Trying to calculate office fit out costs can seem like a case of “how long is a piece of string!” Costs can vary widely, depending on the size of the space, whether it’s open plan or divided into offices, and the materials you want to use.
But getting a handle on the costs doesn’t have to be a daunting task – the first step is knowing what you need to budget for. And there is literally more to a fit out than “meets the eye”.
Understanding the scope of works
Obvious costs include furniture, flooring, doors and computer equipment, but what about those costs that are often overlooked when first thinking about a budget – lighting, electrical wiring and mechanical services (air conditioning)?
These items and others like audio visual equipment, data/communications and security might not immediately spring to mind when you consider your office interior design, but they are fundamental to the effective functioning of any workplace and are not insignificant costs in a modern and compliant fit out.
Here is a quick checklist of the items you’ll need to factor into your office fit out costs.
- Reception and waiting areas
- Partitioning – for offices
- Security and access
- Meeting rooms
- Kitchen and breakout areas
- Furniture
- Data and communications – internet, telephone, internal networks
- Electrical and wiring
- Mechanical (air conditioning)
- Lighting
- Flooring
- Doors
- AV costs (TVs/presentation equipment etc.)
So once you’ve determined what needs to be included in your office fit out, how can you keep the budget from spiralling out of control?
Keeping office fit out costs within budget
Here are three simple tips to help you stick to your budget.
- Choose an open plan layout over one containing a concentration of individual offices. Open plan layouts are more cost efficient than constructing separate offices, requiring less in the way of building works with the added benefit of greater utilisation of the space to include more desks/workstations.
- Where appropriate consider re-using existing furniture rather than buying new. If you do buy new, consider readily available stock items rather than bespoke/made-to-order products. This approach will also save your project time and thus money.
- Use an office fit out specialist who can provide an all-in-one solution rather than using separate suppliers. This has the added benefit of getting the job done faster, with less stress and is more cost efficient.
By pre-planning the effective use of your space together with a few cost saving tips, you will end up with a quality office fit out that gives your employees a pleasant and efficient working environment – all without breaking the bank.
Give Formula Interiors a call to find out more about office fit out, and how we can help you get a great office fit out result within your budget.
