In no small part due to the current season of The Block, modern country interiors are in vogue again. But the look is hardly new. In fact, it’s its timelessness and classic appeal that makes it a winner. We’ve rounded up some stunning projects to inspire you if you’ve been thinking of embracing the look.
The modern country style is a huge part of builder Rachael Turner’s work at Front Porch Properties. “I think the appeal is a fusion of old and new which is good, because everything feels modern, fresh, clean lined and sophisticated, but then it’s got that kind of homey charm which is so endearing and lovely to live in, and the feeling of it is just so warm.”
While Rachael doesn’t own a TV, her colleagues keep her up to date on The Block and its country focus. “I think it makes a nice change that they’ve steered across in this direction this season, and the one thing I love is that through all the style trends that have come and gone over the years, people still love to revert back to country. There’s just something about it; a timeless charm that resonates with most people.”
A long time user and fan of Intrim timber mouldings, she says they play a huge part in pretty much every project she does. “They’re often overlooked when planning a reno, but for us, using mouldings is one of our signature traits.”
In her Brookfield Project in Queensland, (pictured), she wanted a tall skirting board with simple detailing to work with the modern farmhouse look. “I love a 185mm profile as it just adds a little bit of luxury to any wall and finishes it off beautifully. We always use a matching architrave for our door and window trims too.”
They used the same 185mm skirting boards to customise some of the feature cabinetry in the living room and pantry. “This brought such a lovely cohesion to where the skirting met with the cabinetry; a simple detail but it really elevated the cabinetry.”
SK1006 skirting was also used to customise cabinetry for a cohesive look
Ultimately, Rachael says you can use the modern country style in any home, even a really contemporary one. “You can make it warmer just by styling it with a modern country feel.”
Intrim products used:SK1006 skirting board in 185 x 18mm | SK1006 architraves in 66 x 18mm | DAR in 66 x 12mm
For tips on how to customise your cabinetry using skirting boards, watch Rachael’s video:
Andrew Terevenar of AFT Building Solutions loves modern country too. “It should have a homely, warm feeling. Each room should feel inviting and cosy, and whites and warm tones should be consistent throughout the home. I believe the only modern components should be in the technology, appliances and fixtures used. In essence the home should feel that it has character and soul.”
AFT Building Solutions used a lot of mouldings in their Australian Coastal Sanctuary project (pictured) in south western NSW.
And whether you’re on acreage or in the burbs, Andrew says walking into a country style home should feel like an escape from the daily grind. “Generally, the country style home is accented with warm, bright tones and filled with natural light which can make a massive difference to someone’s wellbeing and general mood.
“I believe any home can be modern country if the house is done right with the right feel and design. Personally, I love the French country look so obviously chair rails and wainscoting are a must but I have seen some fantastic projects using just mixes of VJ board and natural timbers.”
Intrim products used: SK945B skirting boards in 185mm and architraves in 90mm | IN32 inlay mould and CR22 chair rail to create wainscoting
This NSW Southern Highlands country barn and cottage (below) by Cottonwood & Co is giving us all the country feels and has all the trimmings (pardon the pun!).
“The cottage dated back to around the 1940s/50s so had some lovely old character details like beautiful cornices and ceiling roses, but unfortunately over the years it had undergone a number of basic and unsympathetic updates which weren’t in keeping with its original character,” says interior designer Nicki Dobrzynski.
“It therefore felt important that we put back some of those original details, like the lovely detailed skirting and architrave mouldings from Intrim, as well as the VJ boards which reinforce that country cottage look. I love using VJ board as it’s a more modern version of traditional headboard but still very classic and suits both traditional or contemporary settings.”
Nicki says the modern country look calls for matte finishes and weathered materials over highly polished and perfect surfaces. “Country homes are all about comfort, practicality, architectural charm, and a collected, laid back look. The modern country home tends to have more vintage and antique pieces, but also found and collected objects.”
She added that while any home can embrace elements of modern country, you need to be careful not to overdo it or your interior can end up feeling too much like a theme. “I personally believe the most successful interiors respond to, and connect with, the landscape and environment they’re in as well as the homeowner’s personal style and taste. It’ll feel inauthentic if you try to create a particular style when the architecture and setting don’t relate to one another. If you’re in the city and love the modern country look, my advice would be to keep things a little more restrained.”
This week’s reveals took us inside the couples’ sheds with most couples turning these into either a second living or work from home space. Or both! Guest judges this week, standing in for Shaynna and Neale, were former Block contestants and winners, fan favourites Alisa and Lysandra.
If there’s one thing the pandemic has taught us, it’s that homes need a space to get away from the living areas to concentrate on work if needed or just escape for quiet reflection. And this week’s working from home spaces, – plus one with a twist – showed that lesson has been well learned. From functional offices to separate work precincts and a wine lounge with a view to die for, the Blockheads made the most of the ample space they had to deliver just what their high-end homes needed, with the judges stunned by the variety of solutions they saw.
Tom and Sarah Jane (first place) 26 points
Built around a walk-in Vintec wine cellar, house one’s television room built into the Stratco garage space is the perfect getaway, the judges agreed, ideal for teenagers or anyone wanting a break from the rest of the home. The twins weren’t sure they liked the black wine fridge sticking out like sort of a sore thumb, and Darren didn’t feel it was defined as a wine-drinking area. But they had a lot of good things to say about the finishes.
