Tiny houses have seen an explosion of interest in the past few years. Whether you’re a trendy millennial or a nomadic hippie, a tiny house can offer you mobility, versatility, simplicity, minimalism and a one of a kind living space. The obvious drawbacks of having a smaller area of residence for some are outweighed by the pros of living a compact life. In many cases, living in a tiny house can come with a lifestyle that many people love.
One remarkable thirteen year old boy, Luke Thill of Dubuque Iowa, set out to make his own tiny house in his parents backyard, and the results were amazing.
Luke had a small amount of help from his parents, but built the house nearly all by himself.
Luke managed to raise the $1500 necessary to build the house by mowing lawns, starting a fund-raiser, and traded services. In one such case, he offered to clear out the garage of one of his dad’s friends, who as an electrician returned the favor by helping Luke install the electrics into his wee abode.
Most of the materials in Luke’s build were salvaged or reclaimed.
Getting things like leftover siding from his grandmother, a front door from his uncle’s friend and many other thrifty components has been key to Luke’s success in being able to afford to build the house. When it was all complete, he threw a grand opening, inviting those who helped to construct the house in whichever way they contributed.
The house stands 10 feet tall at its highest point, and is 5.5 feet wide.
Now that the tiny house is complete, Luke has his own ultimate teenager hangout spot. What teenager wouldn’t want their own fully kitted out house? Luke has installed a tiny refrigerator, microwave, TV and hangout zone.
The only thing the tiny house is missing (for now) is plumbing.
As a solution, Luke uses a large water jar with spout and a bowl to wash his hands and dishes. For any other ablutions, he has to run back into his parents’ house!
Tiny houses can be inventive with their use of space.
For instance, the dining table/desk is set up when a large board folds down from an adjacent wall, resting on a metal bar which extends from under the loft stairs. This transforms the hangout area into a workspace or dining table. With an extra chair he keeps stashed behind the main seat, he can sit up to four people around this table which then folds back up completely.
As Luke is still a teenager, he doesn’t get to live in his tiny home full time.
Although he does get to spend a few nights a week there, it is mostly his homework and hang out zone.
When he does spend time in his “loft”, he sleeps on a short foam mattress which his dad made for him and as he jokingly says, it’s not all that bad!
“I personally think it’s more comfortable than my own mattress in my bedroom”.
Maybe one day Luke, you’ll be able to reside permanently in your own personal, home-made-home.
Luke has inspired many to build their own tiny-homes, what do you think?
Step inside with Luke as he gives a tour of his own tiny home.
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