Blog - Creative Office & Commercial Interiors

Why You Should Be Careful When Budgeting For Your New Office Space

Written by Mark Ashby | Dec 18, 2023 3:42:00 PM

Acquiring new office space is a significant milestone for any business and a sign your company is growing. But along with the excitement comes the responsibility of strategic financial planning and creating a budget to fit out your new workspace for your needs.

Office fit-out costs vary depending on how extensive a fit-out is and what you want to achieve. The average standard office fit-out costs between £40 and £80 per sq ft although this can vary enormously with the scope of any project.

Types Of Office Fit-Out

The type of fit-out will influence any budget. A Cat A fit-out provides a functional empty space while a Cat B fit-out also includes the design, flooring, painting and furnishings to create a workplace that’s ready to go.

Factors Which Affect Office Fit-Out Costs

There are a huge number of factors which will influence the budget:

  • Size – Naturally, the bigger the office the more it will cost but whether it’s open plan or traditional can also have an impact
  • Location – Where you are based will affect the cost of labour and materials
  • Complexity of design – A quick lick of paint and the addition of new furniture will cost less than a refurbishment which requires construction works, partition wall building and technology integration
  • Finishes – The types of furnishings, wall coverings, lighting and accessories can vary enormously from budget to designer
  • Interior designers – Employing interior designers will add significantly to the cost
  • Electrical and tech requirements – Any need for data cabling or air conditioning, for example, will increase cost
  • Professional fees – Architects, structural engineers and bespoke office design services can significantly impact any budget
  • Sustainability – The implementation of eco-friendly practices can attract a large upfront cost although these can provide savings over the long-term.

Budgeting And Financial Planning

Understanding your budget is crucial to prevent costs from spiralling out of control. Office fit-out companies possess the expertise to assess your objectives and advise you on what is feasible and what isn't. Furthermore, they can tailor their services to align with your budget, ensuring costs are kept in check while offering the most cost-effective solutions available.

Cost-Saving Strategies

It’s important to have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve before you embark on any renovation. Costs can quickly escalate if there is no cohesive plan and no project management involved.

Employing a single commercial fit-out company for an end-to-end service may seem like an additional expense but it can actually save you money overall. They will advise you throughout the planning process and devise the most cost-effective way to achieve your vision. They are also hugely experienced and have strong working relationships with contractors, which minimises the time a fit-out can take and ensures it runs smoothly and to schedule.

They will provide valuable insights and guidance, sharing practical tips and strategies to help you effectively reduce your expenditure. With their expertise, you can achieve cost savings without compromising the quality or the impeccable finish of your project.

Unlock the full potential of your commercial office space with 'The Ultimate Guide to Maximising Your Commercial Office Space'. To find out more, please contact us today.

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