Architect Fees (RIBA Stages) Calculator 2025/26
Estimate architect fees across RIBA stages 0-7 for residential and commercial projects. Enter project type, construction value and the stages you require to see a stage-by-stage cost breakdown — based on RIBA 2025/26 fee benchmarks and typical percentage ranges for the UK market.
Key Inputs
- Project type: new build, extension, refurbishment, or listed building
- Project construction value (£)
- RIBA stages to be included (checkboxes: 0 Strategic Definition through 7 In Use)
- Complexity rating: low, medium, or high
What You'll Get
- Estimated fee percentage per RIBA stage
- Total architect fee (£)
- Stage-by-stage cost breakdown
- Fee as a percentage of total construction cost
Important Notes — 2025/26 Rates & Caveats
RIBA fee benchmarks 2025/26: residential new build — typically 8-15% of construction cost for full stages 0-7; commercial projects — 10-18%; listed building or complex heritage work — up to 20%+. Stage weightings vary by project but typically: Stage 0-1 (Strategic/Preparation) 5-8%; Stage 2 (Concept Design) 15-20%; Stage 3 (Spatial Coordination) 15-20%; Stage 4 (Technical Design) 20-30%; Stage 5 (Manufacturing/Construction) 20-25%; Stage 6-7 (Handover/In Use) 5-10%. Many architects charge hourly rates (£80-£200+/hour depending on seniority) for smaller or residential projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical architect fee percentage in the UK?
RIBA benchmarks suggest 8-15% of construction cost for full services (stages 0-7) on residential new build projects. Commercial projects typically attract 10-18%. The percentage is higher for lower-value projects due to minimum viable fee levels — a £50,000 extension might attract 12-18% where a £500,000 new build might achieve 8-10%. Listed building and complex heritage work commands a premium of 15-25% due to specialist knowledge and additional design iterations required.
Can I instruct an architect for just part of the process?
Yes — many clients use architects for planning stages only (stages 0-3) and then manage construction themselves using a contractor who builds from the planning drawings. This is called a 'partial service' appointment. It reduces architect fees significantly but carries risk as the technical design (Stage 4) and construction administration (Stage 5) provide important quality control. Some clients appoint a different, lower-cost professional for technical drawings only.
What is RIBA Stage 4?
RIBA Stage 4 is Technical Design — the detailed construction drawings, specifications and schedules that contractors use to build from. It is typically the most labour-intensive stage, representing 20-30% of total architect fees. Stage 4 produces building regulations drawings, structural engineer coordination, M&E coordination, window and door schedules, material specifications and all information needed for a contractor to price and build the project accurately. Skipping Stage 4 significantly increases the risk of contractor variations and cost overruns.
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