Block legend Steph Ottavio challenges judges over controversial claim

Former Block winners Steph and Gian have challenged the latest judging after fans resurfaced a winning room from their 2023 season. A “never been done” call on The Block has been challenged by a former winner who used the same design idea three years ago. SJO Architects founder, Japandi Estate co-founder and 2023 Block winner Steph Ottavio branded the claim “just false” after fans resurfaced her winning room with husband Gian. Ms Ottavio said Courtney and Sev’s television, concealed behind sliding cabinetry in their latest rumpus room, had been presented during judging as something the show had not seen before. RELATED: The Block 2027 at risk after shock discovery ‘Heartbreaking’: Block bidder’s shock Ch9 jab Dud Albo ploy turning Vic home dream to nightmare But the underlying idea had already appeared on The Block, and won. Steph and Gian’s 2023 work-from-home room featured two desks bookending a wall-mounted television hidden behind sliding panels. The room scored 26.5 points to win the week, narrowly beating Kyle and Leslie on 26. Contemporary coverage described the custom sliding joinery concealing the television as “slick”. Steph and Gian’s 2023 work-from-home room used slidin...