How much does an office refurbishment / fit-out cost?
The cost of an average office refurbishment or fit-out project typically ranges between £35 and £75 per square foot. However, various factors can significantly influence the overall expense. In this article, we delve into these factors to help you accurately establish a realistic budget for your office project.
Breaking office fit-out and refurbishment costs into 3 levels.
A simple office fit-out or refurbishment typically costs between £35 and £55 per square foot, including everything needed to get you up and running within 6 to 8 weeks.
For mid tier projects that include air conditioning, heating, venting, and more social spaces, expect to pay between £55 and £75 per square foot, with a completion time of 8 to 12 weeks.
High tier projects with integrated heating and venting, social breakout areas, toilets and showers, AV and IT solutions, and a fully hybrid setup will cost between £75 and £100 per square foot. These projects can take anywhere from 6 to 16 weeks to complete.
By understanding these cost ranges and timelines, you can better plan and budget for your office refurbishment or fit-out project. Use our office refurbishment budget calculator and get an idea of the cost of your project.
Example table:
What effects the cost of an office fit-out / refurbishment?
Several factors can influence the cost of an office fit-out or refurbishment. Understanding these factors can help you plan and budget more effectively for your project. Here are some of the key elements that can impact the overall cost:
State of the Building:
- The current condition of the building plays a significant role in determining costs. Older buildings or those in disrepair may require extensive renovations, structural work, or compliance upgrades, which can increase expenses.
Business Goals and Ambitions:
- The specific goals and ambitions of the business, such as creating open-plan workspaces, adding collaborative areas, or incorporating advanced technology, will influence the design and scope of the project, thereby affecting costs.
Building Methods:
- The construction methods chosen can have a significant impact on costs. Traditional construction might be cheaper initially but could take longer, while modular construction can be faster but might have higher upfront costs.
Environmental Factors:
- Sustainability goals, such as using eco-friendly materials or achieving green building certifications, can add to the cost but may also result in long-term savings and benefits.
Geographical Location:
- The location of the office can affect labor and material costs. For instance, projects in urban centers typically have higher costs due to increased demand and logistical challenges, whereas rural areas might be less expensive but could face delays due to supply chain issues.
Quality of Finish:
- The level of finish desired, from standard office furniture and fixtures to high-end custom designs, will significantly impact the budget. Premium materials and bespoke features can substantially increase costs.
Technology Integration:
- Incorporating advanced IT and AV solutions, such as integrated communication systems, smart office technology, and comprehensive IT infrastructure, will add to the overall expenditure.
Compliance and Regulations:
- Ensuring the fit-out meets all local building codes, health and safety regulations, and industry standards can incur additional costs, particularly if specialized compliance work is needed.
Timeframe:
- The project’s timeline can also affect costs. Fast-tracked projects may require additional labor or overtime pay, increasing the overall budget.
By carefully considering these factors, you can develop a more accurate and realistic budget for your office fit-out or refurbishment, ensuring that all necessary elements are accounted for and that the project aligns with your business objectives.