Choose workstations based on your budget and operational needs, ranging from budget refurbished desks in open plan setups to modular off the shelf systems or custom joinery for premium environments.
The choice of workstation determines whether you need a simple furniture installation or a complex project involving authority approvals and services modifications.
Budget and open plan workstations
Budget open plan setups costing $550 to $600 per sqm typically use budget or refurbished workstations. Dividers are created using screens, low-rise cupboards, or cabinets to maintain natural light throughout the workspace. This approach avoids the extra costs associated with authority approvals, fire services, and air conditioning modifications.
Modular and off the shelf systems
Modular workstation systems are the standard for fitouts costing $750 to $850 per sqm. These off the shelf desks and partitions provide a professional layout for growing teams that require some private space. This option balances budget constraints with the need for a functional and partitioned environment.
Executive and premium joinery
Executive and premium fitouts cost $2,800 to $3,000 per sqm. These projects feature custom joinery and stone benchtops to create a prestige environment for corporate headquarters. The focus is on bespoke high end finishes rather than using off the shelf modular components.
Benefits of an open plan layout
Open plan workstations allow for increased capacity and easier reconfiguration if a team grows or shrinks. Quiet areas are created using huddles or booths instead of built walls to keep the space flexible. This layout reduces long term costs when the office configuration needs to be adjusted.
Technical requirements and acoustics
Modern workstation selection prioritises electric height desks and engineered sound acoustics to improve daily efficiency. Progressive Corporate provides site visits and CAD plan drawings to ensure the layout is optimised for the floor area. We manage the full process including the necessary data and electrical installations.
Managing data and electrical needs
Data and electrical considerations are integrated into the workstation layout to avoid messy cabling. Progressive Corporate manages these services as part of the turnkey fitout process. This ensures every desk has the required connectivity without impacting the visual aesthetic of the office.
Next steps for workstation planning
Our design team provides a free layout review to ensure your workstation choice fits your square metre allowance. You can visit our showroom at 1 Forbes Close, Knoxfield, to see these options in person.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cost difference between budget and modular workstations?
Budget open plan setups cost $550 to $600 per sqm, while modular systems with a few offices cost $750 to $850 per sqm.
Do open plan workstations require building permits?
Open plan fitouts often avoid the extra costs of authority approvals and fire services modifications.
Can workstations be reconfigured if the team grows?
Open plan layouts are easier to change at a low cost if your team size changes.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- Will the chosen workstation layout require modifications to the existing HVAC or fire services?
- Are the workstations modular or custom, and how does this affect future reconfigurations?
- Does the quote include the full electrical and data installation for every desk?