Designer Smackdown

CBSNews.com's Melissa Castellanos, left, interviews "HGTV Design Star" finalist Stephanie Cook before the competition begins.

Michael Stribling strikes a designer pose. Stribling describes his style the same way he does his attitude: "Feroce."

Judges Martha McCully, Vern Yip, and Cynthia Rowley chat with reporters before the competition begins.

Finalist Jennifer Bertrand describes her style as eclectic with lots of personality and color. The 33 year-old hails from Olathe, Kan.

Host Clive Pearse chats with Tricia Beaudet, the 37-year-old mom from Shelby Township, Mich. She says her design style is timeless, sophisticated and traditional mixed with unexpected elements.

D. Paul DeRouen, 33, introduces himself to the crowd. The Lousiana native describes his design style as casually elegant with a touch of "Cajun spice."

California girl Stephanie Cook says that her design style has a mix of anything and everything. The 27-year-old was chosen to be the ninth finalist by an online vote on June 8.

Tracee Dore, 36, of Louisville, Ky., describes her decorating style as simple sophistication with a touch of "bling."

Los Angeles native Matt Locke, 33, describes his design style as warm and modern.

Scottie Miller, the 39-year-old from Winston-Salem, N.C. gives a wave to the crowd at Greeley Square. His design style consists of modern interpretations of traditional looks.

Michael Stribling, 23, the youngster of the group, tells the crowd what he's made of. The Texas native describes his style as fun and elegant, but with attitude.