When you think of the ‘Jennifer Hudson Show,’ the first thing that comes to mind might be Hudson’s soulful voice and electric personality. However, behind the scenes, one man’s creative vision is quietly transforming the show’s visual landscape: Martin Vallejo, the show’s art director. Vallejo is not just a designer; he’s a storyteller who uses colors, textures, and space to convey emotion and set the perfect mood for every segment.

With over a decade of experience in design, Vallejo has mastered the art of crafting spaces that not only look stunning but also feel inviting and functional. His design philosophy goes beyond aesthetics; he believes that a well-designed space can influence emotions, enhance creativity, and even change how we experience a moment. This philosophy is beautifully evident in his work on the ‘Jennifer Hudson Show,’ where every set feels thoughtfully curated yet effortlessly comfortable.

Below, we dive into some of Vallejo’s most effective design hacks that anyone can apply to their own spaces. Whether you’re looking to revamp your living room or add a touch of sophistication to your office, these tips will help you achieve that designer look without breaking the bank.

1. Use Color to Set the Mood

Martin Vallejo is a firm believer that color is more than just a backdrop—it’s a tool that can transform the energy of a room. On the ‘Jennifer Hudson Show,’ Vallejo uses color strategically to set the tone for different segments, whether it’s an intimate interview or an upbeat musical performance.

“Colors have the power to change how you feel the moment you walk into a space,” Vallejo explains. For a cozy and inviting atmosphere, he often opts for warm hues like deep oranges, rich browns, and mustard yellows. These tones create a sense of warmth and comfort, perfect for conversations that are meant to be engaging and heartfelt.

For a more energetic and lively ambiance, Vallejo leans towards bold blues, vibrant greens, or splashes of red. He advises that, when selecting a color palette, consider what mood you want to evoke. For a serene bedroom, soft blues and pastels are ideal, while a living room might benefit from the grounding presence of earth tones.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure where to start, try Vallejo’s favorite trick—using a color wheel to find complementary shades that naturally harmonize. Adding an accent wall in a bold color or swapping out cushion covers in vibrant hues can instantly transform the vibe of your room.

2. Optimize Lighting for a Cozy Atmosphere

If color sets the mood, lighting is what brings that mood to life. Vallejo’s expertise in lighting design is evident in how he uses it to enhance the look and feel of the ‘Jennifer Hudson Show’ set. “Lighting is everything. It’s the difference between a cold, sterile space and a warm, inviting one,” he notes.

Vallejo suggests layering different types of lighting to create a cozy, multi-dimensional space. Start with ambient lighting—the general light that fills the room. This could be a ceiling light or strategically placed recessed lighting. Next, add task lighting, such as table lamps or under-cabinet lights, to brighten areas where you work or read. Finally, incorporate accent lighting, like wall sconces or string lights, to highlight specific areas and add a touch of warmth.

For Vallejo, natural light is also key. He often advises using sheer curtains or blinds that allow sunlight to filter in softly, creating a natural glow. In spaces that lack natural light, he recommends using full-spectrum bulbs that mimic daylight to bring a similar effect indoors.

Pro Tip: To instantly create a cozy atmosphere, use dimmer switches. This allows you to adjust the light level depending on the time of day or the mood you want to set.

3. Decorate with Personal Items for a Unique Touch

While trends come and go, Vallejo believes that the most timeless design elements are those that reflect your personality. “A space should tell your story,” he emphasizes. On the ‘Jennifer Hudson Show,’ Vallejo adds warmth and personality to the set by incorporating items that resonate with Hudson’s life—whether it’s framed photos, cherished books, or art that speaks to her journey.

To make a space feel uniquely yours, Vallejo suggests using personal items such as family photos, travel souvenirs, or heirlooms. These pieces not only add character but also create a sense of intimacy. In his own home, Vallejo has a gallery wall filled with black-and-white photos of his favorite moments. “It’s like having a piece of my history on display,” he shares.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix old and new pieces. A vintage lamp next to a modern sofa can create a unique, layered look that feels collected rather than contrived.

4. Use Multi-Functional Furniture

In today’s world where space is often at a premium, Martin Vallejo’s genius lies in his ability to maximize every square inch. On the ‘Jennifer Hudson Show,’ where set changes need to happen quickly, he uses multi-functional furniture to save both time and space. Think coffee tables that double as storage units or sofas that convert into guest beds.

For smaller homes or apartments, Vallejo recommends investing in pieces that serve multiple purposes. For example, a bench with hidden storage can hold extra blankets, while a foldable dining table can expand for guests but tuck away when not in use. “The key is to think beyond the obvious use of each piece,” he advises.

Pro Tip: Vallejo’s favorite trick is to use furniture with exposed legs. “It creates a sense of openness,” he explains. A sofa or armchair with raised legs will make a small room feel less cramped.

5. Mix Textures for a Rich, Layered Look

If you’ve ever watched the ‘Jennifer Hudson Show’ and noticed how lush and inviting the set feels, it’s likely due to Vallejo’s expert use of texture. According to him, mixing textures is essential for creating a space that feels both visually and tactilely interesting.

“Texture is often overlooked, but it’s what makes a room come alive,” he says. To achieve this, Vallejo combines materials like wood, metal, velvet, and linen. For a beginner, he recommends starting with a neutral base—like a cream sofa or a wooden coffee table—then adding layers with throw pillows, rugs, or decorative objects.

One of his favorite combinations is mixing soft fabrics like wool or faux fur with harder surfaces like marble or brass. “It’s all about contrast,” he notes. The juxtaposition of rough and smooth textures adds depth and complexity, making the space feel curated rather than sterile.

Pro Tip: Vallejo suggests touching everything before you buy it. “If it doesn’t feel good to the touch, it won’t feel good in your space,” he warns.

6. Declutter to Refresh Your Space

At the heart of Vallejo’s design philosophy is the idea that less is more. “Clutter is the enemy of good design,” he insists. In his role as art director, he’s often tasked with transforming cluttered spaces into ones that feel open and airy without losing their warmth.

Vallejo’s top strategy for decluttering is to start small. “Begin with one drawer or one corner,” he advises. Once you see the impact of a decluttered space, you’ll be motivated to tackle larger areas. He’s also a fan of functional storage solutions like baskets, wall hooks, and shelving units that keep things organized but still accessible.

Pro Tip: If you’re struggling to let go of items, Vallejo recommends the “one-year rule”—if you haven’t used it in the last year, it’s time to let it go.

Conclusion: Design Your Space, Transform Your Life

Martin Vallejo’s approach to design is more than just creating beautiful spaces; it’s about transforming how we feel in our everyday environments. Whether it’s choosing the right color to lift your mood, using lighting to create a cozy ambiance, or decluttering to make your home feel more serene, Vallejo’s hacks are easy to implement and highly effective.

“Your home should be your sanctuary,” Vallejo concludes. “It should be a reflection of who you are, where you’ve been, and where you’re going.”

Feeling inspired? Tune in to the ‘Jennifer Hudson Show’ to see more of Martin Vallejo’s transformative designs in action, and try incorporating these tips into your own home for a space that feels both stylish and truly yours.

For more design inspiration and behind-the-scenes insights, check out our exclusive episodes featuring Martin Vallejo’s design makeovers.