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How Much Does an Architect Cost in London?

Henry Brook
September 2, 2024
An architect working on blueprints
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There’s no denying the appeal of adding space to your home or renovating an out of date room to create a brand new space, but you’ll need the help of an architect. Hiring an architect is a key part of making sure that your home improvement or construction project is designed to meet both your aesthetic vision and functional needs. Architects bring a wealth of expertise in planning, design and building regulations, ensuring that your project is both structurally sound and compliant with building regulations. They can help you maximise space, optimise natural light and create a space that really works for you.

Before you start your project, you’ll need to know what architects charge and how much to put aside for technical drawings, a structural engineer and construction. There are various factors that influence construction costs, but our helpful guide below will help you to work out the average cost for your upcoming project.

Average Rates for Architects in London

There are a few different ways that architects price their services in London. Some work on a fixed fee basis, quoting you a lump sum depending on the amount of work required for your project. Others base their fee on a percentage of the project’s costs, often choosing somewhere between 2% and 20%. It’s also not uncommon for architects to charge by the hour, which can be a slightly easier way to manage the cost.

Regardless of how an architect works out their fee, it’s hard to give an exact figure, as there’s a lot that goes into determining the cost. For example, architects in London and other major cities tend to charge more, whereas architects in more rural areas are usually cheaper. The complexity of the project and the amount of work that needs to be done must also be taken into account. This is why we look at average rates. For a house extension costing £100,000, you should expect to pay between £10,000 and £15,000 for a full range of architectural services.

Hourly Rates

There are a lot of architects out there and some charge per hour. On average, the hourly rate for an architect ranges from £50 to £100 per hour.

Architect Costs Per Task

Architects charge different amounts for individual tasks, depending on how much time is required and how complex the work is. Here are the average costs for some common architecture tasks.

Initial Consultation

One of the first things that you will need to pay for is an initial consultation. These are often charged on an hourly basis, with most architects charging between £50 – £150 per hour.

Feasibility Assessments

The cost of a feasibility assessment varies a lot, and you should expect to pay anywhere from £1,000 to £10,000 depending on the complexity of your project. A feasibility assessment is an assessment of the practicality of a proposed project plan or method, with the architect letting you know if your ideas are viable and can go ahead.

Planning Applications

You should expect to pay between £5,000 and £10,000 for an architect to draw up planning drawings for planning applications. You’ll be paying towards the lower end for an extension, and the higher end for a new build. On average, you should expect to pay £7,000 for small scale conversions.

Tender and Construction

The cost for architects to draw up building regulations and tender drawings varies, but prices start from £7,000 for extensions. This can increase up to £9,000 for small scale conversions and even further for small scale new build schemes, reaching as high as £12,000.

Project Management

If you would like your architect to handle the management side of your project, you should expect to pay them a percentage of the total project cost. If the total cost is £100,000 and the architect charges a fee of 7%, project management will cost you £7,000.

Concept Design

If an architect is charging per hour, you should expect to pay between £50 and £100 per hour for concept designs. More complex designs require a lot more time, and so the total cost will be higher.

Construction Drawings

The cost of construction drawings can vary hugely, ranging from £3,000 for a single storey extension, all the way up to £7,000 for a new build property. The larger and more complex the construction, the more expensive the construction drawings will be.

3D Modelling and Rendering

There are a lot of factors that impact the cost of 3D modelling and rendering but, on average, daily rates typically range from £250 to £500. The total cost will depend on the size of the project and the amount of work required.

Interior Design

In London, you should expect to pay between £50 and £100 per hour for an interior design expert. This is for a simple service that includes design concepts, the placement of furniture, and a list of options for the furniture. If you want a more comprehensive interior design service, prices rise to between £5,000 and £20,000 per project, depending on the amount of work required.

Potential Costs Per Project

There’s a lot that goes into the cost of a construction project, and architect fees can make up a big part of your budget. The potential cost per project for an architect will depend on the size, complexity and type of project, as well as the experience.

New House Build

For a new house build, you can expect an architect to charge an average of £2,700 for planning application drawings and £3,500 for building regulations. Large new builds and those with complex designs will cost more.

Home Extension

For a simple, single storey home extension, you should expect to pay between £1,000 and £2,500 for planning applications and drawings. For a double storey project, the cost rises to between £2,000 and £3,500.

Home Renovation

You should expect an architect to charge between 5% and 12% of the total project for their home renovation services. The percentage charged tends to decrease as the project total increases.

Loft Conversion

On average, the cost of an architect for loft conversions ranges from £2,000 to £8,000, depending on the scope of the project and the services they are providing.

Potential Hidden Costs

Hiring an architect comes with a lot of benefits, but it’s important to be aware of the potential hidden costs involved. One major consideration is the possibility of additional fees that might arise during the course of the project. These can include charges for revisions or changes to the design, which often occur as the project evolves and new ideas or constraints come to light. Plus, some architects may charge for site visits, consultations and project management services, which can add up over time.

You will also find that unforeseen structural issues or complexities discovered during the design stage may also lead to additional costs, as solving the problem may require engineering assessments and modifications. It’s important to discuss all potential fees with your architect before the project begins, to avoid unexpected costs and to ensure a financially manageable project.

Do You Need an Architect?

It doesn’t matter if you’re planning a simple home renovation or a large new build, you’re likely to need the services of a professional architect. When you’re planning a home improvement or new build project, hiring an architect can be hugely beneficial. This is because architects bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, ensuring that your project is not only visually pleasing, but also structurally sound and compliant with your local authority. They have the skills needed to create detailed and precise plans, which are a key part of getting building permits and planning permission, and guiding contractors through the construction process. An architect’s training enables them to foresee potential challenges and design solutions that maximise space, functionality and efficiency.

