Room reveals on The Block1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7
Seventh and final room-reveal
We asked our Freedom experts what they thought about our rooms, what they think worked and what they think gave one couple the winning edge.
Jason & Kirsten's courtyard:
You’d easily be forgiven for forgetting that you’re in urban Sydney when you step out into Jason & Kirsten’s courtyard. A stunning water feature with shale detail takes centre stage, surrounded by native tropical plants, while three horizontal mirror panels open up the courtyard area completely, giving the impression of a space twice its size. Jason & Kirsten have utilised the additional space along the side of the courtyard by incorporating a side access, complete with outdoor shower and recycled water tank. Impressive extras, sure to attract attention at auction time! Reed panelling disguises an otherwise ordinary fence while offering complete privacy from sticky beak neighbours. Rather than go for strong design elements with their landscaping, Jason & Kirsten have stuck to a fairly simple layout, keeping the space open and creating an ideal entertaining area.
WHAT'S HOT: Reed panelling is one of the latest trends and is an ideal solution to those ugly fence post. When incorporated with tropical plants and water features, it creates that Balinese feel you’ve always wanted.
Jane & Matt's loft bathroom & balcony:
Jane & Matt have opted to turn their balcony into a ‘chill out zone’, incorporating an array of cushions, poofs and low lying seating options. The timber tiles offer some warmth to the room and give it that outdoorsy look. Jane & Matt have brought the outside in with a border of pebbles surrounding the room. These contrast nicely against the directional lines of the timber tiles and complete the feel of the space. Candles offer soft, unobtrusive light of a night while the timber shutters can be adjusted to allow natural light to flow through to the living room during the day. When completely closed, they offer privacy as well as protection against weather extremes.
WHAT'S HOT: Timber panel flooring. A quick and easy solution to concealing aged concrete and tiles. Create a space as big or small as you require by adding on as many squares as you wish.
Richard & Steven's balcony:
Richard & Steven have made practical use of the sunroom, by converting it into a dining/entertaining area. They have kept the look simple and stylish, carrying through the same colour pallet of blues and whites as featured in the kitchen/living area. The large oversized tiles have been carried through from the living room, giving the impression that this room forms part of the living area. By incorporating the BBQ at one end, this creates an ideal entertaining area, complete with stainless steel splashback and overhead rangehood. These extra features are a great idea to eliminate smoke from the room and capture any spatters.
WHAT'S HOT: Geo dining table. For city slick look, pair it up against curvaceous white or dark timber chairs as have Richard & Steven. Or for a more casual, beachy feel, bring in some texture with woven wicker chairs.
sixth room-reveal Jason & Kirsten's living & deck:
Yet again, a great deal of planning has gone into the overall look and feel that Jason & Kirsten wish to achieve. The woven textures on furnishings work perfectly as a contrast against the clean lines of the kitchen. By using the adjoining sunroom as the main dining zone, this has enabled Jason & Kirsten to utilise more space as their living area, providing plenty of seating without clutter. They have created a comfortable, casual, uncluttered space in unity with the feel throughout the unit. An important factor in completing their look is their choice in lighting. Concealed panel lighting under the architraves creates an interesting affect along the hall while directional lighting highlights their shale feature panel and artwork. All controlled with a touchpad system! Jason & Kirsten have successfully completed their living room with ample space and furnishings in keeping with the lifestyle of the area.
WHAT'S HOT: Freedom’s Genesis Tub chairs – these add some dimension to a room as well as providing additional seating. A nice transition from the indoors to the outdoors, adding texture and style. Available in Honey or Tea stain.
Jamie & Andrew's kitchen, courtyard & deck:
Andrew & Jamie have created a well structured courtyard area, resulting in ample space for entertaining, some cleverly concealed storage and a colourful native tropical garden! The mixture of textures and materials throughout the area blend perfectly together and are ideal for Manly’s climate. Garden structure is about achieving unity, harmony and consistency. Andrew & Jamie have gone for sharp directional lines in their courtyard creating an interesting visual affect. TIP: To create more impact, cluster together multiples of a single species. Create step levels with different plants at different heights. Break up different zones by including borders of pebbles or minature grasses – such as Andrew & Jamie have done in their courtyard. Sure to be a bonus is the addition of an outdoor shower. Ideal for beachside living and a great solution to avoiding sand making it’s way inside! With their choice of plants and overall design, Andrew & Jamie have achieved a good result and low maintenance garden.
