The competition kicks-off as host Tanika Ray issues the first challenge to the finalists: to makeover their living space, an empty three-story New York City penthouse. Before they can get to work, however, mentor David Bromstad delivers the first hosting challenge. On camera, each finalist must deliver a compelling, one-sentence statement about who they are as a designer. After the work is completed, judges Genevieve Gorder, Candice Olson and Vern Yip walk through the spaces to evaluate the results and select the best and worst design.