Luke Thill, then 13-year-old boy from Dubuque, Iowa, built his own tiny house in his parent’s backyard. This is an unusual project for a middle schooler, but Luke is talented and proactive.
The project cost was around $1,500 USD, and now Luke is happily living in his dream home. You can take a look inside the house to see what it looks like.
Luke stands out from his peers because he doesn’t spend his time using modern technology like iPads, smartphones, and X Boxes. Instead, he decided to build a small house using more traditional methods. He was inspired to do so because he was feeling bored during the summer, and after doing some research, he came up with a solid plan to bring his idea to life. He has shared his journey on YouTube.
Luke spent approximately a year gathering funds and supplies to construct his home. He earned money by mowing lawns, organizing an online fundraiser, and completing tasks for people in his community. To obtain electricity, Luke cleaned out an electrician friend’s garage in exchange for their help with the installation. Around 75% of the materials used in the construction were recycled, with a significant portion originating from his grandmother’s home. Additionally, Luke received a front door as a gift from a friend of his uncle.
Then 13-year-old Luke built a small house that measures 89 square feet, and it is 10 feet long and 5 1/2 feet wide. The house has electricity, but there is no plumbing, which means there is no water or bathroom at the moment. Luke shared that he wanted to have a home without a massive mortgage and was attracted to the idea of minimalism. He has also posted videos online discussing his project, which has generated interest from many people who are curious about his little house.
Luke’s parents provided him with financial and construction assistance for his project. However, Luke’s father, Greg, emphasized that Luke should fund and construct most of the project on his own. “It was a chance for a kid to do something more than play video games or sports,” Greg told The Des Moines Register. “It teaches life lessons.”
This young boy’s house has everything he needs to relax and hang out in. The house is equipped with a microwave, a TV, and a loft with a bed. Luke also has a barbecue and flowers in the backyard. He spends time there after school and even sleeps there some nights.
Luke’s future plans include building a bigger house when he goes to college and inspiring other kids to pursue their dreams of building at a young age. He hopes his accomplishment will show others that it’s possible to do what he has done.
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It’s clear that Luke has a promising future ahead of him. With the impressive range of abilities he has, we hope for nothing but success in his endeavors.