HGTV

Before I started interior design I was an HGTV addict. That was the only channel I would ever watch. I could sit for hours and watch all of the shows back to back. It only motivated me to work on my house more than I already was. After I started school around my third quarter I stopped watching it because it gave me heartburn thinkin about anything to do with design. I officially had enough of it at school. I know some might say "what design, I don't see any designing goin on on HGTV". Well I have to admit that I stand on both sides. I can't say that I know there line up of shows currently but I think there are some really talented designers featured on this channel and there are also stars that are just given a show. Candace Olsen did get a degree in interior design, worked for some of Canada's top firms, and started her own commercial and residential firm. Genevieve Gorder recieved her BFA in design aswell. There are a few exceptions and these people have talent and the education to back it. I do agree that this channel gives the viewers a misconception of what interior designers are and what there job description is. The decorating aspect has overtaken the actual responsibilites of an interior designer. I'm not saying that the individuals featured on these programs aren't talented in different areas but it shouldn't be catogorized as design if it only encompases decorating. At some point there has to be a division between the two and that is why it is the job of interior designers to continue to educate. The more we can educate, the further we will reach others and help understand our own identity aside from the decorators and even the architects.