David Bromstad is a name that resonates with vibrancy, creativity, and success in the world of interior design and television. From being the first winner of HGTV’s Design Star to hosting shows like My Lottery Dream Home, Bromstad has established a name for himself as a beloved personality and design icon. But beyond the charming on-screen persona and colorful tattoos lies an impressive financial journey that reflects his dedication, passion, and talent. This article delves into David Bromstad’s net worth, how he built his career, and what contributes to his current financial standing.
Early Life and Foundation of His Career
David Reed Bromstad was born on August 17, 1973, in Cokato, Minnesota. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in art and creativity. After high school, he went on to study at the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida—an institution known for shaping many Disney animators and artists. True to form, Bromstad began his professional career working as a Disney illustrator, which served as a crucial stepping stone.
His time at Disney gave him a solid foundation in design, storytelling, and artistic discipline. However, like many creatives, he eventually sought a more independent path. This hunger for creative freedom led him to start his own company—Bromstad Studio—where he designed fantasy bedrooms for children. Though this phase wasn’t high-profile, it helped him refine his style and connect with clients, slowly building a network.
The Turning Point: HGTV Design Star
In 2006, Bromstad auditioned for the first season of HGTV Design Star. The competition was fierce, but his charisma, vision, and boundless energy set him apart. Not only did he win the season, but he also became a breakout star. As part of the prize, he was given the opportunity to host his own show—Color Splash—which premiered in 2007.
Color Splash was a hit and ran for several seasons. David’s design style—bright, bold, and always personal—resonated with audiences. He wasn’t just another decorator; he was a storyteller who used color as his main narrative tool. This show established him not just as a TV personality but as a brand.
Expanding His Television Portfolio
David didn’t stop at Color Splash. Over time, he became a fixture on HGTV, appearing in numerous shows and specials. One of the most successful ventures in his television career has been My Lottery Dream Home, which he began hosting in 2015. The show’s premise—helping recent lottery winners find luxurious new homes—combined fantasy with real estate, and Bromstad’s charm made it an enduring success.
In addition to My Lottery Dream Home, he’s appeared in:
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Design at Your Door
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HGTV Dream Home specials
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Brother vs. Brother as a guest judge
Each of these appearances added to his brand visibility, opened new revenue streams, and built his reputation further.
Sources of Income
David Bromstad’s net worth is estimated to be around $4 to $5 million, though figures vary depending on the source. This figure is the result of several overlapping income streams:
1. Television Hosting and Appearances
The largest chunk of Bromstad’s income comes from his work with HGTV. As a long-time host and contributor, he reportedly earns thousands of dollars per episode. While HGTV doesn’t publicly disclose salaries, top-tier hosts on successful programs often command high six-figure annual incomes, particularly when they have several years of tenure.
2. Design and Art Sales
Beyond television, Bromstad is still a working artist. He produces custom art and also sells prints through his website. His pieces often reflect his love of color, pop culture, and bold imagery. Given his fame, his artwork commands premium prices, adding to his revenue.
3. Brand Endorsements and Collaborations
Thanks to his celebrity status, David has been involved in several brand deals and collaborations over the years. These can range from partnerships with home decor companies to endorsements in the lifestyle space. Such deals often offer one-time payments or long-term revenue shares.
4. Merchandising
Bromstad also has a line of home products and design merchandise. Fans can purchase his artwork, decorative pieces, and other branded items. These direct-to-consumer products serve both as an extension of his creative work and a smart business strategy.
5. Public Speaking and Events
As a beloved figure in the design world, Bromstad is occasionally invited to speak at design expos, HGTV events, and public seminars. These engagements can be quite lucrative, especially when combined with product promotion.
Lifestyle and Personal Branding
David Bromstad is not just a designer—he’s a personality. His signature tattoos, outgoing personality, and fashion-forward aesthetic all contribute to a strong brand identity. He openly discusses his love for art, color, and individuality, making him highly relatable to fans and aspirants in the creative field.
He lives a relatively private life when not on-screen, but glimpses of his lifestyle suggest a mix of luxury and artistic flair. From his custom-designed homes to his carefully curated outfits, everything about David reflects his eye for detail and appreciation for uniqueness.
Real Estate Investments
Real estate is a common way celebrities expand their portfolios, and David is no exception. In recent years, he’s bought and renovated multiple properties. His designs often get featured in his own programs or serve as personal projects that can later be sold for profit. It’s likely that these investments have added a steady increase to his overall net worth.
Challenges and Resilience
While his career appears glamorous, it hasn’t been without challenges. Like many in the creative industry, Bromstad faced periods of uncertainty early on. Transitioning from the world of Disney to entrepreneurship and then into reality TV required resilience, adaptability, and courage.
In interviews, David has openly spoken about struggling with self-doubt and facing discrimination as an openly gay man in a traditionally conservative television space. His success today is not just financial—it also reflects his role as a pioneer and advocate in the LGBTQ+ community.
Final Thoughts
David Bromstad’s net worth is the result of years of dedication to his craft, a fearless embrace of his identity, and an intuitive sense of what audiences love. From a Disney illustrator to a design superstar, his story is a testament to how talent, when combined with authenticity and business savvy, can lead to significant success.
More than just a figure on TV, Bromstad serves as an inspiration to artists, entrepreneurs, and dreamers everywhere. His wealth is not just measured in dollars but in the joy and creativity he brings to the world—and that is truly priceless.
