The Rise of Home Buddies

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused people to stay inside. As people continue to work at home, it seems a new trend has risen for one’s sanity break. Previously, it was scrolling through TikTok videos, making dalgona coffee, cooking using an air fryer, and/or working out, among others.

Now, Filipinos found a new way to destress. If you check out Facebook, people have been sharing a lot of ideas on home decor and renovation through a certain group – Home Buddies. 

How did Home Buddies start?

Full-time copywriter and blogger Frances Catuando formed the group in September 2020, initially as a virtual meeting place for her and other people who want to play the Minimalism Game. Just in case you didn’t know, this refers to players having to get rid of things they don’t use anymore. The person who declutters the most within thirty days wins. 

Then, people started joining the group and sharing makeover ideas, shopping advice, organizing hacks, DIY projects, and photos of their homes. It had become a safe space for everyone wanting to share or ask people about their home makeover. From then on, people became inspired to improve their homes. Luckily, a lot of kapitbahays are generous to share how they made such a renovation or make-over happen. 

To be honest, Home Buddies kind of resembles Pinterest, where one can find pegs and inspiration for redecorating and renovating different parts of the home. However, with Home Buddies, everything remains interactive and you can ask people about their posts. Members can find the coolest home items to buy and learn helpful tips. 

5 Coolest Home Items To Buy, as shared by the kapitbahays:

Shanong Fingerprint Smart Door Lock

Many of us have always feared losing our house or car keys. This object can be a solution to your problems. The Shanong Fingerprint Smart Door Lock features its own fingerprint scanner and passcode, allowing you to unlock your door with ease. You can also use it with a designated card key which you can hide inside your wallet. It is powered by four AA batteries and can last for more than a year before needing to be changed. 

Asahi Wooden Stand Fan

Whether you’re a #TeamPuti or #TeamKahoy, you’ll love this budol find. Fans have become a staple at any Filipino home. So, it’s not surprising that Home Buddies would feature such. This Asahi wooden stand fan has a minimalist and natural design, perfect for anyone looking for practicality and style. 

Double-Wall Glass Mugs

Wall glass mugs have been the latest craze these days. Not only could it help you pick up a drink safely but it could also look unique and classy. With that in mind, many shops have decided to sell double-wall mugs, so you’re free to explore your options. 

Xiaomi Mi Smart Robot Vacuum Cleaner

If you’re someone who’s always on the go and doesn’t have much time to clean your home, maybe a robot vacuum cleaner is the answer. This has a feature that involves mapping out an entire room for a more efficient cleaning path. 

Better Sheep Lambing Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets simulate the feeling of being held or hugged, making it easier to sleep better. This aims to relax your nervous system and allow the creation of serotonin and melatonin. Just in case you didn’t know the difference, serotonin refers to the happy chemical in your brain while melatonin is the chemical that makes you sleepy. 

Helpful Tips To Learn, as shared by kapitbahays:

Make small spaces look bigger. 

High ceilings and open area layouts are a good start to making small spaces look bigger. When following a minimalist design, keep everything organized to make it look even larger. It’s important to ensure every item in your space serves a purpose to maintain a clean and organized aesthetic. 

A little lighting goes a long way. 

Don’t underestimate the power of proper lighting. Incorporate a more natural light into the design of a room or a stylish bedside lamp. Lighting is more than just a design of the fixture, stand, or shade, it can become the warmth and color of the light you choose. 

Your preferences change as you grow older. 

Just like your taste in fashion or music, it’s completely normal for your preferences to change over time. So, it’s only natural that you want the space you spend the most time in to reflect your current style and interests. Consider this when choosing pieces to decorate your space. 

DIY goes a long way. 

You don’t need to go broke to achieve your vision. A little creativity and imagination can go a long way. Designer items have hefty price tags and when you see those attached to your home pegs, it doesn’t mean you have to buy the exact item. A little DIY goes a long way. Or better yet, research! I’m sure Lazada, Shopee, and other local online shops sell good quality items that can complete furnishing your space.