Designer stars on HGTV’s ‘Rock the Block’
Tiffany Brooks is making a name for herself on HGTV as the host and designer of “Smart Home” and “Rock the Block” with David Bromstad. The pop-culture design star came to Pittsburgh last year to do the 2020 HGTV Smart Home in Pine Township and lives in Chicago with her husband and children. “Rock the Block” returns at 9 p.m. Monday on HGTV.
What was the home you grew up in like?
Crowded. The home was small — we only had one bathroom for five people. It was very ’70s — think bad Brady Bunch.
You must have had ample confidence in your ability to enter the HGTV Design Star competition.
Actually, it was more happenstance. I wasn’t even going to go to the casting, but my schedule opened wide up on a Saturday. I didn’t have fear — I didn’t even honestly go to win. I was going to take a creative break from life. Then I turned out to be the winner. There were times during the “Rock the Block” competition that one or both of us wanted to quit. But being so competitive, David and I were able to push each other closer and closer to the finish line. This was the hardest thing that either one of us have participated in to date, so it was really rewarding for us.
Do you feel a certain responsibility being one of the few well-known female black designers?
For the most part I don’t think about it, but I am reminded of who I am and what I have been gifted. I think about it when people tell me they look up to me. There is a certain responsibility being a rarity in the industry.
How has your aesthetic evolved since the early days of your design career?
There are certain things that I am able now to spot and specify, that give off a sense of luxury — shapes, finishes and colors. The ability to be able to do something like that can only be taught with time.
You are very organized when it comes to your career. Are you the same way with your family and work life balance?
I used to be super organized! Then things exploded and somehow it all fell apart when I got super busy. Now I am like a “go with your gut” type of person and ride by the seat of my pants!
Bonus question: What is one app on your phone you can’t live without?
Pandora! Or Uber Eats. Have to have both.