'Battle on the Beach' fans call kitchen challenge a 'huge disappointment'

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Battle on the beach is back for its fourth season, and judging by the first episode, it looks like there will be some fierce competition. This year, HGTV's Tanya Nayak (Advance), Ty Pennington (Rock the Block), Allison Victoria (Windy City Rehabilitation) returned as mentor to the budding design team, whose first assignment was to tackle the kitchen and dining room space.

This year, Tanya will be paired with Samantha and Sean Kilgore from Richmond, Michigan, Allison will mentor Brandon Parker and Teresa Robinson from Norfolk, Virginia, and Kristin and Cheyenne Smith from Dallas, Texas will work with Ty.

The team got to work renovating the kitchen of a beachside home. Renovation Island Stars Sarah and Brian Bauemmler arrived to judge the completed spaces and present a $3,000 prize to the winning team.

Taniya's team (who have only renovated one kitchen before) completely rearranged the kitchen layout to maximize the view from the dining area. Sarah complimented the room's storage and coziness, while Bryan noticed some issues with the finishing details. Sarah commented on the beach-inspired feel of the room. They wondered how much space was allotted for the dining area.

Sarah and Brian toured the Thai kitchen, decorated in an unexpected terra-cotta color. Brian called the space “nostalgic and warm,” and praised the artisan tile and gold fixtures. Sarah didn't think it felt right on the beach, but she liked the upgraded stove and double dishwasher, though she questioned the lack of dining space.

Alison's team created a spacious design, but Sarah thought the island looked a little too “utilitarian” and could have also included a drinks fridge, and Brian thought it would be a great space for entertaining guests, complimenting the beams and handcrafted bench.

After reviewing three kitchens, Sarah and Brian awarded the $3,000 prize to team Kristin and Cheyenne from Thailand. HGTV shared a clip from the episode on Instagram, with fans commenting:

“Team Taniya loved the true beach feel and the dining room – perfect for entertaining and entertaining guests at the Beach House.”
“Everyone was amazing but I think Team Ty deserved to win. 🧡”
“I love HGTV. Battle on the beach But this was a huge disappointment.
If I'm going to the seaside, I want a beach vibe. Each design is unique and someone, somewhere, will love this kitchen, but this season's designs are not my favorites.
“😳 I wasn't expecting that. I was sure one of the other two would win.”
“I love all three but Ty team's kitchen feels like it's in a beautiful cabin in the mountains 🤷🏼”
“We're all rooting for you from Team Allison! 🔥👏😍”

Which kitchen was your favorite? Next week, each team will compete in the main suite. Tune in Monday night on HGTV or stream on Max to find out who wins.