Remember when Carter Oosterhouse first caught our attention on Trading Spaces back in 2003? The guy wasn’t just another carpenter; he was also a former model, which made him stand out right away. But let’s be real, it’s not just his good looks that keep us coming back. This charismatic craftsman is also a master of his trade. At 45, Carter, who recently co-hosted the ninth season of ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight, calls Traverse City, Michigan his home. Alongside his actress wife, Amy Smart, they love reconnecting with nature. “We’re big into hiking and biking,” Carter shares with Closer. “We adore being on the water—whether it’s boating or stand-up paddleboarding. Honestly, anything that gets us outside is a win for us.” Carter doesn’t stop there. He owns and operates a Michigan winery called Bonobo with his brother Todd and has teamed up with Amy to create an eco-friendly line of home furnishings named SmartHouse.
Winter Coziness Tips Straight From Carter
When it comes to making your house feel cozy during the winter, Carter’s got some tricks up his sleeve. “Music is absolutely key,” he says. “Put on a great playlist, and it can completely transform the vibe in the room. It’s like the glue that holds everything together. Pair that with a nice, warm fire crackling in the fireplace, and you’re set. Lighting is also crucial. Soft, diffused lighting can make all the difference in creating that warm, inviting atmosphere. These little details can truly elevate your space.”
Winter: The Perfect Time for Home Projects
Carter believes that winter is the ideal season to tackle those home improvement projects you’ve been putting off. “January and February are perfect for giving your space a fresh start,” he explains. “It’s like hitting the reset button. Take this time to clean out your closets and get rid of clothes you haven’t worn in ages. Depending on where you live, the cold weather outside makes it the perfect excuse to stay indoors and focus on organizing and decluttering. It’s not just about making space; it’s about creating a home that feels fresh and renewed.”
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What Did Young Carter Dream Of?
When Carter was younger, his dreams leaned more towards rock stardom than carpentry. “I wanted to be a rock star!” he laughs. “I envisioned myself playing guitar, singing, and rocking that long hair. Of course, life had other plans. While I do have long hair—well, kind of—I’m definitely not the singer I dreamed of becoming. Thankfully, my goals evolved pretty quickly, and here I am today, building homes and hosting TV shows. Life’s funny like that.”
Family Support and Hollywood Dreams
Carter’s parents played a significant role in supporting his journey. “Funny thing is, my mom grew up in LA, so Hollywood wasn’t some far-off dream for me,” he reflects. “I was already building homes and working behind the scenes in construction. Everything happened so fast when I entered the TV world, but my parents were incredibly supportive. They still are to this day. It’s amazing to have that kind of backing from family.”
Carter’s Big Break: Trading Spaces
When asked about his big break, Carter doesn’t hesitate. “Without a doubt, it was Trading Spaces. We’re still talking about that show today, which blows my mind. It’s been 18 years! Honestly, I thought I’d only be on the show for a year or two before moving back to working behind the camera or returning to building houses. But life had other plans, and I’m so grateful for the opportunities it’s brought me.”
Trading Spaces: A Fond Memory
Reflecting on his time on Trading Spaces, Carter fondly remembers the camaraderie among the cast. “The best part was the constant banter and friendship we all shared,” he says. “We’re still close today. We hang out, talk regularly, and even exchange Christmas cards. It’s a bond that’s lasted long after the cameras stopped rolling.”
Building: Carter’s True Passion
For Carter, building isn’t just a job—it’s a passion. “I absolutely love constructing things,” he shares. “From furniture to remodeling projects around my house, there’s something deeply satisfying about it. Right now, we’re working on a big project at our winery, and I’m right there pounding nails. It’s where I find both joy and frustration in life. I’m usually pretty even-keeled, but when it comes to building, that’s where my emotions truly come out. It’s a part of who I am.”
The Great Christmas Light Fight: Coming Back for More
Carter recently co-hosted The Great Christmas Light Fight, and fans are eager to see him return. “Absolutely,” he confirms. “We film a year in advance, which is awesome. We’re already looking for homes to feature in 2023. It’s a fun and exciting process, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”
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Life Beyond Work: Carter’s Nonprofit
When Carter isn’t busy working, he dedicates his time to Carter’s Kids, a nonprofit he founded in 2006. “We build playgrounds across the U.S., and it’s become a huge part of my life,” he explains. “To date, we’ve built around 100 playgrounds, and each one is a labor of love. Fundraising and organizing events are a big part of what we do. In fact, I’m speaking to you right now from a playground we’re working on!”
Family Life with Amy Smart and Daughter Flora
For Carter, family is everything. “Our daughter, Flora, keeps us on our toes,” he says with a smile. “She takes up a lot of our time, but in the best way possible. She’s an amazing, wonderful little person, and chasing after her keeps us both busy. It’s a beautiful chaos that we wouldn’t trade for anything.”
The Secret to a Happy Marriage
Carter credits patience and respect as the keys to a successful marriage. “My wife and I just passed our 10-year mark, and I can honestly say we’re happier than ever,” he shares. “It’s all about supporting each other. If one of us gets frustrated, the other steps in to pick up the pieces. That partnership has made our relationship even stronger over the years. It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience.”
Advice for His Younger Self
Looking back, Carter would tell his younger self to relax. “I’d say, ‘Relax. You’ll figure it out. Don’t stress so much,’” he advises. “Reflecting on my journey, I realize how much I’ve grown. It’s both daunting and exciting to look back, but I’m incredibly happy with where I am now. Timing is everything in life, and I truly believe that.”
Future Dreams and Spiritual Foundations
Carter is open to whatever the future holds for his daughter, Flora. “We recently saw her perform in a Christmas play, and she loved it,” he says. “If acting is something she wants to pursue, we’ll fully support her. For now, it’s all about letting her explore her interests and grow.” Spirituality also plays a significant role in Carter’s life. “Growing up, I attended Catholic school, and my wife has a guru who mentors her,” he explains. “When we got married, we had both a guru and a priest present. Now, our daughter attends Catholic school, and we believe spiritual guidance is essential, especially during childhood.”
Carter’s Bucket List
Carter’s bucket list isn’t filled with grand adventures but rather focuses on family milestones. “It’s mostly about traveling and letting our daughter experience the world,” he says. “We want to teach her things like riding a bike or swimming without a life jacket. It’s about reliving those moments we had with our own parents and creating new ones with our child. Life’s all about those little, meaningful moments.”
