How Much Does an Architect Charge?

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Getting your home designed by a professional is something we’re all considering because it’s in vogue and seems like the smart thing to do. However, we’re also plagued with scepticism about one thing — how much does an architect charge?  

 

We did the homework for you to get you to alleviate any doubts you may have. Also, it helps you prepare your bargains with the designers. We’ve also covered what NW charges since we believe in transparency.

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Scope of Work:

While some Architects take up only the designing, some help you pick the interiors and decor as well. If you want a hassle-free experience, then check for a architect who can supervise the entire work from procurement of interiors and decor, carpentry work for the kitchen, Washrooms, drawing room, living area and bedroom for LED units and wardrobes etc. along with installation. For any civil work required, check the entire scope. False ceiling, flooring and painting are also considered as separate services. The pricing varies based on all these tasks and services.

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How are Architect Charges Computed?:

If you think that Architect usually take a lump sum amount for a design/plan, that’s not always the case. There are different ways a designer can compute the cost.

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• Per Sqft: Based on the area of the home, the architect charges around ₹25 per Sqft and this can go upto ₹75 as well, if you’re looking for design alone. However, inclusive of structure, electrical, plumbing, basic interiors i.e, modular kitchen, flooring and ceiling, this price can shoot upto ₹1,200 – 5,000 too. It is better to check with the designer on what it includes as the some of them only offers.

• Percentage of Overall Cost: The architect calculates the overall price of the project inclusive of products and services. Based on the total cost, they will charge around 7.5%-11% as a design fee. This can shoot upto 20% based on the level of design and expertise involved.

• Markup on Services: In layman terms, this means the architect will charge a premium on every services you choose. Eg: If you chose execution till possession it's cost price is around ₹20,000 per month, the architect may mark it as ₹22,000 while charging it to the project. The premium varies from project to project.

• A Lump Sum: This is purely based on the architect’s discretion on how much they want to charge for a project. It can be based on a percentage, commission, per sqft or a combination of two or more categories. In many cases, the architects call this a fee and there is no transparency on what basis this is charged.

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Add-on Charges:

But that’s not all! Architecture is a long process that involves multiple visits and iterations. But not everyone provides you with ample choices. Here are some rates you might have to encounter.

• Site Visit Charges: While the first 2-3 visits might be free of cost, anything over and above it can cost on an average of ₹1,500 per visit in under 15 Km radius of office branch. if above ₹150/Km will be applicable. 

• Iteration Charges: If you’re not satisfied with one design or require ample changes to be made multiple times, architects may charge a fee. Usually, they share 3-4 iterations without any fee. Anything more than will be chargeable. So check with your architect before you willy-nilly ask for different designs.

• Design-only Cost: If it’s only the design you want, the architect can charge around ₹20,000-50,000 for just architectural consultation and ideas. For a three-dimensional (3D) view, the cost can go upto ₹15,000-₹1 lakh. Some architects charge per room view as well, which can vary from ₹6000-10,000 per view. Hence, they consider the size of the home, along with the number of rooms.

• Site Supervision Cost: If you want the architect to be present at the site to supervise the construction, then they will charge you for the same. Here, the price solely depends on what the project cost is.

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NW Pricing

We believe in transparency and we don’t have any hidden costs. The final cost you pay at NW includes everything — Vastu Consultancy and Valuations, design and management fee, charges for services, delivery and installation, and taxes. So what is design and management fee? We charge a flat 10% to compensate for the architect’s time spent on the project.

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**Prices mentioned are indicative of market standards and can vary based on architect, location and scope of work.