How much does it cost to build an architect-designed house?
Build cost per square metre, design fees, consultants and contingency: an honest breakdown of where the money goes.
The first question almost every client asks is the hardest to answer in one number. Here is how we build up a realistic budget for a new house.
Construction cost
Construction is roughly 75–80% of the total. It depends on size, site, specification and the local building market, so we always start with a range and narrow it at every stage.
Fees and surveys
- Architectural fees: typically 8–12% of construction.
- Structural and services engineers: 2–4%.
- Surveys, planning and approval fees: 1–2%.
Always keep a contingency
We recommend 8–10% for a new build and up to 15% for work to an existing building, where surprises hide behind every wall.