WHAT'S HOT: Water features – no backyard is complete without one. Offering soothing sounds to ease the senses, water features have become a very popular form of relaxation and are here to stay.
Jane & Matt's loft bedroom:
Jane & Matt have experimented with an unusual mix of finishes and textures throughout their stairwell, however made it work successfully. An intricate screen panel conceals lighting at the landing and works well as a contrast against the directional flooring and sisal carpeted stairs.
As you ascend the stairs, you begin to take in the overall feel of the room that lies ahead. The ink blue feature wall works well against the crisp white of the surrounding walls and bold pinstripe ottoman, while a large toile cushions adds some elegance. Jane & matt have successfully blended fabrics and colour to create an enticing combination of surfside ease and urban cool.
WHAT'S HOT: Sisal carpeting – perfect for seaside living, carrying through a relaxed casual feel. Just beware as it does require a little more care than your average carpet.
Richard & Steven's loft bedroom & ensuite:
Well, it’s impact they wanted and it’s impact they’ve delivered! Richard & Steven have unveiled their upstairs bedroom and ensuite in a wild red and black retro theme – right down to the intermittent flashing lights ascending the stairwell! If there’s any surface that could be black or red, they’ve achieved it – right down to the red skirtings and light switches! The suspended box shelving above the bed serves well to create your own feature with candles and ornaments. Richard & Steven have carried the theme through well to the adjoining ensuite. The red toilet and vessel basin are an unusual choice for such items, however blend in with the overall scheme and contrast against the grey floor and wall tiles. Although I have no doubt they would have enjoyed bringing these rooms together, they have limited appeal to the mass market.
WHAT'S HOT: Freedom’s Giotto Bed covered in a vibrant red custom fabric. This bed creates a feeling of luxury with padded bedhead and frame. Choose from 100’s of fabrics.
Fifth room-reveal Jason & Kirsten's kitchen:
Jason & Kirsten have stuck to their earthy scheme for their kitchen, carrying through similar finishes as seen in some of their previous room reveals. The white cupboards and Ceasarstone benches in beige work well as a contemporary contrast against the warm, textural pieces in the living room. Textural furnishings work well to break up hard surfaces throughout a room. They have opted for a centre island bench, creating a casual eating space with the inclusion of stools along the bench. The island bench also houses the sink, making access ideal at food preparation times. Jason & Kirsten have successfully managed to include the latest stainless steel appliances from a fridge and microwave, through to the Fisher & Paykel dishwasher drawer. Architrave panel lighting runs the entire length of the hall right through to the kitchen/living areas, offering unobtrusive light with a creative edge while recessed downlights offer good lighting for preparation and cooking areas. Overall Jason & Kirsten have created a functional space in keeping with their theme. They have kept lines clean and directional with finishes in line with Manly’s target market.
WHAT'S HOT: Bali range from Freedom. This lustrous dinnerware range has an embossed two-tone design on the inside of the bowls and platter with a rich smooth chocolate finish on the outside. Also available in bamboo green.
Jamie & Andrew's kitchen, dining & living:
Andrew & Jamie have opted for an open plan design with their kitchen and living areas. The L shaped design of the kitchen maintains an open, uncluttered feel, leaving ample space for a 6-seater dining table to fit comfortably into the space. The combination of dark timber in the overhead storage cubicles with beige and silver benchtops gives a crisp clean look to the kitchen and contrasts well against the frosted glass dining table. Unique additions to the room are the bamboo poles. These serve as a divider between the living and kitchen zones, and assist in carrying through their fresh, beachy theme. Great use of space has been achieved with a compact storage unit housing the television. This sits on internal tracking that enables the TV to slide out and pivot to the required position.
WHAT'S HOT: The built in storage cupboard with TV extension mechanism! This clever idea is an ideal solution when space is restricted. The mechanism on which the TV sits extends out offering a pivot option so that the TV can be tilted to any position.
