"Gunyah" - The Grand Dame

Sharon & Ankur came a sensational second renovating the biggest block (hectre) in the The Block’s 16 year history on the most recent season of the show, as the only couple with zero experience.

Armed with a “can do” attitude, a hard-working background from their time on the farm and a serious sense of style, the down-to-earth loved up couple created history and mega ratings for Channel 9 with their time on the show, who capitalized on Sharon’s emotional connection to self as an actor and the “drama” aspect of the softly scripted reality show and the lack of experience the newbies and non-experienced had taking on the biggest build.

Sharon & Ankur have now garnered a genuine and dedicated audience who connect with their authenticity and ability to be open, honest and raw with their experience. Coming from extremely diverse backgrounds themselves they are characters rarely seen in mainstream media in this country and stand out relating to people who see themselves in them - ethnic/immigrant community, the corporates who want to renovate, entertainment industry folk, those with no experience that have a “dream”, dogparents, millenials/Gen Y and Gen Z alike.

They were the only couple with their own unique sense of style, with others mimicking or engaging design work of existing interior designers, cookie-cutter or just described as plain “bland”. Working with a very restrictive “country” style by the judges and sponsored products not necessarily within their personal stylistic choices, Sharon still went out of her way to take risks and make bold stylistic choices that she felt evoked emotion to the caliber of the home and on occasion was applauded for it on the show but more importantly from the feedback received from seasoned experts and professionals and viewers in the community. Her personal style is unique and combines Parisian, bold colours and character filled warmth in space as a balance of modern and contemporary but can easily transition to country heritage or niche styles depending upon the build.

The couple went on the show to break barriers as the first of their diverse background to take on a mainstream show like this and boy was it an experience. This couple is standout and one to watch. They have their own renovation plans in the pipeline, are undertaking further education in the space and Sharon in continuing her work as an actor, presenter and host – making her the most experienced contestant on the show for hosting/presenting roles, as you can see below when you CLICK on the images.

Our first major renovation:

"Gunyah", Macdeon Ranges, Victoria.

Playing to its prime position set on the highest vantage point in the recent rural sub-division, this fully furnished six star luxury farm house on over 10 manageable acres enjoys extraordinary views, capturing the panoramic backdrop of Mount Macedon and surrounding ranges.

The largest house to be offered for auction on this year’s series of The Block boasts unrivaled positioning within this spectacular setting. Showcasing modern luxury with a country twist, every detail has been carefully considered by Sharon & Ankur who have transformed the original 1890’s cottage into a spectacular and functional country home, impeccably styled and equipped with every luxury inclusion.

Epitomising the very best of country living, this exceptional lifestyle investment sets a high bar with palatial proportions, two primary bedroom suites, a ‘must have’ second living, media room and home office curated to perfection with bold and glamorous design choices, a beautifully balanced palette and exquisite outlooks. Soaring ceilings, exposed beams and a floor to ceiling stone fireplace create a sense of warmth, grandeur and space throughout the open plan kitchen, dining and main living room. The ultimate entertainer’s kitchen is the heart of the home, making a statement with a black stone bench stretching almost 5 metres providing a focal point for entertaining. The generous butler’s pantry features a second dishwasher and abundant storage.

The master bedroom suite, located in the original home is the largest ever created on The Block. Exuding glamour, the French-inspired aesthetic complements the scale of the room, with breathtaking views of Mt Macedon on offer through the French doors and large windows. Elevating this space to the next level, a double-sided gas fireplace can be enjoyed from the bedroom or from the adjoining ensuite, which defines luxury with underfloor heating and a free standing bath oriented to take in the views. An elegant dressing room with central island bench provides an abundance of storage and completes the opulent master wing, taking full advantage of its topography and natural drainage the landscaped garden offers year round enjoyment set to a magnificently serene backdrop.

This timeless residence effortlessly blends heritage features with beautifully thought through luxury inclusions in a position that is perfect.

Behind the Build:

Here’s a little bit of insight and depth into our journey on The Block, in the making of “Gunyah”, as curated by us. This was an emotional and creative journey for us and we tried to do things that haven’t been done before and not stereotypically “cookie cutter” because we wanted to create unique character within this build. When you are selling a home at this level and price point, we feel the buyer of this home will be just as unique and wonderful as this house is.

Sharon & Ankur.