Tag: the block glasshouse

Former winner of The Block shares this year’s outdoor trends

Post author By Caoimhe Hanrahan-Lawrence
Post date May 27, 2021
No Comments on Former winner of The Block shares this year’s outdoor trends

Now, more than ever, outdoor living is in! While homeowners have invested increasing amounts of time and money into their yards in recent years, 2020 saw interest in outdoor living spike to unprecedented levels. As a result, the outdoor living design trends for 2021 have never been more inventive.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has prioritised how we view and use our homes,” said Shannon Vos, interior design consultant and winner of The Block with his brother Simon in 2014. “With people spending more time at home last year, we all started to realise how outdoor space is so important. It’s where we start our days with a morning cup of coffee, where we enjoy some much-needed fresh air over an al fresco lunch break, where we relish a change of scenery after a day of screen fatigue, and where we can visit safely with friends and family.”

Each year, Trex, a leading manufacturer of wood-alternative decking, captures input from consumers and industry insiders alike to compile its annual outdoor living forecast. For 2021, Trex and Shannon Vos have identified four trends expected to shape the outdoor living landscape.

Outdoor offices

Among the top trends predicted for the coming year is the emergence of outdoor workspaces. With flexible working arrangements, including working from home and remote learning expected to continue in 2021, contractors report increased interest in outdoor spaces that can comfortably and functionally accommodate professionals and students. Requests for stylish sheds and backyard living spaces are on the rise.

Pergolas, too, are in high demand due to their versatility and affordability. A relatively easy addition to any deck or yard, a pergola creates the look and feel of an outdoor room while adding a distinct architectural element. Of course, its main purpose is providing shade – essential for enhancing visibility of laptop screens and devices, as well as offering cool relief on hot days.

Taking the plunge into pools

Another trend driven by the pandemic has been the dramatic increase in residential pools, spas and water features. With international travel off the cards and interstate travel uncertain, homeowners across the country are taking the plunge and installing swimming pools and spas in their backyards.

“This year, we completed the renovation of our outdoor space, including an artist wrapped pool for the kids to play in,” says Shannon. She used wood composite decking, a low-maintenance option that won’t rot, warp, stain or fade.

Luxury Staycation

Fueled by the drastic decline in domestic and international travel over the past year, homeowner interest in replicating the sophisticated style and comforts of a luxury hotel or resort in their homes has continued to grow. From plush towels and perfectly plumped pillows to outdoor accents like fire pits, water features and industrial railing, commercially inspired designs can give any home environment the essence of an extravagant staycation.

“Homeowners are finding inspiration in commercial settings like upscale hotels and restaurants,” Rod Schiefelbein, Trex Australia market manager comments. He suggests customising your railing, such as with cocktail railing, that provides space to rest drinks and plates.

Give it a try with DIY

The DIY category exploded in 2020, encouraging homeowners to roll up their sleeves and tackle even the most challenging projects – a trend development experts expect to continue in 2021. Industry analysts are predicting DIY home projects and repairs will shift from a trend to long-term habit, with ambitious DIYers turning to YouTube and home improvement sites for inspiration, motivation and tips. DIY saves time and money, while also earning serious bragging rights.

“If you can use a hammer and a saw, you can upgrade your backyard,” encourages Shannon. “Building or resurfacing a deck with Trex is a doable DIY project that can be completed over the course of a weekend or two with just a little know-how and the help of a few friends.”

For more information.

