Melbourne office fitouts typically cost between $550 and $3,000 per square metre plus GST. Costs range from budget open plan setups at $550 to $600 per square metre to premium executive environments at $2,800 to $3,000 per square metre.
The starting condition of the space, such as whether it is a warm shell or a cold shell, significantly impacts the total budget.
What a budget open plan fitout includes
Budget open plan fitouts cost between $550 to $600 per square metre. These setups use budget or refurbished workstations with dividers made from screens or low-rise cabinets. By avoiding traditional walls, businesses save on authority approvals, painting, and complex fire service modifications.
The middle ground of open plan with offices
Open plan setups with a few offices cost between $750 to $850 per square metre. This option adds a small reception area, a dedicated meeting room, and a few private offices to the budget base. Furniture at this level consists of off the shelf modular systems rather than custom pieces.
The difference with mid range commercial fitouts
Mid range commercial fitouts cost $1,200 to $1,400 per square metre. This is the most popular choice for Melbourne businesses because it balances professionalism with cost. The scope typically includes a central reception area with custom counters, high-end meeting rooms, and durable carpet tiles.
Features of premium executive fitouts
Executive or premium fitouts range from $2,800 to $3,000 per square metre. These are prestige environments designed for corporate HQs. The higher cost is driven by high specification materials such as stone benchtops and extensive custom joinery.
Category A vs Category B budgeting
Understanding the difference between Category A and Category B fitouts is critical for budgeting. Cat A is the base build provided by the landlord, covering raised floors, suspended ceilings, and basic lighting. Cat B is the tenant fitout, which includes the partitions, furniture, and branding that make the office functional.
How to manage fitout costs
Reducing costs without cutting corners starts with a free design consultation to lock in the layout. Using modular workstation systems allows a business to reconfigure the layout easily as the team grows or shrinks. Progressive Corporate suggests prioritising expenditure on the reception and meeting rooms while reusing existing chairs and storage in good condition.
Frequently asked questions
How does the space shape affect the total cost?
Awkward or narrow floor plates waste materials and increase costs. A regular rectangular space is cheaper and easier to work with.
How long does a medium office fitout take?
A medium office between 50 to 200 square metres typically takes 3 to 6 weeks. This timeline excludes the design and approval phase.
What is a warm shell?
A warm shell is a base build where basic services like air conditioning and power are already connected. It is ready for the tenant to begin the fitout process.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- What exactly is included in the quote regarding labour, furniture, and installation?
- Is the space currently a warm shell or a cold shell?
- Will the proposed layout require authority approvals or fire service modifications?