Past the powder room and upstairs however was where their addition really shone. The only home with a second level thanks to early engineering planning, this is a complete office that could easily be converted to a guest apartment, with eight eye-level Velux skylights, two separate work stations and kitchenette. A potential office? Definitely, the judges agreed, a nanny (or granny) flat? Why not! Either way, all agreed it’s a definite value add to the home. I have to agree it was pretty damn gorgeous!
Alisa said it was like they’d created a whole new apartment in a shed in a week and hats off to them for thinking outside the square. Darren said the view from the skylights was insane. And Alisa went one further saying the space was enough for them to win The Block. Darren agreed it could tip them over the edge.
If a home has a winery, Rachel and Ryan thought, why not add a wine room to enjoy the end results? Down the landing steps into a cosy space featuring a full-wall Grafico mural and spectacular view over the vines to Mount Macedon beyond, this is a separate entertaining space perfect for showcasing the micro-winery the house boasts. With a benchtop area for preparing the drinks, huge couch in front of a wide television and a woodfired stove to give country ambiance, this space is less about work and more for play, the judges agreed… but is that enough? A work space would have added value, the judges agreed and adding a desk in here may not work.
Lysandra said it had wow factor and was very welcoming. Darren noted it looked nice but it didn’t have a sink in the bench top. Lysandra didn’t love the “harsh” fire hearth either. And while she would normally hate the pendant she loved it in the context of the room. Darren really liked the timber. “design wise and styling wise and selling a dream it does everything it’s intended to do,” Darren said.
Alisa thought the room was good at selling the dream of a country lifestyle as a place to drink with friends. They all agreed it was well designed and well executed.
A textbook example of a room that was just too much for this mammoth Block challenge, Omar and Oz’s huge home office space was nowhere near ready, the victim of build problems way out of the boys’ hands. What was theirs however, still left the judges underwhelmed, with artwork choices too big for the space, a desk way too big for just one person but too small for two and a nautical feel that’s out of place in a country setting. Once it’s finished, the judges hoped, the room could be a showcase for living and working out of the city, with more than enough scope to do both.
Darren made sure to tell the twins it wasn’t the boys’ fault. Though the twins pointed out the questionable artwork was not The Block’s fault!
In a year when home cinemas had been downplayed, Dylan and Jenny’s 98-inch monster television took the judges’ breath away and helped give the new space a double use – as an office or screening room. The lack of fireplace lost points from Alisa and Lysandra, as did the “dead space” in the room’s centre, something that could be remedied with the addition of a dining table perhaps, or a larger version of the bar area. Once again the Caesarstone desktop felt cold to the judges, but a few styling touches – and a repair to a cracked ceiling – could have pushed them higher up the scores.
Alisa liked that they combined the living area and home office together but it wasn’t really making her feel anything and was nice but a little undercooked. Darren said the bar area didn’t really make sense and they could have made more of it. Darren said the TV wasn’t enough to sell it. The twins agreed a lot of finishes were great despite the ceiling crack!
Darren said it was good but probably wouldn’t be shown on the marketing brochure. Alisa said it was a big effort for one week.
After watching the judging, even Jenny agreed the room was undercooked!
As a work from home space, Darren said when he took in House 3’s shed addition, “this is a killer”. But the layout left him wondering. With a television in a corner as opposed to on one of the two available walls, a huge Caesarstone desk (which they first thought was a kitchen!) dominating and a cocktails area to one side, the orientation seemed confused, they felt, and didn’t make the best use of the fireplace at the other end.
Alisa said the concrete Caesarstone was too cold a surface and very unusual for a desktop. Darren wasn’t a fan either. And there were no powerpoints to be seen near the mammoth desk either! “An epic fail.”
Lysandra thought the fireplace was stunning but in the wrong spot. It made the room really inflexible too and it should have been in the other corner.
Aside from Kitchen Week, laundry, mudroom and hallway (aka hell) week is one of the biggest on The Block. With a jaw-dropping 25 spaces to present to the judges, the contestants overcame a series of obstacles to deliver stunning spaces that are sure to appeal to buyers come auction day. Brimming with mudroom and laundry room ideas, step inside each house to discover each room in more detail.
House 1: Tom and Sarah-Jane Score: 26.5 Place: 2nd
Throughout The Block 2022, the judges have applauded Tom and Sarah-Jane for their design choices and finishes and this week was no exception. Walking into their mudroom Neale Whitaker praised the choice of the bold navy Sierra Oxford Matt paired with Patina Brass Mesh Inserts. “It’s such a luxurious layering of finishes. It’s homely and it’s luxe but it’s also highly functional, he said. My god I’d love this in my home.”
Awash with natural light, Tom and Sarah-Jane’s laundry is a chic and calming space. Echoing their kitchen, the couple selected Sierra Oyster Matt doors, pairing them with Brushed Antique Bronze Knob handles for a classic and timeless look. The galley-style layout provides plenty of storage as well as folding space on Caesarstone Arabetto benchtops.
Tall broom cupboards feature alongside under-bench laundry cabinets, while touch-catch wall laundry joinery sits above the sink and tap. Laundry day is a breeze thanks to a washing machine, clothes dryer, and drying cabinet, all from Asko. The internal storage accessories are the unsung heroes of this space, with Tom and Sarah-Jane including four Wire Laundry Baskets, plus Inner Drawers to double the storage within. The addition of LED Strip lighting ensures that washing can be done night or day, as well as highlighting the beauty of the joinery and tiled splashback.
