I am delighted to announce that the long awaited Understanding Passivhaus – A Simple Guide to Passivhaus Detailing and Design is now available!

The book explores the Passivhaus key principles and looks at the various building methods that can be employed to achieve Passivhaus standard. 

We look at some of the following topics:

• What is a Passivhaus?
• PHPP
• Certification
• Principles of Passivhaus design, including:
  •     Building fabric
  •     Form factor
  •     Insulation
  •     Thermal bridge
  •     Airtightness
  •     Building services    
  •     Windows
  •     Solar design
  •     Shading
  •     Summer ventilation
  •     Roof lights
• Types of construction, including:
  •     Masonry
  •     Timber frame
  •     SIPS (Structural Insulated Panels)
  •     Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF)
• Construction Details
• Case Studies

The Passivhaus standard, developed in Germany, is a low energy design standard.

It was developed in 1990, over 25 years ago and some estimates suggest there are well over 50,000 Passivhaus buildings around the world.

Some of the key characteristics of a Passivhaus include:

• Excellent levels of thermal comfort

• Very low energy demands

• Provision of consistent fresh air throughout the building

• High levels of insulation

• Airtight design

• Low energy costs

Passivhaus is the fastest growing energy performance standard in the world. 

Whether you are an architect, student, construction professional or have an interest in the Passivhaus method, this book will serve as a great introduction to Passivhaus detailing and design.