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 Islington?
In Islington, 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 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Measured survey complexity
- Project size and complexity
- Number of design options
- Planning or building regulations stage
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 Islington
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in Islington 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Party wall drawings where needed
- 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 Islington
Space is at a premium in London, so homeowners often build out into the side return or up into the roof rather than move.
Our Islington coverage includes postcode districts EC1P, EC4P, EC50 and N1, and we also work in nearby places such as Camden, Westminster and Hackney.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, talk through what you want and record the existing building.
- 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 Islington
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Islington?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Islington, including postcodes EC1P, EC4P, EC50 and N1. 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.
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 Islington?
In Islington, 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.
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
