Alicia says

        August 16, 2017 at 8:20 pm

        I miss Sarah’s shows too-so jealous she’s still on in Canada. She is never afraid to shake up the format of her shows and that kept them feeling fresh–from DIY to higher end design firm and real estate challenges–she kept things interesting. I love her style, her books, and her sidekick Tommy! Would love for HGTV U.S. to air her shows again.

        Will definitely show my support for decorating shows and try out Lauren and Ashley’s.

        Reply
    • Lynne says

      August 16, 2017 at 8:47 pm

      I’ve heard the real estate shows are much cheaper to produce- thus they have gone overboard with them!

      Reply
      • voyageurs 47 says

        August 17, 2017 at 1:55 pm

        They also apparently have a lot more viewers than decorating shows. :(

        Reply
  16. Terri says

    August 16, 2017 at 10:18 am

    I was just talking to a friend about this! I am so over flipping houses and renovating houses and watching someone bulldoze a shed to have a McMansion 26 minutes later…. Just take some rooms and make them look pretty hgtv! Remember Dear Genevieve??

    Reply
  17. BethA says

    August 16, 2017 at 10:25 am

    I so agree with you, Emily!! Sometimes I feel like HGTV needs to be renamed the House Hunters Channel. Ugh.
    I also agree about Lauren Liess’s show. I’ve followed her blog and Instagram for several years, and love her style. I REALLY hope HGTV picks up the pilot as a series.

    Reply
  18. laura {not a trophy wife} says

    August 16, 2017 at 10:28 am

    Thanks , Emily! I was just going to ask on the programming dates! EST so I am MST. Got it!
    Couldn’t agree more as a real estate broker the last thing I want to watch is homeowners sharing their must haves on a half hour show.

    I love the idea of 30-minute shows with take- aways we can run with in our own homes!

    laura

    Reply
  19. AliJ says

    August 16, 2017 at 10:50 am

    Oh my gosh you have been reading my mind! I’ve felt this way for so long about HGTV. I was telling my 9 year old daughter about some of my old favorites such as Design on a Dime, Dear Genevieve, Designing for the Sexes and Decorating Cents. I rarely watch HGTV anymore because I’m not in the market to buy a new home and it seems like so many of the homes have the same look whether it is Flip or Flop or Fixer Upper and neither one of those are my style. HGTV please bring back some shows that I can use to incorporate in my OWN home!

    Reply
  20. Lori says

    August 16, 2017 at 11:01 am

    It was so good! I hope HGTV picks it up! I agree – I LOVE decorating my home but NEVER watch HGTV.

    Reply
  21. Marley says

    August 16, 2017 at 11:09 am

    Emily…I couldn’t agree more! I remember watching the original decorating guru Christopher Lowell! Remember him? Easy DIY’s and so relatable! I remember making window treatments out of foam and headboards with my “chintz” fabric! LOL! I digress but cannot wait to see Lauren’s show…I love her style! Thanks for sharing!
    Marley

    Reply
    • HeatherB says

      August 17, 2017 at 10:29 am

      Oh, yes! Christopher Lowell was such a Hoot! I even have one of his books. I feel bad that I forgot to mention him in my list of favs from days gone by (when I was an HGTV addict!)

      Reply
      • Eileen says

        November 26, 2017 at 11:25 pm

        So glad to be reminded of Christopher Lowell. I could not remember his name, but did not forget his easy simple decorating projects He always put so much emphasis on the use of beautiful fabrics. I’ll never forget how much style and knowledge he shared with us motals in search of a prettier home.

        Reply
    • voyageurs 47 says

      August 17, 2017 at 1:57 pm

      OMG! I am cracking up laughing! I used to do the same thing! I loved Christopher Lowell and would get so upset b/c he always mentioned Ikea and we didn’t have one at the time in Texas!

      He got me hooked on decorating!!

