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?
Structural bays sized for future extension
Passive · New build only
One of 2 ways to meet this need. Cost, carbon, footprint and rankings are relative to other solutions for the same need, not absolute.
A frame and foundations planned from the start so an extension can be added later. The spacing of posts and the size of footings already allow for more rooms. The house can grow without rebuilding what exists.
Build it
Nothing separate is built here: this is a choice about how the home is designed or used.
Cost
Medium
Upkeep
None
Skill to build
Intermediate
Lifespan
Matches structure lifespan (a planning/sizing choice, not a physical component)
Embodied carbon
Low
Space / material use
None
Output timing
None
Skill to repair
Intermediate
Regulation (FR example)
Part of the structure or footprint: covered by the building permit (permis de construire) for a new dwelling. Rural sites are additionally constrained by the commune's PLU zoning, outside a constructible zone, a new dwelling is generally refused.
Levels are relative to the other options for this need, not absolute. Fewer dots is lighter.
Structural bays sized for future extension (This page) Can I use it? Not in a flat · New build only What does it cost me? Upfront cost: Medium · Skill to build: Intermediate · Upkeep: None · Change to daily life: None · Works without the grid: Yes Choose it if you want to extend later without rebuilding what exists.
Non-load-bearing internal partitions Can I use it? Works in a flat · No rebuilding needed What does it cost me? Upfront cost: Low · Skill to build: Basic · Upkeep: None · Change to daily life: None · Works without the grid: Yes Choose it if you want to change the layout as the household changes.
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.