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 Brighton?
In Brighton, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,750–£5,000 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Brighton are adjusted to reflect that. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,750–£5,000 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £5,000–£6,250 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- 3D visuals
- Measured survey complexity
- Number of design options
- Project size and 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 Brighton
Before anything is built in Brighton, 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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
Handled as part of most architectural drawings:
- 3D views on request
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Party wall drawings where needed
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 Brighton
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
We work across Brighton and neighbouring areas such as Hove, Portslade and Rottingdean. Postcodes we cover in Brighton include BN2.
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
Application drawings
Plans, elevations and supporting documents prepared for the council.
- 04
Submission and follow-up
We submit the application and deal with questions from the council or building control.
Questions about architectural drawings in Brighton
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Brighton?
In Brighton, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,750–£5,000 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 Brighton?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Brighton, including postcodes BN2. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.
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.