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From screen time to family time, a recent survey* shows that families are opting to do DIY projects together as a favourite pastime, rather than spending time in front of the TV.
The survey, which was conducted by Brights Hardware, a family-owned chain of hardware stores based in the Western Cape, shows that 71% of South African families love to do DIY together.
“Doing DIY together as a family offers multiple benefits, such as a chance to bond, collaborate and develop problem-solving skills,” says Orlando Luis, CEO of Brights Hardware.
More than two-thirds (77%) of the survey respondents stated that one of the biggest benefits of doing DIY as a family is the chance to spend quality time together while putting a personalised touch to their homes, followed by having fun while being creative.
Brushing up on family bonding time
According to Luis, over 60% of those who took part in the survey have mentioned painting and room makeovers as their chosen family DIY projects. More than half of the respondent (51%) like to do family home maintenance and repairs together, followed by 44% spending time on garden projects.
DIY makeovers and mend on trend
Coincidentally, leading voices in the DIY and decor industry, including Architectural Digest and Martha Stewart, have dubbed 2024 as the year of the bedroom makeover. Interestingly, this aligns perfectly with the feedback from the survey respondents. Almost half (46.7%) expressed a strong desire to tackle this project this year.
“Getting the family, most specifically the children, involved in their bedroom makeovers allows them to not only have a large say in the personalisation and customisation of their space but also gives them a great sense of accomplishment when completed,” adds Luis. “Learning how to prepare a room, select their favourite colour and use a paintbrush is also wonderful confidence booster.”
And survey results concur, with over 45% of people saying it’s important for children to not only have a say in the new décor scheme and room layout but to be actively involved in creating it too.
“DIY remains a growing trend in South Africa, as backed up by our survey, which shows that over 90% of those who took part are actively involved in DIY of some sort. It’s a trend that promises to keep developing as people embrace its creative outlets and save money-in the process. For families who are already DIY gurus, or for those who are keen to start, Brights Hardware has on-site experts in all our stores to provide advice and guidance on products for your family DIY projects – whatever it may be,” concludes Luis.
Some additional survey insights
· Respondents cited the chance to boost confidence, learn new skills and abilities, save money, and achieve a great sense of accomplishment as additional reasons they love to do DIY.
· Other benefits listed include keeping your home in good condition and getting children away from devices and screens.
· One of the favourite DIY projects that South African families are tackling, according to the survey, is garden makeovers and creating outdoor spaces to spend quality time in as a family.
· South African families like to read, as indicated by another favourite project mentioned – building bookshelves and creating reading corners in the home.
Brights Hardware stores are located in Boston, Blackheath, Langebaan, Mitchells Plain, Richmond Park, Plattekloof, Stonewood, Brackengate and Sunningdale. An online store shopping experience is available at www.brights.co.za which offers delivery to anywhere in South Africa. Brights also offers same-day delivery in the Western Cape for products purchased online.