Build your life outside the box.
Education, tools, and inspiration for eco-building and off-grid living.
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ON-THE-GRID VS.
OFF-THE-GRID
Without the grid, your house is just a box!
WELCOME TO THE LAB
“Off-the-grid” refers to a building that is not connected to existing power, water, or sewage infrastructure by wires or pipes. Instead, this building is made with elements that heat and cool it naturally, produce electricity, collect and use water, and treat wastewater. These are the Elements of an Off-Grid Home.
To successfully go off the grid, you will need one ELEMENT from each of the categories below.
Bonus points for creating backup systems! Click on any of the elements below to start exploring!
Our manifesto
We believe the homes of the future must be more than just boxes that depend on the outdated and vulnerable infrastructure of the grid, The homes of the future MUST:
Provide their own
Power, water, and sewage treatment
Have outstanding indoor air quality
as this is so important to the inhabitants overall health
Be resistant
pest-resistant, mold-resistant, and fire-resistant
Be built out of
sustainable, durable materials
Have a long life expectancy
far exceeding that of current homes
Be able to grow food
provide an area for growing healthy food
Be beautiful
and pleasant to live in
Be built quickly
and efficiently with little waste
Be affordable
and accessible for all