Jane & Matt's living:
Jane & Matt’s living room gives the impression of a hip inner city bar, featuring low, sleek furnishings in sumptuous textures. The contrast of the sheer organza curtains against the angular lines of the furnishings work perfectly while reflecting natural sunlight into the space. The large oversized pendant lamps are the latest trend in lighting and can add that ‘wow’ factor to any space! The concrete floor embraces their theme, giving an almost industrial feel. They have opted for a textured concrete finish giving some earthiness to the room. Sometimes concrete can chill an interior, especially in winter. To warm it up, look at either adding heating or a textured, shaggy rug. Jane & Matt have achieved a successful look to their living room and certainly achieved that ‘wow’ factor with this room. More focused towards the city dweller, I’m sure there will be some hip, slick beach bodies out there willing to pay the right price at auction time!
WHAT'S HOT: Create an interesting feature with sheer flowing curtains. This adds far more texture to a room than a painted feature wall plus, in this instance, carries through filtered natural sunlight.
Richard & Steven's kitchen & living:
Richard & Steven’s kitchen/living room has an almost ‘clinical feel’ with a colour pallet of white, blue and silver. By opting to use large oversized white tiles and low lying furniture, this has added to the feeling of space throughout the room. The centre island bench houses a 4-burner gas cooktop with an overhead rangehood as the centrepiece to the room. Stainless steel appliances have been incorporated to support the minimalist theme. The splashback gives an interesting textural effect and works well as a contrast against the otherwise clean lines of the kitchen benchtops and cabinetry. I’m not so sure about carrying that look onto your fridge though! The living room features a huge built-in wall unit, offering plenty of storage for that home theatre system and all those DVD’s. The boys are obviously big on television having incorporated a rear projection system with drop down screen. Sure to create a stir at the housewarming! A clever use of space and easily folded away when not required.
WHAT'S HOT: The use of lighting has been very carefully planned throughout this space. Concealed panel lighting can offer good lighting without the glare you tend to get with halogen downlights and it can be perfect for creating that ‘theatre’ atmosphere.
Fourth room-reveal Jason & Kirsten's bathroom/laundry:
Jason & Kirsten have carried through the theme from their ensuite using the same tiles and finishes in a neutral colour scheme. To maintain the clutter-free design they opted for an in-wall cistern and hung toilet. This has created a useful shelf while enhancing a sense of space. By incorporating the Ming antique chest as a bathroom cabinet, this gives the space a slightly exotic Asian ambience and added warmth. A HOT look and a clever alternative to a more traditional vanity, however, ensure it can withstand moist areas. The inclusion of a heated towel rail is a good choice. Able to hold multiple towels, these rails are a perfect drying solution where there is limited airflow. They’re especially good for keeping your towels dry and snug for those cold winter mornings! The addition of the built-in laundry to this space means it’s out of sight and neatly concealed behind closed doors.
WHAT'S HOT: Heated towel rail. These come in numerous sizes to suit any bathroom space. A simple and stylish solution to the need for more hanging space.
Jamie & Andrew's bathroom:
Again Andrew & Jamie have done their homework and come up with a serene colour palette of blues, greens and crisp whites with feature panels in glass mosaic tiles. The main highlight of this room is the sliding glass screen. Andrew & Jamie have cleverly incorporated the screen to double as a toilet door and shower screen. An ingenious use of space making the room appear larger whilst the addition of frosted film instantly adds privacy. The twin basins offer each person their own personal space while the stylish ‘Splash’ vanity units provide ample storage below. They have opted for white vanities with a beech timber benchtop, providing a nice contrast and adding some warmth to the space. A very successfully renovated space – sure to be popular amongst buyers!
WHAT'S HOT: Sliding frameless glass screen - a perfect solution to a small space with a double function. Allows light to flow through entire space without enclosing it.
Jane & Matt's study:
Jane & Matt have gone for instant impact by incorporating a mirror-panelled doorway, creating an illusion of space and cleverly reflecting the vibrant artwork from the hallway opposite. They have chosen a chillout feel for their 2nd Bedroom/Study, keeping all furnishings low, streamlined and simple. When furnishing a smaller space, keep the furnishings low – this gives the impression of higher ceiling levels and avoids closing in a room. The choice of a 60’s retro lounge creates an interesting conversation point and works well in carrying out their chilled out theme. The custom-built storage unit provides an abundance of storage and a compact workspace for use as a home office. They have opted to keep all finishes neutral, which will work in their favour at auction time.
WHAT'S HOT: Caracus cushions from Freedom – available in various sizes and styles, including floor cushions - these are a great way to carry through a theme or break up a bland room.
