13-Year-Old Builds Own House For $1.5k, Reveals 89 Sq Ft Masterpice When He Opens Door

Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in March 2021.

While most 13-year-olds were busy navigating middle school and indulging in games, Luke Thill of Dubuque, Iowa, was embarking on an extraordinary journey to create his very own tiny home. Now 17, Luke’s fascination with tiny houses started at a young age when he stumbled upon the concept on YouTube. With the blessing of his parents, he set his sights on building his dream home in his family’s backyard, using a budget of $1,500 that he raised through a summer of odd jobs.

“The process was not short or easy,” Luke admits, looking back at his ambitious project. With his father’s assistance in drafting and construction and his mother’s touch for interior design, Luke also received support from his community, with many materials being donated or exchanged for his services. The hard work paid off, and after a year and a half of dedication, Luke completed his 89-square-foot tiny home, featuring a functional kitchen with a stove and mini-fridge, a living room with a drop-down dining table, and a cozy lofted area for a bed.

While the tiny house was never intended for full-time living, it quickly became a haven for hosting friends and entertaining guests. “I have had many friends over, and we watch movies, cook food, hang out, or play games,” Luke recounted. The kitchen’s functionality even allowed him to host a Thanksgiving dinner for his family, complete with all the traditional trimmings.

However, the tiny home adventure was just the beginning for Luke. At 14, he joined forces with his twin brother Cole to construct a tiny teardrop camper, a 36-square-foot travel companion for their adventures. While Cole took the lead in building the camper, Luke’s prior experience with the tiny house allowed him to provide guidance and support.

The teardrop camper project cost the brothers $2,500, but Luke insists it was money well spent. Since its completion, they’ve embarked on more than 50 camping trips, exploring various destinations across the country.

“Both projects hold great meaning to me because they each had their own set of challenges and successes,” Luke shares. He particularly cherishes the tiny house, as it holds a special place in his heart.

Luke doesn’t intend to slow down his creative pursuits. While he’s currently a junior in high school, his future plans extend beyond engineering or architecture. Instead, he envisions a career that allows him to help others, with aspirations to become a paramedic.

For Luke, the world of tiny homes and the community surrounding them will forever be a significant part of his life. He credits this unique journey with providing him invaluable knowledge and skills, shaping him into a young individual with a passion for making a difference.

Sources: People