Outdoor rooms: Neale Whitaker explains how to create a backyard oasis

“It’s not a new phenomenon, but Australians really did pioneer the outdoor room,” says The Block judge and Love It or List It host Neale Whitaker. He puts it down…

The Block 2020: back yard and pool reveals

It’s the last reveals of the season! And I must admit I haven’t watched them yet so today’s writeup comes courtesy of our friends at The Block Shop. You’d better…

Tags outdoor living, outdoor space, outdoors, outside office, pools, the block, the block glasshouse, trends

Designers House Tours The Block

The Block’s Shannon Vos styles new Sydney apartment complex

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date November 22, 2017
No Comments on The Block’s Shannon Vos styles new Sydney apartment complex

I’ll admit I rolled my eyes when I heard Harris Park was dubbed the Surry Hills of the west. That’s a super trendy inner city suburb for those unfamiliar with Sydney. But checking out the display apartment for Charlie Parker, a boutique, residential tower in the leafy suburb of Harris Park, well it’s fair to say the suburb is getting cool!

Inspired by the art-deco era, the visually impactful, curved Charlie Parker building by Coronation Property is the brainchild of award-winning architects Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp (fjmt), while on the inside, interior styling is courtesy of Shannon Vos of VOSCREATIVE, the 2014 winner of The Block: Glasshouse.

With furnishings by GlobeWest, Shannon had raw luxury in mind when presented with his design brief, think tribal trends, rustic timbers and plenty of natural textures. “We have endeavoured to highlight the building’s beauty and pay homage to its strengths,” explains Shannon. “We have infused the interiors with subtle notes of playfulness and whimsy throughout, built upon excellent workmanship and the best in planning and design.”

Comprising of 111 apartments, Charlie Parker will span 22 storeys and will include an open-air pool and gym on the terrace level. Charlie Parker – aptly named by the two streets it is positioned on, Charles and Parkes Street — will also incorporate a high-end residents’ lounge, open-air pool, gymnasium, a relaxation area and landscaping by award-winning landscape designer Jamie Durie.

Harris Park is already known for its unique eat street, eclectic bars and cafes, as well as its superb connectivity. Charlie Parker is only minutes from Parramatta and Harris Park train stations, while the new light rail station for Harris Park will be situated directly across the road from the building.

Prices for apartments at Charlie Parker start from $475,000 for a one-bedroom suite, $567,000 for a one-bedroom residence, $785,000 for a two bedroom and $898,000 for three bedrooms, with two four-bedroom penthouses also available, with price on application.

The Charlie Parker display suite is now open Thursday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm, located at level 1, 8 Phillip Street, Parramatta.

For more information | Most homes we love

Tags apartment, Charlie Parker, Coronation Property, design, fjmt, Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp, harris park, shannon vos, sydney, the block glasshouse, VOSCREATIVE

Designers RENO ADDICT Styling The Block

9 former Block couples now working in design

Post author By ClickWP
Post date December 18, 2015
3 Comments on 9 former Block couples now working in design

You love them on The Block and then suddenly auction day comes and goes and they’re out of your life. However, while some contestants go back to their pre-Block life, others harness their new love of design and decide to give a job as a stylist, designer, builder or TV star a red-hot go! Below are the contestants doing just that.

Dan and Dani: Dorcas Street, South Melbourne (2012) and All Stars (2013)

Following on from their successes on The Block, Dani Wales said goodbye to her career in finance and founded interiors blog and e-commerce site Basic Habitat. She also returned to TV as the co-host on home and lifestyle series, Healthy Homes TV Australia. Meanwhile, Dan ‘Foredan’ Reilly upscaled his carpentry qualifications and is now a qualified Master Builder. For the past two seasons of The Block, he has worked alongside Keith as an assistant foreman. Dan and Dani have also recently launched design and construction company Red Door Project and have almost completed a two–year long renovation project in Melbourne’s Inner West.

Josh and Jenna: Cameron Street, Richmond (2011) and All Stars (2013)

Since being on The Block, plumber Josh Densten and wife and hairdresser Jenna, have found a true passion for renovation, in particular interior styling and decorating. Jenna has completed a Diploma of Interior Design & Decoration at RMIT and in partnership with Josh, has renovated and built a handful of properties. They have also started their own style and design business Bicker Design Co., the name stemming from their trademark of bickering whilst on the The Block! They are currently ambassadors for Beacon Lighting where they launched the Josh and Jenna Range of lights and earlier this year featured on new renovation show, Reno Rumble.

