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 Sunderland?
In Sunderland, 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 Sunderland. 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Measured survey complexity
- Number of design options
- 3D visuals
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 Sunderland
Approvals for a set of architectural drawings in Sunderland 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
The work we manage on a set of architectural drawings:
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Party wall drawings where needed
- 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 Sunderland
Across the North East, colliery-era terraces and newer estates sit side by side, so the right project depends on the house type.
We work across Sunderland and neighbouring areas such as Seaham, Washington and Houghton-Le-Spring. Postcodes we cover in Sunderland include SR1 and SR9.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, talk through what you want and record the existing building.
- 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 Sunderland
Do you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Sunderland?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Sunderland, including postcodes SR1 and SR9. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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 Sunderland?
In Sunderland, 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 drawings are needed for planning?
Usually existing and proposed floor plans and elevations, a block plan and a location plan. Some councils need more.