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 Chester?
In Chester, 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). That range is adjusted for the North West, where domestic building work typically costs around 6% below the national average. 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 |
What moves the price most:
- 3D visuals
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Structural engineer’s fees
- 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 Chester
Here is how the rules work for a set of architectural drawings in England. In England drawings are prepared to suit the local planning authority’s validation list and, later, building control.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
Handled as part of most architectural drawings:
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Measured survey of the existing house
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 Chester
The North West has many brick terraces and inter-war semis, where kitchen extensions and dormer loft conversions add space without moving.
Projects in Chester (CH1) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, talk through what you want and record the existing building.
- 02
Concept design
Options for layout and appearance, revised until you are happy.
- 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 Chester
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 Chester?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Chester, including postcodes CH1. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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 Chester?
In Chester, 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 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.