In the latest episode of *The Block 2025*, contestants faced stern judgments from the panel as they showcased their efforts in a high-stakes competition. Robby and Mat emerged victorious, securing a win with their living and dining area that earned them a total of $10,000 in prize money, adding to their impressive haul of $50,000 for an outdoor fireplace, $50,000 for an outdoor court, and $15,000 in additional prizes.
The competition proved challenging, particularly for Ben and Emma, as well as Sonny and Alicia, who struggled to impress the judges. Robby and Mat’s win was not without its challenges; they found themselves working late into Saturday afternoon, unaware of the rule against using power tools after 15:30 on Saturdays. With time running out, they resorted to hand tools, a decision that ultimately paid off.
Judges’ Praise for Robby and Mat
Judges praised Robby and Mat’s design, comparing it favorably to that of fellow contestants. “How is this the same dimensions as the house next door? This is really nailing the brief,” said judge Marty Fox, highlighting the spacious feel of their room. Judge Darren Palmer noted the importance of seating arrangements in a family home, emphasizing that their layout fostered interaction.
Close contenders, Britt and Taz, received positive feedback for their living and dining area, although their furniture orientation cost them the win. The judges admired their design elements but felt that the sofa placement detracted from the overall appeal. “This is emotive. Standing here, you connect to it emotionally as much as you do visually,” said judge Shaynna Blaze, who appreciated the room’s vibe but wished for a different configuration.
Challenges for Ben, Emma, Sonny, and Alicia
In contrast, Ben and Emma faced a harsh critique, with the judges describing their layout as uninspired. “It’s nice,” was the underwhelming comment from Fox, who pointed out that the furniture orientation did not capture the essence of their Daylesford location. The bespoke bench seat, designed by Christian Cole, drew criticism for its color mismatch with the floorboards, leading to questions about the overall luxury of the room.
Sonny and Alicia also struggled, with their living area described as cramped and poorly laid out. The judges were particularly critical of their decision to place a striking fireplace in an inappropriate location. “This is the most confused room that they have done,” Blaze remarked, suggesting that the mix of styles was detrimental to their design.
Despite the negative feedback, both teams took the judges’ comments in stride, acknowledging the need for improvement and promising to rework their spaces.
Meanwhile, Han and Can’s presentation earned them praise, marking a welcome turnaround after previous controversies regarding their design choices. The judges lauded their elegant energy, particularly appreciating the sophisticated elements in their room, including a pearlescent plaster fireplace and stylish artwork.
The episode concluded with the judges offering scores: Ben and Emma received 22, Han and Can 27.5, Britt and Taz 28.5, Sonny and Alicia 21, and Robby and Mat topped the leaderboard with 29.5.
As the competition intensifies, contestants are reminded that every design decision is critical, with the judges’ critiques shaping their journey on *The Block 2025*.
