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 St Albans?
In St Albans, 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). We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the East of England, where labour and materials are typically about 6% above average. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Number of design options
- 3D visuals
- Project size and complexity
- Planning or building regulations stage
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 St Albans
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in St Albans 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
Handled as part of most architectural drawings:
- 3D views on request
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Building regulations drawings and specification
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 St Albans
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
We work across St Albans and neighbouring areas such as Harpenden, Hatfield and Hemel Hempstead. Postcodes we cover in St Albans include AL1 and AL3.
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 St Albans
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
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.
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 St Albans?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across St Albans, including postcodes AL1 and AL3. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in St Albans?
In St Albans, 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.