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 Barnes?
In Barnes, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £2,000–£5,750 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in London run about 30% above the UK average, and the figures for Barnes are adjusted to reflect that. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £2,000–£5,750 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £5,750–£7,250 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- 3D visuals
- Project size and complexity
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Structural engineer’s fees
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Planning and building regulations in Barnes
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in Barnes follow the rules for England. In England drawings are prepared to suit the local planning authority’s validation list and, later, building control.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
On a typical set of architectural drawings we handle:
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
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 Barnes
Space is at a premium in London, so homeowners often build out into the side return or up into the roof rather than move.
From SW13 outwards, we take on projects throughout Barnes and the surrounding parts of Greater London.
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 Barnes
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Barnes?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Barnes, including postcodes SW13. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Barnes?
In Barnes, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £2,000–£5,750 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.
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.
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.