Richard & Steven's bathroom:
Richard & Steven have created an interesting visual effect with a tile border, which carries the eye through the space. They have opted for pearl blue tiles as a feature on the floors and wall opposite the entrance. By using coloured grouting, this has given the illusion of a solid colour. For a more contrasting look, use white grouting or panels of white tiles to break up the feature. When it comes to colour in a bathroom, keep in mind that darker shades can make a small room appear even smaller, while lighter and more neutral shades can open up a space. Behind the folding doors within the bathroom we reveal a good-sized laundry space including a full sized sink. A valuable inclusion to this space and sure to add value. Mounted storage cabinets provide ample storage space, as do the suspended shelves between.
WHAT'S HOT: By incorporating a combined bath/shower, this will have wider appeal to buyers as it eliminates cluttering the space.
Third room-reveal Jason & Kirsten's bedroom/study:
Jason & Kirsten have maximised the use of this space by incorporating a full-length built-in workstation, providing loads of overhead storage compartments. Freedom’s Memphis sofabed in Panama Flax offers additional seating along the opposite wall, maintaining a simple yet symmetrical feel. They have chosen a pale ash timber benchtop, highlighting the blackbutt floorboards. Cool pale timbers can tend to have a more relaxed feel and work perfectly in spaces lacking natural light. The Splash storage units in maple offer this room additional storage whilst taking up minimal legroom. The concealed lighting is visually exciting and adds a soft glow to the room, however offering plenty of light to work under. The oversized artwork steal the show and give this room a burst of texture and warmth, following through their tribal theme from the entrance.
WHAT'S HOT: Built-in workstation and overhead storage: sometimes a better alternative to readymade pieces, offering ample storage and work space.
Jamie & Andrew's ensuite:
Yet again Andrew & Jamie have put a great deal of thought into the target market they are aiming for with the look of their ensuite. The cluster of tropical natives flowers draws you into the space and works well as a contrast against the stark white tiles. The overall scheme is fresh and inviting. Finished in crisp white and frosted glass tiles, the look evokes a “day spa” feel and creates a pleasant place to unwind after a long day at work or … at the beach! The vessel basin is a stylish and contemporary look while the solid timber plank adds warmth and plenty of bench space. They have utilised space well with the recessed shelving, keeping it simple by opting to use frosted shelving. Downlighting provides plenty light throughout, with the clever inclusion of a light above the recessed shelving. TIP: This is a great way to add some soft lighting to the room OR highlight your perfume collection!
WHAT'S HOT: Glass tiles. These work well as a contrast against standard porcelain tiles and add a sleek, streamlined finish.
Jane & Matt's kitchen:
Jane & Matt have created a hip, industrial feel with their kitchen offering an ideal entertaining space. The glass splashback adds some zesty colour to the space and is a great contrast against the white cabinetry and stainless steel appliances on display. Centre stage is a large 8 seater, timber dining table offering additional bench space, enabling the cook to mingle with family and friends while preparing meals. Space has been well utilised with the inclusion of overhead cupboards while the 4-hob cooktop and extra large oven are sure to attract attention, along with the space saving dishwasher drawer. As an innovative alternative to the corkboard, Jane & Matt have painted a feature wall in blackboard paint. This offers ample space for the shopping list or somewhere to practice your drawing skills. Used here as their inspiration board! To complete the look, the oversized pendant light adds a warm glow to the room with a slick edge.
WHAT'S HOT: Create impact with an oversized lampshade! When hung low above a table it creates an inviting ambience without the glare you can experience from direct lighting.
Richard & Steven's bedroom/study:
Richard & Steven had a huge challenge ahead of them to complete the 2nd bedroom. Due to the addition of a staircase, this left them with restricted space. By incorporating a foldout bed cleverly concealed within a wall cavity, this freed up the overall space and allowed them to keep it streamlined and uncluttered. Although a small room, by maintaining a minimalist approach, they have avoided cramping the space, resulting in a functional room which works successfully as a study and bedroom. The stairwell left them with some pokey space which Richard & Steven smartly converted into built-in storage for the room. The finishing touches to this room are the addition of the Freedom Psycho mirror and sunscreen blind, reflecting natural light throughout the space.