      Reply
  22. Beverly M says

    August 16, 2017 at 11:37 am

    I couldn’t agree with your more on this topic and hope someone at HGTV is paying attention to these comments. Like many others, I’ve been a fan of Lauren Liess’s blog since it’s beginning and love her clean styling. I was disappointed in the pilot only because it seemed more attention was paid to the reaction of the homeowners, plus all too many hugs, rather than focusing on the changes to their home. I was pleased they were happy but this wasn’t what I was hoping to see. A full hour would have been better and I plan to watch their pilot again tomorrow.

    I love the changes you’re making to your home too.

    Reply
  23. Sam says

    August 16, 2017 at 11:49 am

    I agree on the absence of decor vs reno shows. We used to watch Candice Olsen and Design on a Dime religiously.

    You contradict yourself here, though. I am a fan of Lauren as well and watched the pilot but similar to the current HGTV shows, she had a $60,000 budget to work with. Yes, the end result was more polished than with other shows but it’s still quite unattainable for most viewers. I guess blogs now fill that void!

    Reply
  24. Sherry Murphy says

    August 16, 2017 at 12:01 pm

    Couldn’t agree more. Ironically, I googled the year HGTV first aired just yesterday (1994) and looked at all the past shows/designers. A previous comment stated HGTV has become a real estate channel…I seldom watch anymore as well. Bring back the decorating shows. Remember the segment on Decorating Cents where designers would “shop the house” and create a whole new look? By the way, I love your blog, your faith, your family – enjoy seeing your posts.

    Reply
  25. Sara says

    August 16, 2017 at 12:06 pm

    I watched her show the other day and I liked it. I too am tired of all the House Hunters and real estate type shows. I like to DVR Chip and Joanna so I fast forward through Chip! He’s annoying.

    Reply
  26. Julie says

    August 16, 2017 at 12:10 pm

    I cut the cord about two years ago and thought I’d miss HGTV so much and yet I don’t. I’ve caught a few shows on Hulu/Netflix since and they are almost always decorating heavy or a mini series (like Property Brothers when they redid their Vegas house). I know we can all go on Pinterest and see a thousand images but there was something to Sarah Richardson or Dear Genevieve where I learned to be thoughtful about the process of decorating. My first house was very cottage like and my new one is glam industrial and I could never have learned to design beyond “I like this” had I not taken a design class and watched these shows in my early years.

    Reply
  27. Elizabeth says

    August 16, 2017 at 12:19 pm

    I, too, would love if they came back with home and landscaping designs! Love Sarah Richardson- they show her on HGTV Canada but for some reason never show her shows in the US. Curb Appeal! Candice Olson! Even loved that really old show about the color wheel! I rarely watch the channel anymore either. I love Chip and Joanna, but how many houses can you redo with the same scheme. Something always goes wrong and they have to ask for more money each time. I want to be inspired!

    Reply
    • Alicia says

      August 16, 2017 at 8:27 pm

      Loved that color wheel show, “Get Color.” I always thought her process or working with couples to develop a palette based on things they liked to do (e.g. cooking, hiking, etc.) was so creative and the final palettes were always gorgeous, even if they weren’t always my style!

      Reply
  28. Julie Jones says

    August 16, 2017 at 12:23 pm

    I hope her new show makes it! I loved it, and her decorating style.

    How about bringing back Sensible Chic? That was a GREAT show too.

    Julie

    Reply
  29. Janice says

    August 16, 2017 at 12:33 pm

    Oh, Emily, I completely agree with your thoughts on where HGTV has gone over the past while and have found less and less to watch on there. I wish YOU had a decorating show on HGTV!!! You know…in your spare time!

    Reply
  30. Dianne says

    August 16, 2017 at 12:43 pm

    I agree 100%..so over the real estate shows. I never watch HGTV anymore but Lauren could lure me back!!!!

    Reply
  31. Jody Olympia says

    August 16, 2017 at 1:02 pm

    I am so over the real estate stuff and flipping stuff (although Flipping Out on Bravo is hilarious). A good design show aside from Fixer Upper (which is also awesome) would be so amazing. I will totally DVR this one!

