Architectural design and planning in Margate

Covering Margate

Margate is about 38 miles east of Maidstone. We also cover Broadstairs (3 miles to the south-east), Ramsgate and Deal.

Homes in the South East

Many South East homes are inter-war or post-war semis and detached houses with room for rear and side extensions, while historic town centres and villages bring conservation area and listed building controls.

What goes into architectural design and planning?

Architectural design and planning covers everything before building starts: a measured survey of the house, design options, planning or permitted development drawings, the application itself, building regulations drawings and structural calculations. We offer it on its own or as part of a design-and-build project.

Design options and 3D views
Planning or lawful development certificate drawings
Structural engineer’s calculations

How much does architectural design and planning cost in Margate?

Typical ranges for architectural design and planning. Ground conditions, access and specification move the final figure, which we fix in writing before work starts.

Architectural design and planning	Guide price incl. VAT
Measured survey and existing drawings	£500 to £1,200
Planning drawings and application	£1,200 to £3,000
Building regulations drawings and specification	£1,000 to £2,500
Structural calculations	£500 to £2,000

What approvals does architectural design and planning need in England?

In England we deal with the council’s planning team for permission or a lawful development certificate, with building control (the council or a registered building control approver) for inspections, and with neighbours under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 where it applies.

We confirm whether your project is permitted development, needs prior approval or needs a householder application, and prepare the right submission. A lawful development certificate is the best proof that permitted development work is lawful.

What should I think about before starting?

Planning and building regulations are separate approvals; most projects need building regulations even when planning is not needed.
Conservation areas and listed buildings need extra design care and supporting statements.

What happens after I enquire?

Start with a conversation. A short call or the online form is enough for us to understand what you want to build.
Free site visit. We measure up, look at access, drains and the structure, and talk through options and budget.
Drawings, approvals, written quote. We prepare the design, apply for the approvals it needs, and give you a fixed price in writing.
We build it. Work follows an agreed programme, with inspections at each stage and a final sign-off.

Architectural design and planning: common questions

What is a lawful development certificate?

A certificate from the council confirming that work is permitted development, which is useful when you sell.

Do I need a structural engineer?

For steels, new openings, lofts and extensions, yes. We arrange the calculations.

Who deals with the council for a project in Margate?

We do. We prepare the drawings, submit planning or permitted development paperwork if needed, and arrange building control inspections.

Other towns nearby

Learn more about architectural design and planning, or see every project we cover in Margate.