About Us.
HELD Architecture is a Charlotte-based architecture firm founded by Kristina Held, AIA, with a mission to design spaces that connect people, communities, and the environment. With deep roots in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg region and a strong commitment to sustainability and wellness, HELD creates architecture that blends innovation with integrity — always rooted in place, purpose, and people.
We approach every project as an opportunity to shape a more regenerative built environment — one that prioritizes energy efficiency, resilience, and quality of life. From urban infill housing to large-scale mixed-use developments, our work consistently reflects human-centered, environmentally responsible design.
Notable projects include:
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The Cannery – A transformative mixed-use waterfront development in Salem, OR
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Pester Pac USA Headquarters – A next-generation industrial facility in Charlotte
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Charlotte’s First Pre-Certified Passive House – Setting a new benchmark for high-performance residential design
HELD’s philosophy and approach are guided by Kristina’s leadership and vision. As a recognized advocate for sustainable architecture and Passive House design, she brings clarity, creativity, and purpose to every project.
She is joined by a team that expands the firm’s capabilities through strategic development services and project planning expertise — allowing HELD Architecture to offer comprehensive support from concept to completion.
Meet the people shaping our work:
President
Kristina Held, AIA
Kristina is an experienced architect specializing in sustainable architecture, Passive House design, and community-centered development. With over 20 years of expertise across the U.S. and Europe, she is passionate about creating resilient, high-performance communities through thoughtful design. Education: -Master of Architecture (MArch-II), University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 2004 -Professional Degree in Architecture and Architectural Engineering (Dipl.-Ing. Architektin), University of Kaiserslautern, Germany, 2000 -Studies in Architecture, University of Belgrade, Serbia, 1999 Professional Experience: -Co-owner, Insight Architects (2014–2025) -Founding Partner, Grün – Sustainable Architecture and Design (2013–2015) -Design contributions to leading firms in Charlotte, NC, and Frankfurt, Germany Certifications and Accreditations: -Certified Passive House Consultant (CPHC) -LEED Accredited Professional, Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) -Licensed Architect in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Oregon -American Institute of Architects (AIA) member -NCARB Certified Kristina brings a global perspective and a strong commitment to energy-efficient, community-driven design solutions that elevate how people live, work, and connect.
Vice President
Bojan Held
Seasoned operations leader with 25+ years spearheading custom interior and tradeshow projects at Studio Displays. Former General Manager overseeing 45+ team members, driving efficiency and growth; previously Director of Operations, optimizing workflows and delivery. Now channeling this expertise into business development, marketing, and financial strategy at Held Architecture—leveraging proven project management skills to expand client partnerships, streamline budgets, and fuel sustainable innovation in high-performance design. Passionate about bridging operational excellence with purposeful, eco-conscious design to create spaces that perform beautifully for clients and the planet. Open to connecting with developers, owners, and collaborators interested in efficient, forward-thinking architecture solutions. Education: ATS, Belgrade, Serbia European degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's in construction management. Sumatovacka – Center for Art, Belgrade, Serbia Fine Arts Studies
Junior Architect
Shams Alkorwi
Shams is a thoughtful and detail-oriented designer whose work reflects a global foundation in architectural design. Originally from Baghdad, she earned her Bachelor of Architecture with a minor in Interior Design from the University of Baghdad in 2020. Prior to joining Held Architecture in Charlotte, she worked with a leading Baghdad-based firm on high-end residential and mixed-use projects, contributing to everything from schematic design and Revit modeling to BIM coordination and photorealistic renderings. Her design approach combines technical precision with a strong visual sensibility. Shams brings a collaborative spirit and cross-cultural perspective to Held’s residential and community-focused projects across the Southeast. Education University of Baghdad, College of Architecture Bachelor of Architecture, 2020 Minor in Interior Design Languages Arabic (native) English (intermediate)
Senior Advisor
Joe Meyer
Joe has over 40 years of design, management, and marketing of domestic and international multi-disciplinary architectural and interior projects including commercial, hospitality, sustainable, alternative energy, and federal work. Emphasis on client relationship management achieved by building and maintaining excellent client service through strategic planning, scheduling (man-power & construction), budgeting, mentoring, and project management. Expertise in large-scale, multi-faceted and complex design projects. Specialties: Programming, Space planning, Project management, marketing, budget creation and tracking, team management, scheduling, process creation, code issues and resolution Education UNC at Charlotte BA in Architecture,