please stop designing your house to look like home renovation shows

home renovation shows have a bigger impact on the housing market than you think..
SOURCES
www.insider.com/home-improvem...
www.insider.com/hgtv-is-scari....
academic.oup.com/jcr/article-...
www.washingtonpost.com/home/2...
WAS
www.wasthestore.com/
/ wasthestore
STUFF
wasselpa?h...
www.paigewassel.com
www.architecturaldigest.com/s...

[@annc560]

An in-law walked around my home and told me everything I needed to change. She lives in a world of white/beige/tan from the walls to the furniture. My home is colorful without being "clownish", and yet the word "re-sale" kept coming up in her language. She even looked at a family cabinet from Belgium that had a wide crack in it and said "you'll never get any money for that!" Well, it wasn't for sale and there was a story about how & why that crack was made. It was defective in her mind. The little mice drawn on the baseboards drawn by my son - she wanted to paint over as well as the glorious wooden antiques (took dark- paint it white!) All I could think was, I live here. It's home and comfortable to me, not some cold hard place you can't even sit because you may stain the white upholstery. I thought my home was magic. All she seemed to care about the dollar signs from some sell of the home in 40+ years. I'm not leaving. This is my final home.

[@DailyHabitColusa]

Your in-law sounds downright boring.

[@inactive120]

your house sounds lovely

[@nilslusch6625]

I think the obsession with resale value is kinda weird. I would maybe consider it when doing mayor structural changes. But why do it for decor, furniture or paint?

[@lauris5708]

I recently moved into a 20 year old home that had recently been renovated. Nothing too drastic. The home was great except I needed a really big room for a specific purpose, and the only thing that made sense was to enlarge a bedroom by taking up part of the garage. I struggled before I did it, because of the potential impact on future resale value. Then I woke up and realized that this is MY HOUSE and it should be the way I wanted it. So I did the remodel and to heck with future buyers.

[@yeahno9380]

It is weird lol. Especially if the person doesn't plan on moving for several years. Also it gets incredibly boring when everything looks the same. So tired of seeing all white everything, furniture included. And I personally love neutral pallets. But little bits of character and color are a nice surprise here and there. And what makes a home stand out in some of these cookie cutter neighborhoods

[@Bingewatchingmediacontent]

Yep. That trend of decorating your own home for the next potential buyer started when people started seeing homes as real estate investments instead of places to live forever. It’s so gross We just bought a condo, and we may not stay here forever. But I plan to make improvements for my own use, not for the real estate market value/lowest common denominator potential next buyer. If I wanna put wallpaper up on one wall, I will. If I want to put a wall up, I will (if the HOA lets me.)

[@chloro8306]

I think it's a myth. You don't make money off of renovations for the most part. People just talk about resale value because they feel they need that kind of justification to spend that much money to make their home trendy. Or they're being fooled, because you pretty much never get back enough in resale to recoup the costs of the reno, unless you do the work yourself and use cheap materials

[@duikmans]

When we were selling our house 3 years ago, the first thing our real estate agent told us was that we had to remove all the "personal" stuff. Otherwise, potential buyers couldn't/wouldn't identify with the house. We did no such thing, as we were selling a (future) home and wanted to show those buyers that it was something personal and not a prepped place for an AD photoshoot.

[@rockinsockmonkey8033]

My mom got an interior design degree before she had me, and i grew up in the early 2000s watching This Old House because we didn't have cable. I wish there were more content like that-centered around honoring a home's history and unique style. Why do people buy old houses if they just want to change everything about it? It's so weird to me, when they could build something in the exact boring style they like.

[@mrspaulsen1717]

Amen ❤!

[@LynneC44]

Yes!!! This Old House! Such a lovely show, honoring the house!

[@AvecPoesie]

I miss This Old House...so many memories of watching that as a young girl.

[@jaylynnchattams5794]

I love the uniqueness about homes. Our home we just bought is old and the only thing I’m focused on fixing or making “better” is the functionality (like the problems) of our home not only for resale but because we don’t want problems while we are living there. Our house needed a new roof and deck and we did that. Now we need to fix the doors and windows and gutters. That type of stuff is our focus and hopefully we will be able to redo the siding of the house since what we already have is the original siding from 1972. That our focus and providing a home for our girls.

[@pamelabrennan7385]

I agree 100% with your comments on HGTV. I have been a fan of them for years but it has become painfully clear that there is nothing unique or interesting in their programming or designs. Frankly it’s really boring. In their beginnings they offered shows that a person could relate to and that were each different. Really… how many people’s homes can accommodate a 10 foot island even with taking down all of their walls! This is why I have turned to You Tube. I enjoy watching designers & real DIYers improving theirs & their clients homes… I always feel like I’ve learned something after I’m finished..

[@lisaheckler7629]

I prefer the "restoration" shows these days like "Restored", "Houses with History", "Stone House Revival" and such. I also think Erin Napier on Home Town is so creative. Her houses don't look like everyone else's. She lets the personality of the homeowners shine through. LOVE their show. "Bargain Block" is super creative and 'Fixer to Fabulous" has also had a few really unique homes. It seems every time HGTV has a show that showcases creativity, it gets cancelled unless it's SUPER popular. I miss the days of "Design on a Dime" and "Design Remix" where the designers refresh rather than tear everything down, but those don't get the sponsorships HGTV lives on. Sigh...

[@kimhaze]

I agree, I also miss 'Color Splash' with David Bromsted and 'Get Color' with Jane Lockhart. They had more fun with their designs

[@michelleobrien6996]

Sponsorship is probably the reason. Replacing everything = more products to promote.

[@jllyjill]

Freestyle, a show where they basically painted and moved things around that they already owned. I loved it.

[@lisaheckler7629]

@@jllyjill I'll have to look for that one on Discovery +

[@nonyabizness956]

I just got into Home Town recently! It's my new favorite home renovation type show.

[@TheMismash]

HGTV used to have a show where the designer came in and just moved things around, introduced maybe a rug or some pillows. It was such a delight because it inspired viewers to creatively rethink their space. It wasn't about trends, it was about design and creativity. But I don't think there's a lot of money to be made in such a model.

[@RachelDee]

I miss the old Trading Spaces days

[@amattes1960]

Why would there be less money in an attainable model of design than in these massively unrealistic "knock it all down" style shows? The show would be cheaper to produce for a start!

[@dsa2591]

I loved that show! I started doing that to my house and it was brilliant!

[@Bamboo4U2]

@@RachelDee remember when "Kimmie" insisted on not touching her fireplace and when they showed her the reveal, you could hear her sobbing off camera? Good times, that show.

[@shandi6246]

Yes! 90's & early 00's HGTV were my favorite. It just makes me sad to watch it now days so I don't. Thank goodness for KZbin.

[@thehubatevergreen]

We spent years trying to find a house to buy that wasn't boring, we finally found one with great character and whimsy, and just after we bought it - from the zillow listing - we were contacted by HGTV to be on a show called "The ugliest house in america" where they wanted to renovate our cool unique house into the boring sameness we've been trying so hard to escape! It is tempting when you hear how much the renovation is worth, but I definitely would rather have "the ugliest house in america" than an HGTV house!

[@RachelDee]

Are you kidding?! Damn

[@agorsline09]

I’m glad you didn’t, all the makeovers they did are horrible! Some of the houses are really cool and I watch it and hoping they don’t touch them and ruin them!

[@vaderladyl]

Careful what you wish for. These shows have a lot of lawsuits that are kept out of the public eye. I would never trust my property to any of them. And what do they know about pretty or ugly with those cookie cutter vision goggles they metaphorically wear.

