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 Harpenden?
In Harpenden, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,750 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 the East of England, where labour and materials are typically about 6% above average. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,500–£4,750 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,750–£6,000 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Number of design options
- 3D visuals
- Measured survey complexity
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Planning and building regulations in Harpenden
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in Harpenden 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
Handled as part of most architectural drawings:
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- 3D views on request
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Measured survey of the existing house
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 Harpenden
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
Projects in Harpenden (AL5) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
How it works
- 01
Measured survey
We visit and measure the house so the drawings start from accurate information.
- 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 Harpenden
Do you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
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.
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Harpenden?
In Harpenden, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,750 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 architectural drawings in Harpenden?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Harpenden, including postcodes AL5. Every project starts with a free home visit.