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 County Londonderry?
In County Londonderry, 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). We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for Northern Ireland, where labour and materials are typically about 14% below average. 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
- Measured survey complexity
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Project size and complexity
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Planning and building regulations in County Londonderry
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland drawings are prepared for the council’s planning service and building control.
Northern Ireland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls relies on agreement with the neighbour and common law, so we agree the arrangements in writing before work starts.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- 3D views on request
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- 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 County Londonderry
Across Northern Ireland, bungalows and chalet bungalows are common, so loft conversions and rear extensions are popular projects.
Towns we cover in County Londonderry include Derry, Coleraine, Limavady and Magherafelt.
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
Drawings and documents
The drawings and forms the council and building control need.
- 04
Submission and follow-up
We submit the application and deal with questions from the council or building control.
Questions about architectural drawings in County Londonderry
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.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in County Londonderry?
In County Londonderry, 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.
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 architectural drawings in County Londonderry?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across County Londonderry, including postcodes BT28, BT45, BT46, BT47 and BT48. Every project starts with a free home visit.