Perfect for country living, their mudroom showcases a dramatic yet warm palette. Darker cabinetry has been selected with navy Shaker-style Sierra Oxford doors with Patina Brass Mesh Inserts creating a modern country aesthetic. The continued use of Caesarstone Arabetto benches and Brushed Antique Bronze Knob handles connect this room with the rest of the house, in particular the kitchen and laundry. The judges loved how Tom and Sarah-Jane had selected to use “complementary but contrasting” coloured cabinetry in a Shaker-style profile to distinguish the two zones since they are part of the same space.
While effortlessly stylish, this mudroom ticks all the boxes design-wise. A wealth of storage is on offer with generous cupboards providing space to store items including shoes and bags. The seating area is another must-have, and the addition of the Arched Pet Bed is a stroke of genius with a series of drawers nearby providing space for pet bowls, food, and other essential items for the four-legged members of the family.
Laundry Hardware, Surfaces and Appliance Details
Laundry Cabinetry: Sierra Oyster Grey Matt
Laundry Benchtops: Caesarstone Arabetto
Laundry Handles: NEW Brushed Antique Bronze Knobs in Matt Finish 22-M-39, Touch Catch Accessories: Laundry Wire Baskets, Inner Drawers, Federation Capping
Laundry Appliances: By Abey. Supplied by Appliances Online
Laundry Sink: By Asko. Supplied by Appliances Online
Tap: By Abey. Supplied by Appliances Online
Lighting: Warm LED strip lighting
By contestants: Tiled splashback, hanging rail
Mudroom Hardware and Surfaces Details
Cabinetry: Sierra Oxford Matt with Patina Brass Mesh Insert, Oiled Legno Chalk
Benchtops: Caesarstone Arabetto
Handles: NEW Brushed Antique Bronze Knobs in Matt Finish 22-M-39, Touch Catch
Splashbacks: Tiles by contestants
Accessories: Arched Pet Bed, Laundry Wire Basket
Lighting: Warm LED Strip lighting
House 2: Rachel and RyanScore: 25 Place: 3rd
Coming off their win from Living & Dining Week, Rachel and Ryan were excited to continue to bring their fresh, modern style into their home. Drawing inspiration from some of the finishes in their kitchens such as the slim-Shaker Cora Amaro Matt cabinetry with Solid Brass Knob and pull handles in Dull Brushed Nickel, the pair also mixed things up a little. This was seen through the bold Caesarstone Primordia benchtops and brick-look floor tile- both of which the judges loved. “It does make me wish we’d seen this in the kitchen, said Darren Palmer. They could have won!”
Rachel and Ryan delivered a laundry design layout that balances style with substance. The washing machine and clothes dryer, both from Euromaid, have been placed side by side, producing a generous Caesarstone Primordia benchtop above. Slim Shaker-style Cora cabinetry in Amaro has been used throughout, with Solid Brass Knob and 160mm Solid Brass Bar Pull handles providing the perfect level of contrast and glamour.
Laundry design ideas abound in this space. Here, storage is king, with tall linen cupboards framing a large window which brings in plenty of natural light. A bank of cupboards sits below the window, some containing internal drawers, allowing easy organisation of various laundry and cleaning essentials. Open shelving breaks up the banks of joinery while providing the perfect space for displaying styling décor.
Mirroring the neutral colour palette of the laundry, the mudroom is as practical as it is stylish. Rachel and Ryan selected Cora Amaro cabinetry with Solid Brass Knob and 160mm Solid Brass Bar Pull handles, both in a Dull Brushed Nickel finish, creating a seamless look between their laundry and kitchen.
The galley-style design has been divided into two zones. A seating zone, with open storage under a bench seat, provides easy storage of boots and shoes. On either side sit broom and linen cupboards, providing ample storage. Opposite, the inclusion of the Samsung Air Dresser as well as more tall storage, including a tandem pantry, ensure that this mudroom is an important addition to the home.
Together, these elements all came together in a space that the judges loved from the finishes, colours, and appliances, Shaynna Blaze declaring that the room is “Heaven”. “Buyers are going to love this stuff, added Scott Cam. Despite your issues finishing this week, the judges think that your home is really unfolding as a contender for one of the best houses on The Block!”
Laundry & Mudroom Hardware, Surfaces and Appliance Details
Cabinetry: Cora Amaro Matt
Benchtops: Caesarstone Primordia 40mm
Handles: NEW 35mm Solid Brass Knob in Dull Brushed Nickel 34-M-42, NEW 160mm Solid Brass Bar Pull in Dull Brushed Nickel 45-M-54, Touch Catch
Appliances: Euromaid and Samsung, Supplied by Appliances Online
Laundry Sink: By Abey. Supplied by Appliances Online
Tap: By Gessi. Supplied by Appliances Online
Lighting: Warm LED Strip Lighting
House 3: Ankur and Sharon Score: 23 Place: 4th
“Drama” and “House 3” seem to be two phrases that go hand in hand at the moment and while the judges were conflicted about how they felt about Sharon and Ankur’s hallway they were in perfect agreement about the success of their laundry and mudroom zone. Shaynna’s face lit up upon entering the room, describing it as a “dog’s paradise” in reference to the built-in dog bath.
Indeed, it’s not often a laundry includes a tiled pet bath, yet this is the case in Sharon and Ankur’s impressive laundry room! Spanning a generous 7.5 metres, the large laundry room layout ensures style, storage, and functionality are all achieved in spades. An organic and earthy scheme has been evoked with a mixture of Shaker-style cabinetry in Sierra IV Dry Sage and Sierra Alabaster, with open shelving in Nordic Oak. The inclusion of Caesarstone® Empira Black countertops and Black Timber Bar with Copper Leg handles tie the space to their main kitchen while adding a modern touch.
