Matt Muenster is the face of HGTV’s current do-it-yourself hit, Bath Crashers. With his wry sense of humor and boy-next-door charm, he helps participants transform old and outdated bathrooms into spa sanctuaries in just three days. As a licensed contractor and an interior designer, Matt uses creativity, technology and efficiency to design the perfect bathroom. He has also worked on HGTV’s BATHtastic and the infamous HGTV 2015 Dream Home.
Muenster will be at the Buffalo Home Show at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center on March 14 and 15, appearing at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. each day. The Buffalo Home Show also runs the prior weekend, March 6-8.
So...why bathrooms?
(Laughs.) It’s a chicken and the egg thing. I wasn’t always a bathroom designer. It started four years ago with the first show, BATHtastic. I was working in an architecture firm doing high-end design, and a local producer was looking to do a show on interior design. They saw my picture on our company website and called me to ask if I’d be interested in hosting. I never did a high school play or public speaking in my life. I basically had to fake it until I made it.
Where do you get your inspiration and ideas?
I like doing things outside of my own style, which is more contemporary and modern. It’s a challenge to go outside of my comfort zone. But the inspiration always comes from the homeowner. I’ve always believed that if I am designing something for you, and I come in with a preconceived notion, then I have immediately failed as a designer.
What’s the most affordable way to transform a bathroom on a budget?
It’s a difficult room and an expensive room. There is so much complexity, from exhaust and electrical to plumbing. But if you want to make some simple changes, I would start by cleaning up the clutter, or reusing old furniture to make a vanity for additional storage. You’d be surprised at what a difference that will make.
What do you love most about doing Bath Crashers?
It’s perfect for me because I get to design and be hands on. I am very much a contractor, and I grew up on a farm so I like to work with my hands. I also love handing the finished project off to a homeowner. It’s such a high.
How do you choose your show participants?
We always go to Lowe’s. We show up on a random day and we don’t tell anyone. We talk to shoppers for two to three hours, and then meet as a team and talk about who we want for the show. Then we contact them and get to work. Everyone has a shot. All you have to do is be in the right place at the right time.
Did you ever do a bathroom that people on the show didn’t like?
We have done a total of 143 bathrooms so far. And they have all been a success. It’s because we listen to the homeowner, and I have a team of really talented designers who help me bring my vision to life.
What is your favorite bathroom that you’ve ever done?
That’s like answering which one is my favorite child. We did one for Bath Crashers that aired in the fall. It was a mid-century modern bathroom, with concrete sinks and tub, and a television in the wall. I loved it. But the right answer should probably be my next project. Because the second I stop trying to top the bathroom I just did, I should give up.
What’s in for bathrooms for 2015?
Music. It can be anywhere — alongside the sink, tub and shower. There is no reason not to have music in your bathroom. From speakers in the walls to a Bluetooth speaker in the shower, it’s a must.
What’s out?
Glass sink bowls. We need to stop that. They are still selling and they have their place, but they are a pain to clean and they don’t drain that well. Bright colors are also out. And take the gaudy, over-the-top elements out of the bathroom as well. There’s nothing better than a simple, clean and crisp bathroom.
What was your involvement with HGTV’s 2015 Dream Home?
I was part of the show called Behind The Build. My role was to poke in on the house and check out the progress. I also helped the crew get the feel of the house right, and did as much as could for them. It’s an amazing Cape Cod style house.
How are the bathrooms?
Not bad. There are three of them, and also a powder room. The master bathroom is amazing—a soaker tub, marble as far as the eye can see. It’s awesome.