[@notanotherone5564]

Lmfao the “ugliest home in America” offer is ferocious 😭

[@eattherich9215]

@@vaderladyl: I actually made a list of all the things I would not want done in my home. Fifteen of those points related solely to the kitchen.

[@pbcash7788]

As someone who works in real estate, I couldn’t agree more. I evaluate 15-20 properties weekly and I can’t tell you how correct you are. Everything looks the damn same!

[@phorensic5355]

I thought Nicole Curtis was awesome with Rehab Addict. She always kept the layout how it was and worked with how the home originally was. She kept old tile and cabinets and flooring. I loved that she worked with what the house had and it always looked timeless and beautiful because it was organic and original.

[@Deborah1056]

I was an addict to that show for the very reasons you state!

[@karenryder6317]

I had high hopes when the "Rehab Addict" show, which actually kept many original features of homes, gained such popularity. But all it took was "Fixer Upper" to destroy these dreams. Just like when "Trading Spaces" became the formula (with the must-have dramatic moment of the big reveal ending) and knocked off all the shows that did minor DIY like "Room by Room", "Design on a Dime"; now with the huge success of "Fixer Upper", we MUST have "all open plan all the time," (not to mention "all modern farmhouse, all the time." BTY forget "No demo Reno"--it's not a trend because the host was too annoyingly tomboyish, and she DID lots of demo!

[@stacy4530]

There is also Brett Waterman from HGTV's Restored who would take houses and put back all the old charm that newer renovations took out of them.

[@tiaryan1350]

I loved her show.

[@dianev6180]

Unfortunately for Nicole, she took criticism for doing so! I loved her work.

[@urm8mandy]

I can’t help but feel that “the obsession with resale value” that causes people to change their decor and kitchen colors is actually just a way to assure themselves that their home is valuable to others, even if they don’t love it. The validation that people find their home worthy of purchasing (no matter how true or practical that may be) is easier and instantly gratifying. It reminds me of people who buy outrageously expensive bags they don’t really love because they are highly sought after. They can excuse the purchase by reasoning that it has a high resale value, while soaking up the validation they get from having a sought after item.

[@Fivetimesthree]

Yes! It’s literally doing something extremely expensive and time consuming just so that others can value it also

[@kSchmidt583]

Yes my mother tells me how I should live at my current home long term and whenever I talk about decor or wallpaper she brings up resale. Like I’m not selling it…

[@Laura-gd4ku]

its capitalism commodifying every aspect of our lifes

[@GoodDaysandBeyond]

everyone keeps telling me NOT to take these two downstairs bathrooms that are back to back tiny bathroom and make them one big one. It would mess with resale value lol...I get it that having 3 bathroom is good..but two tiny bathroom with showers and whatnot...kinda seems dumb to me.

[@JoJo-op5xy]

The bag is a good financial decision just look at the Birkin bag. Those who bought it for “cheap” can now resale and buy three houses 😂😂😂 resale has always and will always be around. Since the recession is near people are thinking of tomorrow more.

[@loganpattyson7617]

Petition for Paige to have her own HGTV show that showcases uniqueness over resale! 🙋🏻‍♀️

[@Zan_Chris]

It will sadly never happen because she is a free thinker. They want human robots for hosts on HGTV that just do what they tell them to do.

[@a.s.t]

All for it!!!

[@2brazy4ubitch]

OH MY GOD i was not expecting MARBLE countertops THIS IS SOMETHING ELSSEEEEEEEE

[@chelseyaustin6015]

that is why I like the little blond lady on DIY. She dedicates a whole season to renovating 150yo victorian houses with leaded glass and crystal light fixtures and ceramic tile fireplaces 😍

[@amyk87]

@@Zan_ChrisThere was a show on HGTV called One of a Kind where a decorator in Texas went in and literally personalized entire homes. It lasted two seasons.

[@AdrienneJung.M]

We bought a historic hacienda/ranch house full of personality. Our realtor, and so many friends came in and said “oh wow, paint the kitchen, the fireplace, and cherry wood walls white and your antique furniture charcoal!” I said no way. I love warm colors, vibrant woods, interesting textures and contrast. I’m so glad I didn’t cave to their uninspired ideas. If I wanted a boring house, I would have bought a modern little box, painted it white/grey and plastered “live, laugh, love” “Bless the mess” “welcome to the farm” everywhere. The only trendy thing in my house are the plants.

[@ac1646]

You made me laugh out loud. "Live, laugh, love" etc 😂😂 I'm moving to a Victorian rented flat with lovely high ceilings and a large bay window but, guess what, gray walls up to the picture rail, gray carpets and gray kitchen cabinets! Thankfully I have mixed wood furniture, a large flatwoven rug and a beautiful (second hand) linen orange throw, and a large artwork (or I will once I've painted it!). I'm going to have fun dulling down the gray and bringing out the personality of the space. 😎

[@AdrienneJung.M]

@@ac1646 yes! I’m so glad your aesthetic vision extends beyond the bland! Orange is such a vibrant personality to bring into a space. I’m sure it’s going to look amazing.

[@francoiselafferty-hancock5112]

Plants are always trending. Noone says "that plant is so 1995!"

[@lauriel.86]

20 years on I still miss the old HGTV shows like Decorating Cents, Design on a Dime, Mission: Organization, Room by Room, and Curb Appeal to name a few. Lots of great ideas and inspiration, mostly on a budget, and not cookie cutter. It felt like real design for real people who wanted homes that were fun to live in, and “resale value” were words rarely uttered.

[@brownsugar2271]

What was the name of the show. Where husbands and wives. Had their inputs. And the guy would tie them together?

[@lauriel.86]

Designing for the Sexes

[@TJ-ob8oj]

The show was called, "Designing For The Sexes", hosted by Michael Payne.@@brownsugar2271

[@ToLovelyJesus]

Do you remember a show called “For Rent”? It provided low-cost, stylish solutions for those who were renting. I absolutely loved it, and was I so disappointed when I couldn’t find it anymore.

[@Kelbel5995]

I remember those! So much better than whatever's being aired today.

[@gloriajean8024]

A lot of these decorating/remodeling shows are also hosted by places like Lowe’s and Home Depot. I believe that they are motivated to encourage trends to come and go quickly, so that people are pressured to remodel more often in order to keep their homes from appearing outdated. More remodeling means more money in their pockets.

[@robinriley5984]

Totally true - the shows will often bring in merchandise conspicuously labeled with the name of the business (ex. Wayfair) on the final styling day. My guess is they get some products for free in return for displaying the name.

[@loyaltohisthrone7696]

Good point

[@Gigi-wb8pe]

Exactly. Cha-ching.

[@user-wo7xw6wn9b]

At 62 years old, I am trying to learn new and fresh ways to re-decorate my home. My husband and I were at an antique store and I was looking for small ceramic dessert plates. I didn't want them to be matchy-matchy but to look good together. I was focused on finding these plates with my husband's help. And he said to me, "I know what you are doing, you're doing your Paige Wassel thing". I am bringing in blues and greens, reds and a pop of yellow color to my new home because of your channel. Thank you for being the voice in the interior design wilderness showing us a better way other than the HGTV way.

[@Gigi-wb8pe]

What an observant husband you have!

[@LadySilmarien]

Thank you for this spot on analysis. HGTV lost its moxie years ago. Lisa and Clive were great working with a $2000 budget. The young man who basically rearranged whatever you had in the house? So fun. Shows like these were interesting and approachable. Then all of a sudden every show was about the “Tuscan inspired aesthetic “. Now it’s the Farmhouse look. Open plan is a nightmare for real cooks. It’s not just the messy kitchen, it’s cleaning residual grease off of every surface in that lovely open plan. Make your house your home, not somebody else’s.

[@CaroleBoulware]

I’d love a show focused on restoring old homes, from the 60s backward. So much research and history goes into that process and it’s fascinating!! Not to mention all the different design styles.

[@Chanva13]

There’s a show called “Restored” that does exactly this!

[@colinneagle4495]

That's so interesting that large scale demolitions are included in these design shows to hook the male audience and how that reverberates through what people think that they should include in their own home designs. I've also heard that farmhouse inspired trends like placing books backwards on the shelf and hanging architectural salvage on the walls instead of using handmade art is based on the fact that shows would have to pay for the right to show those copyrighted items. What we see on tv has great power to influence what we think of as normal or even aspirational, and these toxic trends show the downsides of that.

[@Gigi-wb8pe]

You're right about that - when you show someone else's art on tv or a movie (perhaps books, too - not sure about that one), you have to get their written permission first.

[@corilia9529]

Placing the books backwards irritates me

[@malyndarichardson1185]

Love this! I’m renovating a 100 year old adobe house, and so many people said I should tear out walls and do an open floor plan, but that would have destroyed the history and character of the house. And OMG, I’m using colors other than gray and white - even purple and blue. Was also told to get rid of the blue 1950s tub and am now seeing Kohler ads for color bathroom fixtures. 🤣

[@agorsline09]

A blue tub would be awesome!

[@geyj1]

NOOOO! :D

[@r-e_mii]

I probably have the matching tiles to that blue tub under the white paint on my kitchen backsplash. I didn't regret painting them though but my advice, keep the blue tub!

[@amyub101]

Interior designer here and every single thing you said is true!! We are living the most bland era of design ever!! I just bought an old farm house to that is a greige nightmare. I'm in the process of turning every room into its own color extravaganza. So over the blah.

[@AndreaSmith-gx4yj]

I remember watching an episode where Joanna Gaines redid a home in mid-century modern and I was stunned to realize that ship lap and everything beige wasn't her only talent. I mostly just watch youtube now for decorating and renovating. I really like you, Lisa Holt, Nick Lewis, Phoenix Grey, and Lone Fox.

[@jasminewilliams1673]

It’s such a double edged sword for Joanna, she decorated central Texas homes for what they regionally had to offer, shiplap and limestone. She had unique taste at the time I never think the intention was for the internet to adopt this as the only way to decorate!

[@Amelia_actually]

I’m so glad at least some people are realizing this. We own our house and plan to live here until we die and I couldn’t give a hoot about resale. Dark paint? Bring it on. Funky furniture? Let’s do it. One channel I have been recommending to people is Homeworthy. Most of those homes aren’t close to my taste but I LOVE that each home is unique to the owner’s style.

[@amattes1960]

It's far more interesting to watch, isn't it? Even if it isnt your personal style it's still stimulating viewing.

[@lorrilewis2178]

Homeworthy is great and they do a such a wide range from apartments to big houses.

[@TonyaO2L]

Yes, came here to say that too. I love watching home tours.

[@dsa2591]

Never heard of that. I'll look it up.

[@kerryharvey6365]

I love Homeworthy. So many unique and colorful interiors packed with personality -- occasionally an overly styled beige place but not too often.

[@jeanettekays1954]

Thank you for being the sound of reason. I HATE all this obsession with ripping out walls, barn doors, shipman. And the wrong shade of Grey can make a room look depressing. I love visiting a home with personality and maybe a collection of older, interesting objects. Decorate your home for its current occupant. Who knows? Maybe the next person will love what you have done. If not, you can clear out and repaint. In the meantime you have a space that reflects you and brings you joy - a place you like to come home to. Can we just stop following JG- please?

[@pricklypear7516]

The purpose of advertising has always been to convince us that we can't trust our own tastes. Only fairly recently, however, have we become so thoroughly media-addicted we cannot even conceive of HAVING tastes that haven't been spoon-fed to us. What's more, a good many utterly awful items that are foisted off on us come with "talking points" that we believe without critical analysis. Anyone who actually USES her kitchen has some choice words (often of four letters) for the granite counter craze. And I have seldom seen a retrofit island that isn't, in fact, an abomination.

[@anthonyvarricchio1404]

With me I hate an open kitchen everyone doing that now I like a close in kitchen

[@snowcrash4286]

i liked Chip and Joanna Gaines when they were giving old subdivision houses a modern facelift, but unfortunately that didn't last. Joanna is not an interior designer and just a one trick pony.

[@thelmawall-butler6663]

Wonderful Paige!!! Thank you SO MUCH for your message! 68 year old female here - absolutely am sick & tired of the bland cookie cutter homes - renovated or newly built. My husband & I contemplated selling our home in 2018 for relocation to another state. Our real estate agent sent in a home designer specialist - told us to get rid of all the warm colors in our house - cover our stair railings (walnut) with white paint. Looked at our rich alder shaker cabinetry in the kitchen - you guessed - paint them white. After much deliberation, and this whole experience with home selling “experts” - we withdrew our plan to sell our home and continue to live here very happily. Have we renovated our home - yes, however small jobs at a time - no input from the home renovation gurus on HGTV - and guests to our home always admire the warmth & “homey” environment we have created! Love your channel - sold!! Paige - As a new subscriber!!!!

[@PinkKissedLips]

2nd time (millennial) home owner here- the first house we thought more about “what will sell”. We didn’t do anything outrageously trendy and we did do blue lower cabinets in the kitchen with white uppers. We made significant improvements to the house and it paid off. But with this second home one of the first things I did was paint a mural in the guest bathroom. We built an entire new bathroom down stairs and painted it Dusty Rose by SW and went sort of classic vintage modern. Im painting our entry Funky Yellow by SW, the fireplace was white and now a light sage green. Wall paper in the toddler’s room! I know we won’t be in this house long but I’m going to love it while I’m here. When looking for homes to buy I immediately click OUT of flipped HGTV type houses.

[@yeahno9380]

Something else I find kinda strange is when the interior of the house does not reflect the exterior. I understand sometimes certain updates are needed. But, not when the interior is stripped completely clean of said style.

[@vaderladyl]

It can be so jarring to see.

[@dsa2591]

I hate it when they take something like an old Victorial home and make the inside modern! OMG! I just want to scream!

[@yeahno9380]

@dsa2591 I've seen a few Victorian type homes like that in my town, and thought what an absolute pity.

[@karenryder6317]

Every single young person I talk to that wants an historic home only wants that on the exterior.

[@yeahno9380]

@@karenryder6317 that's truly disappointing to hear.

[@samanthahart8690]

My mom loves home makeover shows and has attempted to get me into some of them, but she knows I hate matchey-matchey decor and tearing down old architectural details. She suggested I watch Restored with Brett Waterman and I love it. He is a preservationist and helps people restore old homes to their former glory by using old building permits, design history, etc. It's part home renovation, part history lesson.

[@GlennaAdele]

Yes, that's only home makeover show I watch these days. It's so great!

[@gingerdad127]

Everyone's a "decor sheep". You're 100% correct Paige! I'm an Australian interior designer and I've been saying this for years. I steer my clients to what they want for their style rather than what is trendy, or what will sell later on. A good designer will encourage the client to keep as much of their "liked" and/or "functional" stuff as possible and just do tweeks here and there. In my firm opinion, the best results for clients come from gradual tweeks, and it also keeps a rapport with the designer client relationship, as well as an ability to update with the client's ever changing style, and allows everyone room to move and express their unique differences

[@christenweston3360]

While looking for ideas for changing up our bathroom, literally 75%+ of the “before” photos are the ones I like and took inspiration from! It’s sad how much amazing decor/tile/wood gets thrown away in these shows. Really irresponsible IMHO.

