Kristina Held
In this Women in Construction Week edition of CO Pod, Kristina Held, President and Founder of Held Architecture, joins us to explore what sustainability and high‑performance design really mean in today’s built environment.
With more than 20 years in practice, Kristina’s career includes leadership at Insight Architects, the founding of Grün – Sustainable Architecture and Design, and now guiding Held Architecture’s innovative portfolio of urban infill and mixed‑use projects. As Charlotte’s first Passive House–certified architect, her global education and experience, from Belgrade and Kaiserslautern to UNC Charlotte, fuel her commitment to climate‑responsive, people‑centered design.
This episode dives into how thoughtful, future‑focused architecture can shape healthier, more sustainable communities for generations.
Episode Highlights
Kristina shares her multicultural upbringing and how living in Montenegro, Germany, and the US shaped her as an architect.
A deep dive into the multifaceted role of architects as coordinators, problem-solvers, and lifelong learners.
How site conditions, climate, project scope, and client personalities influence design decisions.
Kristina explains her method of letting concepts “simmer” before bringing them to life in a design.
An accessible explanation of passive house design, high-performance buildings, and sustainable systems.
Key questions Kristina asks clients to align design with lifestyle, business needs, and project goals.
Kristina reflects on her experience as a female architect and the evolving opportunities for women in the field.
Comparing construction practices, materials, and cultural approaches between the US and Europe.
