I think we typically, as Northerners, stereotype what the South is in so many negative ways. We kind of forget all the beautiful things that they contribute to make this country a country.

Design can have such a positive impact on the way people live and on their relationships and moods.

There's a big difference between decorators and designers and the training is very different.

It's not about doing over the living room of someone who has bad taste in color. This is about restoring historic buildings and instilling pride in a community, which can be done through designing new public spaces and social gathering spots.

You forget how many people watch TV until you come into a town like this. Everybody knows you, and I'm always humbled, especially when there are 500 little kids who all have their hair done like yours and want to be designers.

The hardest part of the show is saying goodbye when it's all done. It really breaks you.

I think that, in comparison, New Yorkers and Northerners are so guarded.