The aesthetic and style of viral renovation videos have undergone a significant transformation. Initially, Designer Bob’s early videos, while playful, often resembled genuine design content. Recently, however, these videos have become increasingly absurd, featuring fantastical renovations accompanied by monotonous AI narration. According to Alex Turvy, a specialist in digital culture, this shift reflects TikTok’s remix culture. Turvy predicts that such trends will continue escalating in absurdity until they eventually fade out.
A related meme centers specifically around “galvanized square steel,” with some users speculating whether it is a viral marketing campaign for the product. Karten, another commentator, notes that these videos thrive because they develop “lore,” which sustains their virality.
Investigations into the creators of these videos led to some interesting findings. Designer Bob’s account links to an online candle and crystal store, Whisper Wisp, based in China and listed as located in Hong Kong on its Facebook page. However, the popularity of Designer Bob far exceeds that of Whisper Wisp’s other social channels, suggesting it is unlikely a covert marketing effort for the candle shop, especially as Whisper Wisp did not respond to inquiries.
Details about another account, Dy02449xjp, are even scarcer. A Facebook page with the same username shares similar videos but offers no additional identifying information. As of now, Dy02449xjp seems focused on TikTok engagement purely for its own sake.
Previously, there was little clarity on the origins of these videos. Many accounts use names and logos reminiscent of HomeDesignsAI, an architecture and interior design program. Denis Madroane, COO and cofounder of HomeDesignsAI, was also puzzled by the craze.
HomeDesignsAI, a Romania-based startup launched in 2023, allows users to transform room photos or floor plans using AI. Madroane acknowledged that while they found the memes amusing, they haven’t significantly benefited from the trend. The official HomeDesignsAI TikTok account has a modest following and engagement compared to unofficial accounts, one of which boasts 2.4 million followers and consistently high view counts.
Despite this, none of the most viral renovation TikToks, including those involving Little John, utilized HomeDesignsAI software. The true origin of these videos remained unclear until Candise Lin, a US-based tutor fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin, pinpointed the missing link in a TikTok video of her own this summer.
