About HELD Architecture | Experts in Sustainable and Passive House Design

About Us.

Held Architecture, founded by Kristina Held, is a forward-thinking architecture firm dedicated to designing spaces that harmonize with both people and nature. With over 20 years of experience in the Charlotte Mecklenburg area, Kristina brings a wealth of expertise in sustainable architecture, having served as an architect, designer and consultant on numerous LEED and Passive House certified projects. As the first Passive House Certified Consultant in Charlotte (2019), she has spearheaded innovative projects that prioritize environmental integration, energy efficiency, and regenerative design.

At Held Architecture, we believe the built environment shapes quality of life for generations. Our holistic, collaborative approach ensures every project—from urban infill micro-units to mixed-use developments—reflects a commitment to sustainability, functionality, and beauty.

With a portfolio featuring projects like The Cannery mixed-use development, Headquarters for Pester Pac USA and Charlotte’s first pre-certified Passive House, Held Architecture is poised to lead the way in creating architecture that serves humanity and heals the planet.

Kristina Held, Founder of HELD Architecture

President

Kristina Held, AIA

Kristina’s passion for creating impactful, sustainable communities shines through her work. She holds advanced degrees from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (MArch-II, 2004), the University of Kaiserslautern in Germany (Dipl.Ing.Architektin, 2000), and studied at the University of Belgrade. Her career spans leadership roles at Insight Architects (co-owner, 2014-2025) and Grün – Sustainable Architecture and Design (Founding Partner, 2013-2015), alongside contributions to notable firms in Charlotte and Frankfurt, Germany. EDUCATION University of North Carolina at Charlotte College of Architecture Masters of Architecture (MArch-II), spring 2004 University of Kaiserslautern, Kaiserslautern, Germany Professional Degree in Architecture and Architectural Engineering (Dipl.Ing.Architektin) Summer 2000 University of Belgrade, College of Architecture, Belgrade, Serbia Summer 1999 ACREDITATIONS AIA LEED AP BD+C CPHC (Certified Passive House Consultant) NCARB LICENSES North Carolina South Carolina Oregon

Principal, Future of Neighborhood Development

Trent Michels

Trent Michels brings over a decade of expertise in real estate development to Held Architecture, specializing in luxury midrise, mixed-use, and wellness-focused projects that redefine neighborhoods. As Principal of Future of Neighborhood Development (FuND), Trent has successfully delivered 1,461 market-rate multifamily units across high-growth markets, achieving consistent and stable returns for investors. His innovative approach integrates health and wellness standards—such as Fitwell and NGBS—alongside sustainable design principles like biophilic architecture and climate-resilient strategies. With Held Architecture, Trent leads our additional “Full Service Solutions,” offering clients a comprehensive suite of development services, including: Market Feasibility Studies: Identifying high-potential opportunities through data-driven analysis. Project Financing & Budgeting: Structuring capital stacks and optimizing returns with strategies like Opportunity Zone investments and CPACE financing. Permitting & Regulations: Navigating complex entitlements with efficiency and local expertise. Smart Material Sourcing: Leveraging sustainable innovations like Mass Plywood Panels for cost-effective, eco-friendly construction. Marketing & Sales Support: Positioning projects to attract premium tenants and maximize asset value. Risk Management: Ensuring long-term resilience and profitability through strategic planning and ESG integration. A graduate of The United States Military Academy, Trent combines disciplined leadership with a passion for community-centric development. His notable projects include a entitlement of a Wellness Village in Charlotte, NC, and The Cannery, a mixed-use waterfront transformation in Salem, OR. As a member of the National Town Builders Association, he fosters vibrant, interconnected communities that elevate quality of life while delivering reliable financial outcomes. Trent's team supports Held Architecture’s mission to transform the built environment through strategic oversight and a proven track record to enhance our ability to deliver innovative, sustainable, and profitable projects for clients and partners alike.

Marketing Strategist

Jenn Griffin

Interested in Working with Our Team?

The final product turned out to be an outstanding design with uniqueness, intentional consideration to environmental sustainability, and overall impressive concept. Their approach, follow up and work was superb, professional, and most of all, exceeded our expectations.”

Michelle Hepler

Iredell County Parks and Recreation Director