This paper explains the basic concept of a “lowEx-Renovation” and demonstrates the potential of its distinct aspects when compared to a normal refurbishment concept. The refurbishment of an office building currently underway at the ETH Zurich is used as an example to demonstrate this idea. It is shown that this concept allows for different solutions for refurbishing buildings, which can reduce refurbishment costs. At the same time this facilitates and reduces the costs of building operation without the production of greenhouse gases. An innovative structural improvement of a façade is highlighted to demonstrate the success of this strategy.