Tiny House course yields big benefits for architecture students, Habitat for Humanity

Students from Sheridan's Architectural Technology program recently collaborated with Habitat for Humanity Halton-Mississauga-Dufferin (Habitat HMD) on a project supporting affordable housing solutions for students and seniors.

During a seven-week Tiny House course, students considered the unique needs of both demographic groups as they developed innovative designs for backyard homes. The course supported Habitat HMD's Youth Skilled Trades Program, which to date has engaged more than 1,850 students to help construct 24 fully functional tiny homes for communities in need of transitional housing.

“Opportunities like this help our students see the purpose behind what we teach at Sheridan... to not only think of architecture as design, but also as a vehicle for positive social impact.”

– Architectural Technology program co-ordinator Adrian Bica

Habitat HMD highlighted student-focused designs by Alonso Miguel Mazuelos and Aya Boumaaza that emphasized efficient layouts, quiet study areas and smart storage solutions, creating spaces that support academic success while remaining affordable. Catarina Spinelli and Maame Konadu Yeboah stood out for their senior-focused designs, which prioritized accessibility, safety and comfort through such features as step-free entries, wider doorways and open, light-filled layouts that encourage independence while keeping family close by.

“This was my first time working on a tiny house concept, and I loved exploring how small spaces can still feel functional, welcoming, and full of purpose,” says Boumaaza. “It also meant a lot to contribute to an organization that does so much for people and the community. This project helped me understand how thoughtful design can make a real difference in people’s lives, and it’s an experience I’ll carry with me as I grow in my architectural journey.”

“This project allowed me to think deeply about safety and dignity in small spaces with the hopes that my idea could make a difference in someone’s life,” adds Yeboah. “This experience also strengthened my understanding of empathetic design and using architecture as a tool for social impact.”

"Opportunities like this help our students see the purpose behind what we teach at Sheridan. This experience pushed them to not only think of architecture as design but also as a vehicle for positive social impact, supporting people and building stronger, more inclusive communities," says Adrian Bica, coordinator of Sheridan's architecture programs. "I was impressed by their thoughtful ideas and the care they put into addressing the needs of future residents."

To learn more about the big benefits of tiny homes, please visit Habitat for Humanity HMD's website.