Abstract: A function-based habitat design and construction method includes as a first step an “as is” assessment of a terrain; as a second step assessing potential optimization for human enjoyment of nature experience and/or habitat restoration in terms of four requirements (feeding, breeding, resting, nesting) for selected habitat guilds representing in simplified form a sustainable animal population; as a third step preparing instructions for implementation upgrading of the terrain in terms of the four requirements. The method is performed with computer assistance.