Top Design Champ: Matt Lorenz

The thirty-two year-old Chicago-based designer walked away a winner on last night's finale of Top Design, after being pitted against teammate Carisa. After being praised for showing consistency, clean lines, and minimalism yet luxury in his designs throughout the competition, he was a strong favorite from the beginning.

He told TV Guide that being a contestant and winning Bravo's Top Design was "life-changing," he says. "I view things completely differently now. Working around a group of people, having these professionals critiquing [your work]... I really consider it a condensed course for a master's degree. Having gotten through this and impressed them, I realize that I can do anything. It's a complete boost for my career and my self-image.

"Remember," he says in closing, "I'm just a farm boy from Minnesota."

He is still working for the design firm he was when he started out on the Top Design competition, but hopes to hang out his own shingle very soon.

Photo from TV Guide.