[@jgator6694]

I agree with you 100%. I hate “cookie cutter” homes. Nor have I ever been impressed with visiting new neighborhood “model” homes…with three story foyers…winding staircases, etc. yuk. I love older homes AND smaller spaces. They have character. I hate neighborhoods where people buy old brick homes (capes..ranches..bungalows) and tear them down to build monstrous “farmhouse decor” homes. There is nothing better than a small cottage..filled with books and sunporches and character. You are spot on..

[@howaboutnooo00]

Paige you are a voice of reason!! This is why you're the only channel of this genre I follow and watch. My reno crew was wincing at some of my choices, me wanting to leave in some 70s elements of my apartment, but it LOOKS GOOD! It looks timeless. And don't even start on me not wanting gray or white bathroom, me not wanting fake marble tiles, the renovators were literally like "this is weird, no one does that :/" well shut up. Personality is a vice in interior design, it seems, but not for me, screw grays and whites and beiges.

[@AdrienneJung.M]

I love 70s inspo

[@newhousehome]

I've been screaming this from rooftops for years. My 1968 home has a ton of original features that are unique and add so much personality. Honestly I do prefer 1960s and 1970s homes. People think its dated but I genuinely love it so much! House hunting was a pain because I HATE modern home design from the floorplans to the architecture to the endless gray. I already knew I was looking for a mid century build: natural wood cabinets, wainscoting, unpainted trims etc. Seeing old homes that were gutted just to be (modern) hideously impersonal cold and institutional made me want to rip my hair out. I saw SO many homes like that and it was awful. I do like to watch those hgtv shows but its to hate watch them lol 😆

[@ladonnawashington1643]

Same!

[@MorganGale]

I'm in the middle of buying my first house; it was built in 1966 and the seller was obviously a landlord who flipped everything to gray/granite/stainless steel. I'm hoping I can put the spark of life back in it by re-introducing those mid-century textures. When I tell people I want to rip out the "modern" cabinets, etc. they think I'm crazy! 😂

[@MoopsTheCrusher2]

I love the micro small updates to a space! I mean really, I'll spend an hour re-arranging my teacup shelf - and I know others into home decor do the same thing. Of course I want to see how small changes can make a big difference. I want to see how to layer decor pieces, how to better orient my existing furniture, how to hang art, etc. - I want the micro tips!

[@tifftiff9237]

Paige, I completely agree. I watched my parents renovate a 1920’s home and it horrified me. They took out the wood paneled basement bar, got rid of the beautiful metal kitchen cabinets with lights, carpeted over wood floors. I find all of this upsetting. I want to see all the character, I dream of having a lava rock tiki bathroom, I’d rather be in a small unrenovated time capsule that have a home that’s poorly built and not functional. Let’s breathe life into all the wonderful charm of previous decades. Put some modern in, sure. But what was set by you rings true in my eyes. Even with saving buildings. Here where I live, they tear down a historic place, build a condo on it, then put the old signage in the lobby and name it for the previous building. It’s so upsetting. Thank you for this channel of yours, it’s a beacon of light in my day always.

[@deirdrebridge]

This is so sad 😞

[@robinhoward4204]

I'm so pleased that I'm not the only person to feel this way - I get a bit frustrated with the ripping out of perfectly functional kitchens and bathrooms because they are a "bit" outdated. I have always been drawn to old homes with unique features, even if sometimes they are a bit impractical. Our neighbours live in a home that was built in the 1970s and had that 60s and 70s Hollywood movie stars vibe. (It's in Australia) Lots of dark slate floors, heavy timber beams, split level, stone fireplaces etc. I would like to think that if the owner ever sells, the new owners would do any upgrades in keeping with that whole era.

[@Cheesyenchilady]

What’s so crazy is if you look at like… actual rich ppls older home Reno’s… they’re made to retain all their character. But the middle class gets swindled into this mass manufactured look and it hurts me lol

[@friendlyforest2747]

@@Cheesyenchiladythat’s really observant and based. it’s almost like true wealth is intentionally eliminating the individuality of those without wealth in order to ensure that their widespread power is never questioned. if you can numb a nation in their fenced off single family condos, you’ll have a nation ripe for exploitation.

[@robinhoward4204]

I'm on board with everything you have just said. A home with character is (to me) so much more desirable than a showy, shiny soulless house. We can all add our own stamp to a place, and simple or structural upgrades can be done in keeping with the character of a home.

[@ziintle]

I prefer the small scale KZbin makeovers compared to the hgtv demolitions however boring they might be. KZbinrs make renovations seem accessible and almost anyone can do it. I’ve watched hgtv for years and never felt inspired to do a reno until YT

[@dsa2591]

There are so many great makeover videos on here! I live in a small apartment, and love Alexandria Gater. Also love Lone Fox because he does so many DIYs.

[@moonbeeps]

@@dsa2591 I think Alexandra Gater is kinda of the example of what not to do to your space.

[@cyberspace7208]

​@@dsa2591Lone Fox is good. I'm about to binge his new home. XO meccena

[@susanma4899]

@@dsa2591 Some people comment on Drew's channel, "You need your own show on HGTV!" And I'm like, "Nooo, do not go over to the dark side. You'll relinquish creative control, you'll lose money!"

[@despinakyraleos2234]

I disagree, Alexandra is great. Her style is cute, and she doesn't do ' resale ' inspired makeovers. I have gotten many ideas from her channel. I don't love everything she does but she is certainly talented

[@collectingscars]

I have to go to the hospital a lot for checkups and tests and they ALWAYS have HGTV playing in the waiting rooms. It feels like groundhog day every time I'm there.

[@Deborah1056]

wow and love! I saw a few comments talking about the green and pink bathrooms from the 50s. When I was in high school my family moved into a Tudor-style house with all these spiff cubby spaces, a rug shaking balcony (for real! I would hide out there on this tiny thing reading), a pink bathroom that had the most amazing tile throughout and a large cast iron tub that KEPT THE WATER WARM when taking a bath. Started my love for old and unique houses. I live in a 90s creation detached townhouse now, yet I've embraced some of the weirdness from the 90s. Got a bit of flack about it too. Chic C'est La Vie!

[@pamelaaverrett5848]

Wise beyond your years! I feel like people are scared to decorate in a unique way because they don’t have an eye for it 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@dsa2591]

I have a very electic style. It's generally cottage style, but I have a few mid-century pieces too. I think just make your home comfortable for YOU. Put what you love into it and don't copy anyone else.

[@beautybonvoyage8624]

I think it's more of the current trendy aesthetic has a clean uncluttered look to it. Which is why it's pleasing to people. Sometimes 'unique' looking spaces can feel disorganized and horderish. And considering many people have mental and emotional issues and it translates into their surroundings, it can be quite relaxing and refreshing to be in those wide open spaces and white clean palettes. There was a time when the trend was dark and gloomy, when people were obsessed with being edgy and such. I think the current trend is letting in a whole lot of light into many homes which is also helping. Many people are also trying to let go of certain nostalgic things that they used to love and perhaps define their personas as well. Esp. as she mentioned millennials. A lot of pop culture has been ruined for many millennials and that generation got a late start in life and I think want to shake off their past in a lot of ways and again the current trend give the same effect as those shows about horders and the before and after clean up it evokes.

