Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas have captured the hearts of viewers as the charismatic duo behind HGTV’s hit show Bargain Block. Known for their innovative and budget-friendly home transformations in Detroit, Michigan, the couple has turned their passion for real estate and design into a thriving career. Their unique approach to renovating and selling homes, coupled with their vibrant personalities, has made them household names in the world of home improvement television. Here’s a detailed look at their backgrounds, journey to HGTV fame, and the personal and professional partnership that drives their success.
Early Life and Background
Keith Bynum
Keith Bynum was born and raised in Lubbock, Texas, and displayed an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. He started his first business at the age of 14, showcasing his creativity and drive early on. Keith’s passion for design and construction developed as he grew older, eventually leading him to explore opportunities in real estate.
He attended Texas Tech University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management. After college, Keith decided to pursue his entrepreneurial ambitions more seriously, experimenting with various business ventures before finding his true calling in home renovation and design.
Evan Thomas
Evan Thomas, originally from the Midwest, grew up in a family that valued education and hard work. He excelled academically and pursued higher education in the sciences. Evan attended the University of Colorado Boulder, where he earned a Ph.D. in Physics. His academic journey took him to various research positions, where he honed his analytical and problem-solving skills.
Despite his academic achievements, Evan felt drawn to a different path—one that allowed him to combine his love for science with his passion for creating beautiful spaces. This led him to join forces with Keith, and together they began their journey in the world of real estate and renovation.
The Beginnings of a Partnership
Keith and Evan met in 2013 and quickly realized they shared more than just a personal connection—they had complementary skills and a shared vision for transforming homes. Their mutual love for design, architecture, and community development laid the foundation for their professional partnership. In 2017, they decided to take a bold step and move from Colorado to Detroit, Michigan, a city that, at the time, was known for its economic challenges but also for its potential in real estate investment.
Establishing Nine Design and Homes
Upon arriving in Detroit, Keith and Evan founded their company, Nine Design and Homes. Their mission was clear: to revitalize neglected neighborhoods in Detroit by transforming run-down houses into stylish, affordable homes. They focused on buying dilapidated properties and completely renovating them with unique, high-quality designs, often with a limited budget.
Their work quickly gained attention for its creativity and impact on the local community. Keith, with his artistic vision, took the lead on design, while Evan applied his analytical skills to manage the finances and logistics of their projects. Together, they developed a reputation for turning uninhabitable houses into eye-catching homes, often with whimsical and eclectic design elements that reflected their personal style.
Rise to Fame on HGTV’s Bargain Block
In 2021, their hard work and distinctive style caught the attention of HGTV, leading to the premiere of Bargain Block. The show follows Keith and Evan as they buy, renovate, and sell homes in Detroit, aiming to provide affordable housing options while revitalizing neighborhoods. Each episode showcases their dedication to creating beautiful, livable spaces on a budget, often incorporating DIY elements and creative reuse of materials.
Keith’s vibrant and imaginative design choices, combined with Evan’s practical approach to project management, have made the show a hit with audiences. Their genuine passion for their work and their commitment to improving the community have resonated with viewers, earning them a loyal fan base.
Personal Life and Relationship
Keith and Evan’s relationship is as solid as their professional partnership. They have been together for over a decade and have faced numerous challenges and successes side by side. Their journey from Colorado to Detroit was not only a professional risk but also a personal adventure that strengthened their bond.
In interviews and social media posts, they often speak about their love for each other and their shared vision for their future. Despite the pressures of television and business, they remain grounded and focused on their goals, supporting each other both personally and professionally.
Future Plans and Endeavors
Keith and Evan have expressed their desire to continue their work in Detroit, with hopes of expanding their impact on the community. They are passionate about providing affordable housing and helping to rebuild and uplift neighborhoods that have been neglected for years.
In addition to their work on Bargain Block, Keith and Evan are exploring new projects and business opportunities. They have launched an online shop where fans can purchase unique home décor items inspired by their designs on the show. This venture allows them to share their love for creative design with a wider audience.
A Brief Look at Their Personalities
Keith Bynum is known for his bold and eclectic design choices. His creative flair brings a unique touch to each project, blending modern aesthetics with vintage elements to create one-of-a-kind homes. He is passionate about art and often incorporates handmade pieces into his designs, adding a personal and artistic touch to each space.
Evan Thomas, on the other hand, brings a calm and analytical approach to their projects. His background in physics and research enables him to tackle complex problems with precision and logic. Evan’s role in managing budgets and timelines is crucial to the success of their projects, ensuring that they stay on track while delivering high-quality results.
Keith Bynum lost her Grandma
On September 22, Keith took to his Instagram story to share the news that his grandmother, Sondra Jean Bynum, had passed away earlier this month. Sondra, who was 90 years old, passed away peacefully at her home in Fort Stockton, Texas, on September 6, 2023.
A Heartfelt Tribute
In his Instagram post, Keith shared a link to his grandmother’s obituary and penned a touching tribute to honor her memory. “My grandmother was an amazing woman, tough but funny. A lot of my sense of humor came from her. I will miss her and her love for every living creature,” he wrote, accompanying a heartfelt photo of Sondra. The words capture the deep affection and respect Keith had for his grandmother, highlighting the profound influence she had on his life.
Remembering Sondra Jean Bynum
Sondra Jean Bynum was not only a cherished family member but also a remarkable woman who left a lasting legacy. Known for her strength and sense of humor, she was a source of inspiration and love for those around her. Sondra’s life was marked by resilience and kindness, and she had a deep appreciation for all living creatures, a trait that she passed on to her grandson.