The Block 2020 recap: Backyards | Photos

They weren’t perfect – including a lack of grass and small pools – but there was a lot to love about these backyards on The Block 2020.

The Block 2020 is coming to an end. I’m not crying, there’s just something in my eye. Actually, no, I am crying; I’m gutted that the pools in these backyards feel more like water features than somewhere to swim. Outside of that and the lack of grass, there was a lot to love about this (final) reveal week. Let’s explore.

SARAH AND GEORGE CAME FIRST

The concrete bench seat, the curved dining table, the barbecue zone; like the Krispy Kreme menu, everything in this backyard is delicious. Sarah and George deserved the win. It’s not a magazine cover (let’s not get carried away), but it is indeed amazing.

Sarah and George’s backyard on The Block.

I do find the lack of grass a shame though. I’m not sure there’s enough of it in the front yard to warrant leaving it completely out of the back. I must also point out that the pool tiles are at odds with the vibe of the internal space. If they were black and white it would have worked so much better. But outside of those small missteps, my fave westies did exceptionally well. Go forth and procreate!

If you hate mowing grass, you are going to love this backyard. Picture: Channel 9

LUKE AND JASMIN CAME SECOND

I’m just going to say it: I’m not feeling the skate park daybed. Laying on it would be torture. I’d confess to crimes I never knew I’d committed. I’m positive Shaynna is now in the hands of an experienced chiropractor undergoing major spinal manipulation.

What’s the opposite of comfy? Picture: Channel 9

That said, there are so many stunning moments in this backyard. The pizza pit is the clear standout. I’ve not lusted after a pit this much since Brad took his shirt off in Thelma and Louise.

Luke and Jasmin’s backyard from The Block.

I have to agree about the wheel-in barbecue though; not a good look. The pool area feels more ample than in some of the other yards, and I have to commend them for including a small patch of grass. Luke and Jasmin, you’ll always be my faves!

JIMMY AND TAM CAME THIRD

The entire courtyard is underdressed to say the least. The bamboo is a genius move though and the most successful plant in terms of privacy. The firepit is successful as well, so there are a few good moves here. Although I notice they continued the kitty litter from the front yard into the back and that hurts. I’m sorry guys, I just can’t.

Jimmy and Tam’s backyard from The Block.

On a more positive note, I legitimately appreciate the built-in barbecue. It’s luxury, it’s what a buyer expects, and they executed it well. Sadly things completely fall apart in the pool area. What’s with the bench seat behind a sliding door? It’s like being a puppy in a shop window. I’ve been confused by Jimmy and Tam’s designs all season, and they finished in much the same way.

Why is there a bench seat behind a sliding door?

DANIEL AND JADE CAME FOURTH

Can we talk about the sculpture? Daniel and Jade waited until the last week of The Block to unveil their greatest design moment. Sadly that’s where the joy and rapture ends. The side courtyard is so underdone. Can the magpie swoop in with a floor rug or larger pieces of furniture?

Daniel and Jade's sculpture.

Daniel and Jade's backyard on The Block.

The barbecue is great but where are you meant to eat?

The backyard has some grass, which is a hallelujah moment, but it doesn’t make up for the lack of an outdoor dining table. I agree that all of the fixed elements are great, but the styling on top is about as cute as Tony Abbott in budgie smugglers (that image still haunts me). And the outdoor shower; a nice idea, but its location makes as much sense as a 5G conspiracy theory. It’s been a hit-and-miss season for Daniel and Jade and unfortunately this yard is more woe than wow.

HARRY AND TASH CAME LAST

When I saw Harry and Tash’s front yard two weeks ago I said “What are they going to do next, concrete the backyard?” and low and behold, they have! I feel for these guys and their lack of budget. It’s not an ideal way to end the season. But I have to be honest: it’s not a stunning result.

Is that a bathtub or a pool?

The wheel-in barbecue looks as cheap as chips. Nobody paying Brighton prices wants a budget barbie.

Harry and Tash struggled with a lack of budget.

The wall blocking the flow from the front to backyard is a choice too. Had they left it out, the spaces would have felt more open, larger and connected. The external bath that people are calling a pool is rather sad as well. But fear not, Harry and Tash; you’ll still do well at auction.

ALL OF THE BLOCK ROOM REVEALS

Front garden

Hallways and laundry

Upstairs rooms

Living and dining room

Kitchens

Upstairs bedroom and bathroom

Master ensuite

Master bedroom

Guest ensuite

Guest bedroom

Chris Carroll is the Melbourne-based designer behind TLC Interiors; an interior design studio and home style blog helping everyday Aussies transform their spaces without breaking the bank. www.tlcinteriors.com.au | Instagram