In the course of the last two decades, the passive house standard has evolved into a key benchmark for energy-efficient construction. Passive houses are being erected in almost all parts of the world and for all types of users. At the same time, many architects are unsure about the specifics: What do passive houses really deliver, and what errors need to be avoided during planning? This book provides architects with the confidence required to deal with the passive house standard. It shows where there is significant scope for design and explains design strategies that lead to better passive houses. A selection of international buildings illustrate how design, construction and building technology combine in passive houses. Chapters on building physics, building services engineering and energy balancing round out the planning guidelines.