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 Bishops Stortford?
In Bishops Stortford, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,750 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the East of England, where labour and materials are typically about 6% above average. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,500–£4,750 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,750–£6,000 |
What moves the price most:
- 3D visuals
- Project size and complexity
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Planning or building regulations stage
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Planning and building regulations in Bishops Stortford
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in Bishops Stortford follow the rules for England. In England drawings are prepared to suit the local planning authority’s validation list and, later, building control.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Design options and sketch layouts
- 3D views on request
- 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 Bishops Stortford
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
If your home is in Bishops Stortford or close by in Harlow, Hoddesdon and Hertford, a free home visit is the first step.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, talk through what you want and record the existing building.
- 02
Concept design
Options for layout and appearance, revised until you are happy.
- 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 Bishops Stortford
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
What are building regulations drawings?
More detailed drawings and specifications showing structure, insulation, fire safety, drainage and ventilation, used for building control approval and pricing.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Bishops Stortford?
In Bishops Stortford, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,750 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 you prepare architectural drawings in Bishops Stortford?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Bishops Stortford, including postcodes CM23. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.
