Architects don’t just draw innovative plans; they also give modern ideas structure and problem-solving for your project. If you are considering a home renovation and exploring new ideas, hiring an architect is a good idea. But, the most asked question, ‘How much does an architect cost?. It’s usually depending on the complexity of the project and the size of your home structure.
In this guide, they will explore the unique ideas of architects and break down different ways, such as architects’ plans, their budget, and cost, in various designs. Now you can think about your budget smartly and avoid hidden surprises.
Factors for cost of hiring an architect
The cost of hiring an architect depends on various factors that influence the scope of their work. For instance, the complexity and size of your project have a significant impact. Larger or more intricate projects require more time and expertise, which naturally leads to higher fees.
Similarly, an architect’s experience and reputation play a role. Established architects with a strong portfolio or a well-known name in the industry often charge premium rates because of their proven track record.
Another key factor is location. In metropolitan areas such as London, architectural fees tend to be higher due to increased demand and the higher cost of living. The level of service you require also matters. Some homeowners only need basic design drawings, while others opt for comprehensive services, including project management and overseeing construction.
How much does it cost for architects to draw up plans?
Generally, an architect’s fees cover more than just drawing plans. For full services, the cost is usually around 12% of the total construction cost. Usually, an architect’s costs vary depending on design, the size of a project, and complexity.
And includes the various charges for new buildings and complex work, such as garage conversions, listed project basements, rear, side extensions and loft conversions.
Architectural drawing costs also vary depending on the complexity of the project and the detail of the requirements. More complex drawings require a higher cost due to compliance with the project design; simpler drawings require less cost.
How Much Do Architects Charge at Each Stage?
Here’s an architect charging their fee in different stages, each step depends on how much work is required, and they will charge by the hour. Now we break down their various stages:
Initial design:
Initial consultation stage charges around £5,500 and are charged by the hour. An architect works on a per-design phase. At this time, the client and the architect team sit together and discuss the project to clear all problems, the goal and the budget without any restriction.
Building regulation:
For building regulations, architects charge by the hour at a percentage of 9% to 16%. And they create building design regulations, rules, and safety standards, giving an attractive look to your home structure. They must follow efficiency and sustainability in the project.
In many cases, they play an important role in this process, so they design their project very clearly with regulations.
Tender and construction:
In the UK, the tender and construction services charge started from 6% to 13% but its maximum cost ended at 20%. The primary design tender and construction project helps choose the right building contractor, giving details, including some specifications and documents for the tender pack, which the builder uses to submit for the construction work.
Project management:
Architects charge for the total construction cost between 10% to 17%. When Project management means looking at an entire architectural project from the beginning to the final completion. They ensure the design matches their client’s quality standard, timeliness, key responsibilities, project planning and is finished on time.
Architecture Fee Structures in the UK 2025:
Here, the percentage of the construction cost ranges from 6%to 15%, and the smaller task architects charge by the hour; if the budget is raised, the fees increase, such as for listed building renovation, and to construct your house at a different cost. The architect is drawing a budget between £7,000 and £9,000.
|
Services |
Cost range (2025) |
|
Initial consultation |
£400-£1,250 |
|
Site survey |
£1,900-£4,500 |
|
Concept |
£2,950-£12,000 |
|
Planning application drawing |
£8,500-£29,000 |
|
Building regulation |
£12,500-£39,500 |
How much does an architect charge for an extension?
In the UK, for a house extension, an architect charges hourly. The cost may also change depending on the project scope, its complexity and the degree of assistance needed from an architect for home extension; what will be included in this cost is creating architectural drawings and the planning application if needed for a rear extension and side extension.
- Single-storey rear extension: £3,000 per square metre
- Double-storey rear extension: £3,499 per square metre.
- Single-storey side extension: £29,000
- Double-storey side extension: £44,500.
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How much does an architect cost for a new build?
A new build project with an eligible architect costs around 15% of the total building regulation cost in the UK. The cost of an architect varies depending on project complexity, size, and location, as well as the expertise of the architect.
On the other hand, a specific factor that impacts required services is an architect’s fixed charge fee or hourly rate, and project management or planning a project.
|
Services |
New build |
|
Planning drawing |
£2,500–£5,500 |
|
Construction drawing |
£5,500–£7,500 |
|
Architectural services |
£8,000-£16,000 |
What Does an Architect’s Fee Include?
Architectural fees typically cover a variety of services, ensuring that your project progresses smoothly from concept to completion. Here’s a breakdown of the key services often included in an architect’s fee:
- Initial drawings for accurate designs to meet project specifications.
- Submit planning applications to local authorities, ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Detailed drawings to adhere to building regulations and provide a blueprint for construction.
- Building Regulations Compliance so that the designs meet all legal and safety standards.
- Optional project management to ensure that all work aligns with the agreed designs and specifications.
- Fee inclusions confirmation to verify which of these services are included in the quoted fee.
