Why They Went Home: Design Star All Stars Contestants' Design Mistakes
Six contestants that almost became Design Star champions are back for a shot at redemption in the all-new series Design Star All Stars. Take a look back at the spaces that sent them home the first time around.
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November 25, 2014

A Second Chance
Six of the most memorable designers from past seasons of Design Star return for another shot at glory. At stake: a $25,000 prize and an appearance on an HGTV show, plus the title of the first Design Star All Star.
Season 7: Hilari Younger
Season seven's Hilari is best known for her fun personality and glamorous taste.
Why She Went Home
She made it all the way to the final three, but she fell short in the non-traditional yurt challenge. The design panel thought her on-camera tips lacked substance, and her space planning left them longing for more function.
Ready to Shine
Fresh from season seven, Hilari is primed and ready to win Design Star All Stars. "I was good before, but now I'm unstoppable," she says.
Season 6: Kellie Clements
The season six fan favorite and mother of two is known for her sweet personality and bright, modern designs.
Why She Went Home
Kellie made it to the final four, but fell short when asked to create a high-end condo on a budget.
In It to Win It
She may be sweet, but Kellie is ready to take down the competition and win it all this time around.
Season 6: Leslie Ezelle
This former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader wowed season six fans with her creative design tips and bubbly personality.
Why She Went Home
Leslie was asked to design a fun and functional bedroom for a two-year-old during the HGTV'd challenge, but, she says, "a two-year-old could have done a better job." Sloppy execution was her downfall.
Back for Round Two
A year later, she's ready to take any punch the reality competition throws her way. "I'm ready to redeem myself," Leslie says.
Season 5: Tom Vecchione
Known for his traditional, timeless design style, this New York City native made it to the middle of the season five competition.
Why He Went Home
In a word: blueberry. The judges couldn't get past Tom's bad bathroom color choice in a condo makeover, and they sent him home.
Redemption Time
Tom is here to prove he's wised up since season five. "I'm coming back to prove that I can get beyond that blue bathroom," he says.
Season 4: Dan Vickery
Friendly and personable with a "hip and historic" design aesthetic, Dan made it further into the competition than any other Design Star All Stars contestant.
Why He Went Home
In the season four finale, the judges chose Antonio Ballatore's artsy, eclectic style over Dan's cleaner aesthetic. "To get that close and lose was heartbreaking," he says. He's ready for a second chance.
Season 2: Sparkle Josh Johnson
Perhaps the most memorable contestant from all of Design Star, this designer, singer and songwriter is known for his Southern drawl, glitzy clothing and hilarious one-liners.
Why He Went Home
The judges sent him home after the season two wedding design challenge, saying that he'd proved he was a strong shopper but not a strong designer. Now, he's ready to prove he's got all-around skills. "The second time around at the pageant, it'd be nice to get the crown and the gown," Josh jokes.