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 Cheshire?
In Cheshire, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,250 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Cheshire reflects typical costs in the North West, roughly 6% below the UK-wide figure. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,500–£4,250 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,250–£5,250 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Number of design options
- 3D visuals
- Measured survey complexity
- Structural engineer’s fees
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Planning and building regulations in Cheshire
Before anything is built in Cheshire, 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical set of architectural drawings we handle:
- 3D views on request
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Tender-ready drawing pack
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 Cheshire
The North West has many brick terraces and inter-war semis, where kitchen extensions and dormer loft conversions add space without moving.
Towns we cover in Cheshire include Warrington, Chester, Crewe, Ellesmere Port Town, Widnes and Runcorn.
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 Cheshire
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.
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
Do you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Cheshire?
In Cheshire, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,250 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 Cheshire?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Cheshire, including postcodes CH1, CH2, CH3, CH33 and CH34. Every project starts with a free home visit.
