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 Durham?
In Durham, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,250–£4,000 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Durham reflects typical costs in the North East, roughly 10% below the UK-wide figure. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,250–£4,000 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,000–£5,000 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Number of design options
- 3D visuals
- Measured survey 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 Durham
Before anything is built in Durham, 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.
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:
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- 3D views on request
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Measured survey of the existing house
- 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 Durham
Across the North East, colliery-era terraces and newer estates sit side by side, so the right project depends on the house type.
Durham sits in County Durham. We cover the whole of Durham, including postcodes DH1.
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 Durham
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
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 Durham?
In Durham, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,250–£4,000 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.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Durham?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Durham, including postcodes DH1. Every project starts with a free home visit.