How Much Does An Architect Cost To Draw Plans?
- Remote Site
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
If you're planning to build a new home, shed, or extension in Australia, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: How much does an architect cost to draw plans? It's a great question that doesn't always come with a simple answer. The Architect Cost To Draw Plans can vary significantly depending on your location, the complexity of your project, and the level of detail required.
At Remote Site Plan, we help Australians like you access reliable, compliant site plans and architectural sketches without unnecessary complexity or inflated prices. Whether you need an architect drawing in Australia, an architectural sketch in Victoria, or assistance from a qualified architect in Australia, this guide is for you.
What Does It Mean to Have an Architect Draw Plans?
Before diving into the architect cost in Australia, it’s important to understand what these professionals actually do. Architects are trained to design safe, functional, and visually appealing buildings. When you hire an architect to draw plans, you're getting:
A tailored design that suits your space and needs
Accurate and scaled drawings compliant with building codes
Elevations, sections, and detailed floor plans
Coordination with engineers, surveyors, and certifiers (when required)
These plans form the foundation of your construction project and are essential for council approvals, building permits, and accurate quoting.
The Real Architect Cost To Draw Plans in Australia
So, how much does it really cost? Let's break it down:
1. Hourly Rates
Most architects in Australia charge between AUD $100 to $300 per hour. This is common for smaller projects or consultations.
2. Fixed Fees
For more defined projects, architects may offer a fixed rate. On average:
Basic floor plans: $1,500 – $3,000
Complete set of drawings (incl. elevations, sections, site plans): $4,000 – $8,000
Custom home design: $10,000 and upwards
3. Percentage of Construction Cost
Some architects charge based on your total construction budget, typically around 8% to 15%. For example, if your home will cost $300,000 to build, the architectural fees could range from $24,000 to $45,000.
Architect Drawing in Australia – Why Prices Vary
The architect cost to draw plans can depend on a few major factors:
Project size and complexity – More rooms, levels, or custom features mean more detailed plans.
Location – In metro areas like Sydney or Melbourne, you may pay more than in regional towns.
Experience – Established architects with a long track record may charge higher fees.
Scope of work – Are you only getting basic drawings, or do you need complete documentation, interior layouts, and council submission support?
Knowing what you need is the first step to getting a fair price. At Remote Site Plan, we work with clients to ensure they get only what they need—nothing more.
Architectural Sketch in Victoria – A Regional Perspective
If you're based in Victoria, getting an architectural sketch in Victoria may be more affordable than you think. The local market here is slightly more competitive, especially in regional areas. Here's what to expect:
Sketch plans for sheds, garages, or extensions can start from $800 to $2,000.
Full documentation for council submissions can go up to $7,000+.
Keep in mind: You may not always need a full architectural service. In many cases, a site-specific architectural sketch in Victoria combined with professional site plan drawings is enough to satisfy council requirements—saving you both time and money.
Alternatives to Traditional Architects: Save with Remote Site Plan
Hiring an architect in Australia doesn't always mean engaging a full-service firm. For smaller projects—like sheds, decks, granny flats, and renovations—you may benefit from:
Draftspeople – Skilled at creating site plans and building drawings at lower rates
Online services – Like Remote Site Plan, where you can get compliant plans fast without hidden costs
Templates and plan libraries – Affordable for standard structures
At Remote Site Plan, we provide fast, accurate site plan drawings and architectural sketches in Victoria and across Australia. Whether you're in Sydney, Brisbane, or a remote area—we deliver top-quality documents at a fraction of traditional costs.
Understanding the Process: From Sketch to Approval
When you engage an architect to draw plans—or use our services—the process generally includes the following:
Initial consultation or brief
Site analysis (we use satellite and council data)
Draft design sketches
Final site plan and architectural drawing
Submission-ready documents for council approval or permits
This streamlined process makes Remote Site Plan so popular for clients looking for affordable, professional alternatives to traditional architect services.
Why Remote Site Plan is a Smart Choice
If you're looking to save on architect cost in Australia, here's how we can help:
📐 Compliant architectural sketches starting at just $390
🏡 Site-specific shed site plans and custom home plans
📄 Fast delivery with 100% council-compliant documentation
💡 Ideal for owner-builders, tradies, developers, and home renovators
We serve the entire country—no matter where you're located, our digital service ensures you get what you need without delay.
How to Get Started
Getting your architect drawing in Australia is now easier than ever. With Remote Site Plan, you simply:
Tell us about your project
Upload any existing sketches or references
Receive a quote and timeline
Get your final plans within 48–72 hours
No hidden fees. No long wait times. Professional plans are delivered on time, every time.
Let's Compare: Architect vs. Remote Site Plan
FeatureTraditional ArchitectRemote Site Plan
Cost $3,000 – $10,000+ From $390
Turnaround 2–6 weeks 2–3 days
Council-Ready Yes Yes
Customization High High
Site Visit Often required Not needed
As you can see, you don't always need a full-service architect to move your project forward.
Secondary Services – We've Got You Covered
We also offer:
Site plans online for council submissions and permit approvals
Detailed site plan drawings that align with your architectural layout
Custom shed site plans for rural and suburban properties
All plans are prepared in compliance with local council and national construction codes.
Final Thoughts: What's the Real Architect Cost To Draw Plans?
There's no universal answer to the question, "How much does an architect cost to draw plans?" But now, you know what to expect, what affects pricing, and—more importantly—how to save money.
Whether you're exploring a small addition or starting a new build, Remote Site Plan can help you avoid high architect cost in Australia while still meeting all your project requirements.
We're here to help with fast, affordable, and compliant architect drawing in Australia—no matter your location.
✅ Ready to Get Started?
Let Remote Site Plan help you create compliant, accurate architectural drawings without the high cost.
👉 Contact us now for a free quote and consultation.
✔ Affordable plans
✔ Architect-quality results
✔ Delivered fast and 100% compliant
Don't overspend. Choose smart. Choose Remote Site Plan—the affordable alternative to the
traditional architect in Australia services.
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