The Blockheads revealed their kitchens at the end of a mammoth week of frantic renovating, with one couple initially being awarded full marks
Though Kitchen Week is often referred to as “Hell Week” on The Block, this year’s Bockheads managed to keep their heads up while designing and building kitchen spaces which are among the best The Block has ever seen. Judges Neal Whitaker, Shaynna Blaze and Darren Palmer liked what they saw during the reveals, so much so that two couples tied first place.
Josh and Elyse
It’s no wonder this gorgeous contemporary take on a Hamptons-style kitchen was awarded full marks—it is aesthetically appealing, full of character and oh so functional. Their large butler’s pantry was a huge hit with the judges, leaving Josh and Elyse pleased with the decision they made early in the competition to change the design of their stairway, to allow for an extra spacious butler’s pantry. The judges loved the fact that the orientation of the island was changed to allow it to face the garden—they felt this assisted the space in engaging with the dining area and connecting to the garden too. They commented on the fact that the timber flooring and colour palette from the living and dining areas had been extended out to the kitchen, concluding that this creates an element of warmth and a sense of community within the space. The paintwork was discussed to be spot on and the styling absolutely perfect—given that no fault could be found, full marks were awarded without hesitation. Contestant Jason did notice a non-compliant cooktop after the reveals, which led to the couple being stripped of a point to tie with Jason and Sarah.
Jason and Sarah
Tasked with finishing their previously incomplete master suite as well as their kitchen this week in order to stay on The Block, Jason and Sarah accepted the challenge and thrived. The judges loved their master suite, and “wow” was among the first words uttered as they entered the kitchen. They were drawn to the decorative effect created by the metallic cabinetry, and were impressed with benchtop’s feature concrete ledge and timber stools. The kitchen was ultimately judged to be classic yet luxurious—a timeless but on-trend kitchen which balances beautifully with the living and dining area.
Ronnie and Georgia
Luxe-industrial was revealed to be Ronnie and Georgia’s kitchen design style of choice, and the judges were thoroughly impressed with what they saw. Neal commented that grey appears to be the new white, in reference to the beautiful Caesarstone benchtop, and Darren added that he loved its texture. Ronnie and Georgia were left glad they replaced their original, much smaller sink, as the new one was a hit. The appliances included were discussed to be spot on for functionality, as was the study nook hidden from plain sight by pocket doors. It was noted that the living, dining and kitchen areas are all in need of a few accents, to ensure they don’t feel too cold.
Sticks and Wombat
This pair’s modern rustic kitchen space is unique, abundantly functional and blends in seamlessly with the rest of their home. Neal labelled the look “Raw luxury – that’s what the boys are doing so well here.” The timber return on the island, included to ensure plentiful seating within the space, was among the most well received features in this kitchen. Darren commented on how well the pairing of browns and whites worked within the space, and all the judges agreed that the kitchen’s functionality factor was terrific. As expected, they loved the hidden whiskey bar built into the niche, which added an extra touch of originality to this kitchen just brimming with personality.
Clint and Hannah
Clint and Hannah knew ahead of their reveal that their tiny fridge would lead to their downfall this week, and as expected, it did. The judges felt it took away from the functionality of the large kitchen which featured two sinks, two dishwashers and plenty of storage… just not enough storage for food. Despite this hiccough, the kitchen was quite well received. Darren acknowledged that it was definitely an entertainer’s kitchen, and Shaynna referred to it as both beautiful and inviting. Neal absolutely loved the expansive island, and the judges all agreed that the excellent choice in materials resulted in providing the kitchen with a beautiful, layered feel which adds to the sophistication of this contemporary design.
