Greville Pabst is a judge on Channel 9’s The Block, and CEO and executive chairman of WBP Group, one of Australia’s largest property valuation and advisory firms. Pabst spoke to SCHWARTZWILLIAMS about what he is seeing on the 2017 season of The Block.

Greville, you’re on the jury for The Block. What are some of the big design themes that have emerged?  

It’s been great to see contestants retain period details of these original homes, all of which have unique histories after being relocated from different suburbs across Melbourne. Their modern renovations include wide hallways, soaring ceilings, use of natural light, large laundries and bathrooms, and open plan kitchens.

Some contestants have nailed it, where others have missed the mark in areas, but overall the finishes and quality is excellent. In fact, I think the renovations this year are the best yet.

We saw timber flooring adopted by all contestants, but it was interesting that no one went with concrete or terrazzo flooring like the last series, just to do something a little different.

Swimming pools and spas were undoubtedly a theme this year, and I think Jason and Sarah were strategic for not including one.

The studios above the rear triple garage were also unique to this year’s properties. I would’ve liked to see one of the contestants put in a kitchenette to make these studios self-contained, and therefore capable of being separately leased, for example, on Airbnb.

Image: Greville Pabst during filming of The Block.

What sort of problems have the contestants run into? 

The dining areas are quite compact in some of the houses, and I think more could have integrated their fridges.

Sticks and Wombat initially misread their market with their overuse of timber and narrow hallways, but they have since made changes, and their house is looking great.

I have to disagree with Ronnie that your phone is your office. Buyers of these houses are more likely to be professional couples or downsizers and incorporating an office is what buyers want, especially with many people working from home a lot these days.

Image: Josh and Elise in the winning bedroom. (Source: 9now.)

Has the show brought home to you some advice for home renovators?

There’s always good takeaways for renovators. For home buyers, the entry must have a wow factor as soon as you open the door. Jason and Sarah, Ronnie and Georgia and Josh and Elyse have captured that.

The show also reminds us that space and functionality are so crucial in living, dining and kitchen areas.

The use of natural materials, including timber and stone, as well as natural and artificial light to create mood is paramount.

Is it important to renovate with a particular demographic in mind? 

The demographic of an area is incredibly important. The buyers of these houses are likely to be young professional couples, downsizers, and young families. And the properties are within walking distance to Caulfield Grammar, so I believe the buying pool would be looking at this. Teenagers could use the studios at the rear as a study.

The houses are modern and on trend without alienating buyer groups, so I think that on the whole contestants have done an excellent job renovating to their demographic.

The Block agents are quoting $2.4 million - $2.6 million for each of these houses, and “The Block factor” could drive prices higher on auction day, I think contestants have done well to create quality homes with premium fittings and fixtures that will appeal to their buyers.  

Image: Josh and Elyse's winning living room (Source: 9now.)

Do you think shows like The Block have been educational for viewers, both in terms of design and financials? 

The Block is definitely educational. One of the biggest things it teaches us is that when renovating a house, it is imperative that you stick to the budget. The planning that you do at the outset is critical to avoid overcapitalising and financial stress.

The Block always brings to the forefront current design trends – last year we saw lots of rose gold tapware and this year we’ve seen floral wallpaper and a blush pink basin.

Can you tell us who your favourite contestants are, and why?

Jason and Sarah have done a fantastic job. Their home just has a good feel to it. While there is no spa or pool, many buyers don’t want this anyway.

Image: Pabst says Sarah and Josh have done a "fantastic job". (Source: 9now.)

Josh and Elyse are another couple that has utilised high ceilings and have incorporated a big study. They also get a lot of northern light from their side driveway. These two houses are the best, in my opinion, followed by Ronnie and Georgia, Sticks and Wombat and Hannah and Clint.

Notwithstanding, the results will all depend on the reserve prices set and the pool of buyers that turn up on the day. Sticks and Wombat have undoubtedly been the likable favourites throughout this season.

Read more about The Block:

The Block auction reflects surging Melbourne property market

The Block auction will be held this weekend

Q&A with Dan and Carleen's mentors from The Block