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 Birkenhead?
In Birkenhead, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,250 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). That range is adjusted for the North West, where domestic building work typically costs around 6% below the national average. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,500–£4,250 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,250–£5,250 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Number of design options
- 3D visuals
- Project size and complexity
- Measured survey complexity
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Planning and building regulations in Birkenhead
Before anything is built in Birkenhead, we confirm which approvals apply in 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.
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
- 3D views on request
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Party wall drawings where needed
- 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 Birkenhead
Terraced streets across the North West often suit rear dormers and single-storey kitchen extensions.
Birkenhead sits in Merseyside, about 2 miles south-west of Liverpool. We cover the whole of Birkenhead, including postcodes CH41 and CH42.
How it works
- 01
Measured survey
We visit and measure the house so the drawings start from accurate information.
- 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 Birkenhead
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Birkenhead?
In Birkenhead, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,250 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 you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
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.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Birkenhead?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Birkenhead, including postcodes CH41 and CH42. Every project starts with a free home visit.
