Four Closest Friends Fortify Their Connection by Relocating to Houses on the Same Block and Establishing an Intimate Neighborhood
Title: The “Friendhood” in Atlanta: How Four Close Friends Created Their Ideal Neighborhood
In a time that often seems more hectic and where relationships can feel transient, a touching tale from Atlanta, Georgia, is reshaping the meaning of true friendship. Sarabeth Stine, Erinn Cottman, Kelly Holbin, and Kristi W., four women in their 40s with a friendship spanning 17 years, have elevated the idea of a tight-knit community to remarkable heights — they all reside on the same street. Lovingly referred to as “The Friendhood,” their journey has gone viral on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, resonating with countless individuals who aspire to establish a chosen family.
Crafting a Street of Sisterhood
The path to forming “The Friendhood” started more than ten years ago when Sarabeth Stine moved to a beautiful neighborhood in Atlanta. One by one, her closest friends decided to join her. Kelly Holbin made the next move, settling down just around the corner in 2013. Following that, Erinn Cottman bought a home directly across the street from Sarabeth, pushing past her initial doubts that it might be intrusive — a choice that ultimately became a source of joy for everyone.
The last piece was placed in 2022 when Kristi bewildered the group by secretly acquiring a home just a door away from Sarabeth’s residence. She even donned a disguise during the home inspection to keep things under wraps. When she finally unveiled her surprise, their reactions — which went viral in a video — were filled with tears, laughter, and sheer excitement. As Sarabeth reminisced, “That’s when we completely lost it.”
More than Just Neighbors
These four women are far more than mere neighbors — they are each other’s chosen family. They describe their relationship as one deeply rooted in acceptance, openness, and unwavering support. “No matter what happens, we have this ability to accept each other—and be vulnerable together,” Sarabeth says.
While their geographical closeness facilitates daily interactions, the true essence lies in their emotional ties. They frequently gather for dinners, exercise sessions, and morning strolls. When one of them needs a helping hand, the others are merely steps away. Their children also thrive in this setting, forming strong friendships themselves — even sharing Christmas mornings together.
Embracing a Compound Lifestyle
The “Friendhood” has sparked a viral movement centered on the concept of ‘compound living’—a term that signifies intentional communities built on robust interpersonal connections. This lifestyle transcends mere convenience; it embodies shared experiences and collective joy.
With their active online presence on Instagram and TikTok, the women have motivated many to reconsider traditional living arrangements. Under the hashtag #thefriendhood, they showcase highlights from their communal lifestyle, from cozy gatherings to birthday parties enhanced by walkie-talkies (a fun gift from the real estate platform Opendoor, who surprised the women after noticing their viral journey).
Custom sleepwear and spontaneous weekend brunches are part of the everyday experience here. Even if they might not see each other daily, the knowledge of being nearby instills a deep sense of safety and belonging.
Redefining Friendship and Community Norms
The narrative of Sarabeth, Erinn, Kelly, and Kristi contests traditional notions surrounding adulthood, friendship, and our living spaces. In an environment where loneliness can creep in even in crowds, the Friendhood shines as a powerful example of the strength found in intentional communities. They didn’t merely fall into this lifestyle; they crafted it with intention — and love.
“A true blessing,” as Kristi describes it, this connection transcends friendship. It resembles sisterhood. Their story acts as an uplifting reminder that we can choose connection, pursue joy, and build our own villages — literally.
Whether you feel inspired to rekindle a close friendship or contemplate the idea of living near your best friends, one truth stands firm: The Friendhood evidences that home is not just where the heart is. It’s where your people are.
Follow their journey:
– Instagram: @sbinthecityatl, @erinncottman, @life_of_mskellyrae, @kship17
– TikTok: @the.friendhood.at
Related Tales:
– Best Friends Hit the Jackpot, Choose to Share the Wealth with Their Community
– Best Friends Cohabit and Support Each Other’s Parenting
– Jamie Lee Curtis’ Encouragement of Michelle Yeoh Inspires Female Friendships Everywhere
Let this story honor community, friendship, and the delight of evolving together – side by side, house by house.