Choose a fitout company based on their ability to provide transparent cost per square metre data, a clear project programme, and full turnkey delivery. The best partners offer an initial design review to lock in scope before quoting.
The most critical factor is ensuring the contractor understands the difference between your budget and the required specification level.
What does a commercial office fitout include?
An office fitout turns an empty commercial space into a functional workplace. It involves the installation of workstations, partitions, reception desks, meeting rooms, and kitchens. This process includes modifying lighting, air conditioning, and fire services to suit the new layout.
What are the typical costs per square metre in Melbourne?
Budget open plan setups cost between $550 to $600 per square metre plus GST. Open plan layouts with private offices cost $750 to $850 per square metre, while executive fitouts reach $2,800 to $3,000 per square metre. These figures allow you to benchmark your budget against real Melbourne project data.
How long does the construction process take?
Small offices under 50 square metres usually take 1 to 2 weeks. Medium offices from 50 to 200 square metres take 3 to 6 weeks, and larger projects over 200 square metres take 6 to 16 weeks. This timeframe covers construction and excludes the design and approval phase.
How can you reduce fitout costs without cutting quality?
Buying direct from the manufacturer removes middleman markups. Modular furniture provides a lower cost entry point and allows for easy reconfiguration as teams grow. Reusing existing desks and chairs in good condition and prioritising high traffic areas like reception ensures a professional finish without overspending on back office zones.
What factors drive the final project price?
A bare shell space costs more to fitout than a space with existing partitions and carpet. Larger floor areas often reduce the cost per square metre because fixed project management fees are spread over a larger area. While stock furniture is cheaper, custom furniture often provides better long term value because it fits the space perfectly.
What is the difference between shell and turnkey delivery?
A shell fitout is just the base build without furniture or partitions. A full turnkey fitout covers design, furniture, partitions, and installation. Turnkey delivery is the preferred choice for those who want a finished office without managing multiple vendors.
How to start your project planning
Progressive Corporate provides a free design and layout review with no obligation to ensure your scope is accurate. This prevents expensive variations after the contract is signed.
Frequently asked questions
What is a turnkey fitout?
It is a fully managed service where the contractor handles design, furniture, and installation. You receive a finished office ready for immediate occupation.
Can I fit out my office in stages?
Yes, staged fitouts allow you to spread costs over time. This is a practical option for growing businesses that do not need the full space immediately.
Does the per square metre price include GST?
No, the typical ranges from $550 to $3,000 per square metre are quoted plus GST.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- What exactly is included in the quote, such as labour, furniture, and installation?
- Does the provided project timeline include the design and authority approval phase?
- Can we reuse existing chairs, storage, or desks to reduce the total budget?