Alisa and Lysandra: Sky High (2013) and Fans Vs Faves (2014)

After a successful career in the police force, Alisa and Lysandra Fraser hung up their handcuffs for the pursuit of their dream, which kick-started with their appearance and winning success on the The Block. They now have a successful interior design business, are resident experts on our sister site Reno Addict and have collaborated with Grafico on a wallpaper range, United Artworks on an artwork range and Forty Winks on a bedroom range.

Shay and Dean: Blocktagon (2015)

After their recent win on The Block, Shay and Dean Paine have launched the fresh and innovative design brand The Wild Creatives. Featuring an online shop and a range of interior design consultancy options, we’re confident this is only the beginning for the duo.

Bec and George: Sky High (2013)

Since filming wrapped up Bec and George Douros certainly haven’t put down the hammer and nails. Bec completed studying at the International Institute of Home Staging and launched both Empire of Style, an interior design and consulting business, and blog Bec Marks The Spot, where she draws on her former life working in the beauty industry as well as her current life as a mini real estate mogul with husband George, who has been busy building and developing properties. The couple have also recently been appointed the first ever ambassadors for Melbourne based construction company Nostra Homes and style ambassadors for Australia’s leading homewares brand Adairs.

Kyal and Kara: Fans vs Faves (2014)

Now running their own construction, renovation and styling business, Diverse Design and Construct, qualified carpenter Kyal Demmrich and his wife, physiotherapist and style-guru Kara help transform clients’ visions into a beautiful and practical reality. They are also brand ambassadors for leading tile manufacturer Beaumont Tiles and clothing brand Bisley Workwear and starred in this year’s debut season of Reno Rumble.

Matt and Kim: Sky High (2013)

After appearing on The Block, plasterer turned architecture student Matt Di Costa and teacher Kim Owen got straight into designing and project managing a Perth build. Since then they’ve gone on to design many other projects, landed their own TV show Matt and Kim to the Rescue (exclusively shown in Perth) and Matt also launched polished plastering business, Sky High Renders, for archirectural wall finishes and polished concrete custom furniture. They also gave The Block another crack, however got eliminated in the first round of The Block Triple Threat.

Simon and Shannon: Glasshouse (2014)

With the The Block win under their belt Simon and Shannon Vos have remained busy. Builder, plumber and site foreman Simon opened his business VOSA, where he offers a complete start to finish service, from interiors to building and everything in between. Meanwhile Shannon has been studying interior design and now runs Vos Creative, where he provides interior design services, consulting and even writing. However, for those hoping to see them together again never fear, there are talks for a TV show!

Michael and Carlene: Glasshouse (2014)

After achieving the most number of room wins Michael and Carlene Duffy were destined to keep renovating. They founded Cedar & Suede, a design and construction service and candid renovation and design blog with video focus and also appeared in the inaugural season of Reno Rumble. They now have partnered with DecoRug, Homeworld Helensvale, Dri.Glo, Domain, and Open Colleges in a range of capacities.

Art Interviews

Brent Rosenberg’s digital artworks inspired by street culture

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date November 24, 2015
No Comments on Brent Rosenberg’s digital artworks inspired by street culture

With a dream to start his own fashion line, Brent Rosenberg spent his early 20s learning how to create technical drawings and in turn, digitise them. And while the fashion dream didn’t reach fruition, it did lead to a new path of becoming a graphic designer and now, a full-time artist.

[contextly_sidebar id=”hOAxl2OqiegCskAY8JCzW6nnvBTt482w”]Despite creating digital artworks, Brent often begins by hand sketching to get the formation and perspective, before spending hour upon hour designing on his computer. Ending with contemporary artworks that combine geometric shapes with contrasting colours, his latest collection is very visually impactful. “I like the impact artworks can make. It doesn’t have to be deep and meaningful, it can just be a reaction, a simple ‘oh that’s cool,’ would make me happy enough to put my work out there.”

Influenced by the world around us, indigenous and generational culture and nature, his work has an underlying street art edge. “I love street art, not so much hood rat graffiti but more creative street art, whether that be paste ups, installations or pieces on massive walls. That urban street world has really influenced my latest works and I hope I can evolve it more and more.”

Having made art his career for the last three years, Brent is 100% self-taught, as he says: “You could say YouTube gave me my degree!” His proudest moment thus far was when Simon and Shannon Vos used his artwork in their Block Glasshouse apartment, an experience that was pretty darn cool and surprisingly unexpected. “The proudest moment was when I bumped into judge Darren Palmer and his praise was pretty flattering. I never take life too seriously but that moment I definitely felt like I found my place.”

While Brent isn’t one to ever look too far into the future, he is hoping to spend many more years creating art. “I see myself still being me, doing what I love, surrounded by my family and friends. I’d love to travel lots more and just enjoy the experience which is life.”

To purchase Brent’s signed and numbered artworks you can visit his online shop or Greenhouse Interiors.

Tags abstract, abstract art, art, artwork, Block Glasshouse, Brent Rosenberg, design, designer, graphic design, graphic designer, interiors, street art, the block, the block glasshouse, urban street art

Design Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Blockheads Chris and Jenna’s 5 steps for creating a statement kitchen

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 5, 2015
No Comments on Blockheads Chris and Jenna’s 5 steps for creating a statement kitchen

You don’t have to be a Block fanatic to know that kitchens sell houses and with the current renovation boom only continuing to bloom (sorry, couldn’t resist!), nailing your kitchen design has never been so important.

Chris and Jenna Susetio, former contestants on The Block Glasshouse, and now kitchen designers for The Good Guys Kitchens, scored a near perfect score for their kitchen in series nine. Now they’ve pulled together their top five tips for creating a kitchen full of character and personality, using a clever layout and stylish work surfaces.

1. Layout and Space

Knowing how you’ll use your kitchen makes a huge difference to creating the perfect layout for your personal needs – especially if, like many these days, you plan to entertain guests in your kitchen
Open plan is the most popular layout in homes today
Think about adding an island bench and moving the cooktop and rangehood to the island if you want to create a real showpiece for people to gather around and enjoy together – this is ideal for the home chef who likes a bit of drama in the kitchen
Add a butler’s pantry for additional prep space and storage of bulky benchtop items; and create a sense of connection from kitchen to the outdoors

2. Colour and texture

This year, expect to see plenty of matt black and varying shades of grey mixed with materials like timber for a modern style statement
Dark doors with a matt finish are right on trend and timber finishes are also popular and create a stylish neutral base that works well with accent colours that can be changed in line with seasons or trends

3. Finer Details

The type of door profiles and handles, lights, sinks and taps need to be chosen strategically so they all fit into your design
For a streamlined look, every detail needs to work to achieve a clean, clutter-free kitchen, such as modern flat doors and integrated handles and appliances
To personify a classic Hampton’s kitchen, shaker doors, elegant handles, a timber top and a butler’s sink are a must-have to evoke a more homely feeling

4. Designer work surfaces

A new benchtop can really add wow factor to your kitchen. From laminate to stone and other solid surfaces, there are plenty of things to consider when making the right choice for your new kitchen
To help you choose the most appropriate kitchen benchtop, talk to your kitchen designer about your family circumstances, taste and budget
Consider using different heights, contrasting two-tone colours or varying textures to give your kitchen a designer edge and serious visual impact

5. Lighting

Lighting can bring a kitchen to life, and is especially important for entertaining
Plan for integrated lighting, such as LEDs and internal cabinet lighting to emphasise space and highlight detail
Adding one or more overhead pendant lights above an island to add personality and create definition between different zones

For more information.

Tags chris and jenna, chris and jenna susetio, home chef, interiors, kitchen, kitchen design, modern kitchen, open plan home, the block, the block glasshouse, the good guys, the good guys kitchens

Designers Interviews RENO ADDICT The Block

Shannon Vos on life since winning The Block with Simon

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date January 9, 2015
3 Comments on Shannon Vos on life since winning The Block with Simon

To say 2014 was a whirlwind year for brothers Shannon and Simon Vos would be a massive understatement. Not only did they win The Block Glasshouse, and pocket over $400,000 as a result, they got themselves a manager, started their own design and construction business and even did some modeling on the side!

shannon and simon interiors addict — Shannon (right) and Simon

“We’ve been absolutely flatstick since The Block,” explains Shannon. “I think I had three days off after the show and then got straight back into working as a painter. Then there was also the juggling of our Mitre 10 and Beaumont Tiles commitments and our appearances for Channel 9, whilst also being inundated with job requests for renovations.” First world problems, eh?

One of their most exciting renovation projects is a training facility for boutique coffee company Pablo & Rusty’s. A multipurpose space near Sydney’s Castle Hill, the centre will double as a barista school and a retail space. Alongside this, the duo are also in the initial stages of conducting a full-scale renovation on a well-established pub in Coffs Harbour which, with three or four bars and a huge verandah, could be a 12-month project. “These are some really quirky, exciting and fun jobs,” says Shannon. “Simon and I worked really well together on The Block and we definitely want to keep that ball rolling as we form our own business.”

With Shannon having studied interior design for the last two years and Simon soon to have his builder’s license, the duo are keen to play to their strengths. “I’ll be more focused on design, and Simon on construction,” explains Shannon. “Of course we will throw ideas off each other and help each other where needed. But the dynamic we had on The Block worked, so we want to continue that.”

With 2015 having only just begun, this year doesn’t look like it’ll be any quieter than the last, with talks of a TV show in the pipeline. “We’ve just shot a sizzle, which is like a 10-minute teaser, and are now at the stage of selling it to the networks. It would follow Simon and I working together and all the quirky stuff we get up to. We’ve been approached by a few companies to represent them, we’re flying all over Australia and we’ve done a few modeling shoots (which isn’t really work!), so the camera crew would follow us around doing all of that.”

And on the topic of TV, what do the boys think of the upcoming series, The Block Triple Threat? “It’s massive, there’s a lot going on, and I think it’ll be quite interesting having the old Blockheads versus the news ones,” says Shannon. “It’s a big leg up having done it before but I’ll tell you what, I’m very glad we’ve done ours and we’re finished! I wouldn’t want to do it again straight away.”

But would they ever do The Block again? “Definitely, but just not straight away. After the Glasshouse I needed some time off, I needed to go for a surf, I needed to lie on the beach! Simon and I both literally lost 10 kilos so it’s nice to eat a normal breakfast again, relax and just do nothing for a bit.”

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Tags beaumont tiles, channel 9, construction, design, mitre 10, pablo & rusty's, reno, renovating, renovation, shannon and simon, shannon vos, simon and shannon, simon vos, the block, the block glasshouse, the block triple threat

Bathrooms The Block

If you liked Shannon & Simon’s timber bathtub, check these out

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 27, 2014
1 Comment on If you liked Shannon & Simon’s timber bathtub, check these out

It was one of our favourite features from The Block Glasshouse and now you (for an investment of $15,800) can get a taste of Simon and Shannon’s elegant luxury! (Their particular tub was from Wood and Water).

Inspired by traditional Japanese wooden bathtubs, which for centuries have been heralded for their healing powers, Italian firm Rapsel have created the Ofurò bathtub, a luxe soaking tub made of decay-resistant larch wood. Created entirely from larch, (even the plug!) the finish is natural; ideal for showing off the beautiful, unblemished wood grain.

