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 budget and architectural project needs.
Basic
Ideal for minor renovations and low-complexity projects. Includes essential documentation for license permits without structural modifications.
Standard
The most contracted option for substantial renovations and new residential construction. Complete project with technical coordination and multiple revisions.
Premium
Comprehensive service for complex projects, multi-family buildings, and renovations requiring maximum technical precision and multidisciplinary coordination.
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How much does an architect cost?
An architect's price is established based on a percentage of the PEM (Material Execution Budget). 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 project
Project
Project and construction management
Horizontal division project
Steps to hire an architect and learn about their fees with Reformia
In major projects, such as new construction or renovations that alter the volume of the property or affect structural elements, it is mandatory to submit, along with the permit request, a project drafted by an architect.
1. Identify the type of architectural project
First, clearly define your project type: new home design, major renovation, extension, or commercial project. This directly impacts pricing, ranging from 1,200 € for basic projects to 25,000 € for premium work. A well-defined project ensures more accurate budget quotes from architects.
2. Request quotes from multiple architects
Contact 3-4 architects specialized in your project type and request detailed quotes. Standard project fees typically range from 4,000 € to 8,500 €, averaging around 15,000 € depending on complexity. Comparing multiple proposals helps you find the best value for your investment.
3. Understand the fee structure
Architects charge in various ways: percentage of construction budget, fixed project fee, or hourly rate. Basic projects (1,200 € to 3,000 €) typically use fixed fees, while premium projects (10,000 € to 25,000 €) may include full supervision. Ask each architect to detail what services are included in each payment structure.
In major projects, such as new construction or renovations that alter the volume of the property or affect structural elements, it is mandatory to submit, along with the permit request, a project drafted by an architect.
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 learn about their fees
In major projects, such as new construction or renovations that alter the volume of the property or affect structural elements, it is mandatory to submit, along with the permit request, a project drafted by an architect.
1. Identify the type of architectural project
First, clearly define your project type: new home design, major renovation, extension, or commercial project. This directly impacts pricing, ranging from 1,200 € for basic projects to 25,000 € for premium work. A well-defined project ensures more accurate budget quotes from architects.
2. Request quotes from multiple architects
Contact 3-4 architects specialized in your project type and request detailed quotes. Standard project fees typically range from 4,000 € to 8,500 €, averaging around 15,000 € depending on complexity. Comparing multiple proposals helps you find the best value for your investment.
3. Understand the fee structure
Architects charge in various ways: percentage of construction budget, fixed project fee, or hourly rate. Basic projects (1,200 € to 3,000 €) typically use fixed fees, while premium projects (10,000 € to 25,000 €) may include full supervision. Ask each architect to detail what services are included in each payment structure.
4. Clarify the project scope and services
Specify exactly what the architect's fee includes: preliminary design, basic project, executive project, administrative management, or site supervision. Scope significantly impacts the final price, ranging from 1,200 € for limited services to 20,000 € for comprehensive projects. A clear contract prevents unexpected costs later.
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. Interventions affecting the building's structure, installations, or volume require more detailed studies and significantly increase the architect's fee.
Surface area and project scope
The larger the square meters of construction or renovation, the higher the cost of the architectural project. Multi-unit residential buildings or projects with multiple floors have higher budgets than single-family homes.
Scope of required documentation
The number of plans, structural calculations, specialized technical projects (installations, safety) and descriptive reports directly influence the price. More documented and complex projects require greater professional dedication.
Architect's experience and geographic location
Architects with more experience and reputation charge higher fees. There is also variation depending on the autonomous community, with Madrid and Barcelona generally being more expensive than other Spanish regions.
How much does an architect cost?: explanation
In major projects, such as new construction or renovations that alter the volume of the property or affect structural elements, it is mandatory to submit, along with the permit request, a project drafted by an architect.
The table shows the approximate cost of different architectural services, 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?
In major projects, such as new construction or renovations that alter the volume of the property or affect structural elements, it is mandatory to submit, along with the permit request, a project drafted by an architect.
In Spain, architects' fees have been deregulated since the entry into force of Law 25/2009, of December 22, which meant that professional associations could not establish indicative fee schedules. Since then, each professional can set their own fees, which represent a percentage of the PEM (Material Execution Project).
