Parents' Guide to

The Wow Factor

By Emily Ashby, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 8+

UK decorating series probably won't interest kids.

TV BBC America Reality TV 2007
The Wow Factor Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

Community Reviews

See all

There aren't any parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.

What's the Story?

In THE WOW FACTOR, British design consultant Tara Bernard demonstrates how combining confident style choices and thoughtful decorating techniques can create space that's uniquely yours -- on virtually any budget. In each episode, Bernard meets with a new set of clients to revamp cluttered or a poorly crafted living space and to get a sense of their personalities and budgets. Bernard and her design team then brainstorm the ideas she'll pitch to the clients. With their approval of the plans, the construction team moves in to start laying floors and painting walls, and the designers hit the streets in pursuit of furniture, fixtures, and the finishing pieces that will make the space come alive. Bernard also takes the homeowners on shopping sprees to locate items with personal appeal so their unique tastes will complement the room's design.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Because they're so involved in the planning process, the clients' reactions to the room's big reveal are usually very positive, and it's fun to see them excited about their revamped space. Bernard also tallies the cost of the materials to make sure the project stayed on budget -- which, amazingly, it always does. Viewers with a flair for contemporary design (Bernard's specialty) will enjoy watching the transformations and learning some tricks of the trade, but those who aren't into home/design shows -- which probably includes most kids -- will find the series about as compelling as watching paint dry.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the educational aspect of reality TV. What can viewers learn from series like this? Can this type of show be considered "educational," or is the main objective entertainment? Who do you think is the show's target audience (design professionals, design novices, or homeowners)? What will that audience gain from tuning in? Why are shows about houses and real estate so popular with some viewers?

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate