Former Block twins, and interior designers, Alisa and Lysandra Fraser are back with the second season of their online series The Design Duo. The six-part series is based on a multi-million-dollar newly built home in Queensland’s Paradise Point. It’s just kicked off and it’s a great pervy insight into the sisters’ design process as they curate the bespoke waterfront residence. Today we’re bringing you a few pics of the home’s incredible master bedroom, ensuite and dressing area.
Bedroom
Dressing area
“This is our biggest ever project to date and we couldn’t be happier with the finished product. We have worked on this build for two and a half years and have put our blood, sweat and tears into this project, but seeing the homeowner’s reaction to the finished result made it all worth it – this is what reminds us why we do what we do,” says Lysandra. I think it’s safe to say that we would be pretty thrilled if this was our home too!
BathroomBathroom
A local couple engaged the twins to create a timelessly designed, four-bedroom beachfront home for them and they appear to have nailed the brief. The online series documents the entire build process and gives viewers the opportunity to tune in and discover some of the twins’ best tricks of the trade along the way.
Inside the master bedroom’s dreamy walk-in-robe
Walk-in-robe
Showcasing the duo’s refined eye for detail, the high-end custom build features bespoke details and luxe fixtures and key suppliers include Reece Bathrooms, Beaumont Tiles, CDK Stone, Godfrey Hirst, Neolith, Taubmans Paint, Zip Tap, PGH, Bradford & Bosch and Luxaflex window coverings.
Alisa and Lysandra Fraser
New episodes will run weekly, and the series is set to wrap up on March 6, 2023. Tune into The Design Duo.
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For 14 seasons we’ve seen Shaynna Blaze as a judge on The Block, as well as helping homeowners spruce up their spaces on Selling Houses Australia. Now, for the first time, Shaynna is doing it for herself and her family in the heartwarming new series, Country Home Rescue with Shaynna Blaze, set to premiere this Wednesday at 7.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.
Shaynna and daughter Carly
In Country Home Rescue, Shaynna, together with her children, embarks on the restoration of a dilapidated historical home in regional Victoria. Watch as they navigate through a never-ending maze of problems when their grand plans are sideswiped by building restrictions, frustrating delays and a huge budget blowout.
Carly, Shaynna and Jess
It will take every ounce of passion and persistence to turn this renovation nightmare into the forever home of their dreams. But you’ll be amazed as it’s revealed, room by room.
In episode one, Shaynna dreams of turning a 130-year-old country house into her family’s forever home. The run-down property was originally purchased as a film set for the family’s first filmmaking project. Now Shaynna wants daughter Carly and son Jess to chip in and build the dream together. She just has to convince them first!
As she plots out the renovation strategy, christening rooms with their very own ‘titles’, we get a sneak peek into the complex (and sometimes off-the-wall) machinations of her design imagination. The plan sounds simple: renovate the existing house and features to create the perfect country home retreat, but the house, and its 1890s DNA, has other plans for Shaynna’s workload and the budget.
We can’t wait to tune in as the judge becomes the renovator and to see Shyanna in the role of mum too! It’s bound to be a goodie!
Country Home Rescue with Shaynna Blaze, 7.30pm, Wednesday 16 November 2022, on Channel 9 and 9Now.
Block 2022: Omar & Oz millionaires as 2 houses don’t sell
With Omar and Oz crowned winners and walking away with more than $1.5m profit between them, the good news really…
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.”
During every season of The Block, Kitchen Week is always one of the most exciting parts of the show. A lot rides on creating a great kitchen space. Along with the living room, the kitchen is really the centre of the home – a hub where we spend time entertaining, with family and cooking.
To help Aussies with their next kitchen reno, no matter what their style is, design expert and group design manager at Winnings Appliances Kate McGlone, speaks about the overall design of each house’s kitchen, plus her top three tips to get the look.
Ryan and Rachael Kitchen
House 1: Tom and Sarah Jane (modern industrial farmhouse)
“Tom and Sarah Jane’s kitchen showcases a traditional farmhouse look with an industrial influence. They have achieved a timeless look with the shaker style doors, an admired design feature in farmhouse kitchens. Their introduction ofindustrial copper pendant lights and a modern benchtop profile complement the shaker doors, combining traditional and contemporary design elements,” explains Kate.
“They have added interest through layered styling which is a low cost, low commitment and high impact way to add personality to a kitchen. They’ve worked to create a liveable kitchen that can change from a family friendly kitchen to an entertainer’s haven really effortlessly.”
Tom and Sarah Jane’s kitchen
Tom and Sarah Jane’s kitchen
Get the look
Copper accents add an industrial, yet glamorous aesthetic that subtly elevate the farmhouse trend: consider tieing in accents like Tom and Sarah Jane have with pendant lights and larger appliances like their Fhiaba copper fridge and knobs on their deep grey Ilve Majestic double oven
A farmhouse style sink adds a nod to the country that will fit in many homes and has the added benefits of space for cooking and cleaning. Abey’s ceramic single bowl sink lends itself perfectly to the farmhouse trend but will also fit in with a number of styles.
Create a liveable kitchen that is perfect for a big family or hosting multiple guests by opting for ultra-functional pieces, such as a Zip tap, providing boiled, chilled and sparkling water on demand
House 2: Ryan and Rachel (contemporary)
“Rachel and Ryan’s kitchen features a contemporary, refined, yet timeless look, which has been achieved through a clean material pallete. The introduction of shadow lines throughout the cabinetry adds interest. The brushed stainless accent door hardware is the hero of this kitchen, contrasting elegantly against their matte joinery, adding a subtle yet impactful stainless accent to this clean kitchen design.”
Ryan and Rachel’s kitchen
Get the look
For a contemporary space with Scandinavian nods, use blonde or warm wood accents in benches, shelving and beams; keep cabinetry light and bright; and pair with timeless yet impactful black and graphite appliances like in a statement Ilve oven and Vintec wine fridge
“Although there aren’t too many nods to country, Sharon and Ankur’s modern kitchen has a considered look as they share subtle ties between their door hardware and their appliances. Their kitchen consists of Smeg’s Dolce Stil Novo range, which features minimalist styling in black eclipse glass and refined copper, creating a timeless, elegant aesthetic. Copper was then brought into the door hardware and the pendants creating one cohesive look. Their hero island bench stands out in the middle making it a perfect entertainer’s kitchen.”
Sharon and Ankur’s kitchen
Get the look
Tie in copper and black for a modern aesthetic with a slightly industrial edge. Copper joinery on cabinets are harmonious with a sink ‘moment’ like Oliveri’s single bowl sink in copper. Offset shine with dark, modern and minimalist black tapware like from Zip and a Dolce Stil Novo cooktop in black
If you fancy yourself as somewhat of a sommelier like Sharon and Ankur’s imagined buyers, consider a forward-thinking sommelier drawer to house all your wine goods
Create functionality and added timelessness by opting for classic black appliances and ensure consistency in your appliances throughout the kitchen and butler’s pantry. Like Sharon and Ankur, think of harmonious appliances from one range like they have with black Dolce Stil Novo appliances
House 4: Dylan and Jenny (modern farmhouse)
“Dylan and Jenny’s kitchen showcases a true farmhouse aesthetic with a neutral colour palette with elements of popular sage green. They have used fluted glass on their overhead cabinets with a brass mesh interface on the island bench, creating beautiful texture through their materiality. Their attention to detail and careful material selection has elevated the overall finish, creating an opulent modern farmhouse aesthetic that would appeal to many buyers”.
Dylan and Jenny’s kitchen
Get the look
Sage green is an ongoing trend of people’s hearts. If you love Dylan and Jenny’s sage green kitchen, consider warming up grey-ish, muted sage with warm brushed gold accents in your cabinetry and sink and tapware, like Dylan and Jenny have done with the Zip Hydrotap.
For a home cook or a lover of entertaining, consider doubling the size of your oven cooking space with a dual oven like Dylan and Jenny’s classic black Smeg Portofino dual fuel oven and stove. Christmas lunches and dinner parties will become a breeze.
For easy entertaining, opt for a wine cabinet like this Vintec for a sleek way to store your favourite wines – an impressive way to showcase and serve wine at any party
House 5: Oz and Omar (integrated, industrial chic)
“Oz and Omar’s kitchen is an entertainer’s dream with a minimalist yet bold and timeless look. They have taken inspiration from metropolitan Melbourne and have created an industrial yet sophisticated space. Their integrated appliances allow for a seamless finish and were fundamental to achieving this sleek showpiece kitchen, fitting in perfectly with modern Australian lives. While moody and dark, their kitchen has clear nods to European design trends, which are bold, black, industrial and highly integrated.”
Oz and Omar’s kitchen
Get the look
Add clean lines for an industrial aesthetic by utilising integrated appliances that feel hidden, yet are very easily accessible. Oz and Omar did this with the likes of a V-ZUG integrated dishwasher, touch displays on ovens and matching V-ZUG appliances
For the perfect entertainer’s dream, The Galley’s Ideal Workstation sink adds a commercial-level feel with space and functionality that makes prep work and cleaning a joy
If you’re a fan of Oz and Omar’s moody, industrial kitchen, ensure you have ample natural light to offset the dark aesthetic and soften with textured stools and wooden features
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.
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.
Sadly, creating the dream kitchen for many can simply be too expensive. But can you put a price on the perfect dinner creation station? Luckily you might not have to thanks to The Block’s Jason Charles, who has shared five of his top tips for an affordable kitchen reno.
Jason Charles, a hipages ambassador and the lead builder for Mitch & Mark | Photo by Eugene Hyland
1. Buy ahead, buy it yourself, buy it on sale
You can purchase good selections of materials and appliances with 15-year warranties without going to the top shop. Look for quality at a discounted price, with less mainstream suppliers who might be having a sale, and purchase from there. But, be sure to let your builder know!
For example, a tile shop might have a small amount of tiles on sale, which could be enough for your kitchen! Keeping an eye out for these sale purchases before your renovations begin, means the power is in your hands and you won’t have builders adding builder’s margin to your price.
2. Opt for cheaper but durable appliances
The rose gold sink and tap may be the most attractive option, but they can be on the pricier side and often stain or scratch over time. Opting for stainless steel will not only save you money, but will last a lot longer, meaning you won’t have to undergo another renovation any time soon.
Otherwise, if you have your heart set on something specific, but can’t afford it right away, there are some appliances you can insert temporarily. Door handles are a common one. Buy a budget handle and upgrade it in 12 months when you’ve saved up the extra cash. Do your research to see what other appliances you can purchase that are within your budget, suit your needs, are known to be long lasting, or can be temporary and upgraded later down the line.
3. Book a licensed tradie
Don’t try to man this one on your own, or pay the price. 23% of Aussies will try to do a job such as a kitchen renovation themselves, and 48% underestimate the complexity of it. Save yourself the effort and money by getting it right the first go and booking a licensed tradie. A tradie who has a portfolio of previous kitchen renovation experience will make a huge difference to the journey and output of the job. Don’t forget to source at least three quotes to see what else is out there and to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
4. Discuss your options with your tradie
Work with your tradie to mitigate the material cost by opting for cheaper (but still suitable) material alternatives. This will help you stay within budget, and your tradie can provide a better quote for you. Have a conversation with them before the building begins, ask questions, and they’ll be able to give their expert advice on what’s going to work best for your home and your budget.
5. Make sure your budget has wiggle room
Of course having a budget is important, but keep in mind that not all plans go to plan. Allocate an extra 10-to-20% in case of an emergency, such as your desired appliance being out of stock or needing to call in for an extra helping hand.
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?
It’s the traditional heart of the home, the space where families gather and where technology meets tradition. Welcome to the always exciting kitchen week! With a perfect score of 30 for the winners and even 24 out of 30 for last place, you can imagine it was a night of impressive rooms!
Let’s see what the judges said and who scored what…
(Read to the end for your chance to win art from Jenny and Dylan’s sage green kitchen)
Tom & Sarah-Jane (first place) 30 points
“I am awestruck!” Darren said as he walked in and took in everything from the beautiful herringbone flooring, massive Ilve oven and statement copper fridge (complete with charcuterie and cheese cabinet!) and more. It’s “the ultimate contemporary country kitchen,” Neale declared and for once, Shaynna didn’t disagree.
Darren said making the mixed metals work took genuine insight. And the messaging to the market was pure luxury. Shaynna said the house had a pulsating heart and the kitchen was just beautiful.
With touches including an over-stove pot-filler tap, a butler’s pantry that could serve as a second kitchen and ample space for every gadget possible without feeling crowded, this was a kitchen that immediately caught all three judges and set the standard for every other team to beat… if they could.
They agreed the pantry was beautifully styled and like a kitchen on its own. Everything spoke to Neale of modern luxury with a contemporary twist. Darren said it was legit a luxury home with luxury inclusions.
With brass mesh inserts in sage green cabinetry and fluted glass panelling behind the rangehood, Shaynna was instantly captivated by the colours of house 4’s kitchen, while Neale gushed over the mix of contemporary and country that tugged at the heartstrings. Darren really loved the brass mesh!
By matching the stove, fridge and rangehood, the whole area ties together, Shaynna said, with Darren pointing the lighting that for once this week, he utterly loved. From modern touches like an Insinkerator garbage disposal unit to a traditional butler’s pantry with more benchspace than they could want, the judges found the space a perfect addition to Jenny and Dylan’s home.
They pointed out the stools were too high (easy to change) but otherwise there was a lot to love. Darren loved the styling and the feel. Darren also loved how the lights anchored the kitchen area. Shaynna said the lighting plan worked. Neale said it had a little layer of personality, spirit and soul and felt right.
They loved the pantry too. Darren said it was all so beautifully done. Shaynna said it was stunning and Neale said the styling would have massive buyer appeal. It was the best room they’d delivered so far.
“Oh my God,” said Darren. It’s pretty spectacular,” said Neale. “This is nuts,” added Darren of the extra-long island bench and huge sink. Shaynna said the kitchen oozed with drama.
Featuring $250,000 worth of top-end Winning appliances – anything and everything a modern home owner could want – Omar and Oz’s kitchen was always going to be hard to beat. And nestled in a dark-accented space that screamed modern while somehow nodding to the country setting, it’s near perfect, Darren said, a kitchen that truly embraces contemporary.
But was it too much? In a country home, did the huge stainless island bench sink fit? Was the concrete aggregate flooring in style? Who cares, they decided, it all worked, from the Portatimber ceiling past the state-of-the-art Gallery and V-Zug appliances to the ground and everything in between, this kitchen, Darren summed up: “Will sell the house!”.
Shaynna said the lighting was beautiful. Neale thought the stools should have been timber to complement the ceiling.
They loved the butler’s pantry too, and the styling. Neale said it was a 100% contemporary kitchen and not the kitchen he would put in a country house, but could tell the boys were committed to and confident in their style. Shaynna was nervous for their future budget with what they’d spent on timber and Venetian plaster for example. But above all, it was great feedback.
From the six-seat island in front to the discrete butler’s pantry behind (with its hidden challenge-winning mirror), a separate Smeg wine fridge and even cornices combined with square-set ceilings, it’s a kitchen that lacked the styling impact of others, but still did justice to the home Ankur and Sharon are building.
Cleverly set at the end of the new build and aimed straight at their house’s main asset – the view – this was a kitchen that immediately won the judges praise. The Black Empira Caesarstone complementing rose gold accents in the Smeg stove and a quirky pink-panelled fridge all worked to make what Neale called a classic kitchen.
Shaynna wasn’t loving the styling though. There was too much “just thrown there” and Neale agreed, saying there was no cohesion and he wasn’t getting the magic spark.
They were impressed by the wine-lovers’ butler’s pantry. Neale loved the galley feel and the wallpaper. Darren noticed the painting was very good. Shyanna wondered there was enough bench space.
It didn’t go too well here! Shaynna said it was a kitchen without a soul and Neale said it felt like a work in progress. None of the judges liked the lights. Functionally and aesthetically Darren could see a lot of positives. The open shelves were too high for most people to reach though.
Shaynna said the concept of the timber wraparound was fantastic but it was a bit narrow (perhaps not wide enough for a dinner plate for example) but she just wasn’t feeling an emotional connection.
Beautifully executed and with attention to zoning and layout, the kitchen worked well, they agreed, but lacked the drama of other houses. The exposed beams overhead hinted at a country feel that could be coming, but while it’s a “bloody good kitchen” Neale said, there just wasn’t the emotional connection for him either.
In the butlers, Shaynna sad the all white palette was too clinical. Neale said it was frustrating as it needed life adding to it.
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.
A quarter of the way through the build and last night saw one of the most important rooms of the Block build – the master ensuite. I do love a good wet room reveal!
A space that completes the owner’s new sanctuary, the ensuite will help form that emotional connection that will bring in buyers on auction day.
For some, it was a room that proved way more complex than they thought, with the huge spaces nearly too much, but with a lot of effort and a mix of styles, another week of beautiful spaces showed the judges this year’s Blockheads are here to win.
Read to the end for your chance to win the artwork from Tom and Sarah-Jane’s master ensuite.
Omar & Oz (first place)
All hail the bathroom kings, with another wet area to blow the judges away. “Boom!” said Darren as all three admired the best layout they saw on the day, taking in the bench seat under dual showers, a corner bath looking out on spectacular views, kitkat tiles playing off HardieGroove panels, and a natural colour palette.
Despite their tilers’ massive fail, they came back from the brink to achieve such a beautiful space. Bless Keith and Dan for helping out there as it really wasn’t their fault!
Missing only a few face-level lights and a bathrobe hook for the door, there was a lot to love, the judges agreed, with Darren declaring this was a room that would “photograph like a dream” and help buyers fall in love with their home.
“I would never design this bathroom in a million years!” said Darren, taking in the statement wall tiles and basins, the spa bath with a view, black tapware and Grafico mural of the Macedon ranges, “but it works!”
Shaynna and Neale were worried it all might be a bit too much, but agreed it’s a statement space, particularly loving the addition of a fireplace… right up to the point where Shaynna noticed the fire’s double-sided glass would give a view of the toilet to anyone in the master bedroom! Be careful of those choices, she warned, and be mindful, Darren added, of the line between eccentricity and saleability.
The French doors looking out from the bath do it for me! I too feel like it’s too much but it does kind of work!?
With what Shaynna called “a timeless colour palette” and a mix of gloss tiles on the walls and matte on the floor plus a very country mix of timber and brass, this was a room that grabbed the judges from the moment they walked in. “Yum!” said Darren from the door. “I love this!” Neale said he felt the couple’s confidence in how they wanted their home to feel.
But not everything got their approval, with Neale noting that once again the pair had decided against face-level storage in vanity cabinets, the sconces were just too high for her and the pelmet, Darren said, was “pretty chunky”. It’s a room that set a high bar for the others to follow, but the functional flaws kept them from the win.
“Feels palatial,” the judges said as they walked into the vast space of Rachel and Ryan’s ensuite, taking in the heritage details of cornices and architraves, the timber vanity, and feature tile.
But while Darren was impressed by the contemporary luxury, with the shower heads in what he said was just the right spot, the inclusion of an IXL heater lamp and pendants over the bath, both Shaynna and Neale weren’t convinced. For Shaynna is was a case of things being half right – she loved the vanity area, but nowhere else. And Neale said he found the sea of grey “a bit bland”. It’s in keeping with the house, they said, but just not quite there.
Darren said he liked seven eighths (so precise!) of the room while Neale said he only liked three eighths, and that it had no charm or personality! He said it needed another layer and some more pizazz. Shaynna was more 50/50 and in the middle!
With a luxury benchseat shower area, double shower heads and plenty of space, this has “day spa potential”, the judges agreed. Mixing the same tile Ryan and Rachel had chosen, but not going full height, then blending in a mushroom tile in the vanity area, with oak and brass touches and the couple’s signature arches, the combination is understated elegance, Neale said.
Not everything won their approval however, with the bath too close to the wall and toilet – hard to understand with so much space, Shaynna said – and both caulking and grout incomplete. But with styling on point, right down to a real chrysanthemum, it was, Neale summed up: “A contemporary room with just enough heritage touches.”
Win the art from Tom and Sarah-Jane’s master ensuite!
This week’s art giveaway in association with Artist Lane and The Block Shop is Linen Breeze by Lydia Ben-Natan. For your chance of winning, enter here.
The Block Tree Change 2022: week 2 guest bedroom reveals
I feel like this week’s Block rooms looked much better on the TV (and hopefully in real life!) than they…
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…
From the original artwork of Anna Blatman’s Hanging Rock to horizontal panelling and a soft colour palette that reflects the heritage past of his home, Scotty’s guest bedroom ticked all the boxes of a traditional country home, but with contemporary touches.
It was revealed last night and we have links to all the best items you may have your eye on to buy!
The working fireplace – a signature of his rooms so far – and a classic chaise lounge, are offset by Robert Gordon ceramic sconces, a cheeky garden gnome ornament and a custom “Tools Down!” embroidery to create a room that would be at home anywhere in the area, but can only belong to Scotty Cam!
Another local artist, Jessie Rigby lives in the Macedon Ranges where The Block is being filmed, and her piece Domum Montem Aurum is also beautiful. Shop it here.
The Block Tree Change 2022: week 2 guest bedroom reveals
I feel like this week’s Block rooms looked much better on the TV (and hopefully in real life!) than they…
Win the art from Ankur and Sharon’s winning guest bedroom
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!
The sixty acre piece of land where the new series is set
Back for its 18th season, the latest season of The Block is returning to Channel 9 this week with one major change. Reflecting the regional housing trend that has swept the Aussie property market, The Block: Tree Change sees five city slicker couples each building a 500 square metre house in Victoria’s beautiful Macedon Ranges. Ten acres of rural land will be transformed into a small town complete with tennis courts, wineries and lake.
The large piece of land where the new series of The Block is set
“When I arrived on site for the first time, I thought to myself we had done a lot of big Blocks in the past but nothing like this – it’s massive. We are building our own little town, and at times that’s daunting. But we have a terrific bunch of contestants who give it a red hot crack,” says long-time host Scott Cam.
Back for his 16th season, this year will see Scott build his own house for the first time, designed to inspire the contestants, and create a space for them all to come together. Co-host Shelley Craft returns also – she will act as a mentor and bring her experience as a qualified real estate agent to the show. “With these rolling paddocks and so much space out in the country, this season of The Block is certainly something that Aussies will fall in love with,” says Shelley.
Scott Cam with his kelpie Frankie
Judges Shaynna Blaze, Neale Whitaker and Darren Palmer are back in 2022 and the formidable foreman duo Keith Schleiger and Dan Reilly are on-site again to keep contestants on their toes throughout the build. At stake is $100,000 for the winner of The Block, plus whatever profit the couples’ homes make on auction day.
Scott Cam’s house in the series
The tree-change concept arose when The Block executive producer and co-creator Julian Cress moved his family from Melbourne to Gisborne South during COVID lockdowns. “It is such a beautiful part of the world, and I think the Macedon Ranges is one of Melbourne’s best kept secrets. Plus, as we are coming off a hard couple of years, heading to the country is almost celebrating our lifestyle and what is so great about Australia,” says Julian who hopes to inspire viewers to think regional when it comes to their next move.
The Block: Tree Change will premiere this Sunday 7 August at 7pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.
You absolutely loved former Blockheads Carlene and Michael Duffy’s last vintage caravan renovation so when we heard that they have put another one on the market, we had to take a tour. Experts at vintage caravan renovations, this one, named Dolly, is a retro baby blue dream. At 22 feet long, the 1970s caravan is the largest the interior design duo has renovated, making it ideal for a family.
Carlene and Michael Duffy with their children and Dolly
“We sourced and renovated her in 2017, not to a specific brief. It might have taken six months in total. Walking inside Dolly feels like a holiday. There is something simple and calming about small space living and yet by van scale, Dolly is a whopper!” says Carlene of the van that features beds at both ends (including a gorgeous brass-trimmed bunk), as well as a fully functioning kitchen area, dining nook and plenty of storage space.
Dining and kitchen
Carlene on Dolly’s queen bed
The renovation includes the Cedar & Suede designers’ signature brass accents combined with pastel tones and quirky prints. “We love Dolly’s fresh, retro, coastal vibe,” says Carlene who maintained as much of the original van as possible throughout the restoration.
Dining area
Painted in Taubmans’ Crashing Waves and Big White, the caravan features timber-look vinyl planks on the floor and a combination of renovated and new elements within. The dining area features a resurfaced collapsible table (in Laminex Carrara), freshly sprayed gold table legs as well as newly upholstered bench seating. “We love combining gold with pastels, which are a real nod to that retro, coastal vintage feel. For us, the idea is to retain the character where we can. So, if it’s salvageable, we refresh it and highlight that,” says Carlene.
Kitchen nook
The kitchen nook has a matching Laminex benchtop, white subway tiles, brass tapware and the couple replaced the original, amber-coloured glass from the front of the kitchen cupboards with brass netting. The kitchen also features a gas stove top burner and Dometic 12 volt/24 volt RV refrigerator.
Dining and bunk area
As for the sleeping arrangement, there’s a queen-sized bed up one end a bunk bed at the other. The queen bed features handy under-bed storage with gas struts.
The gorgeous bunk bed features original brass details
Dolly is registered, weighs just over 2 tonne, has electric brakes and a 12 volt deep cycle battery. The van is available for pick up from the Gold Coast and, based on vintage van market research, all offers over $30k will be considered.
It’s pretty safe to say that ex-Blockheads Carlene and Michael Duffy, of Cedar & Suede, are bona fide vintage caravan reno experts. From the gorgeous ‘Bumblebee’ to their latest project…
