Chicago designer Lukas Machnik wins NBC's 'American Dream Builders'

Machnik's creative and avant-garde designs propel him to victory in a tight competition against Chicago builder Jay Riordan

Chicago designer Lukas Machnik was crowned winner of NBC's ambitious reality design competition series "American Dream Builders" Sunday, beating out fellow Chicagoan Jay Riordan.

After nine weeks and 19 home renovations, the final two designers met for one last challenge: transforming two beach cottages along the sand in Ventura, California. Each of them tackled a complete renovation in a matter of days with breathtaking results.

The 34-year old Machnik will take home the $250,000 grand prize along with the title of "American Dream Builder."

A native of Poland, Machnik is a rising star in the design world. His high-end projects include homes throughout Europe and the U.S. In addition to interior design, he is an artist as well as a furniture and object designer. His signature minimalist style has earned him the nickname "Bad Boy of Design."

Hosted by renowned designer Nate Berkus, "American Dream Builders" showcased the talents of 12 highly accomplished designers and homebuilders from around the country. Each week, the contestants, who were divided into two teams, tackled two massive home-renovation projects. Each episode featured unique architectural styles and special challenges and resulted in stunning home transformations.

Former NFL star-turned landscape designer Eddie George and famed Chicago-based interior designer Monica Pedersen served as judges, along with Berkus.