Ty Pennington (born Tygert Burton Pennington on October 19, 1964) is an American television personality, artist, carpenter, author, and former model. He is best known for hosting the home improvement television series Trading Spaces (2000–2008) and Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (2004–2012).
Pennington was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and raised in Marietta. He began modeling at the age of 18 and appeared in campaigns for brands such as J.Crew and Coca-Cola. He later studied art and carpentry at the Atlanta College of Art.
In 2000, Pennington was cast as the host of Trading Spaces, which became a hit for TLC. The show featured teams of designers transforming two people's homes in one day. Pennington also appeared in the spin-off series Trading Spaces: Family (2003–2005).
In 2004, Pennington began hosting Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, which became a hit for ABC. The show featured teams of designers and construction workers renovating the homes of deserving families in need. Pennington also appeared in the spin-off series Extreme Makeover: Home Edition: Ty's Great Escape (2006–2008).
In addition to his television work, Pennington has also written several books on home improvement, including Ty's Tricks: Tips and Techniques for Home Improvement (2005), Ty Pennington at Home: My Workbook for Designing Your Dream Home (2006), and Ty Pennington's Weekend Projects (2008).
Pennington has also made appearances in several films and television shows, including The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004), Home Improvement (1993–1999), and Celebrity Apprentice (2011).
Pennington is also the founder of the Ty Pennington Foundation, which provides scholarships to students pursuing careers in the arts and construction trades.