Picture a German-born Greek-American polymath who designs stunning homes, hosts TV shows, and writes heart-wrenching novels—meet Angelo Surmelis! From transforming spaces on HGTV to penning the Lambda Literary Award finalist The Dangerous Art of Blending In, Surmelis weaves creativity and resilience into everything he does. His journey from immigrant roots to multifaceted stardom is a vibrant tapestry of cultural fusion and artistic brilliance.
Born in Germany to Greek parents, Surmelis’s life is a story of reinvention. His ability to blend interior design, television charisma, and raw storytelling has made him a unique voice in modern America. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the man behind the magic!
The Making of Angelo Surmelis
Angelo Surmelis was born in Bonn, Germany, to Greek parents who eloped, spending his early years in Greece before immigrating to Illinois at age five. Growing up in a strict Greek household in Chicago, he faced cultural expectations and personal challenges, including abuse, which later informed his writing. His creative spark ignited early—at six, he rearranged furniture, and by ten, he was hanging wallpaper. After studying at Columbia College in Chicago, Surmelis pursued acting, landing roles in shows like Angel and General Hospital, but design became his true calling. By 1995, he was a professional designer in Los Angeles, working with clients like Playboy and VH1, laying the foundation for his brand, angelo:HOME.
Angelo Surmelis’s Unforgettable Stories
Surmelis’s creative genius shines across design, television, and literature, but his 2018 debut novel, The Dangerous Art of Blending In, is a standout. This young adult coming-of-age story follows Evan Panos, a 17-year-old navigating a strict Greek immigrant family, abuse, and his emerging queer identity. Drawing from Surmelis’s own childhood, the novel’s raw, first-person narrative tackles heavy themes—homophobia, parental abuse, and self-discovery—with hope and humor. Critics praised its authenticity, earning it a Lambda Literary Award finalist spot for best LGBT YA novel in 2018.
Beyond writing, Surmelis hosted HGTV’s 24 Hour Design for four seasons and Rate My Space with Angelo Surmelis for three, transforming homes with his eclectic, approachable style. His angelo:HOME furniture line, sold at retailers like QVC and Overstock, reflects his knack for cozy, sustainable design. Whether through prose or decor, Surmelis’s work radiates warmth, resilience, and a celebration of identity, blending his Greek heritage with modern American flair.
Surmelis is reportedly working on a second YA novel, a children’s book he plans to illustrate, and a design book, promising more stories that bridge personal trauma and universal hope. His writing style—wry, poignant, and deeply personal—resonates with readers seeking authentic voices in queer and immigrant narratives.
Why Angelo Surmelis Matters
Angelo Surmelis’s impact lies in his fearless authenticity. As an Own Voices author, he amplifies queer and immigrant experiences, offering solace to readers facing similar struggles. His novel’s unflinching portrayal of abuse and self-acceptance has sparked conversations about family dynamics and identity, particularly within the Greek-American diaspora. On television, his design expertise made home makeovers accessible, inspiring viewers to embrace creativity in their spaces. Surmelis’s ability to excel in multiple fields—design, TV, literature—makes him a cultural bridge, showing how art can heal and unite.
His legacy is one of hope: a reminder that even in dark times, creativity and courage can light the way. By sharing his story, Surmelis empowers others to find their voice, making him a vital figure in both YA literature and design.
About Angelo Surmelis
- Birthplace: Bonn, Germany, to Greek parents
- Key Work: The Dangerous Art of Blending In (2018)
- TV Shows: Hosted 24 Hour Design and Rate My Space on HGTV
- Awards: Lambda Literary Award finalist (2018)
- Brand: angelo:HOME furniture line
Snag The Dangerous Art of Blending In and dive into Angelo Surmelis’s heartfelt world of resilience and creativity!