[@hereforit2347]

I’ve seen HGTV “designers” literally destroy the work of well-known (especially mid-century) architects because the interior was “dated”. Like, why would you buy a home that someone obviously put a lot of thought, creativity, and hard work into, that you personally dislike? Someone else will appreciate the original designer’s vision. I never understood that! 😢

[@violetxoxox]

The design shows around the early 2000s were SO much more interesting and fun. There was VARIETY, there was COLOR, there was UNIQUENESS. There was architecture from cottage to loft to contractor-basic apartments, styles from Victorian to modern to ‘70s retro, aesthetics from beach to boho to art deco, designers like Genevieve Gorder and Christopher Lowell and Vern Yip. It was a smorgasbord of inspiration and ideas. I miss those shows so badly! I moved into my current house in 2012 and this shift to all the HGTV sameness was well underway. I kept thinking it was so weird that I was always creative in my spaces until I moved here, and now I’m stressed trying to choose paint colors and terrified to put a lick of paint on any walls despite having bought (and ultimately recycled) many, many gallons of expensive paint I never even opened. While I’ve spent the past decade bemoaning the fact that all the design I kept seeing over the past decade+ was the same, it never occurred to me it was because of the HGTV shows, but you’re absolutely right, because it was when I moved here almost 12 years ago that I started watching them a lot! That’s exactly what did it to everyone, including me, making me afraid to make my house MINE. I HAVE spent all these years thinking, “But what if I want to sell?” every time I think about doing ANYTHING. It’s been crippling and depressing. And I after more than a decade of this, it feels like I’ve been controlled by that fear for so long, I can’t just snap back to the way I used to be because I’ve been conditioned to be bland. To illustrate how extreme it is, I was the person who spent my whole life saying, “I will NEVER paint a wall white. Life is too short to live with no color,” but I’ve spent the past five years looking at paint chip after paint chip to figure out which white I should use on these walls here to “brighten the space” and being scared of choosing the wrong one. OMG, NOOOOO, MAKE IT STOP!!! 😬😳

[@linneamarchie4596]

You know my mom recently passed away and selling her house has been difficult - because she made a lot of personal changes that are so awesome and perfect for both her and the house’s history. But we’ve been frustrated seeing her house get 12 views a day, while the boring White House next door got 80. She kept her old kitchen and original cabinetry but updated it tastefully, and transformed her basement into a personal yoga gym with mirrored walls instead of an entertainment center. But when we ask the realtor why no one is interested, they say the kitchen feels too dark, or the basement is too quirky. Like what? You can CHANGE it you know. I fail to understand this idea of buying the perfect house and making no changes. It’s your HOUSE - make it you! Keep the old things and work with those to have it reflect yourself. People want beige boxes. And for some reason they don’t even have enough creativity to take a non-beige box and paint it beige themselves. They need it to be beige to start with.

[@ginomo80]

We had our 1974 family room painted (not white! Gasp!) and I told the contractor I didn’t want to paint the brick fireplace at all. He was appalled. His reasoning for why we should do it- “all the people on HGTV paint the fireplaces” 🙄

[@NoseyFloridaGirl]

Same here . Kept our beautiful brick fireplace just painted the wall it is on, a beautiful color to match the grout .

[@ghouliegarou]

Omg a friend of mine painted over the 100+ year old tiles on her fireplace in a rental unit because she wanted them to tie in to her color scheme. She painted them TEAL! It looked nice in her space, but I am still scandalized by it! I often wonder what the landlady said when she moved out.

[@Parcha64]

Painted brick is my least favorite "update"

[@FrinkyBaby]

We bought a mostly untouched mid-70s ranch. When showing us the house for the first time, our real estate agent just assumed we would want to rip out all the walls and paint the fireplace. Heck, no! We kept every wall and door, and are so happy with the cozy spaces they create.

[@TJ-ob8oj]

OMG!! I hate that. All I see on HGTV are painted brick exteriors and fireplaces. I inherited my father's house last year and there is a beautiful reddish brown brick fireplace in the family room. The outside is also brick. I will never paint it. I wonder how painted brick is going to look 5-10 years from now, expecially on the exterior. Maintenance, anyone?@@Parcha64

[@Thesimplifiedwife]

I feel like HGTV HomeTown is actually the one show that’s not doing this. Erin Napier is practically the only designer on the channel that isn’t afraid of color and uniqueness.

[@btvb7155]

Agree, Home Town tries to keep some history of the home and most are forever homes, not all but most

[@deirdrebridge]

Totally agree!!

[@Emelia39]

Yeah I like Erin’s style- I really wish they would stop accepting clients looking for vacation homes just to be on the show though, considering it’s already a pretty poor area.

[@kelsie_fl]

Home Town is the only show that I am constantly watching because they actually do interesting and classic things to the homes

[@juliak16]

I loooove her style and I actually find Ben and Erin charming/entertaining unlike many other HGTV “stars” who can be quite annoying to watch imo

[@cadenecewilliams]

You’re so right!!! We bought our first home earlier this year and wanted something with character that wasn’t generic. I think there’s a huge difference between making a place more functional and just destroying it. I think it’s important to lean into the architecture a house already has and pull design influence from there

[@ChristiePriem]

I have watched your garage to office makeover at least 5x. It's almost impossible to find inspiration like this where someone gathers unique and meaningful things over time and assembles them in a way that is functional and pretty.

[@sarahcain487]

I have a very 90’s house, and I don’t have the money to un-90’s it. Your channel has helped me realize that I can embrace it rather than fight it. There are affordable changes I can do that will enhance what’s already there and make it more timeless. Love your channel, keep it up! Video idea: Going over the different design styles (art deco, modern, traditional, etc) and showing items that reflect those styles. Maybe advice on how to mix styles. If you already did this, my bad - haven’t watched all of your videos yet.

[@lianebourke2113]

Aren’t the 90’s in again?!

[@nadiacoffey2609]

I have a very 90s house too and I don’t have a lot of money either. I’ve done some very small upgrades so far and Im embracing a lot of the 90s feel too. I feel like my home is very well built and that’s probably more important than having an all new home.

[@apmanda]

@@lianebourke2113who cares??

[@bustingyewls154]

Exactly. Most ppl aren’t rich to be able to change everything they want. Just do what you can, small upgrades here and there go a long way :) definitely takes time to upgrade it all how you would want it.

[@Emelia39]

Out of all the Renovation shows I like Restored with Brett Waterman because he actually restores the house and teaches people to appreciate architecture and to not just do the trendy thing. A lot of times the clients will want to tear things out and he’s like “ you know this is one of a kind and priceless, right?”

[@agorsline09]

I was going to say the same thing! I think it’s technically a magnolia network show now, not Hgtv. I really hope they make more seasons.

[@Emelia39]

@@agorsline09 I think the new season is coming out soon! The other thing I like is that he usually works with people who've already lived in the home and love and care about it (which usually makes them less annoying) and know its challenges, so it's interesting to see how he creates flow in a historic house instead of just knocking down every single wall. My only critique is he sometimes uses neutrals too much, but I think that's the clients as opposed to him.

[@jldavis709]

I love Brett Waterman! He does such an amazing job of restoring homes as close to original as possible. I love his love of original linoleum. I also started watching George Clark's shows on Roku channel. He's basically British Brett Waterman. And he's actually a trained architect.

[@SusanDiehl]

I always want to marry him by the end of the renovation.😅

[@robertbaldassare2118]

Its one of the only shows where they are not knocking down walls to open up kitchens to living rooms and dininig rooms, which is what is so great about it !!

