What caused this phoenix-like resurrection? Most importantly, the show started thinking outside the box – literally. Gone are the oversize shoeboxes our interior designers were saddled with decorating last year; now the stylists flaunt the real world applications of their craft.

From tackling a two-story loft to making fallout shelters seem homey, these designers are sketching circles around the current crop of contestants on “Project Runway” – and the judges are better too!

The addition of hostess India Hicks has also infused the show with a refined vibe that was missing last year – I think it’s the accent.

In one of the smartest changes from last season, producers have thankfully ditched “See you later decorator,” a catch-phrase Jonathan Adler seemed to dislike saying almost as much as I hated hearing. We are now given, “We can not live with your design.” I can live with that.

Yes, Margaret Russell still possesses the personality of a student from the Anna Wintour School of Chilliness, while Kelly Wearstler is like the big sister you always wanted. She’s effortlessly cool in a wide array of caps, bangles and wacky hairstyles that are worth tuning in for alone!

But the real secret weapon of “Top Design” is Todd Oldham. Arguably the most helpful mentor in the history of reality TV, even the designers can’t stop professing their love for the soft-spoken and insanely well-dressed designer.

So I know why you’re not watching – I was dubious too. But don’t allow getting burned last season prevent you from rediscovering the most exciting and inventive design show on television!