How Much Does an Architect Charge? Project Pricing
For large-scale projects, such as new construction or renovations that alter the building's volume or affect structural elements, it is mandatory to submit, along with the license application, a project drafted by an architect.
The amounts are indicative and come from the original imported guide. The final budget depends on the scope, materials and previous condition of the space.
Service Levels and Pricing
Compare the different options available based on your project scope and technical advisory needs.
Basic
Simplified technical project for minor renovations that don't affect the building's structure. Includes basic plans and descriptive report for municipal permit application.
Standard
Complete project for comprehensive renovations or extensions requiring structural modifications. Includes detailed technical documentation, basic structural calculations, and construction oversight.
Premium
Comprehensive project for new construction, major structural renovations, or complex projects. Includes custom design, specialist coordination, and full project management.
Share your project details and get free contact with professionals who work on similar projects.
How much does an architect cost?
An architect's fees are based on a percentage of the PEM (Budget of Material Execution). Depending on the size of the project and its PEM, the architect will have fees ranging from 4% to 10-12%. The larger the PEM associated with a project, the lower the percentage and vice versa.
Preliminary design
Project
Project and construction supervision
Horizontal division project
Steps to hire an architect and understand their fees with Reformia
For major projects, such as new constructions or renovations that alter the volume of the property or affect structural elements, it is mandatory to submit a project drawn up by an architect along with the license application.
1. Determine the type and scope of the project
Before requesting quotes, clearly define your project: full renovation, interior design, or new construction. The scope determines the architect's final cost, ranging from 800 € for basic projects up to 12,000 € for more complex work. A detailed description helps you receive more accurate estimates.
2. Identify whether an architect is required
Not all projects require a professional architect. Minor renovations can be managed without one, saving you 2,000 € to 4,500 € from the standard budget. Check with local authorities which licenses and professionals are mandatory based on your project's type and scope.
3. Request quotes from multiple architects
Contact 3-4 architects to obtain multiple quotes. Fees vary significantly: from 800 € at the basic level to 20,000 € for premium projects. Ask for details about what services each quote includes to make a fair comparison.
For major projects, such as new constructions or renovations that alter the volume of the property or affect structural elements, it is mandatory to submit a project drawn up by an architect along with the license application.
What is usually included in a quote
Each professional may structure quotes differently, but most project budgets follow this logic.
Typically included
Often not included
Steps to hire an architect and understand their fees
For major projects, such as new constructions or renovations that alter the volume of the property or affect structural elements, it is mandatory to submit a project drawn up by an architect along with the license application.
1. Determine the type and scope of the project
Before requesting quotes, clearly define your project: full renovation, interior design, or new construction. The scope determines the architect's final cost, ranging from 800 € for basic projects up to 12,000 € for more complex work. A detailed description helps you receive more accurate estimates.
2. Identify whether an architect is required
Not all projects require a professional architect. Minor renovations can be managed without one, saving you 2,000 € to 4,500 € from the standard budget. Check with local authorities which licenses and professionals are mandatory based on your project's type and scope.
3. Request quotes from multiple architects
Contact 3-4 architects to obtain multiple quotes. Fees vary significantly: from 800 € at the basic level to 20,000 € for premium projects. Ask for details about what services each quote includes to make a fair comparison.
4. Compare fees and included services
Don't choose based on the lowest price alone. Compare what each quote includes: technical drawings, administrative management, site visits. A premium quote of 5,000 € to 12,000 € typically offers more services than a basic one of 800 € to 1,500 €.
What can change your final price
Even similar projects can end with different budgets. These are the factors that most often push costs up or down.
Project type and complexity
New construction projects are more expensive than simple renovations. Works affecting structural elements, facades, or requiring complex calculations significantly increase the architect's fee.
Property size and project scope
The total cost is directly related to the square meters of the property. The larger the area, the greater the volume of work in documentation, drawings, and supervision, which impacts the final price.
Level of detail and specialization required
Projects requiring specialists (structures, installations, sustainability, accessibility) or demanding a high level of architectural detail increase costs due to technical complexity and necessary coordination.
Architect's experience and geographical location
Senior architects or those with an established reputation typically charge more than less experienced professionals. Additionally, fees vary depending on the autonomous community and whether it's an urban or rural area.
How much does an architect cost?: explanation
For major projects, such as new constructions or renovations that alter the volume of the property or affect structural elements, it is mandatory to submit a project drawn up by an architect along with the license application.
The table shows the approximate cost of different architectural works, taking into account that variation in their fees according to the PEM. In any case, these are indicative prices that may vary depending on the characteristics of the work assigned to them.
How much does it cost to hire an architect?
For major projects, such as new constructions or renovations that alter the volume of the property or affect structural elements, it is mandatory to submit a project drawn up by an architect along with the license application.
In Spain, architects' fees have been deregulated since the entry into force of Law 25/2009, dated December 22, which meant that professional associations could no longer establish reference fee schedules. Since then, each professional can set their own fees, which represent a percentage of PEM (Material Execution Budget).
