Tiny House, Big Impact: Southern Miss Students Apply Classroom Knowledge in Capstone Project
Fri, 05/02/2025 - 09:17am | By: Ivonne Kawas
Seniors in the School of Construction and Design at T抖阴app took on a real-world challenge through their capstone project, 鈥淭iny House Southern Charm Initiative.鈥� The project blended innovation, education and environmental responsibility to address the growing demand for efficient, affordable living spaces.
鈥淚n a time when affordable housing is out of reach for many and the skilled labor shortage continues to rise, one innovative solution is playing a significant role in shaping practical solutions,鈥� said Dr. Cindy Walls, assistant professor of construction management. 鈥淏y setting the challenge to design and build 鈥榯iny homes鈥� or 鈥榞lamping getaways,鈥� our students were able to harness their skills in a real-world scenario.鈥�
As part of the capstone project, students were tasked with designing an energy-efficient, space-maximizing tiny house or glamping structure. The assignment parameters included maximizing a 400-square-foot space, equipped with essential amenities, emphasizing sustainability, and use of an alternative energy source.
鈥淪tudents were engaged in every aspect of the construction process, from the initial design to the final details,鈥� Walls said.
For senior Bynum Goodson of Slidell, La., the project provided an opportunity to put what he has learned in the classroom into action.
鈥淭he most rewarding part of working on this project was applying all the skills I鈥檝e learned throughout my years at Southern Miss to a single, comprehensive effort,鈥� he shared. 鈥淚t has been incredibly fulfilling to complete a project individually, putting my education into practice in a tangible way.鈥�
Beyond the research and design, the initiative provided students with hands-on experience building a tiny 鈥渕odel鈥� structure. The experience guided them in estimating, scheduling, project management, fabrication and skill development.
Goodson shared that these practical experiences have helped students feel prepared for the demands of the construction industry.
鈥淒eveloping essential skills in design, fabrication and installation has given me a strong foundation to build upon as I enter the workforce,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hese experiences have reinforced my confidence and readiness to enter the field.鈥�
Before even crossing the graduation stage, Goodson has secured a position as an assistant field manager with Brassfield & Gorrie, one of the nation鈥檚 largest construction management firms. He will now join the ranks of Southern Miss alumni making a lasting impact in the construction industry.
He credited the program鈥檚 faculty for their guidance and for providing valuable resources along the way.
鈥淥ur professors bring incredible knowledge and enthusiasm to the program, generating excitement for careers in construction. Additionally, the Construction Lab has been a great resource, allowing students to safely learn how to operate power tools and build projects, making it an invaluable part of our education.鈥�
Walls further emphasized the impact of the program.
鈥淏y the time they {students} graduate from Southern Miss, they鈥檙e not only ready for life鈥攖hey鈥檙e ready to make a lasting impact in the construction industry,鈥� Walls added.