Gary Ward Architects
Pricing & services
We believe in being upfront about how we charge. Our fees are structured to be transparent and proportionate to your project — you only pay for the stages you need.
How we charge
Standard fee
5–12%
Of the total construction cost, for a full design and project management service.
Design-only fee
6–10%
For design and planning services only, without construction-stage involvement.
Initial consultation
Free
A no-obligation call or meeting to discuss your project and how we can help.
All fees exclude VAT at 20%. A fixed fee can be agreed for larger or more complex projects — speak to us for a tailored quote.
Getting started — consultation packages
A good starting point for a project of any size. A focused online meeting to review your existing layout, understand your brief and give you clear direction on next steps.
- One hour meeting to review the existing layout and discuss the project brief
- Research on historical and contextual planning applications
Tailored specifically for homeowners looking to get started on their extension and renovation journey. A chance to find out what's possible and see if we are a good fit for the project.
- One hour meeting to review the existing layout and discuss the project brief
- Research on historical and contextual planning applications
- Preparation of one sketch design option during the workshop
- Verbal advice on Permitted Development and Planning
- Verbal advice on project costs and timelines
- Summary document based on the workshop outcome with paths forward
Better suited for larger projects where a holistic plan can be considered. Specialists are brought in to obtain surveys, advise on planning, and estimate costs and timelines through Quantity Surveying software.
- Organisation and coordination of measured survey (surveyor cost is separate)
- Preparation of existing plans, sections and elevations based on survey information
- One hour meeting to review the existing layout and discuss the project brief
- Research on historical and contextual planning applications (with a planning advisor)
- Preparation of three sketch design options
- Construction cost estimate (in association with BuildPartner)
- Estimated construction programme (in association with BuildPartner)
- Summary document based on the feasibility outcome with paths forward
- One hour meeting to review the summary document
What's included — service stages
Initial consultation & feasibility
We meet to discuss your project, assess the site, review any constraints, and give you an honest view of what's possible within your budget and timeframe.
Concept design
We develop design options for your project, exploring how space, light and layout can best serve your needs. We refine the preferred option with your input.
Planning application
We prepare and submit your planning application, including all drawings, documents and correspondence with the local authority. We manage the process through to decision.
Technical design & building regulations
We produce detailed construction drawings and specifications to support your building regulations application and give contractors everything they need to price and build accurately.
Construction support
We assist during the build — answering contractor queries, reviewing progress on site, and making sure the finished result matches the design intent.
Indicative fees by project type
| Project type | Typical build cost | Design fee (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Rear extensionSingle storey, 25–40 m² | £60,000 – £140,000 | £6,000 – £16,000 |
| Side extensionSingle storey, 15–30 m² | £45,000 – £110,000 | £4,500 – £13,000 |
| Wraparound extensionCombined rear & side | £90,000 – £180,000 | £9,000 – £22,000 |
| Loft conversionDormer or hip-to-gable | £55,000 – £130,000 | £5,500 – £16,000 |
| Double storey extensionFront, rear or side | £120,000 – £250,000 | £12,000 – £30,000 |
| Full refurbishmentWhole-house remodel | £80,000 – £220,000 | £8,000 – £26,000 |
Build costs are indicative, based on current London rates, and exclude VAT. Costs outside London are typically 20–35% lower. Design fees shown are for a full service including planning and technical stages. Get a more detailed estimate using our project cost calculator.
Common questions
You're not legally required to use an architect, but for anything beyond the most straightforward project it's strongly advisable. An architect will maximise the quality and value of your project, navigate the planning system, and manage the technical complexity of the build. Poor design or planning issues can cost far more to fix later than the fee itself.
No — the first conversation is always free. We'll discuss your project, your budget, and what's realistically achievable. There's no obligation to proceed. If you'd like us to carry out a more detailed feasibility study, this would be scoped and priced separately.
Yes. Many clients appoint us through to planning permission and then manage the technical and construction stages themselves, or with a different consultant. We're happy to discuss a scope that suits your project and your level of involvement.
A typical rear extension takes 9–14 months from appointing an architect to completing the build. This includes roughly 4–6 weeks for design, 8–10 weeks for planning, 4–6 weeks for technical drawings, and 12–20 weeks on site. Timelines vary depending on project complexity and planning authority workloads.
No — our fees cover our professional time. Planning application fees (currently £258 for a householder application in England), building regulations fees, and any specialist consultant costs (structural engineer, party wall surveyor etc.) are separate disbursements paid directly to the relevant authority or consultant.
In most cases, yes. A well-designed extension in London will typically add more in property value than it costs to build, particularly if it adds a bedroom or significantly improves the kitchen and living space. The return depends on your location, the existing layout of the house, and the quality of design and construction.
Ready to discuss your project?
Book a free initial consultation or use our cost calculator to get an instant indicative estimate before you get in touch.