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 Carrickfergus?
In Carrickfergus, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,250–£3,750 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices across Northern Ireland are typically 14% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Carrickfergus. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,250–£3,750 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £3,750–£4,750 |
What moves the price most:
- 3D visuals
- Number of design options
- Project size and complexity
- Measured survey complexity
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 Carrickfergus
Here is how the rules work for a set of architectural drawings in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland drawings are prepared for the council’s planning service and building control.
In Northern Ireland building control approval comes from the council, usually through a full plans application or a building notice, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
The work we manage on a set of architectural drawings:
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- 3D views on request
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Design options and sketch layouts
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 Carrickfergus
Across Northern Ireland, bungalows and chalet bungalows are common, so loft conversions and rear extensions are popular projects.
Projects in Carrickfergus (BT38) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
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
Approval
We follow the application through to a decision and pass on the approved drawings.
Questions about architectural drawings in Carrickfergus
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Carrickfergus?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Carrickfergus, including postcodes BT38. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Carrickfergus?
In Carrickfergus, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,250–£3,750 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.
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.
