For Matthew Williston, a Mystic native and Stonington High School graduate, he always knew he wanted to be an architect. After years spent studying at Boston Architectural College and building a career across Boston and Richmond, Virginia, he found himself called back to the shoreline community that helped raise him. Now, he’s channeling that passion and purpose into Tidal Build, a design-build firm based in Downtown Mystic.

Matt teamed up with fellow Stonington alumni Luke LeBras and Maxx Heerlein to open Tidal Build in October of 2023. What began as a few decks and kitchens for their families, has evolved into a portfolio that includes hotels, commercial, multifamily developments, and custom residential new construction. With projects spanning Mystic, Stonington, Block Island, Westerly and beyond, Matt’s vision for Tidal Build is clear: keep growing while staying grounded in the community. “We’re just getting started,” he says. “But everything we do, we want to do it right—and we want to do it in our community.”

Growing up, Matt learned first hand from his mom, Donna Williston, how to run a successful downtown business, The Finer Line Gallery and Framers of the Lost Art, that has now been open for over 40 years. Now, he follows in her entrepreneurial footsteps, determined to give back to the community that gave him so much. “It’s nice to be recognized in the community for starting a business here and being able to give back” Matt shares. “I’ve always dreamed of owning and operating my own firm, and now I get to do that in the town where I grew up with two of my best friends.”

A licensed architect in both Connecticut and Rhode Island, Matt is also a member of the Connecticut chapter of the American Institute of Architects and an Eagle Scout from Stonington’s own Troop #76. Giving back has long been a theme in Matt’s life. His parents were active in the Chamber of Commerce when he was young and they helped build the Mystic River Playground, where a bench still bears their name.

Matt finds daily inspiration in the creativity of architecture, new projects, and the people he surrounds himself with. He credits his mom, Donna, his brother, Chris, and one of his first bosses, Interior Designer Charles Spada, for instilling in him a love for antiques, a strong work ethic, and a keen eye for design. When he's not at the drafting table or on a job site, Matt enjoys boating to Sandy Point or sailing to Block, skiing around New England, golfing, bowling, and spending time with his girlfriend Megan and their dog, Peanut.

The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce congratulates Matt Williston on his professional success and his heartfelt return to his roots. By opening a local business and designing the future of Southeastern Connecticut, he’s helping shape the future of the community he calls home.