Simpleng Buhay! Couple Chooses A Tiny Home In The Province For Their Future Family

• Finding a home where they can build a life together is an important milestone for couples. Whether it’s a starter home or a big house, in the city or in the province, as long as your hearts are in it, it will be the perfect place where you can put down your roots and start a family.

  For Irene Vidaurreta and her husband, Benjie, building a tiny house in Ormoc, Leyte proved to be the best decision. It’s elevated and found on top of a hill, giving them the best view of the lush surroundings.

  “We moved in last March 2021. This used to be my friend and I’s weekend getaway but after getting married (also in March), my husband and I decided to live here,” shares Irene, who owns the lot where the house stands.

  

  The perks of living in this tiny house include waking up to the sunrise and marveling at the view of the sunset as the day ends. Since it’s elevated, the couple can take in the view while enjoying meals or coffee in the balcony.

  PHOTO BY Courtesy of Irene Vidaurreta

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  Measuring 18 feet x 10 feet (excluding the balcony), the house is reminiscent of quaint cabins, with its laid-back atmosphere and minimal furnishings. Irene came up with the design, using pegs she found on Instagram and Pinterest for inspiration. Benjie gave his full support to his wife while providing inputs to improve Irene’s ideas.

  Why choose buhay probinsya?

  

  One of the reasons why Irene and Benjie decided to settle down in the province is to escape the pollution in the city. Here, they can breathe in fresh air and just be in awe of nature every day.

  PHOTO BY Courtesy of Irene Vidaurreta

  These days, it’s no longer surprising for young homeowners to choose to leave the city to settle in calmer locations away from the pollution and congestion. For Irene, it’s all about embracing a quieter and more peaceful lifestyle.

  “Life in the province is so laid-back. It’s like a way of refreshing your soul from the toxic urban life,” she shares.

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  Tiny house living also taught them about contentment. “I am encouraged to practice minimalism. One of the challenges of living in a small home is organizing it to make it look spacious despite the limited space,” says Irene.

  “I refrain from buying things I see online. I tell myself, ‘Hindi ito kasya sa bahay.’ You can always find happiness in small things. You just need to learn to appreciate what you have,” she adds.

  Building a family-friendly tiny house

  Some might be wondering if living in a tiny home in the province is ideal for families. For Irene and Benjie, the answer is a resounding yes.

  “[You should] build a house you see yourself living in 30 or 50 years from now. If you seek a healthy heart and peace of mind, I recommend living in the province,” Irene explains.

  The couple doesn’t have second thoughts about starting a family in their tiny house, too. “I want my children to grow up in a peaceful environment. As they grow old, I want them to appreciate the earth in its natural state, to know that it does not require too many materials things to be truly happy,” muses Irene.

  Take a peek inside their tiny house in Leyte below:

  

  Newlyweds Irene and Benjie share the tiny house, but they’ve had a few friends over as guests.

  PHOTO BY Courtesy of Irene Vidaurreta

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  The tiny house looks magical at night, with warm lighting coming from capiz lights purchased from Articulo PH.

  PHOTO BY Courtesy of Irene Vidaurreta

  

  The owners also added fairy lights in the balcony. According to Irene, these lights come in handy during power outages.

  PHOTO BY Courtesy of Irene Vidaurreta

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  Hanging a hammock instantly creates a hangout spot. This also serves as the guest accommodations. It’s cozy, relaxing, and guests can enjoy the breeze.

  

  A swing and a rocking chair add to the relaxing appeal of the balcony.

  PHOTO BY Courtesy of Irene Vidaurreta

  

  The DIY lampshades from rattan planters were made by Irene’s father. It adds a distinct Pinoy touch to the space.

  PHOTO BY Courtesy of Irene Vidaurreta

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  Taking inspiration from Tiny Homes on Instagram, this floor is kept open, with enough room for storage, a dining nook, and a kitchen.

  PHOTO BY Courtesy of Irene Vidaurreta

  

  The couple’s loft bedroom is cozy — with enough space for sleeping and movie nights. They bought a projector online instead of going for a TV to save on space.

  PHOTO BY Courtesy of Irene Vidaurreta

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  Benjie worked on this wall mural underneath the balcony. According to Irene, they hope to turn this into a coffee nook.

  PHOTO BY Courtesy of Irene Vidaurreta

  Want to share your #budgetperofancy home makeover and get featured? Email us at smartparentingsubmissions@gmail.com and tell us about your project. For more home improvement and renovation ideas, click here.

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