Judge on The Great Christmas Light Fight
About
Taniya Nayak is a trailblazing interior designer, celebrated television personality, and visionary entrepreneur whose work has transformed countless spaces and inspired millions worldwide. Born in Nagpur, India, and raised in Boston, Taniya’s passion for design began at an early age and flourished into a dynamic career spanning television, commercial projects, and high-profile collaborations.
As the founder of the acclaimed Boston-based firm Taniya Nayak Design Inc., Taniya blends modern sophistication with timeless elegance to craft extraordinary residential and commercial spaces. From trendy restaurants and luxury hotels to celebrity homes, her signature style combines rich textures, unexpected finishes, and practical functionality. Her portfolio boasts high-profile clients like Ayesha Curry, Robert Irvine, and Patrice Bergeron, as well as celebrated venues such as Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Yellow Door Taqueria, and the Artisan Marriott Hotel.
Taniya’s charisma and expertise have made her a beloved figure on television. She is a design expert on HGTV and Food Network, where her talent has shone on shows like Battle on the Beach, Build It Forward, and Restaurant: Impossible, where she has appeared for over 23 seasons. Most notably, she serves as a judge on ABC’s festive primetime hit The Great Christmas Light Fight, bringing her sharp eye and warm personality to one of the most beloved holiday competitions on television.
A master of transformation, Taniya has been featured on Today, Good Morning America, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Talk, and The View, and in publications such as Architectural Digest, People, and Better Homes & Gardens. Ellen DeGeneres herself selected Taniya as the brand spokesperson for her QVC home product line, "E.D. On Air."
Beyond her design accomplishments, Taniya is a dedicated philanthropist, supporting causes like Room to Dream Foundation, Smile Train, and No Kid Hungry. She also co-owns several Boston-area restaurants with her husband, Brian O’Donnell, including Lower Mills Tavern, Moonshine Alley, and Citrus and Salt.
When she’s not creating stunning spaces, Taniya enjoys salsa and hip-hop dancing, entertaining, and spending time with her beloved English bulldog, Flynn. Whether she’s designing for TV audiences, private clients, or charitable causes, Taniya Nayak brings passion, creativity, and joy to everything she touches, proving time and again that great design has the power to transform lives.
Visit her Website!