Office fit outs refers to the process of constructing and designing the interior of a building as per the requirements of tenants, fit outs require architects and engineers for the fitting out process. Usually, the landlord puts up a grey structure or a bare shell, with many fit-out possibilities, to be rented by concerned parties.

After renting the place out, tenants design it according to the ambiance of their workplace that they want to provide. Fit outs are beneficial to business as in this way, they can plan and create the workplace in accordance to what their brand represents.

Difference Between Office Fit Outs and Office Renovation

 Often the terms “fit outs” and “renovation” are used interchangeably however, the working of these two processes are very different.

Fit outs refer to the construction and personalization of a new office space in a bare empty shell; developing it to be used and installing supplies at times as well.

However, renovation is improving an existing structure or its facilities to make it up-to-date with the modern standards or requirements. This may include refurbishing the interior.

The main difference between the two processes is that in fit outs, basically a new interior structure is formed in a bare shell. Whereas, in renovations an existing structure may be disintegrated and refurbished. Activities such as painting or adding new furniture may be considered as renovation.

Types of Fit Outs

Conventionally there are three major types of fit outs: Shell and core, Category A and Category B. Nowadays, there is a new category being adapted recently which is Category A+ which lies between category A and category B.

1.Shell and Core Fit Out

In this generally, only the framework of building is complete. From the outside the building may look complete but actually there is a lot that needs to be done by the tenants.

The tenants need to plan many components such as:

• Lobbies
• Stair cases
• Cladding
• Lift shafts
• Car parking areas, etc.

shell and core works provide a blank canvas to the tenants, so that they can customise it according to their own needs and requirements. There are several advantages to this such as:

• It saves both money and time because the tenants don’t have to deconstruct anything to change it according to their requirements.
• The “blank canvas” nature of this fitting provides flexibility in the design by the tenants.

This type of structure is more suitable for larger companies to accommodate their design requirements.

Figure: Shell and Core Structure

2.Category A Fit Out

Category A fit out workings can start after the shell and core workings or at times, the initial instalments may be made by the landlord and the tenants can proceed designing the rest according to their needs.

Although there is no standard definition for category A fit out however, it can be referred to as an umbrella term which includes the installation of basic utilities and safety elements. Category A fittings provide a background for category B fit outs.

Category A fit out may include:

• Installation of HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning) systems
• Electrical wiring
• Plumbing and basic mechanical services
• Toilets
• Suspended ceilings and raised floors
• Life safety systems such as fire alarms, security alarms, extinguishers etc.

This type of fit out is ideal for companies or businesses on a budget.

3.Category B Fit Out

Category B fit out, or also known as “bespoke fit-out”, includes the aesthetics of the place; the business idea and needs are taken into consideration and features are installed that were lacking in category A fit out.

This type of fit out is usually inspired by the work environment and the company’s culture in order to create a compelling brand image.  

Category B fit out may include, but is not limited to, the following:

• Floor finishing
• Upgrading the mechanical and electrical systems, if required
• Audio-visual installations such as speakers, projectors, cameras etc.
• Adding suitable furniture
• Interior designing
• Installation of generators or UPS (uninterrupted power supply)
• Upgrading the suspended ceiling, if required.

Figure: Difference Between Shell and Core, Category A and Category B Fittings

4.Category A+ Fit Out

This is a relatively new type of fit out category which can be referred to as a middle ground between category A fit out and category B fit out.

This fit out represents a ready to work concept ideal for small businesses who do not want to spend too much time and money in refurbishing the workplace. Tenants can move in and start their work without any delays.

Along with category A fit out, category A+ fit out include:

• Furniture and workplaces
• Fitted kitchens and toilets
• Internet services and infrastructure

Initial Considerations Before Starting a Fit Out Project

There are a few important considerations before starting any type of fit out workings:

1.An Accurate Price Estimate

Before starting the fit out it is important to check for any hidden costs which may surprise the later. The quote should be double-checked to make sure that it includes the following:

• Design briefs
• Project management
• Procurement
• Building inspection
• Technical strategies etc.

2.Brand Specific Design

The design of the office should be in compliance with the brand colours, culture, values and vision. Furthermore, the design should also meet the needs of the employees and the workplace environment. It has been found through research that employees have better work productivity when their surroundings are pleasant and suits their needs.

3.Legal Considerations

While fitting out workings it is vital to ensure that all the required government standards are met, to avoid any future inconvenience. Some of them include:

• Fire extinguishers and alarms
• Safe electrical wiring
• Pleasant working environment
• Standard health and hygiene considerations

4.Expansion of Space Should Be Considered

Built-in opportunity for expansion should always be provided where possible so that any new equipment, furniture, clients or employees can be accommodated as the business expands. This way, the business would not need to relocate which requires both time and money.

5.Consulting the Employees

Employees spend their most time in the office, hence it is vital to take their input for any type of fitting and mostly category B fittings.

6.Landlord’s Restrictions

There might be some restrictions imposed by the landlord, hence it is important to keep the landlord in the loop before any type of fittings to avoid any future inconveniences.