While I really enjoyed binge-watching the entire series over the course of a few days, I have to note that it offers more in the way of entertainment than practical how-to or useful inspiration. Still-fun, silly, and dramatic. In other words, a fine, "unscripted" reality show.
Having worked with contractors, designers, and trades on my own renovations, I was surprised and disconcerted by the piecemeal format. While there's nothing wrong with dressing one room at a time, I can't think of anything more ridiculous than actually finishing one room - painting trim and arranging tchotchkes - before starting demo on the other rooms.
There seems to be very little attention given (by the competitors or the judges) to the distinction between design and decor. Or, for that matter, art and accessory. While the San Diego team seems to accessorize with the best of them, real sophistication demands balance and control - and all of the issues raised by the judges do speak to one or the other of these criteria. I can't see the winning team - or any of their competitors - as anything more than enthusiastic amateurs.
Still - squeaky Josh is such a caricature, it's hard not to smile.
I love any renovation that isn't my own.