TikTok Sparks Revival of HGTV's "Decorating Cents" from the Twin Cities

Scrolling through TikTok reveals a nostalgic gem: "Decorating Cents," a show that has captured the attention of a new generation.

Originally filmed in the Twin Cities, this HGTV series has gone viral long after its last episode aired. The program, hosted by Joan Steffend, ran from 1997 to 2008, featuring designers tasked with transforming rooms on a $500 budget within a tight timeframe.

Now, the first five seasons are available for streaming, drawing in TikTok users, including comedian Rob Anderson, who has taken to the platform to share his humorous takes on the show's more eccentric designs.

Anderson has reached out to Steffend, expressing admiration for many of the show's creative choices. In his TikTok commentary, he highlights some of the most outrageous transformations, prompting a mix of laughter and nostalgia.

"I understand some of the stuff is crazy looking right now... but that was also their job to do wild decorating," Steffend remarked, reflecting on the show's unique aesthetic.

At 70 years old and a grandmother of four, Steffend is leveraging this renewed interest for charitable purposes. She has launched a line of merchandise, including shirts and mugs, with a portion of the sales benefiting World Central Kitchen.

Beyond "Decorating Cents," Steffend has dedicated herself to initiatives that promote kindness. She has authored two books and is currently collaborating with her husband on a documentary about former Minnesota Twins star Joe Mauer.

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