Architect stages for your new build project
Please note that these stages are for guidance only. To get a clear, stage-by-stage cost breakdown of your project, simply post your new build project project and get up to 5 free quotes from specialists in your area.
Preparation, Brief & Feasibility
Defining your vision and setting the foundations for success
Concept Design & Planning
Turning your ideas into a planning-ready design
Technical Design & Building Regulations
Developing your approved design into a detailed, buildable package
Procurement & Construction
Turning your plans into a beautifully built home
New Build Project – Roles & Responsibilities
(Architect • Structural Engineer • Builder)
A new build project is the most exciting — and detailed — type of construction. From the first sketch to the moment you turn the key, your Architect, Structural Engineer, and Builder each play a vital role in ensuring the design, structure, and construction all align perfectly.
Preparation, Brief & Site Analysis
Establish the project vision, assess the site, and set the design and technical foundations.
Concept Design & Planning Approval
Develop the architectural concept, secure planning approval, and coordinate initial structural input.
Technical Design & Tendering
Develop a fully coordinated and regulation-compliant design package suitable for pricing and construction.
Construction & Handover
Manage the build to deliver the project on time, on budget, and to the highest quality standards.
How They Work Together
Architect
Leads the design from concept to completion, ensuring functionality, beauty, and compliance.
- •Manages planning, Building Regulations, and contract administration.
- •Oversees quality, compliance, and client communication throughout.
Structural Engineer
Ensures the structure is strong, efficient, and safe — from foundations to roof.
- •Provides calculations and drawings for Building Control and site use.
- •Supports both architect and builder during construction.
Builder
Brings the design to life through skilled construction and coordination.
- •Manages the build programme, logistics, and day-to-day site operations.
- •Keeps the project progressing safely and on schedule.
Together, they create a home that's beautifully designed, structurally sound, and expertly built — ready for a lifetime of comfort.
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Architect step-by-step cost guide for your new build project
Please note: All figures provided are rough guides only. To receive a clear, stage-by-stage cost breakdown tailored to your project, simply post your project today and get up to 5 free quotes from local specialists.
Building your own home is one of the most exciting projects you can take on — but also one of the most detailed. Your architect is your guide from the very first sketch through to handing over the keys. Here's how each stage works and what you can expect in terms of costs.
How Architects Usually Charge
Architects for new build homes generally charge in one of two ways:
- 1.Percentage of the total build cost — typically 7–11% for a full service (from concept to completion).
- 2.Fixed fee per stage — agreed after the brief and size of the house are confirmed.
Additional costs such as structural engineering, planning, energy assessments, and Building Control are separate from the architect's fee.
Typical Stage Breakdown (Approximate Split of Architect's Fee)
| Stage | Description | % of Architect's Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Concept, Site Study & Feasibility | 10–15% |
| Stage 2 | Planning Design & Application | 25–30% |
| Stage 3 | Technical Design & Specification | 35–40% |
| Stage 4 | Construction & Handover | 15–20% |
Stage 1
Concept, Site Study & Feasibility
10–15%
Stage 2
Planning Design & Application
25–30%
Stage 3
Technical Design & Specification
35–40%
Stage 4
Construction & Handover
15–20%
Example of Fees (based on a 9% architect fee)
| Estimated Build Cost | Total Architect Fee (9%) | Stage 1 | Stage 2 | Stage 3 | Stage 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £250,000 | £22,500 | £2,200 – £3,000 | £5,000 – £6,000 | £7,500 – £9,000 | £3,000 – £4,000 |
| £400,000 | £36,000 | £3,500 – £5,000 | £8,000 – £10,000 | £12,000 – £14,000 | £5,000 – £6,000 |
| £600,000 | £54,000 | £5,000 – £7,000 | £12,000 – £15,000 | £18,000 – £21,000 | £7,000 – £9,000 |
Build Cost: £250,000
Total Fee: £22,500
Stage 1: £2,200 – £3,000
Stage 2: £5,000 – £6,000
Stage 3: £7,500 – £9,000
Stage 4: £3,000 – £4,000
Build Cost: £400,000
Total Fee: £36,000
Stage 1: £3,500 – £5,000
Stage 2: £8,000 – £10,000
Stage 3: £12,000 – £14,000
Stage 4: £5,000 – £6,000
Build Cost: £600,000
Total Fee: £54,000
Stage 1: £5,000 – £7,000
Stage 2: £12,000 – £15,000
Stage 3: £18,000 – £21,000
Stage 4: £7,000 – £9,000
(These figures are indicative; actual fees vary depending on site complexity, size, and level of service.)
Preparation, Site Study & Feasibility
Planning Design & Application
Technical Design & Building Regulations
Construction & Handover
(Optional, but highly recommended for new builds.)
Typical Additional Costs (Not Included in Architect's Fee)
| Item | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Topographic / Measured Survey | £800–£2,000 |
| Structural Engineer | £2,000–£5,000 |
| Planning Application Fee | £400–£800 |
| Building Control Fees | £800–£2,000 |
| Energy / SAP Assessment | £300–£800 |
| Ecology / Drainage Reports (if needed) | £500–£2,000 |
| Tendering / Quantity Surveyor | £700–£2,000 |
Topographic / Measured Survey
£800–£2,000
Structural Engineer
£2,000–£5,000
Planning Application Fee
£400–£800
Building Control Fees
£800–£2,000
Energy / SAP Assessment
£300–£800
Ecology / Drainage Reports (if needed)
£500–£2,000
Tendering / Quantity Surveyor
£700–£2,000
How Payments Usually Work
| Stage | Payment Timing |
|---|---|
| Deposit | On appointment (5–15% of total fee) |
| Stage 1 Invoice | After delivery of feasibility/concept design |
| Stage 2 Invoice | After planning submission or approval |
| Stage 3 Invoice | On issue of technical drawings |
| Stage 4 Invoice | Monthly or at construction milestones |
Deposit
On appointment (5–15% of total fee)
Stage 1 Invoice
After delivery of feasibility/concept design
Stage 2 Invoice
After planning submission or approval
Stage 3 Invoice
On issue of technical drawings
Stage 4 Invoice
Monthly or at construction milestones
Tips for Homeowners Building New
- •Get your site survey and planning advice early — they shape everything.
- •Lock in design decisions before technical drawings to avoid costly revisions.
- •Appoint an experienced structural engineer who works closely with your architect.
- •Ask your architect for energy-efficient design ideas — small choices save big money.
- •Consider architect-led site monitoring to protect your investment during the build.
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