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The work environment of your team has a direct link with work productivity. Planning the fit of your office spaces and layout is necessary. However, getting the office fit out of your choice can depend on your budget.
As such, you may want to know how much an average office fit-out costs. This post is your ideal guide on how much an office fit-out costs. You can also learn more about office fit out costs per square metre and the benefits of excellent office fitouts.
There are also details on factors determining office fit-out costs, types of office fit-out styles, and types of fit-outs for commercial office spaces. As a wrap-up, this article looks at tips to make fit-out costs more manageable.
Benefits of Excellent Office Fitouts
• An excellent commercial fitout improves team productivity and morale.
• Your employees can better identify with the brand.
• A bespoke office fit-out can drive innovation.
• You can better concentrate on various aspects of employee work, such as socialising, collaboration, and learning.
Factors Determining Office Fit Out Costs
The cost of office fit-outs depends on individual needs and requirements. Usually, when you get to the final stages of your office interior design, you get more specific on office fit-out costs. Regarding office fit-out budgeting, you can use the following tips to determine your office fit-out cost.
Factor in all elements
As you set your budget for your office fitout, remember to factor in all elements for a functional fit out. This includes furniture such as desks and workstations, construction of enclosed rooms, and hidden costs such as heating and data cabling.
Space planning
Right from the start, you must ensure your space planning is perfect. This includes space planning for intended meeting rooms, the level of soundproofing, and whether to install suspended ceilings. Likewise, you can consider lighting and IT equipment needs for commercial fit-out costs.
Cost per square metre
You must consider what finishes, lighting, and furniture you want for your office fitout. You may go for moderate or premium finishes, depending on your budget. Your choice will affect the ultimate office fit-out cost per square metre.
A general office fitout in Australia can cost an average of $800/m2 to $1200/m2. However, this range depends on the size of the property and your specific inclusions. For instance, you may spend up to $200K to set up an average-sized office fitout.
It would have several small meeting rooms and a minimal kitchen. You can spend up to $10k to set up office decorations, including lighting, paints, and plants. You can get more detailed quotes from commercial office fit-out companies.
Account for older spaces
Remember that you may have to spend more time on plumbing and outdated electrical systems for older commercial offices. Such commercial fitouts for spaces older than 30 years can add up to 15% more to your budget.
Cost of rooms and partitioning
You may consider constructing multiple rooms side by side instead of standalone rooms for your office fitout. Also, note that glass partitioning/walls cost more than plaster walls.
Include floor and ceiling fit-out costs
New office spaces may need some work on the existing flooring and ceiling if they are not desirable. Remember to factor this into your budget.
Number and cost of workstations
The cost of an office fitout can depend on the number of employees you have. In other words, you must consider the quantity of workstations and associated furniture your office space will need. This will also affect certain hidden costs, such as power and data cabling needs per workstation.
Size of the property and business
The size of your commercial property can also be an essential factor that affects office fit-out costs. Fit-outs for small to medium businesses may cost less than that for larger businesses.
Amount of structural changes
Structural changes can increase the cost of commercial office fit-outs. Examples of such changes include demolishing and moving walls, working on exposed ceilings, or making cosmetic changes like painting. Note that you may need special approvals if you make structural changes during office renovations and fitouts.
Types of Office Fit Out Styles
Remember that your chosen style for office fit-outs can affect the cost. You can choose from the following fit out styles for your commercial fitout.
• Modern: This is characterised by minimalistic design with an emphasis on functionality. This design can give your office a timeless look.
• Industrial: Here, you achieve an industrial look using exposed bricks, roof pipes, and metal fixtures.
• Traditional: You can still have a timeless classic design that uses rich wood furniture and blends it with ornate details.
• Scandinavian: Choosing this commercial fit-out can help you create a calm and welcoming workspace. It is characterised by simplicity and the use of natural materials.
Types of Fit Outs for Commercial Office Spaces
There are a variety of office fitouts to choose from. Here are some of your options for the type of fitouts.
Open plan fitout
You can use this option if your budget is very tight. Refurbished workstations, screen dividers, and low-rise cabinets can be used. Such open-plan offices and types of office partitions are cost-saving regarding authority approvals, painting, air conditioning, and fire services.
Open plan fit out option with offices
Here, you can have an extensive open plan and several offices. Unlike the strictly open plan, this one has a small reception area and a desk. It is also furnished with more workstations and partitions.
Mid-range office fit out
Here, you have a welcoming reception area, high-end meeting rooms, carpet tiles for floor coverings, and particular flooring and ceilings for specific regions. This workplace fitout also includes glass partitions, showers, and changing rooms.
Executive office fit out
This fit-out option is the high-end, top-of-the-range option. It can include multiple floors and is of very high standard.
Other customised types of fitouts
This can include dental fitouts, bar fitouts, café fitouts, gym fitouts, and medical fitouts.
Tips to Make Fit Out Costs More Manageable
• You can get a more affordable price for your commercial fit-out if you plan early and choose the right fit-out company.
• You can explore different design styles and trends before choosing the ideal office layout and office spaces.
• Your budget for small office spaces will not be the same for an executive office.
• You can expect medical fitouts to cost more than small office fitouts. After all, you may need extra equipment, design, plumbing, and an uninterrupted power supply.
• Compare estimates from different contractors for office refurbishment and commercial office fit-out costs.
• Check if you need a building permit for your commercial office fit-outs or office fit-out projects.
Affordable Fit Out Options
You have now read up on how much an office fit-out costs. This post also considered the benefits of excellent office fit-outs, factors determining office fit-out costs, and the types of office fit-out styles. You read up on various fit-outs for commercial office spaces and tips to make fit-out costs more manageable. Making an error in judgement can severely impact your office productivity and workflow.
That is why you should get expert help for your office fit-outs. Professional assistance with office fit-outs can ensure that the design and layout of the space align with your specific business needs and requirements. Experts can provide valuable insights into optimising space utilisation, enhancing functionality, and creating a conducive work environment.
Additionally, their knowledge of building codes, regulations, and industry best practices can help streamline the entire fit-out process, saving time and minimising potential complications. There are local, reputable electricians who can do a reliable and professional fit-out job to meet your needs.
