As a concept, Top Design was probably the most obvious next step for a Bravo reality competition show following the success of Project Runway and Top Chef. It is the next most obvious homo-oriented profession (unless they were going to do Top Junior High Show Choir Director or Top Beauty Pageant Coach. So, it was kind of a big surprise when the first season of the show was panned across the board (let it be known, however, that I still found it enjoyable — although my taste is questionable in these circumstances).

For the second season of Top Design, though, they’ve spiced things up. Fortunately, they’ve even followed some of my advice. Because, they asked me, you know.

The differences?

• They got a new host. Todd Oldham, bless his heart, has ample knowledge and zero personality. As such, they’ve demoted him to become the show’s Tim Gunn where he can just offer helpful hints and dote upon the contestants. The new host is India Hicks — who I have never heard of in my life, but the show assures me is very, very important. She is, for sure, blonde, foreign and as sharp and cold as a pick axe.
• They’ve ditched the stunningly awful catchphrase, most likely inspired by a dare, “See you later, decorater.” Instead, they’ve opted for the clumsy, if passable, “We can’t live with your design.” It’s no “you’re out,” but whatever.
• They’ve changed the scenery in the judges room from the standard gaytemporary style to a darker, more industrial-looking space. It works.
• No preliminary Quickfire-esque challenges. Instead, they’ve instituted pop quiz-style competitions.

Unfortunately, all the judges are the same (although I love that crazy dame Kelly Wearstler). Mean girl Jonathan Adler and that other lady are still there, but haven’t really been that offensive so far.

In general, the show has a bit more meat — a focus on competition and a more interesting cast. So far, the most interesting folks are Andrea (Ricky Schroeder’s real-life wife and stern taskmaster), Wissit (an opera-singing gay cartoon), Preston (who treated us to a long shot of his torso) and Robert (an older gay robot who balls-ily and spectacularly threw Preston under the bus in the first episode).

I’ll let you know how it goes.

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