The latest episode of Fixer to Fabulous Season 7, Episode 2, featuring the remodel of a mid-century ranch, has ignited an intense debate among fans.
The $175,000 renovation was meant to revive the home’s mid-century charm, but many viewers felt the final result was underwhelming and poorly executed.
From questionable design choices to budget concerns, the episode has left fans sharply divided.
A major point of contention was the extensive use of olive green throughout the home, both on the interior and exterior. While the intention was to add a cohesive mid-century modern (MCM) vibe, the execution left many viewers feeling it was monotonous and dreary.
One homeowner’s exasperated remark, “More green!” as she opened a door, became emblematic of the design’s divisive reception.
Some fans felt the color choice made the home look dated rather than modernized:
“The olive green they used all over the interior and exterior was depressing.” – u/Cool_Drawing_5043
Others noted that the repetitive use of the same tone across multiple rooms felt uninspired:
“I just wish Jenny wouldn’t use that same green in every bedroom.” – u/stuck_behind_a_truck
A Kitchen Remodel That Fell Flat
The kitchen, often the centerpiece of any renovation, was another source of disappointment for viewers. Many felt it lacked the polish expected in a high-budget remodel, with critics comparing the cabinets to cheap plywood:
“I thought the cabinets looked like plywood that was stained walnut. Very cheap looking.” – u/Cool_Drawing_5043
While some argued that the cabinets aligned with MCM aesthetics, others felt the choice of materials and finish missed the mark:
“They should have been semi-gloss or gloss-finished to get that mid-century look.” – u/Regis_Phillies
The homeowners’ reaction added fuel to the fire, with viewers noting that the female homeowner seemed visibly disappointed as she walked through the finished space:
“The female owner looked like she was about to cry as she walked around the finished product.” – u/Cool_Drawing_5043
Budget Concerns
The episode’s $175,000 budget sparked widespread skepticism among fans. With minimal structural changes and a lack of standout features, many questioned how the funds were allocated.
“I couldn’t figure out where the $175K went on this one. They did almost nothing to structure.” – u/LuzerneLodge
Some speculated that much of the budget may have gone toward high-end furniture and appliances, rather than meaningful upgrades:
“Maybe they bought a lot of real expensive furniture and appliances?” – u/WavingOrDrowning
Criticism of HGTV’s Design Approach
This episode also reignited a broader debate about HGTV’s reliance on hosts with questionable design expertise. Critics pointed out that Jenny Marrs, while charismatic, may lack the professional credentials to execute sophisticated designs.
“Jenny isn’t a designer; she is the wife of a contractor. SHE dabbles in interior design.” – u/lcmsa2000
Fans compared the Marrs to other HGTV stars, noting a pattern of prioritizing camera appeal over genuine expertise:
“All these shows have wives that are ‘designers.’ HGTV cares more about camera appeal than talent.”– u/No_Sand_9290
Despite the backlash, not all viewers were critical. Some appreciated the effort to honor the home’s mid-century roots and found elements of the design charming:
“I thought it looked very elegant. Very MCM, but that’s a style I like.” – u/WayOlderThanYou
However, even supporters acknowledged that certain choices could have been executed better:
“The cabinets looked mid mod to me, but they should’ve used real wood or a better finish to elevate the look.” – u/pameliaA