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 South Shields?
In South Shields, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,250–£4,000 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices across the North East are typically 10% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for South Shields. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,250–£4,000 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,000–£5,000 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Project size and complexity
- Measured survey 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 South Shields
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in South Shields follow the rules for 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
What we take care of:
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- 3D views on request
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- 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 South Shields
The North East has many terraced streets and post-war semis, where rear extensions and loft conversions are popular ways to gain space.
South Shields sits in Tyne and Wear, about 7 miles east of Newcastle upon Tyne. We cover the whole of South Shields, including postcodes NE33.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, talk through what you want and record the existing building.
- 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 South Shields
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.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in South Shields?
In South Shields, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,250–£4,000 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.
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.
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in South Shields?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across South Shields, including postcodes NE33. Every project starts with a free home visit.
