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 Guildford?
In Guildford, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,750–£5,000 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Guildford are adjusted to reflect that. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,750–£5,000 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £5,000–£6,250 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Number of design options
- 3D visuals
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 Guildford
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in 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.
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
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- 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 Guildford
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
Our Guildford coverage includes postcode districts GU1, and we also work in nearby places such as Godalming, Woking and Aldershot.
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
Approval
We follow the application through to a decision and pass on the approved drawings.
Questions about architectural drawings in Guildford
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 structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Guildford?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Guildford, including postcodes GU1. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Guildford?
In Guildford, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,750–£5,000 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.
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.