    Reply
  32. Mary says

    August 16, 2017 at 1:33 pm

    I have been a big fan & have been following Lauren since she first started her blog in 2008. I’ve enjoyed watching her grow & she truly deserves the success she’s achieved over the years.
    I was so excited when I learned she was going to have a show on HGTV. And it did not disappoint.
    I have noticed HGTV is coming up with more shows but they seem just like all the others. Mostly Flip or Flop type shows. Just in different cities. (Kinda like the House Wives on Bravo)
    I remember the early years of HGTV. I was addicted!! Now…I could care less if I see their shows or not.

    Reply
  33. Tracey says

    August 16, 2017 at 2:05 pm

    Emily, I just had this exact conversation with my mother so I have to echo what so many others have said……enough of the real estate and flipping shows on HGTV. I want to see good decorating with big budgets. Do I have a fortune to spend on every decorating detail, no. But I’m left with good ideas and a happy ending. Thanks! Let’s hope HGTV is listening!!!

    Reply
  34. Renee says

    August 16, 2017 at 2:08 pm

    Emily,

    love your thoughts on Tiny Houses, can’t stop laughing. You are so right about HGTV. Loved the old shows, although remember when Hildy used to put feathers and records on the walls?? How did she expect flowers glued to the bathroom wall to stay clean? I feel the same way about the Food network, all the shows seem the same. Love your blog

    Reply
  35. Stephanie says

    August 16, 2017 at 2:16 pm

    I too agree completely. I’ve watched HGTV from its early days and really miss some of the older shows. Even when the projects were well over my budget, the knowledge I gained watching top notch designers explain the process has been very helpful as I’ve decorate my own home. One of my favorites was Room by Room which I didn’t realize until today was the very first show on HGTV. Also loved all the Sarah Richardson shows, Candace Olsen’s Divine Design and Jane Lockhart’s Color Confidential. Joan Steffend’s Decorating Cents was terrific for learning cost saving tips from quality designers. (Anyone remember the times Nancy Golden was her guest designer? She’s Nate Berkus’ mom!) I also miss Carol Duval’s craft show. She had some great home dec ideas. These shows were much better than Trading Spaces. A few episodes of that were fun, but it lost it’s charm for me when Hildi glued hay on the homeowner’s wall.

    Reply
    • Emily Clark says

      August 16, 2017 at 2:19 pm

      My eyes would swell shut in a hay covered room, but I’ll give her points for creativity. ;) Never knew that about Nate’s mom.

      Reply
    • Robin says

      August 16, 2017 at 8:57 pm

      I loved Nancy Golden when she was on Decorating Cents – you can see where Nate got his talent! I knew they were mother and son when Nate was on Oprah.

      Reply
    • HeatherB says

      August 17, 2017 at 10:34 am

      I remember Nancy! NO CLUE she is Nate’s mom!!!!!

      Reply
  36. Deb says

    August 16, 2017 at 2:21 pm

    I so agree. I enjoy learning the pros and cons of decor. I love new perspectives–I am all farmhoused out! Let’s see modern, let’s see traditional with flair, let’s let white, white, white take a break! But educate us in that fine art. And, please HGTV, we don’t need a whole day’s worth of Property Bros, Fixer Upper, or any other show. Shake it up!

    Reply
    • Maurie says

      August 16, 2017 at 6:22 pm

      I agree fully! It’s not just HGTV- it’s Instagram, Pinterest and Houzz. It’s all the same. Over and over. I applaude Emily for decorating her house for her style and needs. Love the foyer and new runner 😍

      Most Americans are not cutting edge, or designers and most live on a modest budget. They like what everyone is doing and don’t want to make a “mistake” when they remodel or decorate. Even if they don’t like it sometimes they see it everywhere and think they need to paint their whole house gray! Ask the realtors…the housing market struggles if it’s not a Pinterest perfect resale!
      People are harsh…You get slammed if you have a budget (which unfortunately $60k is not a big budget in this business) and slammed if you are too DIY. It’s a tough world!

