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 Chippenham?
In Chippenham, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,500 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices in the South West sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Chippenham reflects that. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,500–£4,500 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,500–£5,500 |
What moves the price most:
- Project size and complexity
- 3D visuals
- Structural engineer’s fees
- 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 Chippenham
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in Chippenham follow the rules for 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.
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
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- 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 Chippenham
In parts of the South West, protected landscapes and conservation areas shape what can be built, so materials and roof forms are chosen carefully.
We work across Chippenham and neighbouring areas such as Melksham, Trowbridge and Bath. Postcodes we cover in Chippenham include SN15.
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
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 Chippenham
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Chippenham?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Chippenham, including postcodes SN15. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Chippenham?
In Chippenham, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,500 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.
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.
