On the eve of the new series of The Block, I speak to new judge Shaynna Blaze

Best known as the popular co-host and interior designer on Lifestyle Channel’s hit show Selling House Australia, Shaynna Blaze is joining belle magazine’s Neale Whitaker and real estate king John McGrath as the new judge on The Block. I spoke to her on the eve of the much anticipated new series, in which she’ll be adding a female perspective.

A: I have watched every series since the first one so there was no hesitation at all to say YES without thinking about it! The producers approached me following feedback given by their viewers wanting to add a female perspective. With my interior design background and experience on Selling Houses Australia, they saw it as a great fit. Of course I totally agree with them!

Other than the female perspective, I hope to add the practical and functional eye of how these houses and makeovers will work in everyday life.  These houses are to be sold for people to live in so it is important they not only look fantastic, they must work as a real home.

Q: How has filming been? How do the judges get on?
A: It was a challenge to fit in with my other filming and work commitments but in the end it just flowed and each day I turned up I couldn’t wait to get on site and see the developments. I can honestly say from the first moment I met John and Neale they welcomed me with open arms and we have got on brilliantly. There is a bit of laughter in there!

Q: What can the viewers expect?
A: Hard but fair constructive criticism. Every piece of information we give as judges is critical to get the best out of the contestants and they have been soaking it up and really pushing forward with the feedback we give. I believe these teams have bigger growth and development in their renovations than any other series.

Q: Are you surprised Block fever is still as strong as it?
A: No I’m not really.  This is a show that can be watched by the whole family and they are subjects that people are passionate about but also topical; renovating and real estate. No one is completely right or wrong so it opens the gate for discussion and pretty serious debates on what someone will love or hate.