We choose the term fit-out to describe the ways in which interior spaces are made suitable for occupation. Quite often it is used in connection with office developments, where the basic construction is done by the developer, while the final office fit-outs are done by the occupant who generally leases the space from the developer. It is the work done in the building shell to meet the need of the occupier.

There are varieties of Office Fit Outs:

There are plenty of options available for office fit-outs, but it is important to choose the right one. The variety of options could confuse you. The variety of office fit-outs can take different forms and that depends on how much of the building has been completed and what interior specifications the occupant desires. Let us now look at the options one has.

• The first system is the basic structure completed by the developer. This indicates the completed structure including the lobby, basement, and staircase.
• You may also get a “Category A fit-out” which could include raised floors, suspended ceilings, mechanical as well as electrical services, blinds, and internal surface finish. In other words, this is the tenant’s own space that is completed by the developer. If the tenant has his specific requirements for office fit-outs, they can contribute to the costs to make the fit-out suit their needs. This will save time and money in modification.
• You can also opt for the “Category B fit-out” which comprises of the final finishes, installation of facilities required in board rooms, conference rooms, and meeting rooms, fit-outs for reception areas, specialist lighting, audiovisual equipment, and furniture. This may be done by the tenant on the request of the developer who pays the tenant the amount that they would have spent if they had carried out the work themselves.
• There is also a turnkey development in which the tenant is provided with office fit-outs by the developer which is ready for use.

There are no standard definitions for these categories, so the contract documentation is of prime importance. You ought to be clear on whose responsibility it is to carry out the work required and the exact work that is needed.

An Office is More Than a Utilitarian Space:

No office is only a utilitarian space where people come to work. When someone comes to your office the style and look of your office creates an impression and boosts the morale of your employees. Your office must demonstrate your dynamism and create an ambiance so that your employees remain happy and are productive. Your office fit-outs are extremely important to your business as it helps to change the entire atmosphere in the office. So, whether you are refurbishing your old office or moving to a new one you must be clear about and address issues that you may be experiencing. Other essential things to consider are:

• Levels of privacy
• Lighting
• Colours in different areas of the office
• Working environments for different tasks or levels of collaboration
• Integration of the IT and phone systems into space
• storage facilities
• furniture
• partition walls and receptions desks

When you move out or refurbish your office it is essential that you get expert advice. Prior to this you can set up an in-house team who will go through the details of what changes are required and prioritize them. There are many experts who will not allow you to throw away everything that is old and will recycle them. These are the best people to get.