Hiring an architect is a little like booking a wedding photographer: you know it won’t be £50, but beyond that, there’s not much idea if we’re talking “a few hundred” or “please sit down first”.
This begs the question, what does an architect cost in the UK? It depends on your project, where you are in the process, and how much help from start to finish you’re looking for.
Three common methods architects use for billing:
- Percentage of the build cost
Traditionally used for larger projects (extensions, renovations, and new builds). The fee is based on a percentage of the cost to build what the work costs. If there is a change in your build budget, the fee can also be adjusted. For Residential Architects Kensingtom & Chelsea, visit https://www.rbddesign.com/architects-design/residential-architecture-london/architects-kensington-and-chelsea/
- Fixed fee
Common for stages that have clearly defined current states of work, such as planning drawings. A fixed price is where you agree a price upfront regarding the scope of work.
- Hourly or day rate
Most often for smaller jobs, advice sessions, or if the scope is still a little hazy (and you do not want to bind yourself).
What you’re actually paying for
You pay not just for “drawings”. You are paying for problem-solving: how does the space work, what will planning allow you to do, and solutions to issues that only become clear once your blueprint is being turned into a build. In addition to information around timing, which builders do need, there is also assistance with avoiding costly mistakes along the way (the type of problems that swing by circa mid-build).
What affects the price?
Type of project (period property versus simple box extension)
Level of detail (planning only and technical drawings)
If they supervise the job and coordinate with subcontractors.