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 Littlehampton?
In Littlehampton, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,750–£5,000 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Littlehampton are adjusted to reflect that. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,750–£5,000 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £5,000–£6,250 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Number of design options
- Project size and complexity
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Structural engineer’s fees
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 Littlehampton
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.
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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Measured survey of the existing house
- 3D views on request
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Structural calculations coordinated
- 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 Littlehampton
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
Our Littlehampton coverage includes postcode districts BN17, and we also work in nearby places such as Bognor Regis, Worthing and Lancing.
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 Littlehampton
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.
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.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Littlehampton?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Littlehampton, including postcodes BN17. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Littlehampton?
In Littlehampton, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,750–£5,000 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.
