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 Northamptonshire?
In Northamptonshire, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,250 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Northamptonshire reflects typical costs in the East Midlands, roughly 5% below the UK-wide figure. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,500–£4,250 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,250–£5,250 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Measured survey complexity
- 3D visuals
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Project size and complexity
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Planning and building regulations in Northamptonshire
The approval route for Northamptonshire is set by planning law 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical set of architectural drawings we handle:
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- 3D views on request
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 Northamptonshire
In the East Midlands, many estates built since the 1960s have integral garages that convert well into a study or bedroom.
Towns we cover in Northamptonshire include Northampton, Corby, Kettering, Wellingborough, Rushden and Daventry.
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
Application drawings
Plans, elevations and supporting documents prepared for the council.
- 04
Approval
We follow the application through to a decision and pass on the approved drawings.
Questions about architectural drawings in Northamptonshire
What are building regulations drawings?
More detailed drawings and specifications showing structure, insulation, fire safety, drainage and ventilation, used for building control approval and pricing.
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 Northamptonshire?
In Northamptonshire, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,250 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 Northamptonshire?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Northamptonshire, including postcodes CV23, LE15, LE16, MK19 and NN1. Every project starts with a free home visit.