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 Cambridge?
In Cambridge, 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). Prices across the East of England are typically 6% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Cambridge. 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
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Project size and complexity
- 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 Cambridge
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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
What we take care of:
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Measured survey of the existing house
- 3D views on request
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- 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 Cambridge
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 Cambridge or close by in Newmarket, Ely and Huntingdon, 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
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 Cambridge
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.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Cambridge?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Cambridge, including postcodes CB5, CB21, CB22 and CB23. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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 Cambridge?
In Cambridge, 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 structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.