The pair opted for a series of base cabinets and placed Samsung laundry appliances side by side, creating an expansive bench perfect for sorting and folding clothing. Hidden behind joinery, two laundry hampers sit next to the sink, while a broom and linen cupboard have also been included. The Samsung AirDresser completes the luxe space.
Sitting across from the laundry, a simple yet effective mudroom is the perfect addition to the home. Providing a wealth of storage due to Nordic Oak open shelving above the seating area, the design also includes space for hanging clothes behind Sierra Alabaster doors plus under-bench storage for footwear. Being placed within the same area as the laundry ensures that the homeowners will be able to keep the rest of the house clean.
The judges clearly loved the laundry and mudroom space, their score reflecting their thoughts about the hallway. As Darren said of what Ankur and Sharon had created “This is the balance of everything, where they made that sweet spot of being courageous and of interest, but also saleable.”
Laundry & Mudroom Hardware, Surfaces and Appliance Details
Cabinetry: NEW Sierra IV Dry Sage Matt, Sierra Alabaster Matt, NEW Nordic Oak Woodgrain
Benchtops: Caesarstone Empira Black 40mm
Handles: Black Timber Bar with Copper Legs 15-K-98, Touch Catch
Accessories: Laundry Wire Baskets, Black Hanging Rail, Federation Capping
Appliances: By Samsung. Supplied by Appliances Online
Sink: By Oliveri. Supplied by Appliances Online
Tap: By Oliveri. Supplied by Appliances Online
Lighting: Warm LED strip lighting
By contestants: Splashback, Wall Panelling, Pet Area
House 4: Dylan and JennyScore: 27 Place: WINNERS
It’s hard to believe that tradie couple Dylan and Jenny haven’t had a win this season, but the look of sheer delight on their faces when they realised that they have clinched the win this week was priceless! All three judges loved what the pair had created in their hallway and there was even more to love in their laundry and mudroom. Shaynna loved the inclusion of two sinks, Neale loved the Dry Sage Sierra IV cabinetry and Darren loved how the spaces connected to the butler’s pantry. “It feels really coherent, really complete,” he stated.
An exciting addition to House 4 and worthy of being on any home tour, Dylan and Jenny have designed a winning laundry that ticks all the boxes. Echoing the colour palette of their kitchen, the room showcases Freedom Kitchens’ new Sierra IV cabinetry which features a 40mm rail door profile for a contemporary take on the classic Shaker look. The Dry Sage colour of the doors marry perfectly with Oak Woodgrain exposed shelving, Caesarstone Riverlet benchtops and matte brass handles. Warm LED Strip lighting illuminates the tiled splashback and joinery.
Spanning a generous 4 metres, the cleaning portion of the large laundry room layout consists of a sink and tap, wall cabinets, Samsung appliances and a span of countertop, perfect for folding and sorting clothes. Within the floor cupboards 3 Laundry Wire Baskets and Inner Drawers provide plenty of laundry room storage and easy organisation. Opposite, banks of tall cabinetry make space for storing items such as brooms, mops, and ironing boards, as well as shelving for linen, and room for a Samsung AirDresser.
Flowing on from the laundry, Dylan and Jenny’s mudroom has been designed to be the perfect place to enter and exit the home. With plenty of space to store shoes, bags, coats, and the like, the design also includes another sink and tap, ideal for washing off muddy boots after being out in the countryside! Sierra IV Dry Sage and Oak Wood joinery, a Caesarstone Riverlet bench and Hampton Wide Cup Pull and Round Knob in Matt Brass handles evoke the ease and charm of the Farmhouse style.
A wealth of storage has been achieved with the inclusion of wall and floor cabinets on both sides of the galley-style layout. The seating nook is a stylish and practical touch, with open cubby holes beneath the bench which can be left open or filled with pull-out baskets. There’s even concealed hanging space for coats, plus a cupboard for TV data items.
All the judges agreed that these spaces will greatly appeal to buyers and that they add a lot of value to what is already a stunning home.
Laundry & Mudroom Hardware, Surfaces and Appliance Details
Cabinetry: NEW Sierra IV Dry Sage Matt, NEW Oak Woodgrain Benchtops: Caesarstone Riverlet 40mm
Handles: NEW Hampton Wide Cup Pull in Matt Brass 96mm 12-M-34, NEW Hampton Round Knob in Matt Brass 32mm 12-M-36
Appliances: By Samsung. Supplied by Appliances Online
Sinks: By Blanco. Supplied by Appliances Online
Taps: By Blanco. Supplied by Appliances Online
Lighting: Warm LED Strip Lighting
House 5: Omar and OzScore: 20.5 Place: 5th
The boys in House 5 had endless hurdles to overcome this week, failing to get across the finish line due to a series of unfortunate events. Dubbing it ‘Shut Down Week Omar and Oz kept working until the end but last nights episode could only give the judges a hint of what they were trying to achieve with their laundry and mudroom combo. However, we can now share the finished rooms which are another wonderful addition to this modern and glamourous home.
Light and bright, Omar and Oz’s laundry ensures washing day is a breeze! A large window above the sink and tap offers plenty of natural light and a pop of greenery against the Shaker-style Sierra joinery in Matt White. The boys opted for Touch Catch doors for a sleek handleless look, while the choice of Caesarstone Riverlet benches add to the overall neutral colour palette. Warm LED Strip lighting brings warmth to the space, highlighting the beauty of each finish the pair have selected.
