The Block 2026 episode 1 recap: First tears in The Block season 22 come in first episode

How do you win The Block in 2026? According to judge Darren Palmer, you build a home fit for Kim Kardashian. Palmer’s hot tip leaves all five fresh-faced teams stunned — and one contestant reduced to tears of pure disbelief. They are right to be unnerved. Kardashian fans know the reality icon favours a home style that closely mirrors the shapewear that made her a fortune: endless curved lines swathed in a sea of beige. After name-dropping Kimmy K as the ultimate style inspiration for 2026, Palmer explained that Mt Eliza buyers want homes that whisper quiet luxury (though, let’s be honest, there is nothing quiet about a Kardashian). He laid it out simply: the brief is light, white, and bright, with zero tolerance for rustic vibes, dark tones, or heavy timber panelling. Unfortunately, Darren’s advice came a bit late. Teams had already locked in key fixtures for their very first challenge: a guest bedroom reveal which will determine who gets which house. Brisbane interior designer Sev — who had hit the ground running with her bestie Courtney on a dark, moody concept — was left weeping as she realised they’d missed the mark before even hammering a single nail. “I just thought, oh my go...