WHAT'S HOT: Fold-away bed. With our living conditions becoming more and more restricted these are a great solution to avoid cluttering up a room. Have one custom built, or check out Freedom’s version, the Hip Hop foldaway bed in a cupboard.
Second room-reveal Jason & Kirsten's ensuite:
The ensuite presented is cleverly concealed as an extension of the bedroom robe, utilising the space well. Jason & Kirsten have maintained a fairly safe colour scheme, carrying through the neutral tones and textures from the main bedroom. The overall layout of the ensuite is simple yet functional. The frameless glass screen avoids enclosing the space and the frameless mirror reflects natural light from the window opposite. The choice of a heated towel rail is ideal for this compact bathroom. Able to hold multiple towels, these rails are a perfect drying solution where there is limited airflow and especially good for keeping your towels dry and snug for those cold winter mornings! Sure to draw many comments is the large oversized shower head. These ensure a truly luxurious drenching, not to mention look fabulous!
WHAT'S HOT: Republic bathroom range: Jason & Kirsten have selected Freedom’s stylish Republic bathroom accessories range to compliment their theme. Items available within the range include a soap dish, canister, toilet brush and soap dispenser.
Jamie & Andrew's main bedroom:
Andrew & Jamie have chosen a refreshing palette of complimentary colours by combining lime, aqua blue and cool white. This creates an atmosphere which is fresh and perfect for the bedroom. Also an ideal choice for the beachside location! They have carried the colour scheme through well with a crisp green feature wall and by creating their own artworks, mimicking the barcode design on our Freedom cushions – a great cost saving! A low wall under a window is often dead space, however Andrew & Jamie have utilised the space well by creating a wrap-around window seat with built in storage. This is an ideal spot to stash things like magazines, blankets and books. Ottomans are great room floaters. Use them as makeshift bedside tables, footstools or even as extra seating. Rather than a piece of art why not create a dramatic illuminated wall feature. Andrew & Jamie achieved this by mounting two textured glass panels over concealed lighting. This is ideal for the bedroom enabling you to create ‘the mood’ plus offer sufficient lighting for night time reading. Overall, Andrew & Jamie have utilised the space well, creating a room that is practical, multifunctional and well suited to the target market for this area. Sure to create interest at auction time!
WHAT'S HOT: Astrid ottomans: Seen in Andrew & Jamie’s room in lime, Freedom’s Astrid ottomans are also available in red, navy or charcoal. A hot price and a must-have item for any household.
Jane & Matt's bathroom:
Jane & Matt have achieved a super sleek look by incorporating oversized, polished tiles from floor to ceiling in a warm beige tone, creating a ‘hotel luxury’ feel to the space. TIP – larger tiles make a bathroom appear larger while small tiles do the reverse. This space has a sophistication about it that evokes the feel of a 5 star resort!! A combined bath/shower area means you can indulge in those long lazy soak or a quick rinse down. As a contrast to the highly polished surfaces, the use of a bamboo ladder adds a subtle Zen feel offering plenty of space to hang your towels. Frosting on the window complements the sleek look, offering total privacy while avoiding the need for blinds. Tucked away out of site, Jane & Matt have utilised the space well by concealing the laundry in a neat, compact cupboard complete with front loader and dryer! Opposite another storage cupboard offers plenty of storage for extra towels and toiletries. I have no doubt this room will be high on the list of most admired for its quality finishes and sophisticated look.
WHAT'S HOT: Splash bathroom fixtures – this chrome plated stainless steel range offers everything you need for the bathroom from towel rails holders and robe hooks to toilet roll holders.
Richard & Steven's ensuite:
Richard & Steven have decided on an open plan ensuite by eliminating door access between the bedroom and ensuite. They’ve gone for maximum impact with a chocolate, glass mosaic tile ‘feature wave’ flowing up from the floor – creating an exciting visual effect against the crisp white tiles. One of the strongest trends of the moment are water vessels mounted above the counter. Here Richard & Steven have opted for a plain rectangular vessel atop of a wall-mounted cherry vanity. From a balance perspective, Richard and Steven have achieved a successful look, however could have perhaps utilised the space a little more efficiently with the layout. There is little opportunity for privacy in this space, particularly with the three ‘peep holes’ between the bedroom and ensuite, which could potentially limit the appeal to buyers in this market.
