Luke Thill, a young and ambitious boy from Dubuque, Iowa, began an extraordinary project at just eleven years old: building his very own tiny house in his parents’ backyard. With a budget of $1,500, earned through various odd jobs in his neighborhood, Luke spent a year and a half constructing an impressive 89-square-foot home. His resourcefulness and dedication enabled him to stick to his budget, sourcing materials from local hardware stores and online bargains. To hone his skills, Luke watched numerous carpentry and building videos.
By the age of thirteen, Luke achieved what many only dream of—becoming a homeowner. But his journey didn’t stop there. Now seventeen, Luke, along with his brother Cole, continues to explore tiny living. Together, they’ve built a growing collection of small structures, including a teardrop camper. Luke aims to make small-scale living a permanent lifestyle, and building the camper has been a transformative and exciting experience for him.
Constructing the teardrop camper required immense effort and attention to detail. Luke and Cole spent countless hours working on it, meticulously following blueprints, welding steel beams, and designing the interior. In the process, they developed valuable carpentry and welding skills, elevating their craftsmanship. The camper not only provides a cozy retreat for adventures but also promotes sustainable living.
Luke’s fascination with tiny homes began one summer when he discovered the tiny home movement on YouTube. Determined to build his own tiny cabin, he saved money by doing various community jobs, including yard work and pet sitting, and even took on part-time work. His perseverance and determination helped him overcome challenges and realize his dream house.
Throughout the construction process, Luke’s parents were vital supporters. His mother helped with interior design, while his father assisted with the physical build. With materials donated by family and friends, and items salvaged from various sources, Luke kept costs low. By the time he was thirteen, Luke had accomplished the incredible feat of owning his own tiny house.
Luke’s tiny house has become a social hub for him and his friends. Its simple yet functional design features a foldable dining table, a mini kitchen with essential appliances, and a lofted sleeping area accessed by a unique ladder. The camper is perfect for hosting gatherings and creating lasting memories. Inspired by Luke, his twin brother Cole also built a teardrop camper.
Building the teardrop camper presented unique challenges for Luke and Cole. With a budget of around $2,500 and the need for the camper to be roadworthy at high speeds, their dedication and meticulousness were crucial. Despite the challenges, they completed the camper, opening a new chapter of shared adventures. Since then, they’ve taken over 50 camping trips, exploring the scenic beauty of Iowa and neighboring states.
Through his tiny home projects, Luke has gained invaluable life lessons. He’s learned the importance of hard work, financial management, and community support. Luke deeply appreciates his neighbors’ help, who exchanged tools and electrical assistance for housekeeping during the camper’s construction. This project strengthened Luke’s connection to his local community, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
While Luke now focuses on high school and spending time with friends, he remains dedicated to the tiny living concept. He even dreams of building a larger tiny house when he goes to college. Luke’s journey proves that age is no barrier to achieving remarkable accomplishments when you are determined and passionate.