Everything related to the PEM is covered in the General State Contracting Regulations (articles 67 and 68) and must include both direct costs (labor, materials, personnel expenses, etc.) and indirect costs (office facilities on site, pavilions, contingencies, etc.).
In this way, there are many factors that can vary the PEM and make the amount more or less substantial. The type of dwelling and its dimensions, high-quality materials, and the complexity of the project (which will require more work in design and implementation) will increase that budget.
- In the case of construction of a single-family home of 200 m² with a PEM of 200,000 €, an architect's fees for project and construction management would amount to about 20,000 € if 10% is applied to the Material Execution Project.
- In the case of a renovation project for a commercial space of 100 m² with a PEM of about 70,000 € and applying 8% of the PEM as fees, these would reach 5,600 €.
- To make plans for the renovation of 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 management, could exceed 350,000 €.
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Energy Suppliers
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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
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Renovations
Aggregate range based on the published guides in this family, including project totals, hourly pricing, and unit pricing where relevant.
Technical Services
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Retail & Assembly
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an architect charge for a comprehensive renovation project?
The cost of a comprehensive renovation involving structural elements typically ranges from 3,000 € to 8,000 €, depending on the project's complexity and the property's size. Architects generally charge between 8% and 15% of the total construction budget, though fixed fees based on project scope are also common. For homes of 100-150 m², budgets between 4,000 € and 6,000 € are typical for renovations requiring technical plans.
How long does it take an architect to prepare a project?
The preparation time depends on complexity, but generally ranges from 4 to 12 weeks from commission to final project delivery. A simple renovation can be completed in 4-6 weeks, while new constructions or complex projects may require 10-12 weeks or more. It's important to allow additional time for administrative procedures and building permits, which can add another 2-4 weeks.
What does an architect's fee typically include?
The architect's fee typically includes the preliminary design, complete technical plans with drawings, technical specifications, descriptive report, and permit and license management. Some professionals also include site visits during construction, though this may be billed separately at an additional cost of 300 € to 600 € per month. It's essential to clarify in the initial budget what services are included and which involve additional costs.
Do I necessarily need an architect to renovate my home?
An architect-prepared project is required when the renovation changes the building's volume, affects structural elements, or requires a municipal permit. However, minor renovations such as painting, flooring replacement, or installation of non-structural elements don't require an architect's project. Before starting any work, it's recommended to consult with your local municipality to confirm whether your project needs certified professional involvement.
How do I choose the right architect for my project?
It's ideal to request quotes from 3-4 licensed architects, comparing not only price but also their experience with projects similar to yours and references from previous clients. Verify that they're registered with the Official Association of Architects (COA) in your autonomous community and review their previous work in similar renovations or constructions. It's also important that the professional clearly explains what their service includes and how communication will work throughout the project.
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 involving structural elements typically ranges from 3,000 € to 8,000 €, depending on the project's complexity and the property's size. Architects generally charge between 8% and 15% of the total construction budget, though fixed fees based on project scope are also common. For homes of 100-150 m², budgets between 4,000 € and 6,000 € are typical for renovations requiring technical plans.
How long does it take an architect to prepare a project?
The preparation time depends on complexity, but generally ranges from 4 to 12 weeks from commission to final project delivery. A simple renovation can be completed in 4-6 weeks, while new constructions or complex projects may require 10-12 weeks or more. It's important to allow additional time for administrative procedures and building permits, which can add another 2-4 weeks.
What does an architect's fee typically include?
The architect's fee typically includes the preliminary design, complete technical plans with drawings, technical specifications, descriptive report, and permit and license management. Some professionals also include site visits during construction, though this may be billed separately at an additional cost of 300 € to 600 € per month. It's essential to clarify in the initial budget what services are included and which involve additional costs.
Do I necessarily need an architect to renovate my home?
An architect-prepared project is required when the renovation changes the building's volume, affects structural elements, or requires a municipal permit. However, minor renovations such as painting, flooring replacement, or installation of non-structural elements don't require an architect's project. Before starting any work, it's recommended to consult with your local municipality to confirm whether your project needs certified professional involvement.
How do I choose the right architect for my project?
It's ideal to request quotes from 3-4 licensed architects, comparing not only price but also their experience with projects similar to yours and references from previous clients. Verify that they're registered with the Official Association of Architects (COA) in your autonomous community and review their previous work in similar renovations or constructions. It's also important that the professional clearly explains what their service includes and how communication will work throughout the project.