With Japanese wooden bathtubs historically used as places for quiet contemplation and wellness, rather than vessels to cleanse oneself, Rapsel drew inspiration from this to create a unique bathtub of European attributes. The end result is a pure form, which allows for complete immersion, capturing all of the principles of a harmonious and relaxing bath.

With an aesthetic so opulent, the Ofurò is sure to make a focal point of any bathroom. So the question is, anyone got a spare 15 grand I could borrow?!

For further information on the Ofurò bathtub from Rapsel, visit the Candana showroom or their website.

Tags bathroom, baths, bathtub, japanese tubs, Ofurò, Rapsel, simon and shannon, the block, the block glasshouse, tubs, wooden bathtubs

Bathrooms The Block

Design freedom with Reece’s Hideaway+ in-wall toilet cistern

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 23, 2014
No Comments on Design freedom with Reece’s Hideaway+ in-wall toilet cistern

A feature in almost every apartment on this year’s The Block Glasshouse, the new Hideaway+ in-wall toilet cistern system from Reece, hides the cistern behind the bathroom wall so style can take centre stage!

As well as saving valuable space, hiding the toilet cistern also creates a seamless finish so your bathroom space can become a room that is uniquely yours. The design possibilities are limitless with the Hideaway+, with an extensive range of rectangular and circular push buttons in finishes ranging from brushed and polished stainless steel, through to black glass, white glass, chrome and silver. The push buttons can be paired with your choice of toilet pan, to either beautifully match or tastefully contrast with your surrounding bathroom space.

Behind the wall is sorted too, with a range of cisterns available to suit the space and access requirements of your bathroom, with installation options including in-wall front access, in-wall rear access and under-counter access. Clever!

While The Blockheads loved this in-wall solution, it’s not just television renovators who are favouring them, with purchases of in-wall cisterns having doubled over the past couple of years thanks to the growing customer demand for a cleaner bathroom aesthetic. Hideaway+ introduces a new level of design flexibility on top of the practical benefits.

For more information.

Tags bathroom, cistern, concealed cistern, hideaway+, in-wall cistern, reece, the block, the block glasshouse, toliet

The Block

10 ways to maximise kitchen storage as seen on The Block

Post author By Guest Poster
Post date September 23, 2014
No Comments on 10 ways to maximise kitchen storage as seen on The Block

Customers today demand more than just good looks in their kitchen. It’s got to work efficiently, it’s got to make life easier and there’s got to be lots of storage! The Good Guys’ kitchen design consultants offer their top 10 tips on how to maximise storage in the kitchen, just like the couples on The Block Glasshouse.

Design drawers that are deeper and wider in order to save space and allow for easy access to hard-to-reach pots and pans.
Metal runners in drawers allow for a silent, soft-close system and deliver added strength and durability.
Trays and dividers can be added in drawers to further maximise storage and keep items organised inside.
Drawers under the sink and oven are excellent solutions for maximising these often under-utilised spaces.
Walk-in or butler’s pantries will suit larger spaces and can house everything from small appliances to wine fridges and secondary preparation spaces.
When everything has a place in the kitchen, it becomes more functional and thereby an enjoyable place to spend time.
Keep in mind that there is an endless range of accessories available to help with organisation in the kitchen, from dedicated spice drawers for the avid chef to under-sink caddys for storing unsightly cleaning products.
Today there are numerous solutions for keeping your pantry clutter at bay. Pull-out baskets and shelves are convenient inclusions, keeping items within easy reach.
A great idea for keeping benchtops clear of clutter is to include a dedicated appliance cupboard.
Either house everything behind a roller shutter, or include a pull-out carousel in corner cupboards – a great use of traditionally hard-to-reach space.

– Find more information on The Good Guys’ products and expert advice here.

Tags appliance, butler's pantry, kitchen appliances, kitchen storage, kitchens, the block, the block glasshouse, the good guys