ARCHITECTURAL practice Bracewell has opened a new office in Leith and appointed Matthew Ansell as senior associate.
Located at 40 Constitution Street, the new base is said to represent an important milestone in the firm’s development, providing a dedicated location to work more closely with clients, partners and project teams across Edinburgh, the Lothians and the east of Scotland.
Matthew brings more than 25 years’ experience in architecture and masterplanning, with expertise spanning residential development, regeneration, heritage and complex placemaking projects. He has held senior positions at Scottish architectural practices, including META Architecture and Michael Laird Architects.
Bracewell senior partner, David Keith, said, “The opening of our Edinburgh office marks an important step in Bracewell’s continued development. Establishing a permanent presence in the capital allows us to build on existing relationships, develop new opportunities and work more closely with clients and project teams across the region.
“We are equally pleased to welcome Matt to Bracewell. His extensive experience, industry knowledge and understanding of residential development and masterplanning will be a valuable addition to the practice. His appointment further strengthens our expertise as we continue to deliver high-quality, sustainable places and buildings for communities across Scotland.”
Matthew Ansell added, “Bracewell has established a strong reputation over more than a century for delivering thoughtful, high-quality architecture and masterplanning projects. I am delighted to be joining the practice at such an important stage in its development. The new Edinburgh office provides an excellent opportunity to build relationships, develop projects and contribute to the practice’s continued success. I look forward to working alongside colleagues, clients and communities to deliver projects that respond to local needs and create lasting value.”
Founded in 1925, Bracewell now employs 45 people across five offices, providing architecture, masterplanning and energy & sustainability services.
The expansion follows a period of significant activity for the practice, including being named Supporting Member of the Year at the Homes for Scotland Awards 2026 and securing major architectural and energy advisor framework appointments with Link Group and Langstane Housing Association and their partners.
Over the past year, Bracewell has supported proposals for approximately 6,800 homes across multiple Scottish local authority areas.
