It’s Wednesday. That means it’s time again for our unflappable intern, Caitlin Giddens, to break down last night’s episode of Design Star for us. Enjoy!

By Caitlin Giddens

I knew this day may come: the Design Star episode that we say goodbye to Dallasite design darling Hilari Younger. Last night’s episode challenged the top three designers to decorate a yurt, a wood-framed circular space. Although Hilari designed a stylish, luxurious room, she was sent home. But don’t mourn too much for my new friend because Hilari walked away a winner.

“I feel like the Jennifer Hudson of HGTV,” Hilari said. “They made a huge mistake letting me go but I can’t even imagine the amazing journey ahead. The outpouring of love through social media and blogs from strangers has been so amazing and shows me this was only an icebreaker. Now I can negotiate a much better contract.”

Through her experience, Hilari made new connections within the interior design world. In last night’s episode, the designers worked with HGTV or DIY network carpenters to create a dreamy yurt. Each finished space displayed serious skill from the three designers. Britany branched out of her Hollywood glam style by styling a beach-inspired space. Her yurt included some brilliant moments: the rotating bed, light fixture, and hidden closet.

“They could love it or they could hate it,” Britany said. “If I go home after this, I did all I could do.” The judges, including Entertainment Tonight host Mark Steines, applauded Britany’s space. Vern appreciated the designer’s decision to include her own photography.  But he yearned for more abstract photography, saying Britany’s shots were too similar to looking out the yurt’s window. Britany showed more personality this week, even in the two camera challenges. She has been a consistent contender, and deserves a shot at the Design Star title.

Danielle’s yurt came together beautifully, but she suffered missteps along the way. She failed to communicate effectively with her carpenter, HGTV veteran Chip Wade, and her grey bed bored the judges. But expert use of texture and nature, combined with a strong second camera challenge, secured Danielle’s spot in next week’s finale. I agree that Danielle is a skilled designer, but I’m not interested in watching her potential TV show.

As always, Hilari brought energy to the show with her sparkling personality and unique design. She created a Bali-inspired yurt featuring a gorgeous antique daybed, which carpenter Jeff Devlin assembled without an instruction manual. Then she brought color and luxury into the space with dreamy drapes and gold-leaf bookcase. Hilari’s space epitomized luxury, but the judges were disappointed with her space plan.

Guest judge Mark Steine loved Hilari’s camera challenges, especially as she maintained composure during an assembling mishap, but Vern asked for more instruction. When Hilari was eliminated, she flashed her brilliant optimism and left gracefully. Although I was disappointed to see her go, Hilari has represented Dallas well throughout the series.

If you enjoyed Hilari’s glam style and charming personality, you can help her receive an online show by voting here. She’s got my vote.