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 Kensington?
In Kensington, 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). Building costs in London run about 30% above the UK average, and the figures for Kensington are adjusted to reflect that. 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 main things that change the cost:
- Measured survey complexity
- Planning or building regulations stage
- 3D visuals
- Number of design options
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 Kensington
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in Kensington 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
The work we manage on a set of architectural drawings:
- 3D views on request
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Measured survey of the existing house
- 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 Kensington
Many London boroughs have conservation areas and detailed design guides, so early design advice saves time at the planning stage.
We work across Kensington and neighbouring areas such as Chelsea, Fulham and Hammersmith. Postcodes we cover in Kensington include W8.
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
Application drawings
Plans, elevations and supporting documents prepared for the council.
- 04
Submission and follow-up
We submit the application and deal with questions from the council or building control.
Questions about architectural drawings in Kensington
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Kensington?
In Kensington, 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 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 architectural drawings in Kensington?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Kensington, including postcodes W8. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
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.