Lowtech Graph lists low-tech options for every need of a home. Here you can compare them, find tutorials to build them, and link them together into a circular system. Why low-tech?
Passive · New build only
Note: Cost, carbon and footprint are broad judgements against comparable building approaches, not measured figures.
A site/plot orientation allowing a genuine south-facing aspect for main glazing
A house turned so that its main windows and living rooms face south, with storerooms, stairs and utility rooms on the north side. The low winter sun comes in and warms the living spaces, while the rooms on the cold side act as a shield. The house needs less heating.
Nothing separate is built here: this is a choice about how the home is designed or used.
none
The only option catalogued for this need so far, so there is nothing to compare it against.
We don’t list sizing or quantities, as the yield of each technique depends on the quality of its build. The catalogue compares options but doesn’t dimension them. Regulatory notes are indicative, with a French example, and need to be confirmed locally.