The Block 2023 Get The Look: Studio Bathrooms

Welcome back to The Block! We're diving into the 19th season, and this time it's all about revamping those charming 1950s houses on Melbourne's Charming Street in Hampton East.

Week 1 is studio bathrooms, and the contestants used some pretty special techniques to create focal points, like curved ceilings and Venetian plaster. Some hit the mark, and others are still figuring things out, but they're on the right track. So, let's jump into Week 1 of The Block 2023.

Follow along for weekly recaps to see how The Block teams created their stunning room renos.

Winners this week are Kyle and Leslie - the quiet contenders. But from what they have delivered this week, these may just be the contestants to watch.

The judges loved the elegance of the curved ceiling, with Shaynna noting the quality of the work. Marty praised their smart layout, especially the storage and toilet privacy. The room's vibe is a hit, and that ceiling is stealing the show.

Overall the judges love the feeling of this bathroom.

To achieve Kyle and Leslie's look, you'll need Masson For Light Strip Lighting. It's all about that ambient glow that washes the walls gently. If you want strip lighting for your space, you’ll need to visit us in-store to discuss your requirements as this lighting is made to order and isn’t available on our website.

They've also gone for two different downlights. First, they selected the City III Gimble downlights. Gimble's are perfect for spaces with angled ceilings as you can tilt the downlights to provide light where it’s needed. They offer adjustable brightness and even different colour temperatures. 

The MFL Titan downlights come in warm white with interchangeable reflectors for different beam angles.

This couple wanted to go for a unique curved ceiling, though this year, rounded ceilings are not a standout. Instead, they made their mark with the bold dark Venetian plaster over the entire bathroom. They were going for a hot, steamy feeling - but did they achieve it?

According to Darren, they did. And according to Marty, the lighting plan was excellent, working well with the polished plaster. "That type of texture really pops". The other judges had some reservations about the boldness of the space, but we're here for it and were so excited to see our Luella wall brackets feature in the room!

Like Kyle and Leslie, this pair chose City Gimble downlights, though to enhance the moody feel of the space, they chose the Gimbles in black. Great choice! They also featured MFL strip lighting which, despite the judges' concerns, can actually be dimmable with the right switch installed!

The real stars here, though, were the MBM Luella wall brackets in brass and Spanish alabaster, adding that timeless touch and creating a visually stunning, awe-inspiring statement.

Curves are in, and Kristy and Brett embraced them with a stunning arch in their shower area. The judges raved about it, comparing the feel to a Moroccan day spa. While some found the room a bit lacking in warmth and natural light, the vibe was still uplifting.

To nail Kristy and Brett's look, choose those trusty City III Gimbles, which illuminated the arch with style. And guess what? They're IP44 rated, perfect for splash-prone spaces. And yes, they're dimmable too. The MFL strip lighting is making a return appearance as well.

Steph and Gian had a tough week with their building team, but their finished bathroom shines. The judges are all about the well-planned details, even though the ceiling beams aren't a favourite.

For Steph and Gian's vibe, choose the MFL Artisan pendant lights from our mix-and-match range which featured on either side of their vanity mirror. These lights are not just stylish but also functional, with Scene Change technology that adjusts the light's colour temperature. It's all about customising your ambience.

Last but not least, sisters Eliza and Liberty delivered a textural, colourful space that the judges loved, with Shaynna mentioning the divine feeling in the room and Marty adding that the raked ceiling was very calming. 

Despite a small hiccup with mixing metals, their execution was top-notch.

Eliza and Liberty chose the understated Solis teardrop pendant. This unique pendant features a wire frame outside and an opal glass shade inside for soft, glare-free light. They've also used MFL strip lighting to brighten up the space and highlight those high ceilings.

Week 1 on The Block 2023 was quite the start, and we're excited about what's coming up. Stay tuned for next week, when we dive into the downstairs bedroom makeover – you won't want to miss it!