Commercial office fitouts in Melbourne typically cost between $550 to $3,000+ per square metre plus GST. The final price depends on whether you require a basic open plan layout or a premium executive environment with custom joinery.
The total cost is driven by the specification level and whether you choose a shell fitout or a full turnkey delivery.
Budget and open plan cost breakdowns
Open plan setups cost between $550 to $600 per sqm. These layouts use budget workstations and huddles or booths for quiet areas, which avoids the cost of authority approvals and air conditioning modifications. Adding a few private offices and a small meeting room increases the cost to $750 to $850 per sqm and utilizes off the shelf modular furniture.
Mid range office specifications
Mid range fitouts are the most popular choice, costing between $1,200 to $1,400 per sqm. This specification includes a welcoming reception area as the central point of the space with custom designed counters and special ceiling treatments. These offices typically feature carpet tiles and a couple of high end meeting rooms to ensure the space looks professional.
Executive and premium environments
Executive fitouts cost between $2,800 to $3,000 per sqm for prestige corporate environments. These projects feature custom joinery, stone benchtops and high spec reception areas. Depending on the final materials and specification, some premium high spec fitouts can reach $4,500 per sqm.
Shell versus turnkey delivery
A shell fitout is a base build provided by the landlord with no partitions or furniture. Most businesses prefer a full turnkey fitout, which covers design, furniture, partitions and installation. This end to end approach delivers a finished office and removes the stress of managing multiple vendors.
Budget planning and lease considerations
Total budgets must include IT equipment, signage, relocation and a 10 to 15 percent contingency buffer for unplanned costs. Bringing in a specialist before signing a lease helps identify outdated building services or compliance issues that could increase the budget. Progressive Corporate provides a free design and layout review to confirm the floor plate suits the intended headcount.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a shell and turnkey fitout?
A shell fitout is just the base build with no furniture or partitions. A turnkey fitout covers the entire process from design to installation so the office is ready to use.
Why are open plan fitouts generally cheaper?
They avoid costs related to authority approvals, fire services, and air conditioning modifications. They use huddles or booths instead of constructed walls to create quiet zones.
How much should I set aside for contingencies?
We recommend holding back 10 to 15 percent of the budget. This covers unexpected surprises that often arise during a commercial fitout.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- Does the existing floor plate actually suit my intended layout and headcount?
- Are there any outdated building services in this space that will require expensive replacement?
- What specific compliance issues or authority approvals are required for this level of fitout?