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 Wiltshire?
In Wiltshire, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,500 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the South West are close to the UK average, so the figures for Wiltshire 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–£4,500 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,500–£5,500 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- 3D visuals
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Number of design options
- Measured survey complexity
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 Wiltshire
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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Measured survey of the existing house
- 3D views on request
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- 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 Wiltshire
The South West mixes stone and render cottages with post-war and newer estates, and local materials matter more here when matching an extension.
Towns we cover in Wiltshire include Swindon, Salisbury, Trowbridge, Chippenham and Melksham.
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
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 Wiltshire
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Wiltshire?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Wiltshire, including postcodes BA12, BA13, BA14, BA15 and RG17. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Wiltshire?
In Wiltshire, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,500 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.
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
