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 Derry?
In Derry, 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). That range is adjusted for Northern Ireland, where domestic building work typically costs around 14% below the national 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Measured survey complexity
- 3D visuals
- Number of design options
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 Derry
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in Derry follow the rules for 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.
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:
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- 3D views on request
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
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 Derry
Across Northern Ireland, bungalows and chalet bungalows are common, so loft conversions and rear extensions are popular projects.
Our Derry coverage includes postcode districts BT47, and we also work in nearby places such as Strabane, Limavady and Coleraine.
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
Drawings and documents
The drawings and forms the council and building control need.
- 04
Approval
We follow the application through to a decision and pass on the approved drawings.
Questions about architectural drawings in Derry
Do you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Derry?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Derry, including postcodes BT47. 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 long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Derry?
In Derry, 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.