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 Hampstead?
In Hampstead, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £2,000–£5,750 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for London, where labour and materials are typically about 30% above average. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £2,000–£5,750 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £5,750–£7,250 |
What moves the price most:
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Measured survey complexity
- Number of design options
- Planning or building regulations stage
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 Hampstead
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in Hampstead 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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
On a typical set of architectural drawings we handle:
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Building regulations drawings and specification
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 Hampstead
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
Projects in Hampstead (NW3) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
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
Submission and follow-up
We submit the application and deal with questions from the council or building control.
Questions about architectural drawings in Hampstead
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Hampstead?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Hampstead, including postcodes NW3. 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 much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Hampstead?
In Hampstead, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £2,000–£5,750 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.
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.
