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 Shirley?
In Shirley, 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). Building costs in the West Midlands are close to the UK average, so the figures for Shirley are close to our national guide. 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 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- 3D visuals
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Project size and complexity
- Measured survey complexity
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 Shirley
Here is how the rules work for a set of architectural drawings 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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Measured survey of the existing house
- 3D views on request
- Design options and sketch layouts
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 Shirley
Across the West Midlands, inter-war and post-war semis make up much of the housing, giving good scope for two-storey side extensions and hip-to-gable lofts.
Our Shirley coverage includes postcode districts B90, and we also work in nearby places such as Solihull, Birmingham and Smethwick.
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
Submission and follow-up
We submit the application and deal with questions from the council or building control.
Questions about architectural drawings in Shirley
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Shirley?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Shirley, including postcodes B90. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Do you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Shirley?
In Shirley, 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.
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.