FAQs
How Much Do Architectural Designers Cost?
Architectural Design Fees vary project to project and range from 2-10% of the total project value. Percentage fees vary based on many factors including; project value, project type, size, location, topography, complexity and the level of service required. Some Architectural Designers will charge on percentage of project cost, others on a fixed price / lump sum, or on a time / cost charge basis.
Example: For a new home with a construction cost of $900,000+gst, the design fee, at 5% would be $45,000 + GST.
How do you price an Architectural Design?
We calculate and provide a fee structure individual to the specific requirements of each client and project. We start with a fixed fee for the Concept Phase, then confirm a fixed fee once the Concept Phase is completed and approved by you th client.
How much are architectural fees for a usual home renovation or extension?
Simple Renovations are fixed price starting from $2,500 + GST - e.g. bathroom + kitchen remodeling, adjusting internal layouts. These are classified as small projects which could fall under the building consent exemption criteria set by the local council.
Complex Renovations, including those with extensions, start from 6% of the construction cost. (for example, fees for a $200,000 renovation/extension at 6% would start from $14,000 + GST.
How are your fees and payments structured?
The total fee for your project is divided into stages/phases as appropriate and applicable to you project. Payments are required at commencement of each stage/phase of the design process.
Concept Phase - fixed fee, payment required to confirm booking
PIM set if required for your project
Developed Design if required for your proejct
Detailed Documentation
Building Consent Submission + Liaising
Should I use an Architect, Architectural Designer or Draftsperson? What’s the difference?
A Draftsperson or Architectural Technician conducts less design based projects and has a heavier focus on technical detailing - this role is most applicable for projects requiring little to no design input. A Draftsperson / Architectural Technician typically holds a diploma level qualification.
An ‘Architect’ is a term used to describe someone who is a Registered Architect to the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB). Generally conducts highly creative, more complex, high value projects, and larger commercial and civic projects. An Architect often holds a Master of Architecture.
An Architectural Designer is generally a term to describe someone who is able to complete the same type of work as an ‘Architect’, yet doesn’t carry the ‘Registered Architect’ credential. There are many reasons why some Architectural Professionals may chose not to register with NZRAB. Architectural Designers, conduct highly creative, complex and high value projects. An Architectural Designer typically holds a Degree Level qualification or higher.
Your decision on which type of architectural professional to use will largely depend on your project type, construction cost and complexity (and other varying factors). It is important to understand the varying service levels on offer and how this may vary the overall fee of the professional.
How do I know if I need a building consent?
Even if you think your project may not require a ‘building consent’, it will likely still require a ‘Discretionary Exemption Consent’. For small projects, which usually fit within New Zealand’s Building Act 2004 Schedule 1 (Building work for which building consent is not required) there is still a requirement to confirm the project will comply with the New Zealand Building Code, The RMA and any relevant council requirements (such as The District Plan). Each Council (Territorial or regional authorities) are able to use their discretion to grant these types of consents.
The same level of detail and documentation is required regardless of the type of consent required.
We provide our clients with thorough advice on whether the project will require a building consent, or whether council may grant an exemption. Even if a builder or tradesperson, says they are able to complete a project without any documentation, paperwork or consents of any kind (including exemptions) we strongly advise to think again, and make contact with a licensed designer like ourselves.
Architectural fees for the Exemption Consent Process start from $2,500 + GST.
Council fees are usually a small lump sum e.g. Christchurch City Council fees are as of July 2025 around $650.