What is a set of architectural drawings?

Architectural design turns your ideas into drawings that a council and a builder can work from. It starts with a measured survey of the house, then design options, planning drawings and, once approved, detailed building regulations drawings and specifications.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Ballymena?
In Ballymena, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,250–£3,750 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in Northern Ireland run about 14% below the UK average, and the figures for Ballymena are adjusted to reflect that. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,250–£3,750 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £3,750–£4,750 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Number of design options
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Project size and complexity
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Planning and building regulations in Ballymena
Here is how the rules work for a set of architectural drawings in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland drawings are prepared for the council’s planning service and building control.
Northern Ireland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls relies on agreement with the neighbour and common law, so we agree the arrangements in writing before work starts.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
On a typical set of architectural drawings we handle:
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Measured survey of the existing house
How long does it take?
Allow 2 to 6 weeks for drawings, depending on complexity. If the drawings are for a planning application, add the council’s decision period once they are submitted.
Building in Ballymena
Across Northern Ireland, bungalows and chalet bungalows are common, so loft conversions and rear extensions are popular projects.
Ballymena sits in County Antrim, about 23 miles north-west of Belfast. We cover the whole of Ballymena, including postcodes BT42, BT43 and BT44.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, talk through what you want and record the existing building.
- 02
Design options
Sketch layouts to agree the approach before detailed drawing starts.
- 03
Drawings and documents
The drawings and forms the council and building control need.
- 04
Approval
We follow the application through to a decision and pass on the approved drawings.
Questions about architectural drawings in Ballymena
Do you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Ballymena?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Ballymena, including postcodes BT42, BT43 and BT44. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Ballymena?
In Ballymena, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,250–£3,750 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
What drawings are needed for planning?
Usually existing and proposed floor plans and elevations, a block plan and a location plan. Some councils need more.
Do I need an architect?
Not necessarily. For extensions and lofts, an architectural technician’s drawings are common. For complex or sensitive sites, an architect may be better.
