Business Details
20 Years
experience
Chris Matson in Edinburgh
Established in 2006, our practice specialises in high-quality residential architecture, commercial design, and urban regeneration projects. With expertise in listed buildings and conservation areas, we deliver tailored solutions that balance heritage preservation with modern functionality. Our director, Chris Matson, holds qualifications from Edinburgh College of Art and the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, bringing international perspective to every project. We have successfully completed diverse commissions including new-build homes, hotel renovations, and community-led infrastructure developments.Our approach prioritises client collaboration, technical precision, and sustainable design principles. Having worked on award-winning projects like the Three Chimneys Restaurant extension, we maintain strong relationships with contractors and local authorities to ensure seamless project delivery. Our practice continues to evolve, most recently forming Matson Mourier Architects in 2024 to expand our capabilities while retaining personal service standards.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Design
Urban Regeneration
Listed Building Restoration
Community Infrastructure
Design Consultancy
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer 18+ years of experience in listed building conservation
- Our team holds RIBA chartered architect status
- We deliver projects from initial concept to completion
- We maintain strong local authority relationships for planning approvals
- Our practice combines international design perspective with local knowledge
Associations and certifications
- ARIA
- RIBA
- ARB
What people say
High standards
Attention to detail
Creative and strategic thinker
Sympathetic to existing properties
Professional services
Services
Residential Architecture
Specialist residential design covering new-build properties, extensions, and renovations. We create functional living spaces that respect architectural heritage while incorporating modern comforts. Our expertise includes navigating planning restrictions in conservation areas and working with listed buildings to deliver contemporary solutions that maintain historical integrity.
Listed Building Restoration
Expert conservation and restoration of protected structures. We specialise in maintaining historical integrity while implementing necessary modernisations. Our approach combines traditional building techniques with contemporary requirements, ensuring compliance with heritage regulations while enhancing usability for modern occupants.
Urban Regeneration
Comprehensive urban design solutions for town centre revitalisation and public space improvement. We develop schemes that enhance community connectivity, improve accessibility, and create sustainable environments. Our experience includes major regeneration projects like Muirhouse Town Centre redevelopment and pedestrianised street designs.
Commercial Design
Tailored commercial architecture for hospitality, retail, and office spaces. We create functional environments that enhance business operations while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Our portfolio includes award-winning restaurant extensions and commercial property conversions that balance practical requirements with design excellence.
Community Infrastructure
Design and planning of community-focused infrastructure developments. We specialise in creating accessible public spaces, pedestrian routes, and recreational facilities that address local needs. Our approach considers environmental impact, community engagement, and long-term sustainability in projects like the Eskbank to Dalkeith path network.
People
Chris Matson
Director
Chartered architect with 20+ years' experience in residential and commercial design. Holds RIBA and ARB accreditation. Specialises in listed buildings and urban regeneration. Previously co-founded Matson Henderson Architects and now leads Matson Mourier Architects since 2024.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential architecture, listed building conservation, urban regeneration, and commercial design projects across Edinburgh and the Scottish Borders.
Can you work with listed buildings?
Yes, we have extensive experience with Grade A, B, and C listed buildings, specialising in sympathetic renovations and conservation area developments.
Do you handle planning applications?
Yes, we manage full planning submissions including listed building consents and advertisement approvals for commercial projects.
What accreditations do you hold?
Our practice includes RIBA chartered architects with ARB registration and ARIAS accreditation for architectural professionals.
How do you manage project timelines?
We use structured project phases with regular client updates, coordinating with contractors and local authorities to maintain schedule adherence.
