Historically the last room or area completed on The Block NZ is the backyard or outdoor area, however this week contestants were surprised to find out that they would have to go through outdoor week earlier than usual. The teams were instructed to design a backyard that would complement their existing outdoor room, plus follow the brief of creating a ‘lush, native and low maintenance’ backyard.
Sarah and Minanne have been battling budget constraints throughout the show but a few weeks ago were excited to win a challenge entitling them to $8,000 worth of outdoor furniture or umbrellas. OceanWeave and Shade7 sponsored the famous plank challenge whereby contestants had to construct the longest plank over a swimming pool, walk to the end and remain standing for the longest time against the other teams. Sarah and Minanne won the prize which meant free outdoor furniture or outdoor umbrellas for their outdoor room and backyard.
The Block NZ sisters Sarah and Minanne created a backyard with an open grass area with a paved section towards the back of the section. The paved area was to act as a feature and focal point of their backyard space, with the outdoor umbrella and furniture acting as a focal point. They had a small paved area to work with and needed suitable solution to fit that condensed space.
Minanne visited the Shade7 showroom and selected a 2m x 2m Bistro umbrella. Shade7’s Bistro umbrella is a light yet very strong umbrella that has been constructed to handle rain and New Zealand’s harsh sun. It offers sun and rain protection, yet will not rust as it has been designed with marine grade anodised aluminium. The canopy fabric is made from a premium marine grade outdoor fabric which has the highest possible UV protection rating and is backed by a 5 year warranty. Minanne selected one of Shade7’s most popular canopy colours, charcoal tweed, which would match their existing colour scheme.
The Block NZ sisters finished their backyard space on time despite many interruptions and delays due to heavy rain in Auckland.
Visit TV3’s The Block NZ to see what Sarah and Minnane have done with their backyard and outdoor room.