      The only negative comment I have about Best House on the Block is that HGTV failed to name Lauren’s show with a name that captures her spirit and aesthetic….even Cookie Cutter to Custom would have been better…or maybe capitalize on her “field guide theme” I am sure Lauren will make it fun to watch either way!

      Reply
  37. Traci says

    August 16, 2017 at 2:22 pm

    I don’t have cable but if anyone finds a link to watch this show online, after it is released, please share it. Thanks!

    Reply
  38. Taryn says

    August 16, 2017 at 3:41 pm

    I totally agree with you! The only shows I watch on HGTV are Fixer Upper and Home Town. I loved Lauren’s new show, but wish it was an hour long! I do not like those real estate shows at all.

    Reply
  39. Sue says

    August 16, 2017 at 5:29 pm

    The first time I watched HGTV in probably two years was to view Lauren,s show. I loved her show,but not a fan of the network after they dropped my favorites.

    Reply
  40. Sheila says

    August 16, 2017 at 5:49 pm

    I just wish there was more variety in their line up – I don’t mind any of the current shows and some I even like — Good Bones, for example, while still a “formula” show, the mother/daughter relationship makes me chuckle and I like that they rehab homes in their community. I too would love to see more focus on the decorating process and a return to that style of show. Maybe a show about people who live in the same house for years and need to breathe new life into their space 🙋🏻

    Reply
  41. diane says

    August 16, 2017 at 6:49 pm

    Just saw on Instagram that Lauren had a little girl! And I so agree with you. Loved the days of Design on a Dime and Candice Olsen and even Sarah Richardson. I never watch the real estate shows and the fillers like Lottery Dream Home etc. I have followed Lauren since her first born was a toddler and while her style is way different from mine I so respect and appreciate the fact that she is a designer and things are done well, as are Joanna Gaines and some of the newer Flip or Flop shows. (am not a fan of the original flip or flop or the designs they came up with and never knew for sure if Christina was a designer at all, but dont think so). I loved Lauren’s show as I thought iw was so relatable to homeowners and designers and I hope HGTV is listening!!

    Reply
  42. Phyllis says

    August 16, 2017 at 7:31 pm

    I agree.

    Reply
  43. phyllis says

    August 16, 2017 at 7:55 pm

    YES!! YES.! I too quit watching. Will be sure to record to watch later in the day.

    Reply
  44. Deb says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:02 pm

    Years ago I watched decorating shows non-stop on HGTV and then they all disappeared and thankfully I stumbled across Maria Killam’s decorating blog, which lead to more blogs and now I follow 50 decorating blogs and I have not watched HGTV in years. I will give Lauren a try.

    Reply
  45. Brittany says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:43 pm

    I missed it the first time around by hope to catch it tomorrow during nap time! Also, being from Alabama and following Ashley Gilbreath for a while I’m so looking forward to her show, Sweet Home Renovation, too! Love these two REAL designers.

    Reply
  46. Joanna says

    August 16, 2017 at 9:45 pm

    She is just amazing isn’t she? So inspiring and I totally agree on the whole HGTV thing. Loved her pilot and really hope it’s picked up- I wouldn’t miss an episode!

    Reply
  47. Jane says

    August 16, 2017 at 11:34 pm

    I’m happy for the info on the new show…we need a boost in decorating shows. As a night owl I’ve given up tuning in to HGTV and the inevitable House Hunters.

    Trading Spaces was a ground breaker. I actually painted my living room purple and mustard yellow in an attempt to be daring. It lasted about 5 minutes. I loved Design On A Dime. My daughter, also an Emily, is a designer and met Candice Olson at the shop she worked in. Lovely lady all around.

    Looking forward to the new design show.

    I notice you’ve highlighted some beach homes. May I share some pictures of ours?

    Jane x

    Reply
  48. Coco says

    August 17, 2017 at 12:14 am

    Love Lauren Liess and her work! Hopefully HGTV will go with it!

