Ah, hump week. The halfway point of The Block is always an intense time for teams, but this year, the combination of a public holiday and the end of the spa challenge has left the Blockheads feeling the pressure. As Saturday morning dawns, the contestants find themselves with much still to accomplish.
In House 5, a flooring fiasco unfolds as their worst fears are realized. A shortage of stock means they can’t complete their herringbone floors, forcing them to choose between installing a breaker board or leaving the room unfinished. Some teams resort to creative solutions, like strategically placing furniture to disguise the incomplete flooring.
House 2: The Arch Nemesis
Meanwhile, in House 2, Han and Can are grappling with their own architectural challenges. Their ambitious curved wall arches have become a source of frustration, as the TV and entertainment unit they selected don’t fit within the confines of the arch. This miscalculation adds to their growing list of setbacks.
Despite nine total wins, the other teams’ envy of Robby and Mat’s success is palpable. Alicia and Britt have even concocted a “potion” of white paint, hoping it will bring the boys’ winning streak to an end.
Judges Weigh In: Room Reveals and Reactions
As the week progresses, the judges—Shaynna Blaze, Darren Palmer, and Marty Fox—arrive to assess the latest room reveals. Emma and Ben, often the runners-up, are eager to impress with their bold new design. Darren’s enthusiastic reaction suggests they’ve succeeded, with Shaynna describing the room as feeling “like a hug.”
However, not all feedback is positive. Shaynna notes the room’s lack of child-friendliness, given its proximity to the kids’ bedrooms. Despite these critiques, the judges commend Emma and Ben’s attention to detail and cost-effective styling choices.
Han and Can’s Entertainer’s Oasis
Han and Can’s rumpus room is praised for its balance and versatility, appealing to both children and adults. The judges are impressed by the room’s craftsmanship and layout, though Marty is irked by a wallpaper seam in the arches. Nevertheless, the standout piece—a large, round couch—earns high praise.
Britt and Taz’s Risky Move
In House 3, Britt and Taz take a significant risk by transforming their rumpus into a wellness area. Unfortunately, the gamble doesn’t pay off. Marty criticizes the room’s niche appeal, and Shaynna points out that the inclusion of a fridge limits its functionality. The judges agree that the room’s current setup detracts from the home’s overall value.
Sonny and Alicia’s Bold Color Choice
Sonny and Alicia, seeking redemption from previous critiques, opt for a daring color-drenched design. Darren is thrilled with the result, calling it “on trend” and “perfect for Daylesford.” However, Marty expresses concern that the bold choice might quickly fall out of favor.
The judges’ only significant critique is the contrast between the vibrant walls and the stark white fixtures. Despite this, the room is deemed a vast improvement over Sonny and Alicia’s past efforts.
Robby and Mat’s Budget Strategy Backfires
Robby and Mat adopt a different approach this week, aiming for the CommBank $10,000 prize for best-managed budget rather than focusing solely on the room win. Unfortunately, their plan backfires, leaving them with an unfinished floor and a note of apology to the judges.
The judges are unimpressed, with Marty questioning their project management skills. Shaynna and Darren criticize the room’s lack of warmth and Daylesford charm, while Marty bluntly states that the room “sucks.”
“This is the worst room you have delivered,” Scotty announces, delivering a harsh verdict.
Despite the setbacks, Emma and Ben secure a financial boost with the budget prize, softening the blow of yet another second-place finish. As the episode concludes, anticipation builds for the next challenge: Kitchen Week, promising more drama and design dilemmas.
The Block airs Sunday at 7 pm and continues Monday to Wednesday at 7:30 pm on Channel 9 and 9Now. Stream every episode ever of The Block for free on 9Now.
