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 Hertfordshire?
In Hertfordshire, 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). The guide for Hertfordshire reflects typical costs in the East of England, roughly 6% above 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–£4,750 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,750–£6,000 |
What moves the price most:
- Number of design options
- 3D visuals
- Project size and complexity
- Planning or building regulations stage
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Planning and building regulations in Hertfordshire
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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- 3D views on request
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- 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 Hertfordshire
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
Towns we cover in Hertfordshire include Watford, Hemel Hempstead, Stevenage, St Albans, Welwyn Garden City and Cheshunt.
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 Hertfordshire
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
What are building regulations drawings?
More detailed drawings and specifications showing structure, insulation, fire safety, drainage and ventilation, used for building control approval and pricing.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Hertfordshire?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Hertfordshire, including postcodes AL1, AL10, AL2, AL3 and AL4. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Hertfordshire?
In Hertfordshire, 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.