Hidden Costs to Consider for Architects
While an architect’s primary fees cover most essential services, several hidden costs could arise during the project.
- Planning application fees, which are set by local authorities, are typically not included in the architect’s fee and must be paid separately.
- Additionally, if structural changes are involved, you may need to hire a structural engineer, whose services usually cost between £50 and £90 per hour.
- Unexpected changes or revisions to the design can also lead to additional costs, especially if these revisions are outside the agreed scope of work.
- Furthermore, VAT (value-added tax) is often charged on architectural fees, so you should confirm whether the quoted price includes VAT.
Tips for Cost-Saving When Hiring an Architect
Hiring an architect is a significant investment, but there are ways to make the process cost-effective without compromising on quality. Here are some practical tips for saving money when engaging an architect for your project:
| Clearly Define Your Goals | Before meeting with an architect, outline your needs, preferences, and budget. A clear vision reduces the time and revisions needed, saving you money. |
| Set a Realistic Budget | Discuss your budget openly with the architect. They can customise the design to your financial constraints, avoiding unnecessary expenses. |
| Choose the Right Architect | Research and hire an architect with experience in projects similar to yours. This ensures efficiency and reduces the likelihood of costly mistakes or redesigns. |
| Opt for a Simpler Design | Elaborate and intricate designs often cost more to plan and build. Prioritise functionality and simplicity to save on both architectural fees and construction costs. |
| Hire Locally | Local architects are familiar with regional building codes, suppliers, and contractors, which can streamline the process and reduce costs. |
| Request Fixed-Fee Agreements | Some architects charge an hourly rate, which can lead to unpredictable costs. Negotiating a fixed-fee agreement provides better cost control. |
| Consider Partial Services | If your budget is tight, you can hire an architect for specific phases, such as conceptual design or obtaining permits instead of full-service engagement. |
| Reuse Existing Plans | If you’ve previously worked with an architect or purchased design plans, consider modifying these instead of starting from scratch. |
| Maximise Natural Light and Ventilation | Incorporating passive design strategies like natural light and ventilation can save on energy costs and may reduce the need for extensive mechanical systems. |
| Source Materials Early | Collaborate with your architect to identify cost-effective, durable materials. Ordering materials in advance can help avoid delays and price hikes. |
| Be Decisive | Minimise changes during the design and construction phases. Frequent revisions can lead to increased architectural fees and project delays. |
| Explore Pre-Designed Options | Some architects offer pre-designed plans that can be adapted to your needs at a lower cost than a fully custom design. |
| Bundle Projects | If you have multiple projects in mind, discuss bundling them with your architect. This can often lead to discounts on fees. |
| Leverage Technology | Architects can use advanced tools like Building Information Modelling (BIM) to optimise designs and anticipate potential issues, saving money during construction. |
Average Costs for Architects:
Generally, an architect’s average cost is around 8-13% for a residential project in the UK. The actual cost depends on the size, the location and the complexity.
For example, if an architect charges an average amount ranging between £3,000 and £4,600 for building regulations and planning permission drawings, the cost will be higher if the project is more complex, resulting in a higher amount.
Finding an Architect
Finding the right architect for your project requires careful consideration. Start by checking their qualifications and ensuring they are registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB). Membership in professional bodies like the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is an added advantage, indicating adherence to high standards.
Reviewing the architect’s portfolio is essential to assess their style and experience with similar projects. Don’t hesitate to ask for references from previous clients to gain insights into their reliability and quality of work. Comparing quotes from multiple architects is also recommended to ensure you’re getting value for money.
Conclusion:
Architect’s fees are not the same for every project; they charge the customer according to the work. In certain cases, they have a fixed price; the cost also depends on the area or building type.
Before starting your project, it would be recommended to get the quote from different firms, check the previous trap to quote and the experts of the architect, as it not only helps you get the different costs but also saves you money.
An architect acknowledges that they save you time and create a design that is not only aesthetically appealing but also adds value.
FAQ’S
For new builds, architects typically charge a percentage of the construction cost. This often ranges between 5% and 15%, depending on the project’s complexity and scale.
While not all projects require an architect, their expertise can be invaluable for ensuring a well-thought-out design and smooth project execution. For large or complex projects, hiring an architect is highly recommended.
Architectural fees vary widely due to factors such as project complexity, the architect’s experience, and the level of service required. Additionally, each project is unique, requiring personalised solutions, which makes standardisation challenging.
The fee for planning permission drawing submission depends on the level of detail required, the location, and the size of the project. An architect usually purchases in the percentage method; the range is almost £2,500 to £4,500 for planning permission drawings.
If you hired a qualified architect, then yes, an architect has no worth in money. They don’t just make drawings, they help smartly design your home in various techniques, with technical knowledge, problem-solving, and bringing creativity. An architect can save you time, stress, and cost, make sure everything follows building rules, and can even increase your property’s value.
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