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Reality television shows are not typically renowned for their humble and honest contestants — just watch an episode of Fox's "Hell's Kitchen" to see why.

But designer Jerome Scott Miller of Winston-Salem intends to distinguish himself from the stereotypical reality show contestant by infusing a little Southern grace and charm into the genre.

Miller will compete against eight other people for the chance to host his own design show on the new season of HGTV's popular design series, "Design Star."

Each week, Miller and the other contestants will be issued a series of interior and building design challenges, including one in the season three premiere episode where the contestants must build a small house from scratch. Based on their performance, one contestant will be axed in each episode by a panel of three judges. When only two finalists remain, viewers will then determine the "Design Star" champion by voting online at http://www.HGTV.com or texting their vote.

Although Miller works as the regional property manager for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school system, he has been running a successful interior design business during his off hours for the past 12 years.

We spoke with Miller last week about design, drama and his love of architecture.

Q. So, how did you come to audition for the show?

A. My niece -- she was very adamant that I send in a tape. I sent in a tape and that began my interview process. And eventually, some time period later, they gave me the call and let me know that I was selected. It's kind of like throwing your hat in the ring: You're always hopeful … after (being selected) you can't help but get excited and hopeful.

Q. Was the interview process intense?

A. I don't know if "intense" is the right word — probably a little bit more "anxious" or "nerve wracking" (laughs). They had a series of design skill sets for us to do, and then they tried you out on camera, and then they asked you a series of questions … you know, it's kind of like any other job interview: No matter how well you think you did, you always critique yourself, and at the end of the day, you still don't know; you just hope.

Q. On your audition tape, you say that your designs are "Modern, with traditional bones." Can you elaborate on that concept?

A. Absolutely. (It) means … if you do "modern (design)" too clean, it has a vacant and cold feeling. If you ground "modern (design)" in tradition, and give it the best balance possible, you create a truly timeless look. It's truly the best of both worlds. Nobody wants anything that's dated.

Q. Do you think your style stacks up well against the other contestants' styles, or do you even consider them competition?

A. You have to consider everyone as competition. I do feel like, from what I've seen, my qualities and my design approach and my design ethics are extremely strong. Don't get me wrong, I'm a humble guy, but I definitely know my abilities.

Q. While you're on the show, do you think you'll be able to maintain your "Southern gentleman" composure, or will you become a "design gladiator" if necessary?

A. You can't change who you are for the sake of some show. You have to maintain your integrity, and I will not lose that. You've got a lot of sensationalistic folks out there who are willing to back stab and talk behind your back … and I refuse to do it. That's just not me. I hate drama (laughs).

Q. How do you feel about the idea that, if you win, you will get to host your own show?

A. Man, who wouldn't want that! There aren't many things that happen in the life of (a) commoner that kind of give you your own NFL draft. That's kind of what I liken it to, so you're just hoping that you're the one that gets selected.

If I did (host my own show), I would really want it to focus on the architecture … you know, the history of the home we might be (redesigning), or the architectural history of a particular geographic location.

Not many design shows focus on all of the elements that go into architecture.

Contact David Locklear at dglock777@yahoo.com.