Couple DIYs Tiny Home Renovation For Their Family Of 3 'Dahil Bored Si Hubby'

Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, it's no longer surprising to see or hear families working on home projects — from simple DIYs to mini makeovers. The time we’re spending indoors is enough for us to scrutinize every corner at home and follow through projects we’ve long been postponing.

For Carmela Bustos and her husband, Jun, it was an opportunity to renovate their tiny home in Muntinlupa City. “Sa sobrang bored ng husband ko sa bahay, nag-renovate na naman siya. Seventy percent halos DIY niya lang like mga ilaw, pinto sa CR and etc.,” Carmela said in a Facebook post.

The 42sqm loft-type space, which stands in what used to be the kitchen area in Jun’s parents’ home, was built in November 2019 and renovated in February 2021. In an interview with SmartParenting.com.ph, Carmela says that the renovation focused on the loft.

“Pinalakihan namin siya sa taas para lagyan ng tig-isang cabinet namin ng husband ko… ’yung old cabinet namin napunta sa baby namin. Tapos nilagyan na din ng 55” Smart TV at pinalitan na din ang old sofa bed," the mom of one shares. 

"Mas classy tignan, kahit mas mahal, worth it naman,” she adds. While the focus was on the upper part of the home, Jun and Carmela also made sure to prettify a few other areas of their home.

How to ensure a successful tiny home renovation project

Just like how you build a home, having pegs can be helpful. Carmela and Jun enjoy watching Tiny House Nation, a reality show on Netflix that highlights the possibilities you can do in a small space.

“Dun kami na-inspire. Tapos mag-research ng mga bagay sa Lazada or Shopee para makapaghanda once okay na ‘yung tiny house ninyo,” Carmela suggests.

For this project, the couple decided not to work with an architect or interior designer, but chose to tap skilled workers to help accomplish the tasks involved.

[Editor's note: If you're unsure about the steps you need to take when it comes to a makeover or renovation project, don't hesitate to get in touch with a design professional.]

When it comes to hiring laborers, Carmela advises to work only with people you can trust. “Tight ang budget and wala din talaga kami kilala na magaling na mura. Importanteng makahanap ng mapagkakatiwalaan ninyo at kaya gawin ang gusto ninyong project. Dapat subok na sila,” she says.

In addition to finding trustworthy workers, ensuring everyone’s health is equally important. The couple had to sponsor the antigen test of one of the workers who doesn’t live with them to be safe.

With their daughter turning three in August, the couple plans to add a third floor to be able to create a playroom. “Dumadami na ang mga laruan, damit, at gamit niya,” Carmela quips.

Aside from planning a third floor, they also hope to have the front of the house improved so that the faux turf they placed won’t get wet when it’s raining.

Take a peek inside Carmela and Jun’s tiny home below:

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