Everything related to PEM is covered in the General State Contracting Regulation (articles 67 and 68) and must include both direct costs (labor, materials, personnel expenses, etc.) and indirect costs (on-site office facilities, warehouses, contingencies, etc.).
In this way, there are many factors that can vary the PEM and make the amount more or less high. The type of housing and its dimensions, high-quality materials and project complexity (which will require more work in design and implementation) will increase that budget.
- In the case of building a single-family home of 200 m² with a PEM of 200,000 €, an architect's fees for project and construction supervision would amount to approximately 20,000 € if a 10% rate is applied to the Material Execution Budget.
- In the case of a commercial space renovation project of 100 m² with a PEM of approximately 70,000 € and applying 8% of the PEM as fees, these would reach 5,600 €.
- For drawing up plans for renovating a house of about 150 m², a professional can charge from 1,200 €.
- If it is a large residential building with 40 units, garages, storage rooms and common areas, the architect's fees, including project and construction supervision, could exceed 350,000 €.
A platform built equally for homeowners and professionals
Whether you're planning a renovation or looking for your next project, Reformia gives both sides the tools to connect, compare, and collaborate with confidence.
For individuals
For professionals
Demystify home renovation costs
Access clear price ranges for services and installations in your area, then create a request with realistic expectations.
Energy Suppliers
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals and unit pricing where relevant.
Construction
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Installers
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Maintenance
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Moving Services
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Minor Works
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Renovations
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Technical Services
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Retail & Assembly
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family.
Energy Suppliers
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals and unit pricing where relevant.
Construction
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Installers
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Maintenance
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Moving Services
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Minor Works
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Renovations
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Technical Services
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Retail & Assembly
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an architect charge for a comprehensive renovation project?
The cost of a comprehensive renovation typically ranges between 3.000 € and 8.000 € depending on the area and project complexity. Architects usually charge between 8% and 15% of the total construction budget, although some prefer to set a fixed price per project. For a 100 m² property with complete renovation, the architect's fee is usually around 4.500 € to 6.000 €.
How long does it take an architect to develop a new construction project?
A new construction project typically requires between 4 to 8 weeks of work, depending on the complexity and size of the project. For simpler projects such as extensions or structural renovations, the timeline reduces to 2-4 weeks. This time includes site survey, preliminary design, basic project and execution project with all necessary technical documents.
What does an architect's fee include in a project?
The architect's fee includes the preparation of the complete technical project, floor and section plans, constructive details and material specifications. It also covers municipal permit management, coordination with other professionals if necessary, and typically basic site supervision. Some architects charge separately for additional services such as full project management or modifications made after the initial project.
Do I necessarily need an architect for all my renovation work?
Yes, it is mandatory to have a project prepared by an architect for renovations that alter the building's volume, affect structural elements or involve changes of use. For minor work such as painting, tiling or carpentry changes without structural changes, you can do without an architect. Always consult with your local municipality, as requirements vary depending on the autonomous community and municipality.
How to choose an architect and ensure their prices are competitive?
Request quotes from at least 3 different architects, clearly specifying the type and scope of the project. Compare not only the final price, but also what services each one includes and their experience with similar projects. Verify that they are registered and insured, and ask for references from previous clients. A very cheap architect may leave out important services, while very high prices do not always guarantee better quality.
Got more questions? Contact us!
Got more questions? Contact us!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an architect charge for a comprehensive renovation project?
The cost of a comprehensive renovation typically ranges between 3.000 € and 8.000 € depending on the area and project complexity. Architects usually charge between 8% and 15% of the total construction budget, although some prefer to set a fixed price per project. For a 100 m² property with complete renovation, the architect's fee is usually around 4.500 € to 6.000 €.
How long does it take an architect to develop a new construction project?
A new construction project typically requires between 4 to 8 weeks of work, depending on the complexity and size of the project. For simpler projects such as extensions or structural renovations, the timeline reduces to 2-4 weeks. This time includes site survey, preliminary design, basic project and execution project with all necessary technical documents.
What does an architect's fee include in a project?
The architect's fee includes the preparation of the complete technical project, floor and section plans, constructive details and material specifications. It also covers municipal permit management, coordination with other professionals if necessary, and typically basic site supervision. Some architects charge separately for additional services such as full project management or modifications made after the initial project.
Do I necessarily need an architect for all my renovation work?
Yes, it is mandatory to have a project prepared by an architect for renovations that alter the building's volume, affect structural elements or involve changes of use. For minor work such as painting, tiling or carpentry changes without structural changes, you can do without an architect. Always consult with your local municipality, as requirements vary depending on the autonomous community and municipality.
How to choose an architect and ensure their prices are competitive?
Request quotes from at least 3 different architects, clearly specifying the type and scope of the project. Compare not only the final price, but also what services each one includes and their experience with similar projects. Verify that they are registered and insured, and ask for references from previous clients. A very cheap architect may leave out important services, while very high prices do not always guarantee better quality.