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 Luton?
In Luton, 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). Building costs in the East of England run about 6% above the UK average, and the figures for Luton are adjusted to reflect that. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,500–£4,750 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,750–£6,000 |
What moves the price most:
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Number of design options
- Measured survey complexity
- Project size and complexity
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 Luton
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.
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:
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- 3D views on request
- Structural calculations coordinated
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 Luton
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
Luton sits in Bedfordshire, about 18 miles south of Bedford. We cover the whole of Luton, including postcodes LU1.
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 Luton
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Luton?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Luton, including postcodes LU1. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Luton?
In Luton, 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.
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.
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
Do you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
