Design fees vary because every project is different. Rather than quote a single figure, it's more useful to understand what actually drives the cost of architectural design — so you can budget sensibly and know what you're paying for. This is a general guide, not a quote.
In short
Design fees vary because every project is different. The main drivers are the size and complexity of the work, how much design exploration you want, the property itself, and which drawings you need. This is general guidance, not a quote.
Not sure which route applies to your property? Send Sean your name and one way to contact you for an honest first view — with no obligation. A postcode, a few photos and a short description help if you have them, but aren't required to start.
Reviewed by Sean Corser, SC Design Wirral. Sean Corser helps Wirral homeowners with architectural design and drawing packs for extensions, loft conversions, planning and building regulations.
Last reviewed June 2026
The main factors are the size and complexity of the project, how much design exploration you want, the property itself (period homes and tricky sites take more care), and which drawings you need — concept only, planning drawings, building-regulations drawings, or the full set.
A straightforward single-storey rear extension involves less work than a two-storey wraparound or a whole-home reconfiguration, and the fee reflects that.
You're paying for the thinking as much as the drawings: someone who helps you explore what's possible, avoids costly mistakes, and turns a rough idea into a clear, buildable design.
Good drawings also save money later — they let builders quote accurately against the same information, rather than guessing. The difference between two builders' prices is often down to how clearly the work is specified.
Design fees are only one part. You may also need to budget for local authority planning fees, building-control fees, a structural engineer's calculations where there are beams or openings, and possibly a party wall surveyor if you build near a shared boundary.
We'll flag which of these are likely to apply to your project so there are no surprises.
We talk through scope and fees up front, so you know what's included before you commit. Send Sean your name and one way to contact you and we'll come back with an honest view — a few photos and a short description help if you have them, but aren't required to start.
You don't need a full brief or drawings to get started — just your name and one way to contact you. The rest is optional, and you can send more whenever it suits you.
All you need to start is your name and one way to contact you. A short description, postcode or a few photos help if you have them — but they're not required.