Architects can also enhance the overall design and value of your home. They have a keen eye for design and are able to transform your ideas and needs into innovative and practical solutions. An architect’s input can elevate the style and usability of your space, whether you’re remodelling a kitchen, adding an extension or building an entirely new home. They consider factors such as natural light, flow and materials, which can greatly enhance your home’s ambience and energy efficiency. By optimising these elements, architects can create a living space that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

An architect’s involvement in your home improvement or construction project can lead to a more cohesive, better executed and efficient outcome. Their expertise, design skills and project management capabilities ensure that your investment is wisely spent, resulting in a beautiful, functional, and high quality space.

Agreeing on Fees

Agreeing on fees with your chosen architect beforehand is key if you want a successful and stress-free project. Establishing a clear understanding of the costs involved helps to prevent any unexpected costs down the line. It also ensures that both of you are on the same page regarding the agreed work, payment schedule and any additional expenses that may arise. It’s a good idea to have a detailed agreement in place, as this will ensure transparency and trust at all times. It also allows you to budget accurately and helps the architect to plan their resources effectively. Agreeing on fees not only mitigates the risk of disputes, but also ensures that the project progresses seamlessly without financial misunderstandings.

DIY Vs Hiring a Professional

Working as an architect requires a lot of experience, knowledge and training, but it’s also something that many people opt to handle themselves. When it comes to planning a construction or building project, you have the choice to hire a professional or approach things from a DIY angle.

The Pros of Hiring a Professional

  • Quality – Professional architects bring specialised skills and experience to the table, ensuring high quality work and adherence to industry standards at all times.
  • Time Efficiency An architect can often complete a project more quickly and efficiently than a DIY approach, minimising disruption to your daily life. When you hire a professional, you know that they will adhere to your agreed-upon deadlines.
  • Warranty and Insurance – Many professionals, including architects, offer warranties on their work. They are insured, providing peace of mind and protection against potential issues.

The Cons of Hiring a Professional

  • Higher Costs – Hiring a professional architect involves higher upfront costs, and it’s usually cheaper to handle the task yourself.
  • Less Personal Involvement – You may have less control over the project if you hire a professional, as you’ll need to rely on the architect’s judgement and expertise, rather than having free reign.
  • Scheduling ConflictsCoordinating with a professional’s schedule can sometimes lead to delays, particularly if they are in high demand. WIth an architect, it’s a good idea to book your project early to avoid disappointment.

The Pros of Being a DIY Architect

  • Cost Savings – One of the main benefits of DIY is the potential to save money on labour costs. By handling the project yourself, you only need to pay for materials and any necessary tools, and not the expertise of an architect.
  • Personal Satisfaction – Completing a project on your own can bring a sense of accomplishment and pride, and that’s certainly the case if you handle a handful of architectural tasks. It allows you to learn new skills and take full credit for the work done.
  • Creative Control – DIY projects offer the freedom to make decisions and adjustments without having to consult with a professional. You have complete control over the design and execution, without having to factor in the opinion of an architect.
  • Flexible Schedule With a DIY approach to architecture, you can work on the project at your own pace and according to your own schedule, without being dependent on someone else’s availability.

The Cons of Being a DIY Architect

  • Time-Consuming – As is the case with a lot of DIY projects, handling architecture yourself can take significantly longer than if you were to hire a professional. This is especially true if you lack experience, and balancing the project with other responsibilities can be challenging.
  • Skill Limitations – A lack of expertise can lead to mistakes or subpar results, and good architecture really does rely on specialist knowledge. Complex tasks might require skills and knowledge that you don’t have.
  • Increased Costs – There’s a lot that an architect does, and they do so without making mistakes. If you make a mistake during a DIY project, it can lead to additional costs further down the line. Corrections and repairs are costly, potentially negating the initial savings.

Finding an Architect

A kitchen

When it comes to finding an architect in London, you need to do your research. You’ll need to ensure that you are working with a professional, someone who is experienced in the type of construction project that you are planning. There are three ways of doing this; consult The Page platform, search online and ask around.

The Page

Finding the right tradesman for your project is easier than ever, and it’s all thanks to The Page. The process begins with you sending an enquiry detailing your specific needs, and then we use this enquiry to match you with a curated list of tradesmen who are perfectly suited to the job.

Each tradesman on The Page has been personally met, thoroughly vetted and had their previous work assessed to ensure high standards. So, you can choose any of them, knowing that a high quality and professional service is guaranteed. Our meticulous selection process guarantees that you are connected with reliable and skilled professionals, regardless of where you are, ensuring that your project runs smoothly and efficiently.

Online Search

Using an online search to find an architect can simplify the job of finding the right architect for your project. Online platforms, such as The Page, provide a wealth of information, allowing you to compare portfolios, read reviews and assess tradespeople from the comfort of your home. There are a lot of online directories and architectural forums out there, all of which can provide valuable insights and recommendations, helping you make an informed decision.

Ask Around

Asking around for recommendations on architects can be an effective way to find a reliable and skilled professional for your project. Personal recommendations from friends, family, neighbours or colleagues who have enlisted their help on similar projects can provide valuable insights into an architect’s capabilities, work ethic and reliability.

Hearing firsthand experiences can help you gauge the architect’s ability to meet deadlines, stay within budget and deliver high quality work. You might also find that local contractors and builders have established relationships with architects, and they are often willing to offer trusted referrals. This word of mouth approach can lead you to a reputable architect with a proven track record, ensuring that your project is in capable hands.

Henry Brook
September 2, 2024

Work with the best in your area

  • Top quality contractors
  • Price protection
  • Great customer reviews