Australian Country Style on The Block in 2022

Australian Country Style on The Block in 2022

This year's season of The Block saw contestants try to bridge the gap between Modern and Traditional Country decorating as they attempted to fuse old-world weatherboard homes with very modern extensions. Sparking a wonderfully healthy debate among decorating enthusiasts, it seemed everyone watching had an opinion on the décor choices made by the different couples each week.

How often did we hear Neil Whittaker ask, 'Is this Country?' when he entered a room for judging? Perhaps a better question could have been, 'Is this Australian Country?'.

Everyone's hearts went out to the contestants when the dismal auction results went to air, but as we explore all things Country this month, we thought it would be fun to revisit some of the hits and misses from this season.

Monochromatic or natural colours

Whitewashed woods & rustic timber

Remember this stinker? Using reclaimed stable wood for a backdrop and adding exposed timber beams could have been a winner, but the execution was harsh and uninspiring - a real letdown.

For the same challenge, another couple showed more restraint when adding this white shiplap feature as a reimagined bedhead.

Minimal metallic accents, usually in a brushed finish

The bright gold finish on this bathroom's claw foot bath and other fittings is too showy and ornate for an Australian Country style.

Conversely, this bathroom's brushed brass tapware and towel rail complement the irregular handmade wall tiles, achieving a better Australian Country feel.

Earthy textures

A velvet padded bedhead, French-inspired furniture and artwork, orange accents and a faux mink throw create a room that is a very out of place with its rural Australian landscape.

While this style has a solid nod to French Provincial elements with the shape of the bed and ottomans, the aesthetic is balanced with natural colours, beautifully patterned bed linen, textural linen window dressings and lamps and contemporary landscape artwork.

Using patterns

We have to admit we're a little torn with this one! We've dismissed this room as Australian Country style because the predominant colour is not a natural shade, and the combination of patterns from floral to tartan to batik to very eclectic! What do you think?

This room uses similar elements more subtly and cohesively, where the wallpaper pattern echoes the check of the blanket on the bed rather than fights with it. Additional Australian Country elements, including the woollen blanket, the wooden side table and foliage, add to the charm.

Unique Fixtures

Is this Australian Country style? We don't think so. The fixtures here are very urban and heavy with all of the black detailing, made starker by the light-coloured bar stools. While it may be functional and beautiful, it's too heavy-handed for a rural setting.

Whereas this kitchen ticks all of the Australian Country boxes. From the colourway of the cabinetry to the introduction of the wooden chairs with black strap details, it's light and bright and would be a dream to cook in! And that's before you get to the stunning bronze mesh draw inlays and the beautiful pendants over the island. Unique fixtures = tick and earn a big thumbs up from us!

Found objects

Here's a question: What does a golden rhino, a ceramic pear, and a book about drinking tea have to do with Australian Country styling? Answer: Not much!

However, this bedroom nook keeps the decor more grounded in Australian country styling with a horse head bust and native wildflowers.

Bringing the outdoors in

This entryway was polarising, even when it was revealed. In terms of Australian Country styling, we think it misses the mark. Although there is some 'greenery' and a gorgeous reclaimed front door, these are overwhelmed by the heavy black accents and trim.

In contrast, this gorgeous hallway entry nailed the Australian Country brief, with the simple but effective use of a single fiddle leaf fig plant to link it to the outdoors, the collection of a few unique decor objects and the beautiful brushed bronze sconces. Tick, tick, tick!

We hope you've enjoyed this tongue-in-cheek revisit of The Block rooms from 2022.  We know no one is perfect, and decorating any home is always subjective, but when every decision is assessed on national television, it's hard not to weigh in! If you'd love to read more comparisons and critiques of this Block season, we love the honesty and accuracy of Chris Carroll at www.tlcinteriors.com.au 

And we'd be tickled pink to see you pop into our Ballarat store or visit us online to explore Australian Country styling - we'd love to assist you in creating the home you dream of, whatever your style and taste.