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 Newtownards?
In Newtownards, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,250–£3,750 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 Northern Ireland, where labour and materials are typically about 14% below average. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,250–£3,750 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £3,750–£4,750 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- 3D visuals
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Number of design options
- Structural engineer’s fees
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Planning and building regulations in Newtownards
Before anything is built in Newtownards, we confirm which approvals apply in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland drawings are prepared for the council’s planning service and building control.
In Northern Ireland building control approval comes from the council, usually through a full plans application or a building notice, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
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:
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- 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 Newtownards
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
If your home is in Newtownards or close by in Bangor, Belfast and Carrickfergus, a free home visit is the first step.
How it works
- 01
Measured survey
We visit and measure the house so the drawings start from accurate information.
- 02
Design options
Sketch layouts to agree the approach before detailed drawing starts.
- 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 Newtownards
Do you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
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 much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Newtownards?
In Newtownards, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,250–£3,750 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.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Newtownards?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Newtownards, including postcodes BT22 and BT23. Every project starts with a free home visit.