Originally from Mountainside, New Jersey, 38-year old Ondine gathered her experience working as a set decorator for major motion pictures and television shows. Her professional life includes being on the crew of the hit series Sex and the City. Graduating from Barnard College of Columbia University, she became part of a small team that continually pushed the limits of high-end, interior design. Upon the end of the series in 2004, Ondine decided to open her own boutique design studio in SoHo. Ondine Karady Design has run successfully for four years, and has already developed a remarkable client list. Some of her customers include major celebrities, Hollywood directors and Washington opinion makers. Ondine has also developed an impressive catalog of custom-made furniture, wallpaper and ceramics. Her credits in the entertainment industry include taking part in Requiem for a Dream and Spike Lee’s The 25th Hour. Ondine has dreamt of building up her business into a design powerhouse. She wishes to specialize in glamorous homes, hotels and restaurants, along with having product lines in major retail stores. Being an avid traveler has made Ondine hope that she can one day design and manufacture furniture with the help of artisans from villages worldwide. In the process, she hopes to support developing regions as well. Having the gift of transforming the most sterile spaces into elegant and livable works of art is truly her asset.
Ondine is one of the thirteen designers competing in the second season of Top Design. The BravoTV game show is hosted by the stylish model and designer India Hicks, who is joined by fashion designer Todd Oldham. Oldham was the previous host of the show, but will serve as mentor to the contestants of the second season. Last season’s judges, Jonathan Adler, Kelly Wearstler and Margaret Russell, will be returning. Top Design is looking for one talented designer who will demonstrate the most flair and versatility in the challenges. Ondine is vying for a $100,000 cash prize, as well as a four-page spread in Elle D?cor magazine.