The U-shaped design of the room allows for a plethora of storage options, ranging from cabinets, soft-close drawers, and linen and broom cupboards. The boys have considered every inclusion that a laundry might need which is reflected in two Laundry Canvas Hampers and even smaller details such as the drawers placed beneath the appliances to allow for easy sorting of clothing. The V-ZUG washer, dryer and Refresh Butler complete the design.
The mudroom connects directly to the laundry, a logical choice that allows muddy clothes and shoes to be placed straight into the sink or washing machine upon entering the home. The showpiece of the all-white colour scheme is Freedom Kitchens’ new Matt White Perforated Metal Inserts within the Shaker-style Sierra joinery in White Matt. The design consists of seating area with storage below for footwear, two tall cabinets for storing coats as well as space for bags.
Laundry & Mudroom Hardware, Surfaces and Appliance Details.
Cabinetry: Sierra White Matt, NEW Matt White Perforated Metal Inserts
With its view from front to back and old to new, Scott’s hallway sums up his eclectic home, with roots in the past but every modern option.
Past the custom-made “Tools down” welcome mat and restored Playola player in a sunlit alcove down then the stunning Anna Blatman wallpapered powder room, the porta-timber-accented hall with Heraz mushroom runner, is a veritable art gallery, featuring memorabilia rescued from the original build alongside new works from artists including Lizzy Stageman, Angue Summa, Michael Wolfe and more.
Crossing the unique LED floor, wall and ceiling strip separating the existing house from the new addition, the hall is a reminder Scotty has embraced the past with a build that has led his house into the future.
Last night saw Scotty’s own living/dining space revealed after Sunday night saw the contestants have mixed success at filling the huge open plan spaces. So, do we think Scotty did better than The Block contestants?
There was certainly instant warmth and an unmistakable cosy country vibe! I absolutely loved the herringbone floor choice and the use of rugs to zone areas and large furniture to work with the scale of the space.
From the huge open fireplace – complete with fittings for cooking! – in a brick feature wall to the 10-seater custom dining table from Christian Cole facing a timber dresser, Scott’s living dining area was filled with luxe comforts to redefine country chic.
While it was perhaps a little too eclectic for my own personal tastes, I definitely think Scotty and the team did a great job! What did you think?
Two rooms in one week! Far out, that wasn’t easy! But they were some big scores last night, including a 30 for the winners (if you include a gnome point).
It was enough to give the Blockheads a bad case of nerves (Sharon and Ankur almost walked out on the show!), but once they got started, what they produced in the new section of their builds (and in their original home for house 3) was super impressive in seven days.
So what did the judges have to say and who scored what?
With its statement tartan wallpaper highlighting an eclectic mix of artworks, sheer drapes behind a discrete pelmet and well-planned wardrobes, Tom and Sarah-Jane’s bedroom, Neale said, showed the couple were “really having fun and creating their dream home”. Shaynna went as far as to say this should be their career after the show!
Not everything was perfect, the judges noted, with Darren pointing out the low bed and prominent power points, but combined with a bathroom that finally featured face-level storage alongside the stunning tile choices, it was enough for Shaynna to sum up: “This is beautiful!”
In the bathroom, Neale said it gave the impression they knew what they were doing.
A low-slung bed under a high ceiling transported Neale to Japan in Omar and Oz’s bedroom. An awesome return to form, added Darren. Superb bedside pendants, Shaynna added, concrete plaster that works, and a neutral palette all added up to a “very zen” room, the ideal addition to an ensuite that shows why the boys keep winning the wet areas.
With white, timber and brass accents, a stunning shower screen and tiles playing off their other bathrooms but keeping its unique look, this shows, Neale said, that they can keep their title of “bathroom kings”.
The level of execution was stupendous, they said, especially the tiling.
After weeks of pushing the contemporary aesthetic into their country home, the judges were braced for more modern styling, but one look at Rachel and Ryan’s combination of a rug, artwork and bed-top blanket showed them they were still embracing country as well. Slightly timid, Neale said, but still a great asset to the growing house and the perfect partner to a bathroom all agreed had impact… “plenty of impact!”
“There’s not a single safe choice here… and I love it,” Darren said as he took in the lava stone basin, timber bench seat, black tapware accents and more. “Magazine worthy,” Shaynna said.
Neale said the bathroom was a luxury room that ticked a lot of boxes and felt like authentic Rachel and Ryan.
Scroll to the end for your chance to win this pair of artworks
Laminex panelling complementing the sconces, harmonious curtaining and a gorgeous colour palette combined to bring out the best in a room much smaller, but at least better finished than some others, the judges said of Jenny and Dylan’s bedroom.
That sentiment carried over to the bathroom, where Darren pointed out the tiles, vanity, basin, mirror and especially the bath all combined for a perfect balance of luxury and country style. The cabinets, however, were a touch too high, Shaynna said and Neale pointed out a shower puff suction-cupped to the tiles that brought down the luxe feel! Those faults aside however, it was a room, they agreed, that just works.
Shaynna was not a fan of the lilac sinks in the context of the room and thought the bath should have been centred. Neale wasn’t a fan of the styling at all. He wanted them to remember they were selling a multimillion dollar home.
“Look at the scale!” gushed Darren walking into what is essentially a second master suite, “you could swing a tiger in here!” And with its grand bay window, “almost antique” colour palette, gold velvet touches and bold furniture choices, the others agreed.
