On Monday's premiere of the sixth season of HGTV's 'Design Star,' the first challenge saw the designers pair up to decorate rooms in a ginormous New York apartment. It yielded some excellent results -- and more than a few disasters.

Most importantly, we got to know the 12 finalists, who range from a Type-A former newscaster to a criminologist.

After the jump, read my first impressions of the contestants and share your own in the comments.

Look for some familiar faces on the judging panel when 'HGTV Design Star' returns for a new season starting Mon., July 11 at 9PM.

Food Network personality Paula Deen, 'Real Housewives of New Jersey' veteran Dina Manzo, talk show host Nate Berkus and Kathy Ireland will all stop by the judging panel during the design competition's sixth season. Thom Filicia and Robert and Cortney Novogratz will also serve as guest judges.

"This year's finalists are established designers at the top of their game," Kathleen Finch, general manager of HGTV, said in a statement. "We put them through rigorous design challenges in real homes, tested their on-camera presence, had seasoned industry experts evaluate their work and even asked them to execute a design demonstration on 'The Nate Berkus Show.' Viewers will find this season entertaining and compelling as they witness the emergence of the next 'HGTV Design Star.'"