How much does a architect cost in Edinburgh?
RIBA-chartered architects for residential extensions, new builds, planning applications, and listed-building consents. Concept through completion.
Prices by job type · Edinburgh 2026
| Job type | Typical low | Typical high | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| House extension design | £60 | £160 | Indicative — request a quote for accurate pricing |
| Planning permission drawings | £60 | £160 | Indicative — request a quote for accurate pricing |
| New build design | £60 | £160 | Indicative — request a quote for accurate pricing |
| Listed building alterations | £60 | £160 | Indicative — request a quote for accurate pricing |
| Loft conversion drawings | £60 | £160 | Indicative — request a quote for accurate pricing |
| Building regs drawings | £60 | £160 | Indicative — request a quote for accurate pricing |
| Feasibility study | £60 | £160 | Indicative — request a quote for accurate pricing |
| Interior reconfiguration | £60 | £160 | Indicative — request a quote for accurate pricing |
What affects the price?
Location
Central postcodes typically cost 10–15% more than outer areas due to higher overheads.
Urgency
Emergency and same-day callouts attract a premium of £40–£80 on top of standard rates.
Complexity
Specialist work, structural changes or listed buildings increase labour time and cost.
Certification required
Gas Safe, NICEIC or FENSA-registered work costs more but is legally required for certain jobs.
Prices by area in Edinburgh
| Area | Avg hourly rate | Avg job total |
|---|---|---|
| EH1 | £46/hr | £207 |
| EH2 | £46/hr | £207 |
| EH3 | £44/hr | £198 |
| EH4 | £40/hr | £180 |
| EH5 | £40/hr | £180 |
| EH6 | £40/hr | £180 |
| EH7 | £40/hr | £180 |
| EH8 | £40/hr | £180 |
Frequently asked questions
Most architects in Edinburgh charge £34–£52 per hour. Emergency callouts may add £40–£80 on top. Fixed-price quotes are available for defined jobs.
Architects registered for VAT (turnover above £85,000) must charge 20% VAT. Sole traders below the threshold are VAT-exempt. Always ask for a VAT-inclusive quote.
Yes — we recommend getting at least 3 quotes. Domifyr makes this easy: submit one request and receive quotes from verified local architects.
Most architects ask for no more than 25% upfront, with the balance on completion. Never pay the full amount before work begins.