'Fixer Upper: Behind the Design' Takes You Inside the Mind of Joanna Gaines

"You've seen our fixer-uppers," says Joanna in the opening sequence of the new series, Fixer Upper: Behind the Design. "But you haven't seen the full story or all the little decisions that turn these houses into dream homes." Each new episode in this Fixer Upper companion series offers insights and info beyond what was seen in the original show.

Costruction's only half the battle," says Joanna. "I want to show you how all the details and the designs come together before the final reveal. We even have some surprises you didn't see in the original show."

Behind the Design also gives viewers more behind-the-scenes glimpses and insights into how the renovations came together, and we'll be presenting never-before-seen photography.

Behind the Design may focus primarily on Joanna's design strategies and execution, but rest assured that Chip will be there to lend a hand.

The Basic Beige Bungalow. When Patti Baker decided to move to Waco to be near her family, she found a '50s-vintage home that made her feel happy, but admittedly the rather plain and empty house "needed a hug"...

...Fortunately Chip and Joanna were there to provide the hug. Natural wood shingles and coordinating front door, gray exterior paint, white trim and fresh landscaping help give the '50s vintage home a distinctive new look and cottage feel. 

"Cozy cottage," is how homeowner Patti Baker described her design preference and personal style. "Things that are comfortable and welcoming." Patty particularly wanted a space to display framed family photos in an aesthetically pleasing manner. Joanna incorporated this gallery wall with photo ledges as part of the living room design. "We used lots of classic cottage elements," says Joanna, "like the over-stuffed furniture, colorful pattern pillows, wood shutters, but we kept the color palette pretty neutral so it makes the space feel clean and uncluttered."

"Between the photo ledge, the open shelving in the den and the shelf above the dining table," says Joanna, "Patti will have plenty of space to showcase her favorite photos and mementos, without the house feeling super-cluttered."

Hall Bathroom, Before. Not featured in the original Fixer Upper episode, this half bathroom off the hallway gets a makeover as a powder bath. #neverbeforeseen

Hall Bathroom, After. The newly renovated powder bath features an oval mirror and pedestal sink.
#neverbeforeseen

Hall Bathroom, After. The brushed nickel fixtures on the pedestal sink coordinate with the industrial style mirror. #neverbeforeseen

Hall Bathroom, After. The powder bath, though small, offers ample space for storage with these open shelves in natural wood finish. Joanna staged the space with fresh cut fern fronds.
#neverbeforeseen