WHAT'S HOT: Maclean towels in chocolate: Luxurious 100% cotton ribbed towels. Also available in white, ocean, green tea, pebble and charcoal.
First room-reveal Dani & Monique's middle bedroom:
Dani & Monique have created a good sense of space in the bedroom by incorporating a mirror-paneled wall. The mirror reflects additional light into the room and energizes the space. A bonus at auction time! The overall neutral tones are ideal in spaces for relaxing and creating a cosy environment. By keeping the floor, walls and ceiling in pale colours, this can also create a feeling of space. To create their modern fresh look, Dani & Monique have combined dark timber finishes with crisp white bedlinen. The low, built-in storage unit is a great space saver, offering plenty of storage as well as bench space for those finishing decorative pieces!
WHAT'S HOT: Minky Throw & Cushions: The warm chocolate tones of the Minky throw and cushion are an ideal way to add texture to a space. Plus they’re wonderful to snuggle up to on a chilly night!
Jane & Matt's main bedroom:
Jane & Matt have achieved maximum impact with a minimalist approach by combining natural textures and tones that fuse perfectly together. Sure to be a winner with some, the padded feature wall in a shimmering silk exudes romance and a feeling of opulence to the room. It’s a clever alternative to the traditional bedhead. The impact of something as simple as a single orchid or flower can make a strong statement and ties through the subtle oriental theme perfectly. Wall mounted lamps are ideal when space is restricted. These can offer either directional lighting or a soft glow – depending on what mood you wish to create. Although timber floorboards are currently all the rage, carpet is still the preferred option for the bedroom area. Carpet works well as a sound barrier (ideal for unit living) and offers insulation against those cold winter nights!
WHAT'S HOT: Davenport Bedlinen: the crisp freshness of white linen can brighten any scheme. Achieve a simple, minimalist look on its own, or use it as a base create any theme. (White looks great when teamed with textured cushions).
Richard & Steven's main bedroom:
If texture is your thing, you’ll love this room. Richard & Steven have incorporated a mixture of cowhide, faux fur, suede and wicker finishes to create an interesting look. Chocolates and creams always work well together especially when highlighted in textural throw or cushion. As an alternative to the traditional bedhead, Richard & Steven have opted for cow hide panels mounted to the wall. These also double as a feature and carry the theme well throughout the room. The floor to ceiling storage towers double as the doorway through to the ensuite while providing an ideal place to display that special vase or sculpture. The mirror panels open up the space by reflecting light from the window opposite. Mirrors are ideal for lightening up a dead, dark corner.
WHAT'S HOT: Mekong Storage: these storage units are an affordable alternative to solid timber versions providing separate compartments for use from the bedroom to the home office. Available in various sizes.
Jason & Kirsten's main bedroom:
The carved statue situated at the entrance to the room sets the tribal theme for this bedroom. Jason & Kirsten have certainly gone for the ‘wow’ factor with some stunning carved pieces and combinations of textures. A good balance has been achieved by incorporating a selection of textured cushions, without going overboard. Too many cushions can give a room a cluttered feel. Also stick to a theme or for a more toned down effect add in a plain cushion amongst some textural or patterned ones. The success of this room didn’t come cheap, however, blowing their budget for the room out to almost $15,000! Floor to ceiling robes offer loads of storage space eliminating the need for extra furniture pieces which would clutter the room. Sure to add value to the property is a cleverly concealed ensuite situated behind the robe door.
WHAT'S HOT: Giotto Bedhead, Fusion Flax: this bed offers the ultimate in luxury with a fully upholstered bedhead and frame. Finished here in Fusion Flax. Can be custom made in any fabric of your choice.
Creating
Creating the look you want is not always easy – just ask any one of our couples! Even though the guys from The Block didn’t go out and seek professional assistance, there are experts out there that can help you create a look in your home specifically for the style you want and the lifestyle you live.
About Freedom’s Decorator Advisory Service
Freedom’s Decorator Consultants will visit you at home and work with you to understand your decorating requirements taking into consideration your ideas, lifestyle, current furnishings, room characteristics and budget.
They will assist you to create a room layout to suit your individual style and space and offer advice on how to decorate and furnish the room.
For an initial fee, refundable against Freedom purchases over $3,000, a Decorator Consultant will visit you. For more information view Freedom's Decorator Advisory Service.
