At 13 years old, most kids are busy playing video games or scrolling through social media. Not Luke Thill from Iowa. When boredom struck, he didn’t reach for a controller—he picked up a hammer. What followed was nothing short of extraordinary: an 89-square-foot house built entirely by his own two hands.
Luke’s tiny house started as a wild idea: build something meaningful, something he could call his own. But ideas are one thing—turning them into reality? That’s a different story. Over the course of a year, Luke poured his heart (and $1,500 of hard-earned cash) into creating his backyard sanctuary.
How did he fund it? By mowing lawns, taking on odd jobs, and getting creative with trades. When it came time to install the electrical wiring, he cleared out a family friend’s garage in exchange for help.
Sustainability was also key. Around 75% of the materials Luke used were recycled. From his grandmother’s old supplies to a front door gifted by a family friend, every piece of the house carries a story.
Measuring just 10 feet long and 5.5 feet wide, Luke’s house might be small, but it’s packed with personality. The inside feels like a minimalist dream: a snug loft bed, a microwave, a TV, and even a barbecue setup right outside. Sure, there’s no plumbing yet, but it’s perfect for hanging out, doing homework, or spending a peaceful night.
“I liked the minimalism,” Luke shared. “And I wanted to have a house without a huge mortgage.”
Luke’s parents cheered him on but made one thing clear: this was his project. His father, Greg, made sure Luke raised most of the money himself and handled the responsibility of building.
“It was a chance for a kid to do something more than just play video games,” Greg said. “It teaches life lessons.”
And it did. From budgeting to bartering, Luke learned skills most adults struggle to master.
Luke’s story has reached far beyond his backyard, thanks to his YouTube channel. Through his videos, he’s showing other kids that age is just a number—you can dream big and make it happen.
“I want to show kids it’s possible to build at this age,” Luke said.
What’s next for this young visionary? He’s already dreaming of building a larger house for his college years.
Luke’s tiny house isn’t just a cool project—it’s a shining example of determination, creativity, and hard work. It’s proof that kids can accomplish incredible things when given the chance.
If Luke’s story inspired you, share it with friends and family! Who knows? His tiny house might spark the next big idea in someone else.
