Vern Yip Biography: Age, Partner, Children, Net Worth, Height, Parents, TV Shows

Vern Yip, is an American interior designer, television host, and design author celebrated for his sophisticated yet approachable aesthetic.

Rising to fame on TLC’s Trading Spaces and later starring in HGTV’s Design Star and Deserving Design, Yip blends modern elegance with practical functionality, earning multiple Emmy nominations.

His work with Vern Yip Designs and contributions to publications like HGTV Magazine have established him as a trusted voice in home design, inspiring homeowners with his vibrant style and expertise.

Profile

• Full Name: Vern Yip
• Stage Name: Vern Yip
• Born: 27 June, 1968
• Age: 57 years old
• Birthplace: Hong Kong
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Interior Designer, Television Host, Design Author
• Height: 1.65m
• Parents: Mr. Yip and Mrs. Yip
• Siblings: Unknown
• Partner: Craig Koch
• Children: Gavin Joshua Mannox, Vera Lillian Beatrix
• Relationship: Partnered
• Net Worth: $3 million

Early Life and Education

Vern Yip was born on June 27, 1968, in Hong Kong to parents referred to as Mr. and Mrs. Yip. He might have had siblings but details about them are unknown. After moving to the United States, he attended McLean High School in Virginia, graduating in 1986.

Yip earned a double major in chemistry and economics from the University of Virginia, later pursuing a master’s degree in architecture and management at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

He is of Chinese heritage, though he keeps religious beliefs private.

Career

Vern Yip began his design career after transitioning from a pre-med path, leveraging his architecture training to launch Vern Yip Designs in Atlanta. His big break came in 2001 as a featured designer on TLC’s Trading Spaces, where his bold yet practical transformations won over audiences. His knack for blending luxury with livability made him a fan favorite across four seasons.

Yip’s early projects, including residential and commercial spaces, showcased his signature style—clean lines, vibrant colors, and cultural influences—earning him recognition in design circles.

Yip’s television presence grew with HGTV’s Design Star, where he served as a judge and mentor from 2006 to 2012, and his own show, Deserving Design (2007-2009), which focused on transforming spaces for families in need. His work earned four Southeast Emmy nominations and a reputation for heartfelt design.

He expanded into authorship with books like Vern Yip’s Design Wise (2016), offering practical tips for homeowners. Regular columns in HGTV Magazine and appearances on shows like Today further cemented his authority in the design world.

Vern Yip remains a leading figure in interior design, running Vern Yip Designs and creating custom furniture and fabric lines sold through retailers like Home Depot. His recent projects include high-profile residential redesigns and advocacy for accessible design, emphasizing spaces that reflect personal stories.

Yip’s influence extends through speaking engagements and social media, where he shares tips and inspiration. His ability to merge functionality with beauty continues to shape modern home aesthetics, making design approachable for diverse audiences.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @vernyipdesigns
• Facebook Handle: Vern Yip Designs
• Twitter Handle: @VernYipDesigns

Personal Life

Vern Yip shares his life with partner Craig Koch, and together they raise two children born via surrogate: son Gavin Joshua Mannox, born in 2010, and daughter Vera Lillian Beatrix, born in 2011. Based in Atlanta, Yip balances his career with family life, often highlighting his children’s influence on his design philosophy.

Net Worth

Vern Yip has an estimated net worth of $3 million. His wealth stems from his design firm, Vern Yip Designs, which serves high-end clients, as well as television appearances on Trading Spaces and Design Star.

Royalties from his books, furniture collections, and licensing deals with retailers like Fabricut and Kravet further bolster his earnings, reflecting his multifaceted career in design and media.