A commercial office fitout is the process of converting an empty or outdated space into a functional working office. This involves installing flooring, walls, lighting, furniture, and cabling to meet a business’s operational requirements.
The total cost and project scope depend on whether the space begins as a base build, warm shell, or turnkey fitout.
Category A versus Category B fitouts
Category A fitouts cover landlord basics such as raised floors, suspended ceilings, and basic air conditioning. Category B fitouts are tenant specific and include branded reception areas, custom joinery, and glass partitions. Because Category B requires custom design and IT infrastructure, it is always more expensive than Category A.
Impact of the base building condition
A base build is essentially a concrete shell where a tenant starts from scratch. Warm shells provide basic services like power and air conditioning but no partitions or furniture. In Melbourne, older or heritage listed buildings often require more work to meet current building codes, which increases the project timeline and requires specialist trades.
Essential building services and finishes
Building services involve the HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and data cabling hidden in walls and ceilings. These are often the source of unexpected costs, especially when upgrading electrical capacity or modifying air conditioning zones in older buildings. Decisions on finish levels, such as architectural lighting versus basic fixtures, further determine the final investment.
Common factors that drive fitout costs
The total floor area is the primary cost driver, as most contractors quote by the square metre. The shape of the floor plate also matters because awkward layouts waste materials. Other drivers include the level of design complexity and whether a full strip out of an existing fitout is required before construction.
Planning your Melbourne office fitout
Commercial construction in Victoria requires a registered building practitioner issued by the VBA to ensure compliance with the NCC. Progressive Corporate provides an end to end service that covers design, electrical, plumbing, and full project management. A well planned fitout avoids costly variations by addressing the scope and budget before documentation starts.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an office renovation and a refurbishment?
A refurbishment updates finishes and fittings without structural changes. A renovation changes the layout, services, or the physical structure of the office.
What is a turnkey fitout?
A turnkey fitout is a move in ready space. The construction and furnishing are already complete, allowing a business to occupy the space immediately.
Why does the floor plate shape affect the budget?
Regular rectangular spaces are easier and cheaper to fit out. Awkward or narrow floor plates often waste materials and complicate the space planning process.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- What building services are already included in the base build and what needs upgrading?
- Are there heritage restrictions that limit layout changes or partition types in this building?
- What are the make good obligations at the end of the lease for the proposed partition systems?