[@redsteedproperties2405]

I love unique properties! My personal house was built in the 1880’s to house brewery workers. I restored the original floors and kept most of the layout the same. I added two bathrooms, put modern kitchen appliances and cabinets/countertops into the existing kitchen (it was mostly empty with a sink and an old range when we bought it) & moved laundry from the basement to upstairs (because the old stone basement gets too many spiders). A home can get updates to include modern things that we want to use without tearing the house apart and redoing everything.

[@lynnyoung1059]

Came across this video thanks to the KZbin algorithms. You are a breath of fresh air and spot on! I am so irritated when the designer destroys a perfectly good layout with an open floor plan. And adds a bathroom that is as big as my total first floor. You have made my day.

[@moniquehooey3643]

I love watching Bargain Block. It is one of the few HGTV shows that show how to personalize a property. Also, Rehab Addict has always been a show about restoration and respect for the style of each home. The British renovation and home shows are wonderful, creative, inspirational and are never cookie cutter. They even highlight how to save money and spend less on renovations. I highly recommend checking them out.

[@sadie513]

Evan and Keith! Love that Keith also incorporates his own art into the designs.

[@jellyfish1969]

I bought my home entirely because it had not been "updated". I'm so happy that i did, we enjoy the quirks and older details all day everyday and are working to restore more of that sense of time and place

[@teresemk]

YES! This is so true, and something I've been talking about with my husband and friends. And if I hear one more show talk about a ridiculously unrealistic budget where they can demo and renovate a kitchen, I could scream! I wish HGTV (or another network) could create a realistic makeover/remodeling show. But the network would probably argue that this concept would be too dull and uninspiring. Well, the network has become dull and uninspiring.

[@fluximagery6500]

I thought it was just me, I used to love these shows before I found a home and even after I did. But I cannot stand these shows anymore, the absolute worst. Dull and uninspiring = perfect description

[@damann6470]

I almost bought an HGTV-esque house from a flipping company cause it was the only one in an area I loved. It appraised for $40K under the asking price so I backed out of the deal. Another one built in 1932 came onto the market shortly after and I just got the keys to it. So excited to let its existing character take over the design.

[@ratioetscientia]

My husband and I are finally on the verge of buying our own house to be free of tyrannical landlords so the last thing I’m going to do is let a hypothetical next owner’s taste terrorize me instead.

[@tamarastone141]

Yes! I said the same thing ! I bought in 2021 and I can't tell you the back and forth we did with our contractor about our "dated renovations" we chose and how it may not give us the resale value we could get...🙄 I didn't care! I want what I want! I was so upset about him describing my style as "eclectic " or "retro " when in fact its actually modern with a touch of contemporary! He was pissed we didn't do a gray and white boring trendy style.

[@GierigerFisch]

🤣

[@barbiedesoto7054]

Thank you! I hate the bland results of those shows ugh. My house had original 1950s pink and blue bathrooms and I think that’s why the sellers had to drop the price. But I loved them so it was perfect.

[@dsa2591]

My mom's1950's house had a tiny pink bathroom with burgundy trim and a tile mosaic floor. My niece bought it and tore all that out and made it white. It was heartbreaking.

[@mariafordon121]

I spent last weekend making myself a little home office corner based on your garage office makeover and it’s my favorite spot in my apartment. The only thing I bought new was brackets and custom cut wood for the shelves. My apartment is very much a modern white box and now it feels so much more personal. Your videos have so much more value to me than anything on HGTV

[@prissyredneckbear6826]

OMG THANK YOU!!!! I'm now subscribed. I can't stand this boring trends been trying so hard to find shows and channels that are different and unique and not boring!!!

[@CathyS_Bx]

The only show I admired was Rehab Addict with Nicole Curtis. She took old homes and restored them, she did not reimagine them. So agree with you, Paige!

[@melissathirteen]

I loved that show!

[@kajahood7135]

Ooh gonna look this one up!

[@karenryder6317]

Also look up "Restored" with Brett Waterman for the same reasons.

[@heidiparker7222]

My hope for the last several years has been to start seeing unique homes with unique decor. I've wanted this to become the "trend" for so long! I hope it catches on. I'm tired of all the cookie-cutter black and white exteriors with copycat decor from Target!

[@kylia2009]

I think it just comes down to taste 🤷🏽‍♀️. I personally love modern, contemporary, and Scandinavian design. I love calming neutral colors and texture. I hate farmhouse style... but a lot of people love it. One criticism I have of HGTV is that a lot of the renovations seem way overpriced. I was watching Christina on the Coast she charged nearly 200k for a master bathroom and closet. That's ridiculous even for wealthy people and definitely will not add 200k to the home value.

[@maddychater2393]

Having grown up watching these shows and usually always being underwhelmed by the results, it is SO interesting to hear all this! Well done! I love your channel and personality so much Paige!

[@adamspful]

I remember some shows where the designers did not ask the couples what colors they wanted, what was a priority? and I thought how could they know what to do. Also I hate it when people organize books by colors or turn the pages to the front.

[@r.lissethorellana3330]

As an elder millennial born and raised in L.A, I'm fortunate to not know anyone who prefers these boring spaces 😂. I grew up surrounded by Spanish revival bungalows and beautiful Craftsman homes, we will not settle for bland 💁🏻‍♀️

[@meh5069]

Ugh Spanish revivals in L.A are STUNNING

[@suzglass]

Jealous!

[@davidfitnesstech]

I love those styles. It makes me think of old L.A. 1920s - 30s ...

[@YouCanCallMeChrys]

There used to be a designer on HGTV who only had a show for one season probably 15-20 years ago or something. He was literally the coolest designer I had ever seen. When I was a kid, I was fascinated by his designs. I had never seen anything like it before or since to be honest. So uniqueness sadly gets canceled after only one season.

[@michellekrystofiak9517]

You are on point! I always say my husband decorates 5 years before a trend. We were thinking of selling our house and called a stager and the first thing she said was to paint our deep teal walls to white. I told her to remember us in 6 months when she sees this color everywhere. It is everywhere now. I actually like white walls but they cannot be without trim/millwork/character, etc. I am so completely bored watching HGTV. Thank you for this video! There is a designer in Chicago I follow--Summer Thornton--and even though it's not my exact style, I absolutely love the character and inspiration.

[@rosezingleman5007]

I have grown to hate the all white thing, the black windows, the rattan lampshades. I wouldn’t want to live in Joanna Gaines’s idea of the perfect house. It’s boring. Thanks for saying this Paige. You’re the voice of reason and also *good taste.*

[@eattherich9215]

Sick of white and beige. Nobody can live the way those places are styled especially if children and animals also live in the house.

[@lynnfletcher998]

Being in my 60s it is what it is for me. I still love to play around with decorating. You are right on!!!!!! Love love love seeing different houses with personality!!!! My Son once made a comment to someone making suggestions “Don’t H G TV my house!” Loved that response.

[@misty1tl]

Good on your son. When I was redoing the floor in my kitchen I wanted vintage looking linoleum because the house was built in the 40’s. Everyone kept telling me to get tile because that’s what everyone gets on HGTV. We had paver tiles in my childhood home. I hated it, even as a kid I hated doing chores in there. I am glad I stuck to my guns.

[@MariaLopez-dz9kd]

That's so true. Not only with homes but with clothing. Everything needs to be white, beige, black. So it looks ''richie rich''. No color, super boring

[@user-tn1yq2qp9b]

Super interesting - and well-researched - video. As a person from Denmark living in the US today, I've always been so baffled by the desire for hotel aesthetics. "I want my bedroom to feel like being in a hotel", I've never understood why that is appealing. Danish interior design is very white and boring, but I've never heard anyone say they aspire to hotel vibes.