    Reply
  49. Brenda says

    August 17, 2017 at 12:37 am

    Agreed! I miss the days of Candice Olsen and Sarah Richardson…now the only HGTV shows I watch are Fixer Upper and Home Town (LOVE Ben and Erin!). I saw Lauren’s show the first time and will watch it again – she’s so very talented! I do hope they make it a series and hope it gets lengthened to an hour.

    Reply
  50. naz says

    August 17, 2017 at 7:57 am

    I also get laughs from Tiny Houses just because of how unrealistic people are in believing they can live in such small quarters year around. As a weekend retreat then perhaps maybe as long as it’s near a beach or water but otherwise forget it. Last weeks episode where the 2 woman got into the metal bathtub was hysterical. Meanwhile they put their 18 month old son in a pack and play to sleep next to the toilet. Sick.

    I miss Lynette Jenning, Sarah Richardson and of course Candice. I don’t like Chip and Joanna’s show at all because of Chip. To me there is more to dislike on HGTV than like.

    Reply
  51. Katie says

    August 17, 2017 at 8:34 am

    This is kind of sad, but i will watch This Old House on the PBS app for just a glimmer of decorating. It’s obviously mostly reno, and that can be interesting because it’s positioned to be more educational, but I learn so much from the 5 minutes of picking out shades or fixtures or whatever than i would with most shows on HGTV. They talk about the why and the how, and that’s what I miss from shows like Dear Genevieve and those from Sarah Richardson. When it all comes together on the last episode it’s usually really impressive and inspirational, even if it isn’t always my style. I just have to fast forward through the dry HVAC installation scenes to get there.

    Reply
  52. Sonja B says

    August 17, 2017 at 8:52 am

    All those real estate shows are cheap to produce. Usually the “hunters” have already purchased the home, so all they need are a local videographer to follow the buyers and agent and then some voice over in studio and an editor to string the program together. Viola– cheap tv! Drives me nuts they won’t show Sarah Richardson’s work here in the US.

    Reply
  53. Sonja B says

    August 17, 2017 at 8:55 am

    Voila not Viola. :-)

    Reply
  54. Lauren says

    August 17, 2017 at 9:08 am

    Just wanted to put in my two cents worth: Does anyone remember Homes Across America with
    Joe Ruggiero? or Dream Drives? These two shows showcased beautiful homes and streets. No construction or make-overs. Just complete, beautiful homes. I would even welcome “re-runs” of these shows.

    Reply
  55. Paula N. says

    August 17, 2017 at 9:36 am

    Back in the day I use to have HGTV blaring from the television 24 – 7. My husband would walk into the room, zoom in on the screen and walk out because he knew that channel was not going to be changed :) Homes Across America was one of my favorites. Today the story is different. I only watch Fixer Upper and Home Town. I love Joanna’s style but it is not my own. I am a traditional kind of gal. So I am in total agreement with you. HGTV needs to bring back the decorating shows where everyday people can absorb the episodes to get ideas for their own homes. That is why I love the blogs so much. They are full of ideas!

    Reply
  56. Lynn says

    August 17, 2017 at 10:00 am

    I seldom watch HGTV anymore. Please bring back designers like Sarah Richardson, Candice Olson and Kenneth Brown. They had style!

    Reply
  57. Kathy Dawson says

    August 17, 2017 at 10:18 am

    I agree 100%. I stopped watching HGTV when I saw a “designer” gleefully telling viewers to use duct tape to recover a cushion! I’m guessing they are trying to appeal to a younger demographic, but I miss the high quality design shows they started out with. I’d prefer to see real designers like Kitty Bartholomew, Candice Olson (before she tried to become a comedian), Genevieve Gorder, Chris Madden, and Nancy Golden!