There were finishing errors and what Darren said was “a masterclass in how not to paint”, but with an ensuite boasting an “almost perfect” layout, finished with tiles, mirror, tapware and shutters that were heavenly, it all came together. If only, they agreed, the contestants had more time.
Neale said he was seeing signs of trauma and Darren said they’d clearly had a bad week. In the bathroom there was mess everywhere but the judges loved most of their choices. Neale said however they needed to get their energy back and it was too early to fall at the fence.
For your chance to win the beautiful set of 2 Macedon Sunrise prints by Amanda Skye-Mulder for Artist Lane, as seen in Dylan and Jenny’s room on Sunday, enter here.
Win Macedon Sunrise 1 and 2 in this week’s art giveaway
Thanks to The Block Shop and Artist Lane.
Master ensuite reveals: The Block tree change 2022
A quarter of the way through the build and last night saw one of the most important rooms of the…
The Block 2022 tree change: main bathroom reveals
Today, our friend and interior designer Kathryn Bamford, recaps last night’s room reveals. Whoa what a first week on The…
As the judges soon discovered, the Block Tree Change contestants took week four very seriously, turning out high-end luxe master suites that stunned them all. From spacious dressing areas to reading nooks, fireplaces and more, every combination was tried to win this important sanctuary zone.
As the judging began, Scotty said he thought they’d all done brilliantly. I really agreed with this week’s winner and thought they were all pretty impressive. Let’s see what the judges had to say…
Tom & Sarah-Jane (First – 28.5)
With three French doors opening to the wraparound balcony and a wood-fired heater, this is a room the judges felt embraced the country it sits in, but was its own cosy sanctuary.
Your chance to win this artwork in the competition at the end of this article!
“This is a room that hugs you!” said Shaynna as she took in the high ceilings and king size bed, “They’ve really thought it through!”.
Neale was speechless for a while, before declaring he loved it, there was “zero” he didn’t like and that they’d nailed the new rural look. “I love the way they’ve mixed so many mediums. They’ve curated this room beautifully.”
For Darren it was the scale that won him over – a big bed, big drapes and big mirror TV was all very grand, he thought, with the bone inlay side tables a perfect match for the rattan of the bedhead. “The fireplace is a really charming choice.”
Darren said they’d styled the walk-in well. Shaynna thought without any doors, they’d have to keep things tidy in there as it’s on view from the bedroom!
Only half a point in it for second place! So close!
From the beautifully restored original door to antique furniture, a Marie Antoinette portrait and grand bedhead, this was a room that had the judges from the moment they walked in. “This room says period drama to me!” Neale said, with Shaynna agreeing, pointing out the corbels, archways and the beautifully framed mirror TV.
Neale summed up that it was a crazy mix of eccentricity that worked well. Neale said congratulations for giving them something they’ve never seen before: antique furniture.
Shaynna added: “It’s phenomenal. It’s elegance personified.” She said the lighting though, was too Deco and not grand enough to match everything else. She also worried that they were going to run out of money and said they didn’t need to spend quite as much every week.
Shaynna said the walk-in was glamorous and would rock the world of any would-be buyer. “It’s so beautifully done,” added Darren, who said their painting, although not perfect, was getting better, and he admired the risks they were taking.
“Ooh la la!” said Darren as he rushed in to embrace the stacked stone fireplace, then admired the neutral palette and subtle styling choices he felt combined to create a perfect balance of contemporary and country.
They all loved the fireplace and Neale said they’d redeemed themselves from last week. “It’s a room that works despite itself. There are some things that don’t work but it’s got a lovely vibe.” Darren said every element in there got two thumbs up apart from some very minor paint issues.
And a perfect walk-in, Neale said when he rolled back the barn door to find what he called “prime real estate for buyers”, a dressing zone divided into separate zones. With oak finishes and woodgrain surfaces on the wardrobes, Darren called it palatial and Shaynna said it was elegant and had a country contemporary essence.
Darren said it had him by the heartstrings and it’s exactly what he’d want if he moved to the country.
Walking straight into the spacious wardrobe – complete with the first dressing table of the day – the judges found themselves admiring the wallpaper, the view, the storage galore and the way this space was unusual, but still made sense.
They headed into the bedroom, and were impressed by the window seat but not its execution or the curtains and wondered if the artwork could have been scaled down. It’s a room with style they agreed, but does it live up to their earlier successes? Perhaps not. Neale said once they fixed that, it would make a big difference.
Walk-in robe? More like a drive-in robe, the judges said! Shaynna said styling made a big difference to the robe; the cherry on top. Darren didn’t expect to walk through the walk-in to get to the master but he really liked it. He said it oozed quality.
With a mini library reading area at one end and a smaller bed to compensate, the judges found Omar and Oz’s master a confusing space that showed promise, but didn’t quite live up to its potential.
Neale said it was very visually confusing and giving so much space to a study and reading area made no sense. Shaynna said she loved the fretwork but it had then been over cluttered. Darren said the bookshelves were cheap and best not looked too closely at!
The lack of storage was a real issue for all three, with Shaynna advising: “Lose the shelves, lose the desk” and Neale adding “there’s too much going on, guys!”. Even Darren, impressed by the carpets, drapery, uplights and doors to the wardrobe that cut off the space to the bathroom, had to admit that this was a room where less would have been more.
Neale said the boys raised expectations with their bathroom last week and this was not the bedroom that ensuite deserved. Darren said there were elements in the room that really paid off but the study space didn’t add value.
