A warehouse fitout, or industrial fitout, involves installing office and amenity spaces within a warehouse or distribution centre. A commercial office fitout is the process of turning an entire empty or outdated space into a functional working office.
The primary difference is that industrial fitouts integrate administrative zones into a larger industrial shell, while office fitouts typically cover the full tenancy.
What is the scope of an industrial fitout?
An industrial fitout provides the necessary office and amenity areas inside a warehouse environment. A commercial office fitout is more comprehensive, involving the installation of new flooring, walls, lighting, and cabling to turn a bare space into a productive workplace.
How do building services affect the cost?
Both project types require HVAC, electrical, hydraulics, and fire services. In office fitouts, budgets often blow out when modifying air conditioning zones or adding plumbing for kitchens and extra bathrooms, especially in older buildings where existing services are tired or non compliant.
How does the condition of the space differ?
Commercial office fitouts often begin as a base build, a warm shell with basic services, or a cold shell. A bargain lease in an old building can lead to an expensive fitout if the space requires significant work to meet current building codes or if a full strip out is needed.
What are Category A and B fitouts?
Category A fitouts are base builds provided by landlords, covering basics like raised floors and suspended ceilings. Category B fitouts are tenant specific and include branded reception areas, custom joinery, glass partitions, and full IT infrastructure.
What drives design and finish costs?
There is a massive difference between standard commercial finishes and premium ones, such as polished concrete versus carpet. The more complex the design, the more trades are required, which increases coordination time and overall project cost.
How to start your project planning?
Progressive Corporate provides end to end management from the initial brief through to practical completion. Our team handles design, construction, and project management to ensure your space works hard for your business.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a renovation and a refurbishment?
A refurbishment updates finishes and fittings. A renovation changes the layout, services, or structure.
What is a warm shell?
A warm shell is a base build where basic services such as power and air conditioning are already connected.
What is a strip out?
A strip out is the removal of an existing fitout before new construction begins.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- Is the space currently a warm shell or a cold shell?
- What specific electrical capacity and HVAC zoning are included in the base building?
- Will the current layout require a full strip out before new construction can start?