[@aliannarodriguez1581]

Believe me, that one confuses many Americans too. Why would anyone want a home that feels like a hotel? (I remember when saying a house felt like a hotel was a deadly insult.)

[@edivaniald]

Your small home updates are a joy to watch! Specifically because you don’t do an entire makeover at once, but you show very realistically how decorating a house is. It takes time and effort and sometimes you have to pause because you’ve been spending a lot and need a breather. It shows that designing and decorating a house that you love takes time, and that that’s okay.

[@emiliaescobar7652]

This is a very refreshing video, makes a lot of sense!

[@starandflurry]

Couldn't agree more. If everything you do is based on the resale then in effect you are renting your home from the next buyer.

[@maryinthemaking7211]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. We bought our first house 35 years ago and we were so proud and happy with the improvements we made. It was all about working within the space and reimagining. Seems imagination is lacking now. Paige keep doing realistic renovations, your followers have the vision to appreciate it. ❤

[@marianahomes]

This is so on point. I would like to add to this that staying truer to the era and original design of the home, is a great way to look at longevity. Trends get exhausting, so I try to keep things achievable on the macro level and then have fun with the decor. Be unique there and you'll have more opportunities to change things up with seasons or years. Fun tile and cabinets are great but they get old so quick.

[@pollya2867]

Totally agree , there’s a show here in the UK called Scotlands Home of the Year on BBC Scotland . They visit homes looking for ones that are unique and actually show the owner’s personality. Exactly what every home should strive to do .

[@Ashley-eliza]

6:22 when the kitchen first popped up, my heart dropped because I knew what was coming. WHY WOULD THEY DESTROY THAT KITCHEN LIKE THAT? 😭😭😭

[@zanesutherland406]

It was so nice! I’d swap out the appliances for probably stainless steel and add a moveable island maybe. Also can’t believe they painted the wood beams!

[@france7678]

Même chose pour la charmante petite cuisine bleue avec sa péninsule à étagères à 11:36 !

[@alexandradominguez38]

Yes! I just bought a 1950s ranch and I love the original oak floors and am working around the mint green tile in the bathroom because hey, it's unique and has personality. Edit, curious if you feel like Lone Fox is a unique design KZbin 😊

[@debramccormick456]

How refreshing! You are exactly right! I haven’t watched those shows for awhile, but I remember at times liking the before better than the after, and absolutely cringing when perfectly good, gorgeous,quality kitchen cabinets were destroyed. You’ve made me think more deeply about this, and I think the effect on viewers is akin to what happens when we spend time on Facebook. These sources generate a dissatisfaction & lack of appreciation with what we have. We become discontent and wonder how we/our homes/our lives will ever measure up. You’ve alerted us to this and this new subscriber thanks you. Can’t wait to see what else you have, and your links! I live in a little stone house built in the 1970s. It is unique, and not for everyone, but I love it so much and felt so happy when my offer was accepted 30 yrs ago and I’d drive by and just smile. I’m sure you will help me come up with ideas to utilize its uniqueness & complement its character. Thanks, again!

[@marysmith4811]

You are so right! Because of Chip and Joanna Gaines, SO many people have decided to paint their brick homes! They now have to keep painting a house exterior that was virtually no maintenance. I stopped watching these shows so long ago. It did make me laugh to see how they all had coiled sink faucets...LOL!

[@Kayla_P99]

And you can't unpaint brick!

[@Ago2904]

I agree with you. Ona smaller scale, I have never understood why in these shows but also on many homemaking YT vlogs, people style their bookshelves with random stuff and books to get a certain aesthetic. To me, a bookshelf is an opportunity to showcase the books one loves and actually reads and trinkets that have personal value. One can still style it with these things but it becomes more personal and a reflection of who you are. Otherwise it just doesn’t really seem to have a purpose other than catching dust, IMO.

[@karenryder6317]

Oh yes. And in addition to showing what you love, books with titles facing forward make finding the book accessible. Does anyone with backward facing books every actually read them? You could just as easily take a can of paint and paint all the fronts of your books if they are only objects to look at and never get taken down from the shelves.

[@corilia9529]

I have 6 bookcases in my house on one wall . Many different types of books and knickknacks

[@harrisond8132]

I'm a boomer and agree. I have been looking to sell my house and buy smaller. I haven't made any updates towards the latest trends since I figure buyers can do that on their own. The place looks clean and has a lot of color, and a lot of original features. The houses I have been attracted to are what you described. My realtor thought I was crazy because I love this 30's house with the original kitchen with metal cabinets and large one piece ceramic sink.

[@christinafordhomedesignlif8847]

I personally love HGTV style, bright, airy, fresh and modern but I also like a vintage twist of a unique piece from an antique store or something like that. That’s what real design is being able to mix it all in.

[@karenryder6317]

I like bright, airy and fresh too, but with SOME, not all, modern touches. I like partly, not completely, open spaces and I love neutral colors too but by adding color and texture in the staging that makes it less boring or sterile. My style is called transitional--some of the old mixed with some of the new. That way each homeowner can bring their own personality into how they "mix it up".

[@hoppingwren]

Oh Paige thank you so much for this! My cousin just reno'd her house and to be honest it is beautiful and not entirely HGTV- but I started to feel bad that we can't afford to reno our place. It's great to be reminded that not every place has to look the same. I'm working on restoring my solid wood kitchen cabinets - I'm not going to paint them grey or white. I'm sticking to their character even if it is a bit dated!

[@savannahsmiles1797]

if folks are gonna paint cabinets...take the time to do it properly. I lived in a house where they didn't understand painting. I went to wipe down the cabinets and the paint ended up on my rag. I wasn't even using harsh chemicals.

[@hoppingwren]

@@savannahsmiles1797 just to be clear on restoring the wood, not painting!

[@friendlyforest2747]

Seeing my parents fall into the trap of decorating their new house (which they've called their forever home and are planning to never sell) in this hgtv style - it's evoking this feral response in me that I can only describe as a child witnessing and losing their parent as they devolve into a state of nothingness. it feels like this capitalist drive behind homeownership has had one of the most identifiably opiating effects on the US, and watching everyone be drawn to the flame of evil is just... like genuinely stressful ... kinda ironically but mostly unironically. it's sad. great video lol

[@BabyMango]

That’s dramatic as hell lmfao

[@friendlyforest2747]

@@BabyMango am i wrong

[@katieb3172]

I mean HGTV style is basic but like ….bruh it’s just house decor trends it’s not that deep 😂😂😂😂

[@annemurphy9339]

Just choose to own nothing and be happy for yourself, like a programmed drone, and let your parents enjoy their home and the process of decorating it however they want. They’re entitled to home ownership and self-expression, just as you can make simp posts about your feral responses.

[@chloro8306]

You're calling your parents evil because they like a trend?

[@laurasmith49333]

Growing up in a cluttered old home was not fun. I find the white, clean aesthetic calming. I'm guessing many others do too for the same reason. Older homes were dark and nothing was ever clean or new. I think the current trend with some added unique touches is the best of both worlds. I have white walls but also a stained glass interior window. Subway tile in my kitchen but vintage paintings and antique chairs. The Magnolia network has added some really great shows lately using lots of color and vintage finds.

[@jessicapreston9808]

This is so true..when my husband and I gutted and re-did our kitchen I wanted a unique look to my taste, but everyone was in my ear saying “you need to go simple for when you sell”. I was influenced by this and chose plain, white shaker cabinets and grey and white stone counters. I regret it so much.

