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 Gwynedd?
In Gwynedd, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,250 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Gwynedd reflects typical costs in Wales, roughly 8% below the UK-wide figure. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,500–£4,250 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,250–£5,250 |
The main things that change the cost:
- 3D visuals
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Number of design options
- Structural engineer’s fees
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 Gwynedd
Here is how the rules work for a set of architectural drawings in Wales. In Wales drawings are prepared to suit the council’s validation requirements and Welsh building regulations.
Building regulations in Wales are set by the Welsh Government. Approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
On a typical set of architectural drawings we handle:
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Tender-ready drawing pack
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 Gwynedd
Wales has many terraced valley streets, stone cottages and post-war estates, so extension designs are shaped by slopes, materials and local character.
Towns we cover in Gwynedd include Bangor, Llandudno, Holyhead and Caernarfon.
How it works
- 01
Measured survey
We visit and measure the house so the drawings start from accurate information.
- 02
Design options
Sketch layouts to agree the approach before detailed drawing starts.
- 03
Application drawings
Plans, elevations and supporting documents prepared for the council.
- 04
Submission and follow-up
We submit the application and deal with questions from the council or building control.
Questions about architectural drawings in Gwynedd
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Gwynedd?
In Gwynedd, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,250 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.
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 Gwynedd?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Gwynedd, including postcodes LL21, LL23, LL24, LL25 and LL26. Every project starts with a free home visit.
