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 Swanley?
In Swanley, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,750–£5,000 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Swanley reflects typical costs in the South East, roughly 12% above the UK-wide figure. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,750–£5,000 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £5,000–£6,250 |
What moves the price most:
- Project size and complexity
- Measured survey complexity
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Planning or building regulations stage
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 Swanley
Before anything is built in Swanley, we confirm which approvals apply 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
What we take care of:
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Design options and sketch layouts
- 3D views on request
- Measured survey of the existing house
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 Swanley
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
Our Swanley coverage includes postcode districts BR8, and we also work in nearby places such as Orpington, Sidcup and Dartford.
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
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 Swanley
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Swanley?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Swanley, including postcodes BR8. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Swanley?
In Swanley, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,750–£5,000 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.
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.
