You know the face. You love the designs. From transforming cramped spaces into glamorous rooms on Design Star to bringing bold, personalized visions to life on Property Brothers: Forever Home, Dean Richard Bromstad has become a cornerstone of feel-good television design.
But who is the man behind the charismatic smile and impeccable taste? Let’s pull back the curtain on Dean Richard Bromstad—the artist, the entrepreneur, and the unexpected design icon who proves that kindness and color can coexist.
From Humble Beginnings to Hollywood Glam
Long before he was a TV staple, Dean Richard Bromstad was an artist and a dreamer. Growing up in Minnesota, he honed a creative eye and a strong work ethic. His first foray into the national spotlight wasn’t in design, but in a different kind of visual art—winning the title of Mr. Gay USA in 1998. This early chapter speaks to his confidence and comfort in his own skin, a authenticity that viewers would later gravitate towards.
His big design break came in 2006 when he won the very first season of HGTV’s Design Star. The victory was no fluke; it was a testament to his innate ability to blend approachable ideas with “wow factor” moments. This win launched his solo series, Color Splash, where Dean Richard Bromstad showcased his fearless use of color, proving that vibrant palettes could feel livable and luxurious.
More Than a Designer: A Brand and a Philosophy
Today, Dean Richard Bromstad is a multi-hyphenate force.
- The Television Mainstay: As a recurring design expert on Property Brothers: Forever Home, he brings his expertise in creating expressive, personalized spaces that go beyond mere renovation to capture the heart of a family. His chemistry with Drew and Jonathan Scott highlights his collaborative spirit.
- The Entrepreneur: Dean successfully leveraged his fame into a thriving lifestyle brand. From luxurious bedding collections and home fragrances to curated furniture lines, he makes his design philosophy accessible for fans to bring into their own homes.
- The Artist at Heart: Never forgetting his roots, Dean continues to paint and create artwork, often infusing his projects with original pieces. This artistic foundation is key to understanding his process—he sees spaces as canvases.
His design philosophy is refreshingly human-centric. He’s known for:
- Fearless Color: Dean is a master of using color to evoke emotion, whether it’s a calming sage green or an energizing citrus hue.
- Personalized Glamour: His spaces are never cold or overly trendy. They reflect the client’s personality, infused with a touch of signature “Bromstad glam”—think metallic accents, lush textures, and statement lighting.
- Joyful Approach: Perhaps his most enduring trait is the palpable joy and empathy he brings to every project. He listens, he celebrates his clients, and he makes design seem like a fun, collaborative adventure.
Why We Keep Rooting for Dean Richard Bromstad
In a world of sometimes harsh critique-based design TV, Dean Richard Bromstad stands out for his consistent warmth and encouragement. He represents the idea that your home should tell your story and spark happiness. He’s not just designing rooms; he’s designing confidence for homeowners.
From a talented artist in Minnesota to a beloved, trusted name in millions of living rooms, his journey is a testament to the power of staying true to one’s creative vision.
Ready to bring a little Bromstad magic into your home? Start by embracing a color you love, investing in one piece of art that speaks to you, and remembering that the best design is the design that makes you smile.
