Vern Yip shows up to the set of Trading Spaces with a dozen copies of a 1,700-word, single-spaced episode manuscript outlining his design plans for a room, insisting that he can make $1,000 look like $10,000. A boundless force of energy who's organized and unmistakably driven, Vern is also passionately dedicated to the art and science of design and works tirelessly (he gets around two hours of sleep a night) to create signature spaces for his homeowners.
Professional Background: Vern earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia in both Economics and Chemistry. Originally on course to attend medical school, Vern backed out at the last minute and decided instead to pursue his passion of interior design, earning his Master of Architecture and an M.B.A. from Georgia Tech University.
Vern began working with Atlanta-based architectural firms, honing his craft on the work no one else wanted to do like designing toilet details. He then decided to become a certified interior designer as well and in 2000 was named Southeast Designer of the Year. In Atlanta, where he has had his own design business for over three years, he caters to a fascinating client base that includes rock stars, celebrity chefs and heads of major companies.
Personal History: He was born June 27, 1968 in Hong Kong and raised in McLean, VA on the outskirts of Washington, DC. His father was a biochemist turned businessman. His mother graduated from China's premier university - the only woman in her class. It's obvious that an inspiring family of self-made individuals has given Vern his enterprising spirit.
Vern currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia. An avid hockey fan, Vern likes to spend his little leisure time cheering on his favorite team, the Edmonton Oilers.
Design Style: Modern minimalism. Vern's rooms are a veritable hat trick of creativity, simplicity and elegance. His designs are as dynamic as they are peaceful, with soothing hues, clean lines and a sense of cool calm. Symmetry is important to him, as is working seamlessly with the architecture of the space to create one-of-a-kind design.
The Rooms: Vern's combination of architecture and interior design gives him a unique perspective when designing rooms on Trading Spaces. Vern could detail your gutters and then switch gears, to discuss fabrics and colors for a new sofa. What drives Vern's creative vision most is his desire to solve problems of form and function.
Quoteable Vern: "I like to pull it all together by line rather than pattern... pattern is just too distracting." (TS Website)
Where: MMC Lifestyle at Pacific Interiors, Inc., Chicago, Illinois Why: TFor furniture, pillows and gift items that are sophisticated and sleek at amazing prices, this source can not be beat
Where: Illuminations, Atlanta, Georgia Why: For unparalled contemporary lighting solutions that give bang for the buck, this is the comprehensive source.
Where: DW Showroom, Atlanta, Georgia Why: For hard to find fabrics and furniture that range from traditional to contemporary, this is your place.
For great bedding, towels and accessories at great prices when you catch a sale: Banana Republic Home Collection at most Banana Republic Stores nationally.
For inexpensive lamps and glass accessories that are sharp and accessible to almost everyone: Target Stores and Ikea, both at various locations nationally
For great finds that require a little diligence and patience but offer great pay offs when you get there: Pottery Barn and William Sonoma Outlet Stores at various locations nationally. (Trading Spaces Website)
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Vern went to UVA which is located in my hometown, Charlottesville, VA!!!!
