Held Architecture: A New Practice Rooted in Sustainable and Regenerative Design

Held Architecture: A New Practice Rooted in Sustainable and Regenerative Design

Held Architecture launches with a clear purpose: to create architecture that is deeply connected to its environment and the people who inhabit it. Led by Kristina Held, a longtime advocate for high-performance, sustainable design, the firm brings a thoughtful, integrated approach to architecture—one that balances beauty, function, and environmental responsibility.

With over two decades of experience shaping the Charlotte-Mecklenburg built environment, Held has led numerous LEED and Passive House-certified projects. As Charlotte’s first Certified Passive House Consultant (2019), her expertise in energy efficiency, material health, and environmental integration has helped set new benchmarks for sustainability in the region.

“Architecture isn’t just about buildings—it’s about shaping places that support people and communities for generations,” says Kristina Held, Founder and President of Held Architecture. “At Held Architecture, we design spaces that feel intuitive, enduring, and responsive to their context—whether that’s a dense urban site, a commercial workplace, or a regenerative landscape.”

A Framework for Sustainable Design

Held Architecture’s approach is guided by five key principles:
– Beauty – Thoughtful, well-proportioned spaces that uplift the human experience.
– Place – Design that respects and responds to its surroundings, both natural and urban.
– Water & Energy – Efficient, responsible use of resources to minimize impact.
– Community – Creating spaces that foster interaction, inclusivity, and connection.
– Health & Well-being – Prioritizing non-toxic materials and indoor environmental quality.

A Track Record of Impactful Work

Held Architecture’s portfolio includes projects that demonstrate the firm’s commitment to sustainability and regenerative design, including:
– The Cannery – A mixed-use development designed with long-term sustainability in mind.
– Headquarters for Pester Pac USA – A high-performance corporate workplace integrating Passive House principles.
– Charlotte’s First Pre-Certified Passive House – A milestone project that advances regional energy efficiency standards.

As Held Architecture embarks on this next chapter, the firm remains focused on designing spaces that serve both people and the planet—spaces that endure, adapt, and inspire.

For more information, visit www.heldarch.com.