How to Get a Room Makeover from a TV Design show

Ever watched one of those home makeover shows and thought, "Hey, I have a room that needs remodeling or redecorating and I wouldn't mind appearing on TV?" Well, here are some tips to try and make it happen.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Camera or video camera for email/audition tape
• Internet access
• To live in or near a major city

1. Watch several of the home-improvement/makeover shows on cable, especially HGTV, Do It Yourself Network, Style, Fine Living and TLC to see which ones best fit your personal style and taste. Besides the good ol' living room redo, there are shows that specialize in kitchen, bath, even outdoor and garden remodels too.

2. Scour the web. Often Craig's List has offers listed under "TV/Film/Video" jobs asking for willing room makeover volunteers, as do the cable networks' web sites. But your best shot is at www.HGTV.com. There's a link at the top of the page labeled "Be on HGTV." Click on it and you'll find a very long list of shows (38 at present!) looking for participants. Links will usually take you to the producers' web sites, which will feature very detailed application procedures. Most of the shows are produced locally, out of L.A., but there are others that are produced in Philadelphia, Chicago and New York. Still others will travel. Browse around and check it out.

3. 

   Often, the applications will require you to submit a videotape of yourself describing your room and what you'd like to see changed. At the very least, you'll need to submit still photos and a detailed statement. Your application materials don't need to be flashy, just honest and as complete as possible. If you make a sincere effort and are truly interested, the producers will take note.

4. Don't expect to hear from anyone soon, if ever. Just put your offer out there and see what happens. Someone from the company will contact you if you meet their criteria.

5. If you are lucky enough to get chosen, keep your expectations low. Most of these shows are done on EXTREMELY tight budgets and shot very quickly. Most likely, you won't be paid for your time, but you'll be getting professional design and remodeling help for free. And you'll get to keep what comes into your room as part of the design. If you're a stickler for how you'd like things to look, though, the "Design on a Dime"-type show may not be for you.

6. On the other hand, there are shows like "Designers' Challenge" and "ReDesign" where you set your own budget, foot the bill for furniture and hire your own contractor. What you get is free professional design advice (which can run into the thousands) and the fun and excitement of your remodel appearing on TV.

7. 

   Be real. Conflict and emotions, whether they're positive or negative, make for good television. And who knows, you could end up with a gorgeous room like this...

Tips & Warnings

• Try to look your best on camera. Wear the same makeup you usually wear, but wear more of it. As for clothing, solid colors are best.
• Make sure you're clothes aren't too revealing or too sloppy. Remember, all your relatives will probably be watching.

[mclark1122]

on 12/12/2008 I have been trying to decorate my kitchen, and master bedroom, the design is not coming together. I have this perfect design in my head, however; I am struggling to get it together. HGTV please help.

[mclark1122]

on 12/12/2008 I have tried to decorate the kitchen and the master bedroom, but I am stuck. The decorations are not falling together, like I have pictured in my head. HGTV please help.

[stikfig]

on 1/12/2007 Great info and your picture look amazing.