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 Bournemouth?
In Bournemouth, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,500 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices in the South West sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Bournemouth reflects that. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,500–£4,500 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,500–£5,500 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Number of design options
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Project size and complexity
- 3D visuals
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 Bournemouth
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in Bournemouth 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:
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Measured survey of the existing house
- 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 Bournemouth
In parts of the South West, protected landscapes and conservation areas shape what can be built, so materials and roof forms are chosen carefully.
Our Bournemouth coverage includes postcode districts BH1, BH2, BH7 and BH10, and we also work in nearby places such as Christchurch, Poole and New Milton.
How it works
- 01
Measured survey
We visit and measure the house so the drawings start from accurate information.
- 02
Concept design
Options for layout and appearance, revised until you are happy.
- 03
Application drawings
Plans, elevations and supporting documents prepared for the council.
- 04
Approval
We follow the application through to a decision and pass on the approved drawings.
Questions about architectural drawings in Bournemouth
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Bournemouth?
In Bournemouth, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,500 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.
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Bournemouth?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Bournemouth, including postcodes BH1, BH2, BH7 and BH10. 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.
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
