A furniture fitout focuses on loose items and joinery to populate an existing space, whereas a full office fitout includes construction, structural changes, and services installation. A full fitout transforms a base-build shell into a fully operational workplace.
The primary distinction is whether the project involves structural modifications and base building services or simply the procurement and placement of furniture.
What defines a furniture fitout?
A furniture fitout focuses on loose furniture such as desks and chairs along with built-in joinery like custom cabinetry. Activity-based setups with acoustic booths and standing desks cost more than traditional workstations because they require specific furniture types. Using refurbished furniture is a practical way to save thousands while maintaining a professional look. This approach is ideal for businesses with an existing layout that only requires new furnishings.
What is included in a full office fitout?
A full office fitout encompasses structural work and demolition including the strip-out of previous tenancies. Creating mezzanine levels or knocking through walls requires engineers, permits and specialist trades before construction starts. These modifications add significant cost to any commercial project. A well-planned budget must include a contingency for these types of structural changes.
How do partitions and services separate the two?
Full fitouts include the installation of partitions and critical services. The scope differs between a budget open plan layout and a high-end fitout featuring stone flooring and bespoke reception counters. These elements are necessary for private offices which require more complex trades work than open plan areas. This level of construction is required when starting with a bare shell space.
How to choose the right scope for your budget?
Reducing costs involves using modular furniture and prioritising spend on high-traffic areas like the reception and meeting rooms. Larger fitouts often achieve a better rate as fixed project management and design costs are spread across more square metres. Progressive Corporate provides free design consultations to establish a layout and avoid expensive changes later. Planning ahead ensures the budget is allocated to the most impactful areas.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start with a furniture fitout and upgrade later?
Yes, modular furniture is easy to reconfigure as a business grows. This allows for a staged approach to spread costs over time.
What is a strip-out?
A strip-out is the removal of an existing fitout before new construction begins. This is necessary when the existing layout does not match the new design.
Does custom furniture cost more than stock options?
Stock standard furniture is cheaper initially. However, custom furniture often provides better long term value because it fits the space perfectly and lasts longer.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- Is the quote inclusive of labour, furniture, and installation?
- Does the project require a building permit or authority approval for the proposed structural changes?
- Can we use refurbished or second-hand furniture to reduce the overall budget?