Shaynna Blaze reveals why the new series of The Block will be the toughest yet

Contestants on the hit reno show The Block have never exactly had it easy, with sleepless nights, neighbourhood politics and long days of intense physical work. But according to judge Shaynna Blaze, it’s about to get even tougher.

The popular judge and interior designer spoke to TV Week magazine about the upcoming season, which will see contestants revamping The Gatwick Hotel in St Kilda, Melbourne – a derelict 1950s building with a dark history.

“I think the difference this year is that The Gatwick has a shady past and the show is being filmed in summer for the very first time [in Melbourne],” the 55-year-old said.

“It’s also in a part of St Kilda that has seen the glory days of Melbourne gone by and I think that it’s a part of Melbourne that will be rebirthed.”

Last season saw Australia fall in love with two teams in particular – Josh and Elyse and Sticks and Wombat – but Shaynna believes our favourites might just be topped this year.

“I keep thinking, ‘Oh they can't do better than that’ and then all of a sudden I walk in and go, ‘they did it.’”