Scope of Services
An architectʼs fee is largely influenced by the scope of services you require. Are you seeking a comprehensive package that includes architectural and interior design, project management, and contract administration, or do you just need architectural design services? Clarifying this at the outset helps ensure accurate cost estimates.
If you prefer a turnkey solution, where the architect manages everything from the initial design to furniture selection, fees will typically be higher. On the other hand, if your focus is solely on the design aspect without project management, the costs are generally lower. The key is to ensure the agreed scope aligns with your project objectives so both you and your architect have a clear understanding from the start.
Think of the scope as the project roadmap. It can cover everything from site studies and concept development to detailed drawings, planning submissions, and technical documentation for Building Regulations. Each stage carries distinct responsibilities and costs:
- Stage 1 – Feasibility Study: At the outset, the architect will assimilate your requirements, visit your site to assess possibilities, and provide advice on planning, budget, design direction, and feasibility tailored to your goals. Costs typically start from £300 +VAT for a site visit, and from £1,500 +VAT for a feasibility study on a standard three-bedroom house extension project.
- Stage 2 – Concept Design: Once your goals are clear, the architect will create early sketches or drawings are produced to capture the overall vision of the project. The cost of each sketch option typically starts from £200 +VAT.
- Stage 3 – Planning application: The architect can prepare and submit drawings to secure planning permission or confirm permitted development rights. This includes producing existing and proposed plans, preparing the planning reports, completing the application forms, liaising with the planning authority, and managing the application process. Costs typically start from £1,500 +VAT for a standard three-bedroom house extension project.
- Stage 4A – Building regulations: After planning approval, the architect will produce detailed technical drawings that demonstrate compliance with building regulations. This often involves coordination with structural engineers, surveyors, or party wall specialists. For a standard three-bedroom house extension, architect fees for this stage typically start from around £3,000–£5,000 +VAT, depending on complexity of the project.
- Stage 4B – Interior Design: Architects who offer a holistic service often combine their architectural services with interior design to create a seamless flow between your buildingʼs exterior and interior. For a standard three-bedroom house extension, interior design services typically start from around £3,000–£6,000 +VAT, depending on the scope and level of detail required.
- Stage 5A – Tendering and Construction Support: At this stage, the architect prepares specifications, schedules of work, and other tender documents to help you appoint a builder. They may also manage or support the tender process, compare quotes and advise on contractor selection. During construction, the architect can carry out site visits to check that the works are progressing in line with the drawings and specifications. For a standard three-bedroom house extension, fees for construction support typically start from around £3,000–£5,000 +VAT, depending on the level of involvement required.
- Stage 5B – Project Management and Contract Administration: If required, the architect can take on a more active role in overseeing the build from start to finish. This includes monitoring progress on site, ensuring the contractor is working in accordance with the contract, and to the agreed drawings and specifications, checking the quality of workmanship, and certifying payments at key milestones. For a standard three-bedroom house extension, architect fees for project management and contract administration typically start from around £5,000–£10,000 + VAT, depending on the duration and complexity of the build.