The ottoman in the walk-in made it hard to walk through, they said and there wasn’t enough storage for a couple.
I feel like this week’s Block rooms looked much better on the TV (and hopefully in real life!) than they do in the photos! And let’s address the elephant in the room straight up. The winning room shouldn’t have won, but they played their gnome point and that’s the way the game works, so…
Ankur & Sharon (1st after playing their gnome)
“Ankur and Sharon are back in the game!” said Neale as he walked into a room he found warm and welcoming, with a traditional colour palette, heritage details including skirts, architraves, cornice and the original fireplace.
Not everything worked, the judges said, with the ceiling rose too close to the skylights and a pendant Shaynna felt could have been lower, but a stunning bedhead — the same as Scotty’s — lamps instead of sconces and mismatched items that gave everything a real feel added up to a room Neale said “feels like home” with character and charm that was sophisticated and (most importantly) saleable.
With their trademark perfect execution, the tradies from the Gold Coast delivered a room all the judges agreed ticked all the boxes. “I’m in heaven!” said Darren as he took in the oversized check pattern in the blanket, the complementary wallpaper, the wainscoting, skylight, cornicing and another archway. “It’s all so luxe!” He did point out an issue with the sheers not working with the shutters, and Shaynna said the bedsides and sconces could have been bigger, but for Neale it was a room very hard to fault and one that left him asking for: “More please!”
We all know this one really should have won, right?! I’m not surprised they were disappointed but a game’s a game!
Rachel & Ryan (3rd place)
With bespoke panelling, a smart use of space and a striking feature wall, loads of space and attention to detail, the judges declared this a “contemporary take on country,” marrying a modern style with traditional cornices and architraves.
But there were, they pointed out, down sides. For Darren it was the too-bold colour and a “Scandi” style chair, Shaynna wanted higher curtains and a lower fan, while Neale felt the slim styling choices let an otherwise impressive room down. Darren said the painting was so poorly done it distressed him!
They could all see the contemporary direction the pair was taking, but Shaynna summed it up by saying the rooms still should “hug her” a little more.
Omar & Oz (equal 4th)
Expect the unexpected, Omar and Oz keep telling the judges, and this week that’s exactly what they got. From the herringbone floors to VJ panelling and desk, this was a room that was certainly unexpected… but does it all work?
Shaynna loved the shelf behind the bed, but found the multiple horizontal lines confusing, Neale loved the bed dressing, but found the artwork generic and while Darren was happy with the way the view had been made a feature, he wasn’t quite sure it was enough to fill the styling gaps.
Unexpected? Definitely. But enough to win? Not quite.
Tom & Sarah Jane (equal 4th)
“Very autumn!” declared the the judges as they walked into Tom and Sarah-Jane’s guest bedroom, loving the warm colour palette and the soaring ceiling and textures on the bed that brought the outside world into the home.
From the bedside tables to the wainscotting, cornices and lighting, this was a room that showed, Neale said: “A real sophistication and consistency!”.
The wardrobes however, brought up a problem the judges couldn’t see past. With the window not centred to the room, the wardrobe door won’t open once shutters are installed. And that, said Shaynna, is an error that might need major work to fix. If it can be fixed at all.
Every week, we’re giving you the chance to win an artwork from the room reveals, in association with The Block Shop and Artist Lane. This week it’s Ankur and Sharon’s Garden Walk 2 by Angela Hawkey (76 x 102cm). Enter here for your chance! Good luck!
The Block 2022 tree change: main bathroom reveals
Today, our friend and interior designer Kathryn Bamford, recaps last night’s room reveals. Whoa what a first week on The…
The Block 2022 tree change: first room reveals & house decider
Woohoo! The first Block reveals of the season! Let’s face it, they’re usually not spectacular as the contestants have barely…
Today, our friend and interior designer Kathryn Bamford, recaps last night’s room reveals.
Whoa what a first week on The Block! Main bathrooms as the first room to complete and a room that could win the contestants $10,000 in cash, a fully mature tree for their landscaping and (wait for it) a $250,000 Winning Appliances kitchen upgrade.
With such a whopping big prize up for grabs the pressure was on for the contestants to deliver. I’m not going to lie, I was a little nervous for the contestants especially being their first week. Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes and if you won this week you were setting yourself up to most likely to win kitchen week with that prize.
House 1: Tom and Sarah-Jane (equal second place)
With traditional cornicing and ceiling rose, a restored original light fitting and ample use of panelling, this was a bathroom, Darren said, that’s simply “very impressive!”. And cost effective too, he added, with the panelling not only beautiful, but a budget saver by limiting the space that needed tiles. We wholeheartedly agree with Neale who said “I love art in bathroom”.
There were however some issues – the open grill over the door, some mis-matched metals, a lack of storage and a shower screen that was too short, but overall it was a room, the judges agreed, that showed a high level of sophistication and one that got them excited to see more!
House 2: Rachel & Ryan (third place)
From the second the judges entered this bathroom, one thing stood out for them all – the space! “This is massive!” Shaynna said as she took in the high ceilings incorporating wide skylights, double shower, floor-to-ceiling tiles and storage galore. But was it too much? And most importantly, was it country?
The square-set features, timber vanity, basin, “artful” lighting plan and curved glass all screamed modern luxury, the judges agreed, possibly too modern for a country home. A few heritage features might have softened the effect, Shaynna said before all asked the question: Is it appropriate in a country setting? Darren seemed to be the only judge who believed so. Neale and Shaynna were after more heritage elements.
