Block 2025 Exclusive: Scott Cam Reveals Two Design Trends He Avoids in ‘The Block

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‘Colour Drenching’ Design Trend Faces Scrutiny From ‘The Block‘ Host

September 13, 2025

Sydney, Australia – A popular design approach known as “colour drenching” is under the spotlight after receiving critical commentary from Scott Cam, the host of the hit television program, The Block.Cam voiced his concerns regarding the staying power of the trend, which involves utilizing a single color across all surfaces within a room – walls, shelving, doors, and even ceilings.

Reservations From A Renovations Veteran

Having steered the show through 19 seasons, Scott Cam has a keen eye for evolving design preferences.He acknowledged that the technique has appeared successfully on The Block, with Emma and Ben earning praise for a colour-drenched bathroom revealed in Week 3. However, he suspects the trend’s popularity may be fleeting.

“It’s so on trend that I think it will be out of trend as quickly as it’s come in,” commented Judge Marty Fox when a similar design was showcased in a recent Rumpus room reveal.

What is Colour Drenching?

Colour drenching creates a monochromatic aesthetic by enveloping a space in various shades of a single hue. This technique, while visually striking, relies heavily on texture and form to prevent it from feeling monotonous. The practice gained traction in late 2023 and early 2024, fueled by social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram, where interior design influencers championed the look.According to a recent report by Houzz Australia, searches for “monochromatic colour schemes” increased by 45% in the first quarter of 2024.

Design Trend	Description	Longevity (Predicted)
Colour Drenching	Using a single colour across all surfaces in a room.	Potentially short-lived, according to industry experts.
Neutral Palettes	Beige, Gray, White	Highly Durable
Natural Materials	Wood, Stone, and Linen	Increasingly Popular, Long-Term

did You Know? Colour drenching can make a room feel smaller and more intimate, making it ideal for cozy spaces but potentially overwhelming in larger areas.

The Impact on ‘The block’ Contestants

This year’s contestants on The Block have twice employed the colour drenching technique, leading to divided opinions among the judges. While some praised the bold choices,others expressed reservations about the trend’s staying power,mirroring Cam’s concerns. The show’s viewers have also weighed in, with online forums buzzing with discussions about the scheme’s merits and drawbacks.

Pro Tip: If you are considering colour drenching, start with a smaller space like a powder room or bedroom to experiment with the look before committing to an entire home.

Looking Ahead: Timeless Design Principles

While trends come and go, certain design principles remain consistently appealing. focusing on quality materials,thoughtful space planning,and personalized touches can create a home that feels both stylish and enduring. Investing in classic furniture pieces and incorporating natural light are also key to creating a timeless interior. Experts recommend prioritizing functionality and comfort over fleeting trends to build a space you’ll love for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colour Drenching

• What is colour drenching? Colour drenching is an interior design technique where a single colour is used across all surfaces in a room, including walls, ceilings, and furniture.
• Is colour drenching a lasting trend? Some design experts, like Scott Cam, believe colour drenching may be a short-lived trend.
• What are the benefits of colour drenching? It can create a cohesive and immersive aesthetic, making a space feel more intentional.
• Does colour drenching work in small spaces? While it can work, it may make the space feel even smaller, so careful consideration is needed.
• What colours are best for colour drenching? Softer, muted tones generally work best to avoid overwhelming the space.

What are yoru thoughts on the colour drenching trend? Will it stand the test of time or is it a passing fad? share your opinion in the comments below!

What specific negative impact do feature walls have on a property’s resale value, according to Scott Cam?

Scott Cam, the ever-present face of The Block, has offered a rare glimpse behind the scenes, revealing the two design trends he actively steers contestants away from. In an exclusive insight for archyde.com, Cam detailed how these choices impact not just aesthetics, but also resale value – a crucial element in the high-stakes world of the renovation competition. Understanding these pitfalls can help aspiring renovators avoid costly mistakes and create homes buyers genuinely desire.

The Overuse of Feature Walls: A Dated Look

For years, feature walls were a staple in home design, but Scott Cam believes their popularity has waned, and overuse can significantly detract from a property’s appeal.

* Why Scott Avoids Them: “We’ve seen so many feature walls on The Block that, frankly, look dated now. What was once a statement can quickly become a liability. Buyers often see them as something they’ll need to repaint or re-do, adding to their renovation budget.”

* The Resale Impact: Potential buyers frequently enough perceive feature walls as limiting their own design choices. A neutral palette generally appeals to a wider range of tastes, maximizing the potential buyer pool.

* Better Alternatives: Cam suggests focusing on texture and subtle color variations instead. Think textured wallpaper, limewash paint, or strategically placed artwork to create visual interest without the commitment of a bold, perhaps polarizing feature wall. Consider using natural materials like timber panelling for a more timeless look.

* Keyword Focus: feature walls, home renovation, interior design trends, resale value, neutral palette, textured walls, limewash paint, timber panelling.

The All-White Kitchen: Cold and Impersonal

While white kitchens remain popular,Scott Cam cautions against the “all-white” approach,particularly in larger spaces. He argues that a complete lack of warmth can make a kitchen feel sterile and unwelcoming.

* The Problem with Pure White: “A completely white kitchen can feel cold and clinical. It lacks personality and doesn’t photograph well, which is critical on The Block.”

* Adding Warmth & Contrast: Cam advocates for incorporating warmer tones and textures to balance the starkness of white cabinetry. This can be achieved through:

* Benchtop Materials: Granite, marble, or even warm-toned engineered stone.

* Splashbacks: Introducing colour or pattern with tiles or glass.

* Hardware: Brass or copper handles and tapware.

* Open Shelving: Displaying colourful cookware and accessories.

* The Psychology of Colour: White is often associated with cleanliness and simplicity, but too much can feel isolating. Introducing warmer hues creates a more inviting and homely atmosphere.

* Case Study: 2024 The Block kitchens: Several contestants in the 2024 season who opted for entirely white kitchens received feedback from the judges about the lack of warmth and personality. Those who incorporated contrasting elements fared significantly better.

* Keyword Focus: white kitchens, kitchen renovation, kitchen design trends, warm kitchen colours, kitchen splashbacks, kitchen benchtops, interior design psychology, The Block kitchens.

Beyond the Trends: Timeless Design Principles

Scott cam emphasizes that successful renovations aren’t about blindly following trends, but about understanding essential design principles.

* Functionality First: Prioritize how a space will live before focusing on aesthetics.

* Quality Materials: Invest in durable, high-quality materials that will stand the test of time.

* Neutral Base: A neutral colour palette provides a versatile foundation for layering textures and accessories.

* Lighting is Key: Effective lighting can transform a space, highlighting its best features and creating a welcoming ambiance.

* Consider the Buyer: Always keep the potential buyer in mind when making design decisions.

Practical Tips for Avoiding Design Pitfalls

here are some actionable tips inspired by Scott cam’s insights:

1. Mood Boards: Create mood boards to visualize your design scheme and ensure a cohesive look.
2. Sample Materials: Always test paint colours and materials in your space before committing.
3. Seek Professional Advice: Consult with an interior designer or colour consultant for expert guidance.
4. Research Resale Values: Understand what features are currently in demand in your local market.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: While avoiding dated trends, don’t be afraid to incorporate your personal style and create a unique space.