THE BLOCK’s Studio Week: Hits, Misses and Big Wins!

In Week 2 of The Block, couples were pushed to their limits, working against a ticking clock to complete their self-contained studios.

As the 26-hour deadline loomed, all the contestants were facing challenges that tested both their skills and resilience. Eliza and Liberty in House No.5, inexperienced in the renovation world, were fuelled by sheer willpower, pulling off two consecutive all-nighters to complete their project.

Melbourne’s infamously unpredictable weather wreaked havoc this week, particularly affecting Leah and Ash in House No.3, whose studio suffered from water damage.

Meanwhile, Steph and Gian, also from House No.3, seemed to be making a promising comeback from their tumultuous previous week, thanks to a new team of builders.

Finally, Scott Cam arrived to call “tool’s down,” marking the end of this grueling week. The couples, visibly exhausted but expectant, proceeded to the headquarters for the second round of meticulous judging.

House No.1: Kyle and Leslie

Budget: $27,051

The first house up for judgment was Kyle and Leslie’s. As soon as the judges—Darren, Shaynna, and Marty—entered, they expressed genuine admiration for the room size, which delivered an immediate wow factor. Shaynna singled out the artwork, lighting, and Kinsman wardrobes as standout features, complimenting the couple’s attention to detail.

However, the judges questioned the ultimate utility of the room. They acknowledged the Pilates studio was executed well but felt it was a missed opportunity in the context of the Hampton East real estate market. The absence of a kitchenette, which could have made the space fully self-contained, was seen as a major drawback. Further criticism was directed towards the choice of carpet over floorboards, a decision considered impractical for a room that would eventually lead to a pool.

Judging Scores: Darren 8, Shaynna 7.5, Marty 7.5 | Total: 23

House No.2: Leah and Ash

Budget: $21,094

Leah and Ash’s studio started on a positive note with the judges praising their choice of timber flooring. But it was a downhill ride from there. Darren was less than impressed with the overall feel, remarking that it gave off “display home vibes.” The choice of a Murphy bed and the questionable furniture placement also failed to win the judges’ approval. Although they did appreciate the inclusion of a kitchenette, it wasn’t enough to salvage their score. Shaynna noted a lack of cohesiveness between this space and their more adventurous bathroom from the previous week.

Judging Scores: Darren 7.5, Shaynna 7, Marty 6.5 | Total: 21

House No.3: Kristy and Brett

Budget: $30,895

Kristy and Brett’s studio was next, and it immediately caught Darren’s eye thanks to the Velux skylights. Marty also noted that the design aesthetic reminded him of a New York City loft, a theme that he felt would resonate well with the Hampton East market. Shaynna enjoyed the colour palette, which she found pleasing. However, the layout and styling choices raised some concerns among all the judges. Notably, Shaynna was disappointed that the studio did not harmonize with the Moroccan-styled bathroom located below it.

Judging Scores: Darren 7.5, Shaynna 7, Marty 6.5 | Total: 21

House No.4: Steph and Gian

Budget: $23,822

The judges found that Steph and Gian’s studio emanated a certain warmth. Marty pointed out the space’s potential versatility, as it could easily serve as an extra bedroom—an important consideration for the upcoming auction. Darren, who was initially sceptical, found himself swayed by the judicious use of roof beams—a feature that had not worked in their favour the previous week. Shaynna’s comments were perhaps the most uplifting, as she praised Steph’s architectural decisions.

Judging Scores: Darren 8, Shaynna 9, Marty 7.5 | Total: 24.5

House No.5: Eliza and Liberty

Budget: $21,518

Eliza and Liberty’s studio was fully self-contained, featuring a sink, a kitchen, and a microwave—no small feat given their lack of renovation experience. However, the judges found the space lacking in luxury, which they considered crucial for a property of this size in Hampton East. They particularly disapproved of the wallpaper that showcased a map of Melbourne but omitted Hampton East, describing it as juvenile. Marty went so far as to suggest that they would have been better off delivering an empty room.

Judging Scores: Darren 8, Shaynna 6.5, Marty 7 | Total: 21.5

Week Two Studio Judging Scores Summary

In the end, Steph and Gian turned their fortunes around, winning this week’s round with a total score of 24.5. This win was not just a numerical victory but also a much-needed boost in team morale after their challenging previous week.

In this episode, it became abundantly clear that the competitors have their work cut out for them. The highs and lows, coupled with the harsh but fair critiques from the judges, made for a compelling week on “The Block.”

The Block continues 7:30pm Monday on Channel 9 and 9Now