House 3: Ankur & Sharon(last place)
“It’s shiny and brassy and something about it is not feeling authentic,” Neale announced. Neither Neale or Shaynna felt good in the space. Darren disagreed. “I like it!” he said, saying the sultry and moody feeling the team had created worked for him, however he was not keen on the nib wall.
But it was a controversial space, with Shaynna worrying the historic feel of House 3 (The Grand Dame of The Block as she called it) might get lost if the team didn’t pay attention to the existing features and work to incorporate them into their build. Shaynna recommended they do some homework on the history of the house and the era. Ouch!
House 4: Jenny & Dylan (equal second place)
Down a small hallway, and through an incredible arch and into what Neale described as a “fresh, welcoming and kind of timeless bathroom”. It was light and airy, made even better, Shaynna added, by the breathtaking view outside.
Darren really liked the sense of balance, with curved mirrors playing off the archway entrance, a blind at the exact height of the picture rail and skylights breaking up the ceiling. Shaynna felt the couple really had an idea of where they were now going with the look and feel of the home.
House 5: Omar & Oz (first place)
“Wow!” said Neale when he walked into Omar and Oz’s bathroom, and the compliments kept coming. “It’s sophisticated!” Shaynna said as she took in the 90-degree herringbone wall tiles, panelling and patterned floor tiles. “It’s stunning! I love it, I absolutely love it!” Neale added. “It all works, the palette is beautiful,” Darren summed up. “This feels like a bathroom that belongs in this house and belongs on this Block.”
It wasn’t just good looks, with features like a heated floor and heating above, face-level storage, power points in all the right places and luxurious shower/bath area making this a room to set the standard for this year. The only thing the judges could fault the boys on was some stickers left on the toilet!
Woohoo! The first Block reveals of the season! Let’s face it, they’re usually not spectacular as the contestants have barely found their feet yet, and they only have 48 hours, whilst getting their heads around how everything works. Could I do it? Not a hope in hell! And would I go on the show? No. Way. It would end in divorce and I’d cry every night for my kids!
(Read to the end for your weekly chance to win a piece of art from the reveals!)
Add in the first ever walkout by Elle and Joel (I knew it!) after a mere two days, and last night’s was quite the episode! Five off the grid houses in the stunning Macedon Ranges (six if you include the one Scotty’s doing) is quite the project! Let’s get into the first (bed)room reveals and what the judges had to say!
Tom and Sarah-Jane came first and chose to stay in house 1 (not the coveted house 4!). Dylan and Jenny got that one. Ankur and Sharon took house 3. Joel and Elle took 20 seconds and picked to stay with house 2 (until they quit!), leaving Omar and Oz with house 5.
Elle and Joel left without even saying goodbye, saying that The Block wasn’t “on brand” for them.Sarah-Jane, who’d made her thoughts about influencers and famous people very clear already, claimed she had seen it coming because “they looked miserable the whole time”. The others weren’t impressed either. But hey, we get a new couple (Rachel and Ryan) now! I wasn’t entirely sure I was going to enjoy watching Elle and Joel…
Next week calls for a bathroom so that will be a very interesting test!
House 1: Tom and Sarah-Jane (1st place)
The judges were impressed! Darren liked the traditional/contemporary balance. Shaynna loved the original ceiling rose. Neale thought the room spoke of contestants who knew what they were doing. And he even said he would have liked a lot of the elements in his own home! Not so much the artwork though (“the only bum note”) but Shaynna and Darren were fans.
House 2: Dylan and Jenny (second place)
Neale loved the sage green paint and the VJ panelling. Shaynna LOVED that both contestants were tradies and said the execution was excellent. Darren loved the flatpack made to look like a custom built-in.
Neale though the country vibe felt like a bit of an afterthought and that they’d thrown everything at it in the hope that something would stick. Darren said they’d tried really hard but their individual good choices weren’t working well together. And Neale said olive trees shouldn’t be inside either!
House 3: Elle and Joel (4th place)
“Where are we?” asked Shaynna. Darren said it was a bit like home (Bondi, coastal and boho) and not very Macedon Ranges. Shaynna said they hadn’t acknowledged the history of the home or the area. “They have smashed the life out of this home and that breaks my heart.”
Neale said if they stick with this look it’s going to get very stale and very samey and they needed to respect the original bones of the house.
House 4: Sharon and Ankur (third place)
Darren was not a fan of the “extremely rustic approach” Sharon famously proceeded with against Scotty’s advice! Shaynna said there was a lot of effort and skill on show and a very good eye. Neale said he wasn’t expecting to see it but it was very well executed. And they advised they shouldn’t run with this concept throughout the rest of the house!
I had feared these two would get more criticism!
House 5: Omar and Oz (last place)
Darren immediately said it was a shame the door walked you straight into the bed. Shaynna loved the original boards. Neale was happy they’d worked with the heritage. But aesthetically they’d gone Scandi which was a bit generic.
They said it was a room that belonged equally in a city or by the beach. And then they spotted the modern window and were horrified that such money had been spent on it.
The fake plant did not get past them either! Neale said it felt like property styling. “We want to see something with more personality here.” They said it wasn’t luxe enough but for 48 hours it was still quite the achievement.
What did you think of the results? Do you have a favourite couple yet?
Each week, thanks to The Block Shop and Artist Lane, we’ll be giving away a piece of art from the room reveals. For your chance to win this peacock, hit the link below. Good luck!
