A warehouse fitout follows a sequence from initial consultation and space planning to construction, fit-off, and final handover. This process ensures the office and amenity areas within an industrial shell meet operational requirements and compliance standards.
Design decisions made during the planning phase are inexpensive to change, but variations during construction are costly.
How does the planning and design phase work?
The process starts with a consultation to define the business brief, budget, and required workstations. Space planning then converts this into a CAD floorplan to optimise traffic flow, acoustic zoning, and natural light.
What happens during site preparation and construction?
If the warehouse was previously occupied, a strip-out is required to remove existing walls, ceilings, and redundant services. Construction then follows with the installation of wall frames, partitions, and ceiling grids to build the skeleton of the space.
When are finishes and furniture installed?
The fit-off stage involves installing joinery, glass partitions, flooring, and branding elements. Once hard construction is complete, desks and collaborative furniture are positioned to align with pre-installed data and power points.
What occurs at practical completion and handover?
The project team creates a defects list to ensure every fixture meets the agreed specification. Progressive Corporate provides all final documentation, including as-built drawings, warranties, and building permit sign-off.
Frequently asked questions
What is a defects liability period?
This is a post-completion period, usually 3 to 12 months, where the contractor is obligated to fix any identified defects.
What is included in a strip-out?
A strip-out involves the removal of existing walls, ceilings, flooring, old joinery, and redundant services.
Why is a contingency budget necessary?
Demolition can reveal unexpected issues such as asbestos or hidden structural elements that were not in the original scope.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- Will you manage the full project or subcontract parts of it?
- What is included in your quote and what is not?
- How do you handle delays or unexpected costs?