Architects Prices in England — How Much Does It Cost? (2026)
UK price ranges for architects, what affects costs, and expert tips to get the best deal.
Typical starting cost
£100/hr
Prices vary by location, complexity, and provider. See the full breakdown below.
| Service | Typical Price | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feasibility study / initial design | £500–£2,000 | fixed | — |
| Planning application drawings | £1,500–£5,000 | fixed | For a typical house extension |
| Building regulations package | £1,000–£3,000 | fixed | — |
| Full RIBA stages 1–5 (new build) | 8–15% of build cost | per project | — |
| Project management/contract admin | 3–6% of build cost | per project | — |
| Hourly consultancy | £100–£200 | per hour | — |
Regional price variation
Prices in London and the South East are typically 20–40% higher than the national average. Rates in the North of England, the Midlands, and Wales tend to be at the lower end of the ranges above.
What affects the cost of architects?
- Project complexity and size
- RIBA stages included (design only vs full service)
- Listed building or Conservation Area constraints
- London/South East premium
- Firm reputation and track record
How to get the best price for architects
- 1An architectural technician can produce planning and building regulations drawings for 30–50% less
- 2For straightforward extensions, use a technician for drawings and an architect only if planning or design complexity demands it
- 3Get quotes from 2–3 firms at RIBA Stage 0/1 before committing to full design
- 4Fix fees at each stage rather than agreeing an open-ended hourly arrangement
Architects prices by city
Frequently asked questions
How much does an architect cost for a house extension?
For a typical single-storey house extension, expect £1,500–£5,000 for planning drawings and £1,000–£3,000 for building regulations. Full project management adds 3–8% of the build cost.
Do I need an architect or can I use an architectural technician?
For straightforward extensions and loft conversions, an architectural technician (CIAT member) provides planning and building regulations drawings at lower cost. A registered architect (ARB) is needed for complex or listed building work.
How do I verify a UK architect?
The Architects Registration Board (ARB) maintains the statutory register of architects at arb.org.uk. Only ARB-registered individuals can legally call themselves "architect" in the UK.
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