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 Camden?
In Camden, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £2,000–£5,750 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 London, where labour and materials are typically about 30% above average. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £2,000–£5,750 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £5,750–£7,250 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Measured survey complexity
- Number of design options
- Project size and complexity
- Planning or building regulations stage
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Planning and building regulations in Camden
The approval route for Camden is set by planning law 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
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Party wall drawings where needed
- 3D views on request
- Building regulations drawings and specification
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 Camden
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
We work across Camden and neighbouring areas such as Islington, Highgate and Hampstead. Postcodes we cover in Camden include N1C, NW1W, NW3 and NW26.
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 Camden
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Camden?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Camden, including postcodes N1C, NW1W, NW3 and NW26. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Camden?
In Camden, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £2,000–£5,750 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.