    Reply
  58. HeatherB says

    August 17, 2017 at 10:22 am

    Yes. Just, YES!!! I no longer have HGTV because they no longer have shows I want to watch (a few exceptions, but I just buy them on Prime). I miss the decorating shows…Room by Room, Decorating Cents, Design on a Dime, anything Candace Olson or Sarah Richardson would send my heart all a-flutter! And I loved the High-Low Project with Sabrina Soto. Even when they do get good shows, they give you a few episodes and that is it.

    NO MORE HOUSE HUNTERS, PLEASE!

    Ok, rant over :~)

    So, since I no longer have HGTV, I cannot watch Lauren’s show…but if they ever put it on Prime, I promise to buy it!

    Reply
  59. Dee says

    August 17, 2017 at 10:57 am

    Sadly the only reason I still watch a few HGTV shows like Fixer Upper is to see how it is decorated at the end. Am I the only one that fast forwards through all the reno parts? To make it last longer I pause the tv so I can take in different parts of the room in greater detail. Are you listening HGTV? Shows featuring decorating and new trends would be ratings gold! Thanks for the heads up, Emily. I have my DVR set to record this new show.

    Reply
  60. Andrea Owens Schnapp says

    August 17, 2017 at 11:26 am

    I, as well as others, have been leaving posts about what HGTV has become and how much we miss the old HGTV for years on Facebook. They obviously do not read them or they do not care. I cannot for the life of me fathom who is watching the real estate shows. They are awful! We got extra cable back in the day so I could watch all the fabulous designing shows. Mo more! I vacationed in Canada last year and HGTV Canada was showing Sarah Richardson, I miss her show so much!

    How do we get HGTV to listen? I have not heard of Lauren but will watch it today. Thank you for your post, which I picked up on Bloglovin

    Reply
  61. Tiana says

    August 17, 2017 at 11:29 am

    I will definitely be watching Lauren…my DVR is already set. And I’m so glad to know that I’m not the only one who noticed that HGTV has pretty much removed all design shows from their line up. Bring back the designers HGTV!!!

    Reply
  62. Amber Flores says

    August 17, 2017 at 11:39 am

    I could not agree with you more. We bought our current home with the intention of DIYing some of it ourselves, & I’m left searching through Pinterest, wikihow, & wonderful blogs (like yours) for inspiration. I miss the days of an early cup of coffee on Saturday while getting inspired by some new project on HGTV. Thanks so much for the new show suggestion, I can’t wait to check it out!

    Reply
  63. Connie R says

    August 17, 2017 at 12:17 pm

    I used to love Design on a Dime and the one with Candace (can’t remember the name). While I watch HGTV religiously, I would love to see more decorating shows

    Reply
  64. Neha says

    August 17, 2017 at 2:14 pm

    Just had to follow up. I watched Lauren’s show and it is exactly what HGTV needs more of. She was able to give an explanation of why she chose all of the pieces and finishes, explained the budget breakdown and was just as excited at the reveal as the homeowners! I really hope that the network keeps it going!!!!!
    Thanks again for the reminder!

    Reply
  65. Pam says

    August 17, 2017 at 2:28 pm

    Would love it if they came back. I miss them. However I do love Chip and Joanna, in Fixer Upper. But even with that it is still a far cry from Trading Spaces. Which I loved to watch but like you I so mistakes….like painting over furniture without priming (before paint had it in there)…..Can’t wait now that you told the Trading Spaces was coming back.

    Reply
  66. Tracey says

    August 18, 2017 at 12:43 am

    I was watching HGTV in the very beginning! I used to love Room by Room with Matt and Sheri, Decorating Cents, and what about Designing for the Sexes with Michael Payne? I also liked Designers Challenge where they had 3 designers bring their concepts to the homeowners, and they had to pick one. Fun!

    Now I hardly watch anymore. I will occasionally watch House Hunters International just to see what you get for the money in different countries, but not too often.

    I used to follow Lauren’s blog, but I think she ended that or didn’t post much. Don’t know if I would tune in or not, but it is good to know that they are bringing more design shows back. Most people I know have lost interest in HGTV over the years. We’ll see what happens.

