In recent years, it seems as though The Block simply can’t escape some form of cheating scandal. Whether it’s a sneaky photo of a production schedule or, most recently, ripping off another designer’s room.
This week, contestants Tom and Sarah-Jane came under fire after eagle-eyed reno fans noticed something familiar about their nursery room, claiming it looked similar to that of Victorian designer’s Kate Walker.
The judges have broken their silence on the scandal.
(Image: Instagram)Now, judges Shaynna Blaze and Darren Palmer have broken their silence on the scandal.
Both taking to Instagram and sharing a screenshot of Kate Walker’s Instagram feed, they addressed the alleged plagiarism.
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“In the world of Pinterest, Instagram and access it gives us to designs around the country and the world there is so much incredible work to aspire to,” Shaynna began her post.
She continued: “We all take inspiration when we’re designing, but you have to change the source of that inspiration a minimum 30% to be able to say it’s your design.”
“Since judging Sarah-Jane’s nursery, we have learned that the design was taken from amazing Victorian designer Kate Walker.”
The judge went on to recall a similar situation in 2020 with former contestants’ Luke and Jasmin’s kids’ room… “fortunately we found out at the time, so I was able address the situation on screen,” she wrote.
Shaynna and Darren shared a screenshot of Kate Walker’s Instagram feed.
(Image: Instagram)“The unfortunate reality is that it’s not possible for us to monitor every design that’s created and posted online. We could tell at the time of judging that the design execution of this room was next-level. Now we understand why!
“I’ve had a conversation with Kate about the situation today, and she has been very understanding. If you’d like to check out her brilliant work, head to her Instagram @katewalker_design or visit katewalkerdesign.com.au.”
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Darren also made a statement, writing: “Any contestant coming onto the block is well advised to have inspiration ready for their rooms.
“Noting one or two elements and interpreting them makes for authentic inspiration. Using the majority of same or similar elements however denies you the opportunity to make something truly unique and your own.
“Credit where it’s due to @katewalker_design who created this original design with @lucyycahill.”
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[Shaynna Blaze’s relationship timeline](https://www.nowtolove.com.au/celebrity/celeb-news/shaynna-blaze-partner-67807 |target=”_blank”)
