Darren Palmer has been a hot name in the world of design and interiors for years, and as a judge on The Block, he’s been on TV screens for over a decade. But despite his public career, behind the scenes he describes himself as a real “introvert”.
Rather than schmoozing at lavish parties in the multimillion-dollar homes he creates, he’s most comfortable curled up on the lounge with his husband of 13 years, Olivier Duvillard, with whom he shares a teenage son, Hugo.
Over the past few years, Palmer’s life has been unusually hectic, juggling his successful homewares business, Darren Palmer Home, plus renovating his Bondi house. It’s been a balancing act that has led to some serious “decision fatigue”.
“We’ve been working towards a dream doing our home, and now that’s complete and I have everything else spinning. It’s all about what the next part of our lives looks like,” he tells WHO.
There will always be space in that life for The Block, though, and Palmer, who first appeared on the series as a guest judge in 2010, before becoming a permanent member of the team, calls it a “dream job”.
“I get to turn up and talk about something I’m passionate and knowledgeable about. It’s exciting,” he shares. “I go in and there are no contestants around. I don’t know about the fighting or any challenges, although we can often see in the result if there have been problems.
“It’s a good reminder of what it’s like starting out in the business. I have never heard anyone [on The Block] say it was easier than they thought it would be!”
The Block shop
Here, the expert judge shares his top budget buys from The Block over the years with WHO – and they might just look perfect in your home.
Etro Mini Cushion | Toffee
$73.00
The Etro Velvet Cushion range adds a touch of luxury and texture to any space.
The cushions are available in a variety of different colours and sizes to suit any room.
The handy accessory has been seen on multiple episodes of The Block over the years.
Darren Palmer says: “Love a lumbar cushion. It’s very versatile”
This jacquard-woven throw is made from 100% New Zealand wool with fringes on the short sides.
The pattern is reversible – and mirror-inverted on the opposite side – meaning you can mix up your look depending on your mood.
Darren Palmer says: “Checkerboard? Yes please!”
Inspired by the picturesque Hyams Beach in NSW, ‘Hymn’ is a tribute to Palmer’s love for the coastal getaway.
Infused with a harmony of light blues, oranges, pinks and sand tones, this piece is perfect for adding a luxurious look to any interior and comes in a variety of different sizes to suit any room.
Darren Palmer says: “Original art of one my favourite places, Hyams Beach”
Made from pre-washed 100% European linen, the cover of this jumbo accessory can be machine washed and even tumble dried, making it perfect for homes with kids and pets.
The cushion is available in three colours including chocolate, natural and white.
Darren Palmer says: “The perfect size for a king size bed”
This set of two Margarita Glasses are made from durable, thick glass that features a delicate embossed design.
The colour of the glass means these are a bold and fun addition to your next cocktail party.
Darren Palmer says: “You had me at Margarita. My favourite cocktail”
Infused with bright Bergamot and the invigorating scent of Eucalyptus, this beautifully-smelling hand-poured candle is designed to awaken your senses.
With middle notes of Sea Salt and Peppermint and base notes of Sandalwood, Ambergris and Driftwood the candle is encased in a muted concrete jar making ideal for re-use in any room.
Darren Palmer says: “The fragrance of my Bondi Beach home”
This cleverly designed duo looks stylish in any bathroom, and contains a luxurious blend of naturally-derived ingredients.
With Raspberry Extract containing a variety of antioxidants and Juniper, which has skin-protection qualities, as well as Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, this duo is ideal for dry skin in need of hydration.
Darren Palmer says: “A designed solution to wash and lotion by The Block’s own Alisa and Lysandra (who won the show in 2013)”
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Bedouin Throw | Natural
$259.95
This oversized Linen Throw – woven on a traditional hand loom – will add a organic touch to any room.
It’s handcrafted nature means every single Throw has its own characteristics.
Perfect for layering on a bed or couch.
Made from 100% fine European Flax, this set gives a perfectly natural, lived-in look thanks to the fact it’s pre-washed before sale.
The set includes 1 x Duvet Cover and 2 x Standard Pillowcases
This hand-moulded basin has a soft and organic look that makes it unique.
Its hand-crafted quality means it is perfectly imperfect and a stand-out feature in any bathroom.
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