At just 13 years old, Luke Thill from Iowa stands out from his peers—not because of his love for video games or gadgets, but because he built his very own tiny house. Unlike most kids his age, Luke turned his boredom into an ambitious project: a fully functional, 89-square-foot house in his parents’ backyard.
A Dream Built on Determination
Luke’s dream of building a house began with a simple desire to do something meaningful. His project, which cost about $1,500, took a year of hard work to complete.
To fund it, Luke mowed lawns, organized online fundraisers, took on odd jobs, and even bartered for services. For instance, a family friend helped him install electrical wiring in exchange for Luke clearing out his garage.
Luke also incorporated sustainability into his project. About 75% of the materials he used were recycled, including items from his grandmother’s house and a front door gifted by his uncle’s friend.
A Minimalist Sanctuary
The tiny house, measuring just 10 feet long and 5.5 feet wide, has electricity but no plumbing yet. Inside, it’s a cozy retreat complete with a loft bed, a microwave, a TV, and even a barbecue setup outside. It’s a space where Luke can unwind, do his homework, and occasionally spend the night.
“I liked the minimalism,” Luke explained. “And I wanted to have a house without a huge mortgage.”
Lessons in Responsibility
Luke’s parents were supportive of his venture but ensured he took ownership of the project. His father, Greg, made sure Luke covered most of the expenses himself.
“It was a chance for a kid to do something more than play video games or sports,” Greg said. “It teaches life lessons.”
Inspiring a Generation
Luke’s story has captured the attention of many, especially through his YouTube channel, where he shares videos documenting his journey. He hopes to inspire other kids to take on big projects and realize their potential.
“I want to show kids it’s possible to build at this age,” Luke said.
Have a look at this project below:
Looking ahead, Luke dreams of building a slightly larger house when he’s older—perhaps one he can use during college.
A Young Visionary
Luke Thill’s tiny house is more than just a personal achievement; it’s a testament to hard work, resourcefulness, and the power of dreaming big. His story is an inspiring example of what young people can accomplish with determination and a little support from their family.
If you’re inspired by Luke’s incredible project, share his story to encourage others to think big and act boldly!
Angelina Jolie through the years: The star’s life in photos
Angelina Jolie has lived her whole life in front of the spotlight. She was born to father, Jon Voight, and mother, Marcheline Bertrand in 1975. Now, on her 46th birthday, see her evolution through the years in the limelight.
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Jolie clings tight to father, Jon Voight, in 1980.
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Angelina Jolie, Jamie Haven and Jon Voight attend the Academy Awards in 1986.
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Angelina Jolie, Jon Voight, and Jamie Haven at the 60th Academy Awards.
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Jolie starts life in front of the camera while modeling a bikini in 1991.
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Jolie attends the premiere of “Wallace” in 1997.
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Jolie at the premiere of “Gia” in 1998.
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Jolie goes blonde for the SAG Awards in 1999.
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Angelina Jolie and Billy Bob Thornton get close at the “Gone in 60 Seconds” premiere. The two were married from 2000 to 2003.
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Jolie smolders in a beige dress at the “Taking Lives” premiere in 2004.
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Jolie out with baby Maddox in 2003.
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Jolie arrives to the Venice Film Festival in 2004.
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Jolie beams next to Brad Pitt at the premiere of “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” in 20o5. The two began their relationship while filming the movie while Pitt was still married to Jennifer Aniston.
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Jolie films “Life or Something Like It” with a platinum blond wig.
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Pitt and Jolie attend the premiere of “God Grew Tired Of Us” in 2007.
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Jolie steps out with Maddox and Shiloh in 2007.
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Angelina Jolie steps onto the red carpet while pregnant in 2008.
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Pitt and Jolie attend the SAG Awards in 2009.
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Jolie out with her children in 2011.
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Jolie showing off some leg at the Academy Awards in 2012.
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Pitt and Jolie attend the “Maleficent” premiere in 2014. The two filed for divorce in 2016.
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Pax Jolie-Pitt and Angelina Jolie attend the Netflix Golden Globes in 2018.
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Angelina Jolie attends the “Maleficent” premiere with her kids, Vivienne, Zahara, Shiloh and Knox in 2019.
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Jolie beams with her daughter, Vivenne, in 2020. While Jolie hasn’t acted in a movie since 2019’s Maleficent, she has stayed in the spotlight as her custody battle with ex, Brad Pitt, rages on.
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