Custom office furniture costs in Melbourne vary by specification and layout. Progressive Corporate manufactures its own furniture to provide custom solutions at more competitive prices than standard retail alternatives.
Custom furniture typically provides better long term value because it is designed to fit the specific dimensions of the space and lasts longer than stock items.
Custom vs stock standard furniture
Standard furniture is cheaper upfront but often lacks the longevity of custom pieces. Budget open plan setups cost $550 to $600 per square metre and use basic workstations. Mid range fitouts costing $1,200 to $1,400 per square metre typically feature bespoke reception counters, while executive environments costing $2,800 to $3,000 per square metre use custom joinery and stone benchtops for a prestige finish.
What increases the cost of custom furniture?
Specialty zones such as boardrooms, server rooms and staff kitchens require custom joinery and more complex trades work. The number of private offices also increases the budget as these spaces need partitions, doors and separate air conditioning zones. In CBD locations, stricter building management rules and limited access hours for trades often increase the cost of installation compared to industrial locations.
Practical ways to reduce furniture costs
Buying direct from the manufacturer removes middleman markups. Using modular furniture for workstations is more affordable and allows the layout to be reconfigured easily as the business grows. Other options include reusing existing chairs and storage in good condition or prioritising high traffic areas like reception and meeting rooms while saving on back office furniture.
Planning and timing your fitout
A free design consultation and CAD floorplan prevent expensive changes after construction begins. Planning ahead is critical because rush jobs cost more due to expedited manufacturing and after hours labor. Progressive Corporate’s project team helps clients determine where to invest in custom pieces to maximise visual impact without exceeding the budget.
Frequently asked questions
Can I mix custom and modular furniture?
Yes. Many clients prioritise custom joinery for the reception and boardroom while using modular workstations for the general staff area to manage costs.
Does the building location affect the final price?
Yes. CBD fitouts are often more expensive due to higher parking costs for trades and more restrictive building access hours.
How long does it take to get custom furniture?
Timelines vary, but rush jobs typically incur a premium for expedited manufacturing and after hours installation work.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- Do you manufacture the furniture in house or act as a middleman for another supplier?
- Which areas of the current floorplan can be switched to modular furniture to reduce costs?
- How does the proposed furniture layout impact the air conditioning and lighting zones of the base building?