About us

Great architecture improves lives. Our projects make a positive difference to communities through innovation, sustainability and collaboration.

Decades of excellence

CSY combines generations of experience working with homeowners, businesses and community groups across Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife, the Scottish Borders and Northumberland.

Formerly known as Camerons Strachan Yuill, CSY Architects was formed in 2020, as an employee-owned firm bringing together the creativity of Douglas Strachan Architects and Bain Swan Architects with Camerons Architects, which was established over 60 years ago. In 2024 the team was further enhanced with the incorporation of the Davidson Baxter Partnership, a Fife-based practice with a particular expertise in hospitality projects, which was formed over 40 years ago.

As practical innovators we achieve design excellence, embrace new technology and ensure sustainability is at the heart of our activity. We balance idealism with realism, so our clients receive the best possible results, whether it’s a house extension or housing development, new business premises or a village hall.

Genuine collaboration

We become our clients’ trusted partners, a source of design inspiration and practical advice, making places work for people. Pragmatic and experienced architects, we understand the funding options available for projects and achieve the maximum value within client budgets. We work quickly while collaborating with all stakeholders.

From project inception to final sign-off, we are available on site, helping with planning and offering advice to ensure that projects are not just designed to the highest standards but delivered properly too. This collaborative approach is the way we make client visions a reality.

Our people

We are an employee-owned firm, so decisions are made by team members who are themselves part of the local communities we serve and are committed to providing a personal service to all our clients.

In-house expertise includes energy-efficient, sustainable and Passivhaus design, renewable energy technology and conservation architecture.

We regularly feature in the Urban Realm top 100 architects in Scotland.

Supporting personal development

CSY is one of only a few employee-owned architect firms in Scotland, and all our valued colleagues have an opportunity to play an active role in developing our culture and direction, as well as the potential to maximise rewards. Self-empowered career development is encouraged across all our architect, technologist and business support roles.

As signatories to the Young Person’s Guarantee we help prepare young people for the world of work by running career sessions at local high schools. Under the Career Ready scheme, we offer paid internships and mentoring to help young people achieve their potential.

Can we help you achieve your vision?

If you're a homeowner, business, community group, housing association or land owner planning a project in Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife, the Scottish Borders or Northumberland, we'd be delighted to discuss your ideas.