In short, an architect leads the design vision end-to-end, and a drafter is a directed partner who turns the client’s vision into permit-ready drawings.
The Process Difference at a High Level
With an architect, the design work is typically done and then presented to the client in iterations for feedback and approval. The architect drives the creative and technical process.
With a drafter, the client sets the direction and level of control. Drawings are produced based on the client's direct input, often with the builder's input as well. This is a crucial distinction: the drafter is a technical executor of the client's established vision, while the architect is the primary design originator.
Permitting and Licensing in Alabama
For permits in Alabama, single-family detached homes typically do not require an architect’s seal (1). Plans must still meet all local building codes, and professional engineering may be required for structural components (e.g., complex foundations, trusses, or retaining walls).
It is important to note that if an architect chooses to work on a project, those official documents must be sealed (2).
Cost Comparison
Understanding the difference in scope and liability is key to understanding the difference in fees.
Architect Fees (Full Services)
For an architect’s full residential services (which often includes design, drafting, bidding assistance, and construction-phase administration), published guides and practitioner write-ups cite roughly 8%–15% of the total construction cost for new homes, with renovations often costing a higher percentage (3).
Alternatives include:
- Hourly billing in approximately the $175–$250 range.
- Square-foot pricing depending on the project's scope (3).
Drafter Fees (Drafting Only)
For a drafter, custom home plans typically run $1,500–$5,000 for the full plan set, or $75–$130 per hour (4). Structural engineering is added if needed.
Because drafting excludes broad "full-service" phases such as construction-phase administration and comprehensive design iterations, the fee for the same project is generally at least half of a full architectural contract. Keep in mind that this lower fee reflects the drafter’s smaller, more defined scope.
Need Help Deciding?
Not sure which path fits your project? Feel free to share photos, goals, and constraints. We can set up a call to discuss whether full architectural services are warranted or whether a drafter plan set will meet your timeline, budget, and permitting needs.
Links to sources:
1)Alabama Board of Architects — “Do I Need an Architect?” (PDF). https://boa.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Do-I-Need-an-Architect.pdfboa.alabama.gov
2)Alabama Administrative Code 100-X-4-.10 (“Exemptions”). https://admincode.legislature.state.al.us/administrative-code/100-X-4-.10Alabama Administrative Code
3)Life of an Architect — “Architectural Fees for Residential Projects.” https://www.lifeofanarchitect.com/architectural-fees-for-residential-projects/Life of an Architect –
4)How much does a draftsman cost? https://www.angi.com/articles/draftsperson-cost.htm
Additional Sources
1)Alabama Board of Architects — “When is a registered architect required?” https://boa.alabama.gov/faq/when-is-a-registered-architect-required/boa.alabama.gov
2)Alabama State Fire Marshal — “When is an Architect Required?” https://aldoi.gov/currentnewsitem.aspx?ID=789Aldo I.
3)ArchitecturalFees.com — “Residential Architectural Fees.” https://architecturalfees.com/residential-architectural-fees/Architectural Fees
4)ArchitecturalFees.com — “Architect Hourly Fee Rates.” https://architecturalfees.com/architect-hourly-fee-rates/Architectural Fees
5)COHAA (AIA) — “Architectural Fees” (PDF). https://id-architects.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/COHAA-Architectural-Fees.pdfid-architects.com