Prescott Passive House was the sixth residence built by Studio 804 in Kansas City, Kansas, and presented a unique set of challenges. The country was still recovering from the Great Recession of 2008, and housing affordability had become an increasingly pressing issue. Sustainable design, particularly in relation to energy use, often emphasizes high-efficiency mechanical systems, creating a perceived trade-off between sustainability and affordability. To address this challenge, Studio 804 students focused on passive design strategies to minimize energy consumption while targeting affordability for a future homeowner earning 80% or less of the area median income.

In addition to LEED Platinum certification, Prescott Passive House achieved Passive House certification, a standard originating in Germany that seeks to reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling by up to 90%. The heating load is significantly reduced through a super-insulated, virtually airtight building envelope, broad southern exposure, and an energy recovery ventilator that provides a continuous supply of fresh air while helping distribute heat throughout the house.