How much does an architect cost in Cardiff?

Architecture fees in South Wales typically range from 7-10% of construction costs for full architectural services. At Dennis Hellyar Architects, we offer transparent pricing and can provide fixed-fee quotes for smaller projects like extensions. Project values range from £50k for domestic residential to £20M for commercial developments. On larger commercial projects our fees can be as low as 2.5%. Contact us for a detailed, no-obligation quote.

Do I need an architect for a house extension in Wales?

While not always legally required, hiring an RIBA Chartered architect for extensions ensures professional design, proper planning permission handling, Building Regulations compliance, and maximizes your property's potential and value. We manage the entire process from feasibility through to completion, with expertise in sustainable and eco-friendly design.

What areas do Dennis Hellyar Architects cover?

Based in Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, we provide architectural services across South Wales and the South West, including Cardiff, Penarth, Porthcawl, Swansea, Carmarthen, Bristol, and Bath. We focus on the M4 corridor from South Wales to the South West and take on projects throughout the UK and beyond.

What is RIBA Chartered Practice status?

Dennis Hellyar Architects is an RIBA Chartered Practice, meaning we meet the Royal Institute of British Architects' highest professional standards. This ensures quality, professionalism, and adherence to best practices in architectural services, giving you confidence in our expertise and accountability.

Do you specialize in sustainable and eco-friendly architecture?

Yes, sustainability is at the heart of our practice. We have Passivhaus certified designers on our team and extensive experience with BREEAM and Code for Sustainable Homes. We designed the first BREEAM Excellent FE facility in the UK and the first BREEAM Excellent Healthcare Centre in Wales. We're passionate about energy-efficient, eco-friendly design.

What is the architectural process timeline?

A typical residential project includes: Feasibility (2-4 weeks), Design Development (6-8 weeks), Planning Application (8-13 weeks for approval), Building Regulations (6-8 weeks), and Construction (varies by project). We guide you through each stage, utilizing BIM and Virtual Reality modelling to help you visualize your project throughout the process.

Do you offer Virtual Reality walkthroughs?

Yes, we utilize state-of-the-art BIM (Building Information Modelling) and Virtual Reality technology to help clients experience and understand their spaces before construction begins. This allows you to visualize the atmosphere, volumes, and spatial relationships, making design decisions with confidence.

What types of projects do you work on?

We work on residential projects (one-off houses, extensions, renovations, new builds), commercial developments (offices, retail, light industrial), educational buildings (schools, colleges), community projects (social housing, community centers), and healthcare facilities. Our team has over 25 years of experience across diverse sectors with project values from £100k to £20M.

House Extension Plans in the Vale of Glamorgan

Planning a house extension in the Vale of Glamorgan often comes with different considerations compared to more urban areas.

Properties can vary from village homes and detached houses to more rural settings, each with their own planning constraints and opportunities.

At Dennis Hellyar Architects, we prepare clear, professional house extension plans for homeowners across the Vale of Glamorgan, helping you move confidently from initial idea through to planning approval.

We also work with homeowners in Cardiff, Swansea, across South Wales, Bristol and the South West.

West Drive house renovation in Porthcawl

What you actually need

What drawings are required for an extension?

Most house extensions require a set of clear and accurate drawings, including:

Existing and proposed floor plans
Elevations
Site and location plans
Supporting information for planning

We prepare all required drawings and ensure they are suitable for submission.

A proposed floor plan for a house extension.

Local Context

Planning considerations in the Vale of Glamorgan

Projects in the Vale of Glamorgan often involve different planning considerations compared to Cardiff, including:

Larger plot sizes and site context
Village and rural planning policies
Green belt or countryside constraints (in some areas)
Sensitivity to surrounding landscape and character
We provide clear advice based on your specific property and location.

Proposed section of a house extension in Penarth

Our Service

Our house extension service includes:

Initial consultation and feasibility advice
Measured survey of your property
Concept design options
Preparation of planning drawings
Submission and support through the planning process

Proposed Planning Drawing Section for a house extension in Dinas Powys

Cost

How much do extension drawings cost?

Costs vary depending on the size and complexity of the project.
We provide clear, upfront guidance following an initial consultation so you understand the scope before proceeding.

Sketch visualisation of a house extension in Cardiff

Why work with us?

We have experience working across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan, offering a practical and straightforward approach to residential extensions.

Clear communication throughout
Practical, buildable design solutions
Strong understanding of local planning requirements

Rendered visualisation of a house extension in Cardiff

If you’re considering a house extension in the Vale of Glamorgan, we can help you take the next step with clear, professional drawings.

Contact us to discuss your project.

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