Architect vs. Draftsperson – What’s the Best Value for Your Project?

If you’re planning a new build or renovation, one of the first decisions you’ll face is who to bring on board for design and documentation.

Most residential projects work with one of three types of professionals:

• High-end architects

• Small or emerging architecture practices

• Draftspersons (or building designers)

They each bring different strengths, service levels, and price points. Here’s a breakdown of what each offers—and how to decide what’s the best fit for your project and budget.

1. High-End Architects

• Typical fee: 10–20% of build cost

• Best for: Custom homes with budgets over $1M

These are the bigger-name firms that focus on high-end, design-led homes. They typically offer full service: concept design, permit documentation, interior design, consultant coordination, and site involvement during construction.

Because of the scale and detail involved in their work, many of these practices:

• Won’t take on projects under $1M

• Charge higher percentage fees for smaller builds

For a $450,000 build, a 20% fee would be $90,000—so this level of service makes the most sense with larger project budgets.

2. Small or Emerging Architecture Practices

• Typical fee: 7–10% of build cost

• Best for: Homeowners wanting good design and support, without the big-firm price tag

Smaller studios (like mine) offer full architectural services—design, documentation, and coordination—but often at a more accessible price point. That can mean better value for smaller or mid-range projects, especially under $1M.

What you can expect:

• A tailored design process

• Permit-ready documentation

• Optional interior design or site involvement

For a $450,000 build at 8%, the fee would be $36,000. You’re getting full architectural service—just without the overheads of a large firm.

3. Draftspersons / Building Designers

• Typical fee: 3–5% of build cost

• Best for: Straightforward projects or clients who want to manage most decisions themselves

Draftspersons generally focus on technical drawings to get you through planning and building approval. Some may offer basic layout input, but design and finishes are usually client-led.

You’ll likely be managing:

• Interior decisions and selections

• Coordination with other consultants

• On-site problem solving during construction

For a $450,000 build at 4%, expect to pay around $18,000. It’s a cost-effective option if you know what you want and feel comfortable running the rest of the process yourself.

	High-End Architect	Emerging Architect	Draftsperson
Concept design	Yes	Yes	Limited
Permit drawings	Yes	Yes	Yes
Interior design	Often included	Optional	Rare
Consultant input	Managed for you	Managed	You manage
Site involvement	Yes	Optional	No
Typical fee ($450k build)	$45k–90k	$31.5k–45k	$13.5k–22.5k

The Architectural Value- Add

A recent study by the University of Melbourne and ArchiTeam Cooperative found that homes renovated by small-practice architects significantly outperform those renovated without architectural input. On average, these architect-led renovations deliver 1.2 % higher annual capital growth, which would equate to roughly $256,000 more in value over 10 years for a home worth $1.2 million.

Even more striking: every dollar spent on architectural fees can generate about $11.40 in added property value. In other words, hiring an architect isn’t just a design choice—it can be one of the best financial decisions you make on a renovation project.

Smaller architectural practices (like mine) often sit in that middle ground: offering full-service design, documentation, and guidance—without the cost of a larger studio. For many homeowners, it’s a smart balance between quality, process, and price.

Happy to talk through what’s realistic for your project if you’re unsure.