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 Gloucester?
In Gloucester, 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). Building costs in the South West are close to the UK average, so the figures for Gloucester are close to our national guide. 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 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- 3D visuals
- Measured survey complexity
- 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 Gloucester
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in Gloucester follow the rules for 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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
Handled as part of most architectural drawings:
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Design options and sketch layouts
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 Gloucester
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 Gloucester and neighbouring areas such as Cheltenham, Stroud and Tewkesbury. Postcodes we cover in Gloucester include GL1.
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 Gloucester
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Gloucester?
In Gloucester, 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.
Do you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
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.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Gloucester?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Gloucester, including postcodes GL1. Every project starts with a free home visit.