    Reply
  67. whitney says

    August 18, 2017 at 1:09 am

    I thought I’d outgrown HGTV but now I see I’m not the rare viewer that wants the old HGTV back. Candace Olsen, Christopher Lowell, Design on a Dime, Curb Appeal, Emily Henderson! She was fantastic! The Property Brothers are nice to look at and I like their talents but there is overload of that theme. Same with Chip and Joanna–very tired of that style AND they’re like a bad reality tv show.
    I am one of those cable subscribers that had to have HGTV but the thrill was lost with all the old shows and I no longer have to watch HGTV. I go online for decorating help.
    PLEASE, PLEASE HGTV- BRING THOSE OLD SHOWS BACK.

    Reply
  68. cherie says

    August 18, 2017 at 11:22 am

    oh my, I’m wishing the same thing. Kitty Bartholomew “You’re Home” – I wouldn’t miss a program. That goes way back to be beginnings of HGTV. I’d love more decorating programs. Are you listening, HGTV, to all of us who’d like just plain decorating programs. Home idea, tours of homes – that would be great.

    Reply
  69. Cindy says

    August 18, 2017 at 3:34 pm

    Bring back Candace she was the best!!!!

    Reply
  70. Aida says

    August 19, 2017 at 4:07 am

    I was addicted to HGTV. Stopped watching when the decorating shows went away. Bring them back……please!

    Reply
  71. Sarah says

    August 19, 2017 at 10:14 am

    I felt horrible that I missed it when it aired (even though I shared it on Facebook to try to get friends to check it out), but I dvr’ed on the 17th and watched it yesterday. She can do no wrong in my eyes, I love her blog, homes, projects and I am praying they give her and David a full show!

    Reply
  72. Lonnice says

    August 19, 2017 at 10:55 am

    Ugh!! I just read this and missed “Best House On The Block.” I checked and there is not another repeat scheduled. I’m hoping the show will become a desperately needed new series – SOON. These real estate shows that have taken over HGTV just don’t interest me. :( Thanks for the heads up.

    Reply
  73. Ingrid Aller says

    August 21, 2017 at 5:57 pm

    Totally agree! I have written to HGTV a couple of times telling them I’ve stopped watching because of all the remodel/real estate shows. No response of course. Now I just flip them on at bedtime so I can fall asleep to House Hunters (yawn!) I also thought at one time they should just change the name of the network to Property Brothers Inc (nothing wrong with them of course, but, really….) And one more pet peeve: I’ve missed both these new shows because of when they air them. I don’t keep up with the blogs and programming on a daily basis, and I rarely watch in the middle of the day on the weekend. It’s like they WANT these shows to fail. I see this post has really garnered a lot of responses. Thanks for posting. Let’s hope HGTV sees them!

    Reply
  74. Hope says

    August 22, 2017 at 1:37 pm

    Oh my gosh yes to everyone! I miss all of those amazing shows. I used to love binge watching them during the day. When they played them back 2 back. I hope they get the hint!

    Reply
  75. Karen says

    January 26, 2018 at 9:24 pm

    I too loved the decorating shows. I used to watch Candice Olson, David Bromstad, Sabrina Soto , Paige, Vern, Genevieve and more. I would love to see more decorating ideas and tips.

    Reply
    • Mae West says

      March 11, 2019 at 12:50 am

      I have not watched HGTV since they seem to have eliminated the decorating shows! I really miss Room by Room (Matt and Shari), Decorating Cents, Sensibly Chic, Design on a Dime, Divine Design, Debbie Travis Painted Rooms, Colour Confidential, Designer’s Challenge among many more. I hope HGTV gets the hint real soon.

      Reply
  76. karla stokes says

    August 4, 2018 at 4:52 pm

    I’d like to see the former hgtv start showing some garden shows. Maybe we could get the “g” put back in HTV.

    Reply
  77. B. Williams says

    June 11, 2020 at 7:48 pm

    Bring back Candace Olson the best ever!

    Reply

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