Business Details
10 Years
experience
Bespoke Architectural Design in Edinburgh
We are a chartered architectural practice specialising in high-quality residential projects, listed buildings, small-scale commercial developments, and urban design. Established in 2016, our work combines creative vision with technical expertise, focusing on sensitive conservation and modern adaptation of historic structures. Our director, Chris Matson, brings over two decades of experience, having trained at Edinburgh College of Art and collaborated with renowned architects like Jan Gehl in Copenhagen. We prioritise client collaboration, delivering tailored solutions that respect architectural heritage while embracing contemporary functionality. Our portfolio includes award-winning projects such as the Three Chimneys Restaurant extension, which redefined accessible design in luxury hospitality.We maintain strong relationships with contractors, engineers, and local authorities to ensure seamless project delivery. Our commitment to excellence has earned recognition in global design awards and repeat commissions from satisfied clients. We believe architecture should enhance lives, creating spaces that are both beautiful and practical. Our services span from initial concept design to project completion, with a focus on sustainability and contextual sensitivity. We actively engage with community-led initiatives, contributing to urban regeneration projects that improve public spaces. Our practice is built on transparency, reliability, and a deep understanding of Edinburgh's architectural landscape.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Developments
Conservation Projects
Urban Design
Listed Building Alterations
New Build Homes
Public Realm Design
Community Regeneration
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- Chartered architects with expertise in listed building conservation
- Award-winning designs for luxury hospitality and residential projects
- 20+ years' experience in Edinburgh's architectural landscape
- Proven track record in urban regeneration and community projects
- Direct collaboration with director throughout project lifecycle
Associations and certifications
- ARIA
- RIBA
- ARB
What people say
Attention to detail
Creative solutions
Professional service
Award-winning results
Community-focused design
Services
Residential Architecture
We create bespoke residential spaces that balance modern functionality with architectural heritage. Our expertise includes new-build homes and extensions within conservation areas. Projects prioritise natural light, sustainable materials, and seamless integration with historic contexts while meeting modern living standards.
Listed Building Conservation
Specialist conservation of Category A/B listed buildings ensures historical integrity remains intact. We navigate complex planning requirements to deliver sensitive alterations and extensions. Our approach combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary adaptations for practical modern use of protected structures.
Urban Regeneration
We transform urban spaces through pedestrian-friendly designs and community-focused developments. Projects include public realm improvements and mixed-use regeneration schemes. Our work enhances connectivity while preserving architectural character in Edinburgh's evolving cityscape.
Commercial Developments
We design functional commercial environments from boutique hotels to office spaces. Our solutions optimise layouts for operational efficiency while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Recent projects include award-winning hospitality venues with innovative accessibility features.
Public Infrastructure
We develop accessible public spaces and infrastructure that improve community engagement. Our work includes multi-user paths and civic squares that reconnect fragmented urban areas. Designs prioritise sustainability and universal access for diverse user groups.
People
Chris Matson
Director
Chartered architect with 20+ years' experience specialising in Edinburgh's architectural heritage. Trained at Edinburgh College of Art and Royal Danish Academy. Founded Matson Henderson Architects in 2006 and co-founded Matson Mourier Architects in 2024.
Gill Mourier
Co-Director
Experienced architect collaborating with Chris Matson since 2024. Brings expertise in sustainable design and community-focused projects. Previously worked on complex urban regeneration schemes across Scotland.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential projects, listed building conservation, urban regeneration, and commercial developments across Edinburgh and the Scottish Borders.
Can you work with listed buildings?
Yes, we have extensive experience with Category A/B listed buildings, ensuring conservation compliance while implementing modern adaptations for practical use.
How do you approach urban regeneration projects?
We focus on pedestrian-friendly designs, community connectivity, and preserving architectural heritage while introducing sustainable infrastructure improvements.
What is your design philosophy?
We blend creative vision with technical expertise to create functional spaces that respect historical context and meet modern sustainability standards.
Which areas do you serve?
Primarily Edinburgh, Scottish Borders, and Peebles, with select projects in North Berwick and wider Scotland for specialist commissions.
