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 the Highlands and Islands?
In the Highlands and Islands, 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). Building costs in Scotland are close to the UK average, so the figures for the Highlands and Islands are close to our national guide. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Measured survey complexity
- Number of design options
- 3D visuals
- 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 the Highlands and Islands
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in Scotland. In Scotland drawings are prepared for the planning application and the building warrant, which must be granted before work starts.
Scotland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls is governed by your title deeds, the Tenements (Scotland) Act 2004 for flats, and common law, so we agree arrangements with neighbours in writing before work starts.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical set of architectural drawings we handle:
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- 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 the Highlands and Islands
Scotland’s housing ranges from sandstone tenements and villas to post-war and modern estates, and the building warrant system shapes how projects are planned.
Towns we cover in the Highlands and Islands include Inverness, Stornoway, Fort William, Nairn, Thurso and Kirkwall.
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
Submission and follow-up
We submit the application and deal with questions from the council or building control.
Questions about architectural drawings in the Highlands and Islands
Do you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in the Highlands and Islands?
In the Highlands and Islands, 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.
What drawings are needed for planning?
Usually existing and proposed floor plans and elevations, a block plan and a location plan. Some councils need more.
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in the Highlands and Islands?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across the Highlands and Islands, including postcodes AB37, HS1, HS2, HS3 and HS4. Every project starts with a free home visit.