[@TM_VI]

One thing I've learned from you is to look at a space and ask myself what I do and don't like, and to be specific. Even though I don't exactly have the same style. The last shown house is infuriating though! The original terracotta tiles should have been kept! Here in the Netherlands we have laws that monumental buildings (including houses people live in) that are simply forbidden from being demolished. Even though people can change things on the inside... But it's a good reminder of the value of old things that are not easily replaced.

[@hs2874]

I bought an art deco apartment in Melbourne, which was built in 1938. I love how it looks a bit old and out of style. My living room has these rounded corners. I refuse to paint over all the walnut wood skirting boards. I have respect for these older features.

[@nailati]

Ironically, part of what I really enjoyed about your garage makeover (it made me a subscriber!) was that it wasn't more "dramatic" than it needed to be, and that it involved the sort of things I could do in my own home without needing to learn any skills or buy any power tools :)

[@annaekholm6288]

In Sweden we have a lovely show called ”Det sitter i väggarna”, literally translated to ”It sits in the walls”. The premise of the show is that they showcase old, unique houses all over Sweden and they have a historian go through national and local archives to find out the specific history of the house and the people who lived in it. It can be houses from the 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th century and the houses always have beautiful old features that the owners cherish and take care of. And they always have beautiful interior design that compliment the house. Then there is also a person who helps the owners with a specific task they need to fix with the house (NOT upgrade). So, if they for example have an old chimney that needs some new brick, she restores it and she does it in a way the chimney was originally constructed and historically correct. It's a lovely show and I usually cry because they find so many beautiful stories of the old inhabitants and talk about how they renovated or constructed the house, and the current owners always cherish their historical houses.

[@sethm3856]

That's why I've started watching a lot of Alexandra Gater's youtube reno videos, she does different styles in most episodes depending on what the person likes, so some are really colorful and eclectic others are more scandi or industrial or boho or modernist etc. it's generally on a budget too, so it's small upgrades that turn a space from drab and dysfunctional to a function, aesthetic nice place to live.

[@aina3387]

The people I bought my house from tastefully decorated it for themselves. But it was "unique" according to my realator because they showed the house as is, lived in with plants everywhere, blue walls, (and one ceiling painted blue) and all. Turns out I LOVE the color and the house was turn-key for me. It is so much more cozy than the plain grey walls that the other houses had. I'm of the opinion that I can undo whatever damage I do to my home when I get ready to sell it, but for now I'm going to decorate it for me.

[@trishrandall5031]

Thanks so much for this! The two words most said on HGTV the past 10 yers have been "It's so dayyyyted, " (with a sneer).I remember when HGTV shows featured using what you have, or thrift store finds, to create unique spaces. The last time I watched HGTV showed a couple who had bought a 1960s, mint condition mid-century designed home. Especially delightful was the bathroom, that had an indoor/outdoor shower - partly in the bathroom (which could be closed off in winter) but with part on the deck, surrounded by huge, mature trees. The woman was petrified that someone could see into the shower (simple cure: frosted window sticker plastic). The kitchen was equally unique. Both were destroyed.

[@Whoever68]

OMG! Finally someone that is saying exactly what I have been thinking! Thank you thank you thank you. I 100% agree with you. I too love older homes that aren’t perfect. I love the character of older homes have that is impossible to recreate with new stuff. The scuffs on the floor boards and old brick walls, metal pressed ceilings that are slightly warped from age. Bathrooms that have old tiles (as long as they’re clean) with old taps (faucets) etc. Not every wall needs to be knocked down. Not having every room open plan. Being able to shut doors to keep out noise or simply to cool or heat a small area rather than a whole house. Thank you for being a voice for quirky homes.

[@scarba]

Every time I see a makeover show I remember one with a reveal with their kid there. The kid hated it and said, „paint it again, paint it again“, hilarious and I’m surprised it made it to the final edit.

[@dsa2591]

I remember one where the woman came in and actually cried and said "I hate it." The show had told them if they didn't like it, they would put it all back like it was, and that's exactly what they had to do.

[@blom4045]

Honestly, since ive been watching you, probably over a year ago now, you have given me the confidence to have fun and shop second hand, buy things are are over the top or garish and take the time to find the perfect piece! You have influenced my style so much and I really enjoy my home now, I have sold almost everything mass produced on facebook market place and I kind of love my old 60's kitchen now! We appreciate you!!!!

[@kimmies007]

I completely agree with this assessment! Thanks to the housing market blowing up the last few years, I've been on the hunt to buy a nice unique house for 2 years now. Lots of corporations in my area bought up a big amount of the homes and did these boring ass flips with grey "wood" floors, extremely white kitchens, etc. Every time I walk into a house, I have to estimate in my budget how much it will cost me to convert it from the grey/white/modern farmhouse to something with life and character.

[@danvillebelle6977]

Thanks for a great video, could not agree more. 3 1/2 years ago we found our dream home - a 1970 custom ranch that was basically a time capsule house; we are only the second owners. I am a child of the 70's and the style and colors feel like home to me. We love ALL the original retro quirks in our home - avocado green kitchen and bathroom sinks, wood paneling in the living room, huge brick fireplace wall, original kitchen cabinets and formica countertops (in fabulous shape!), big closets and tons of built-in storage, and even glitter popcorn ceilings! Anyone else would have bought this home and immediately gutted it. We may eventually do a master bath renovation as we continue to age (take out the tub surround and put in a shower flush with the floor), but other than that we're not changing anything.

[@michellemontana]

seeing the kitchen at 6:30 get ripped out, physically hurt. literally just needed new hardware and that backsplash removed.

[@kitschymod1308]

Ugh I felt the same way!! 😭 such a shame to get rid of all that greatness! 💔

[@SloppyAndBlue]

I was just about to say this too

[@princessbc9791]

I completely agree that there are some great interior design KZbinrs; however, there are a couple of shows on HGTV like "Why the Heck Did I Buy This House?" and "One of a Kind" if looking for designers or don't do everybody else does. Or you could watch a rental shows but make your changes more permanent where you want to like "Reno My Rental" and "Rental Redo". Or "Makeover by Monday" which is on almost everything but HGTV for owners who like unique. However, when adults are watching these shows, they should be able to differentiate between what really needs to be done or updated and what can be left alone and simply painted or not. Also, since the beginning of time, people have been remodeling their homes for function and resale. Now, if you're in your forever home, it shouldn't matter but you'd be a fool not to consider resale if you're not in your forever home. Most people are not looking for unique things because what's unique to you doesn't read across a large group of people. And gray is so played out, charcoal gray looks good but the rest of it is a whole mess!!!

[@maggie8482]

Thank you for shedding lights on this HGTV definitely play a major part in people’s lives. I definitely enjoy having a home that’s unique with personality

[@chrisgreek4285]

THANK YOU! I am a woman who was born in the last year of the baby-boomers and moved a LOT as a child (my Dad was a Padré in the Canadian Navy), so have seen houses from one end of this country to the other. Growing up - especially when he transitioned to a land-based church, one house/manse looked pretty much like the other, until the year I went to University. That year, Dad moved the family to a little town that had an old, hand-built home for a manse. Wow! My eyes for architecture and interior design were blown wide open! Everywhere you looked, there were little details that the original homeowner had built in for either his wife’s enjoyment or to make the house function in some clever way, i.e., the flour bin instead of one cupboard in the kitchen, etc. I couldn’t wait until we could afford to buy our first home once I was married so we could look for something like that. To my everlasting heartbreak, I learned that most homes like this have had all of that character ripped out for one reason or another. I’ll never understand that; why buy a historical home just to turn it into a non-descript white box? Go buy one of those! You can’t ruin it any further.