Renovation Impossible

I think this show has A LOT of potential, but it really misses the mark on some things.

1. The host, Russell Holmes, is very adorable and cute, but I feel he's a bit too forceful with the clients and crew. I get he wants to do the whole "tough love" thing, but it just feels like it's WAY too much "tough" and WAY too little "love". It also just seems like he talks too much in the wrong places. For example, at the end of the episode during the walkthrough with the clients, it'd be so much nicer to let the clients discuss and focus on them more during that period. I also wish I could hear much more from Paige (or Paige and Russell together).

2. I feel there's a HUGE missed opportunity with the clients (especially if the show wants more tv drama and stuff). It would be so much more of an enjoyable show if there was a dedicated portion of the show at the beginning where Russell and Paige sat down (or visited stores or something) with the clients and really discussed the really big/major issues and compromises that need to be made rather than what Russell and Paige currently do which is just "trust us, we're going to make all the major decisions for you, it'll be fine". The clients are always happy with the end product, but there's a BIG difference in the reactions between the clients that happened to get the things they REALLY wanted vs. The clients that had to sacrifice the things that really mattered to them (even though it seems like they wouldn't have to with a different design and budget reapportionment). Russell and Paige can (and should) still do the ultimate design, but it would be FAR more interesting and emotionally impactful to see Russell and Paige teach or show the clients how to make decisions and compromises so they can continue their renovations in the future. It just feels like the clients lose a lot of agency and sign off on things that they really don't know if they want/like. It also seems like Russell doesn't ask simple questions like "what are the things you want THE MOST and we may compromise on other things it's ok as long as you get those things you really want?".

I think the show could be amazing. Really emotionally impactful, something for the viewers to learn (I'm sure many partners have issues about compromising on wants and designs), and of course some really great design. But there needs to be some major shifts from Season 1 to Season 2 in how the show is set up for it to fully live up to what it could be.

I didn't expect to like this one when I started watching the first episode months ago. Each episode begins with the guy telling us all of his past jobs. And he's pretty much a 'Jack of all trades, master of none' type of guy. Which is a big negative.

But once I got past that, it's a pretty enjoyable show. Yes, the crew he works with is a little goofy. They spend $500 repurposing some old junk when a new item could be purchased for less. But they're likeable and entertaining. And I'm watching for entertainment!

I also like how the guy gets each partner to give up something they want to spend the money on something their partner wants (with couples). That kind of brings a little 'Gift of the Magi' to it and warms the heart. And that makes it more enjoyable. Because life shouldn't always be about me, me, me.

This may be one of the best home remodeling shows that I have ever seen. I watched as Russell endured the nonsense of Garage Monkey's host, and discovered a warm likable guy who genuinely liked what he was doing. I hope HGTV gives this show some time to continue developing. Paige is a big plus here and makes it all a big hit. I'd love to see the show move around and not limited to the Texas locale but I realize the challenges of working within a budget, finding vendors, personnel, and equipment. I guess I see this show like a "This Old House" with the flavor that Russell and Paige bring to the mix.

I love these shows and this one was fine. It wasn't good and it wasn't bad. If I have HGTV on, I won't turn it off but I won't set my dvr to record it either.

My take away is the host talks a lot and when he's done, I realized I stopped paying attention and drifted off thinking about other things. Let his team and the families talk more. He's not interesting enough to carry the show on his own.

The short timelines and small budget feel forced for made up tv drama.

The show has potential, maybe the rest of the season or season 2 will get better. If someone told me this show was getting cancelled tomorrow. I wouldn't care.

Please keep more of this show coming! It's just a great fun show! Lots of great ideas, and a realistic approach to budget! We watched these and went back and rewatched all of them! Russell seems like a great guy and person to work with. I really hope you guys will keep it on. We like watching Paige get good deals and transforming thrift shopping!

Such transformations! HGTV is always taking great shows off. Please please listen to us and keep some of these shows on!! Like we also loved Boise Boys and now those are not being renewed. This is a great show!! I like the team behind the work! Love the show!