UK Office Fit Out Cost Guide

What is an office fit out?  |  Office fit out versus office refurbishment: what's the difference?  |  What are the benefits of an office fit out?  |  What are the factors impacting office fit out costs? |  Commercial office fit out costs per square meter  |  Maximizing your budget: understanding typical office fit out costs  |  Average office fit out costs by city  |  Our Services  |  Why choose us?  |  Contact us

What is an office fit out?

An office fit out is the process of designing and constructing an office space to meet an occupier’s specific needs. This can include everything from furniture and equipment to mechanical and electrical systems. An effective office refit can improve productivity, employee morale, and help create a positive brand image. Whether you are relocating to a new office or looking to refresh your existing space, our guide can help you understand the costs involved in creating your ideal workplace.

Office fit out versus office
refurbishment: what’s the difference?

An office refurbishment is an office refresh project that is often less intensive than an office fit out. It may include changing a layout, completing a renovation, putting in new furniture or replacing flooring. Often, a refurbishment can occur while the office is in use.

 

What are the benefits
of an office fit out?

A well-designed office fit out can have a significant impact on your business. It can help you attract and retain top talent, improve efficiency, and create a positive work environment. Investing in an office fit out is an investment in the future of your business.

What are the factors
impacting office fit out costs?

Several factors can influence office renovation costs, including:

Size/Type of Office Space

The size and type of space you are fitting out, such as an open plan or traditional office, can greatly impact the cost.

Level of Customization

• Quality of finishes: The quality of finishes, such as flooring and wall coverings, can significantly impact office renovation costs.
• Complexity of design: The more complex the design—such as intricate lighting or customized furniture—the higher the cost.
• Sustainability requirements: Green building standards or sustainability requirements may increase the cost but offer long-term savings in energy usage and maintenance costs for sustainable office fit outs.
• Mechanical and electrical services: The need for additional mechanical and electrical services, such as air conditioning or data cabling, can increase the overall costs.

Location of the Office

The cost of materials, labor, and regulations can vary greatly by location.

 

Fees, Timelines and Contingencies

• Project management and professional fees: Professional fees, such as architect and project management fees, can be a significant portion of the total office renovation costs.
• Timeline and delivery requirements: Tight timelines or delivery requirements can add costs for expedited or overtime labor.
• Contingencies: Contingency costs are an essential part of any budget to account for unforeseen expenses or changes during the project.

Commercial office fit out costs per square meter

The United Kingdom, with its mix of historic and modern cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow, showcases average fit out costs that reflect the diversity of its market and the evolving expectations of its workforce. For instance, high-quality fit outs in London average £3,343 per sqm, indicating the UK's commitment to maintaining its status as a global leader in workplace design and innovation.

We recommend consulting with our Project & Development Services experts to tailor fit out costs to your precise requirements, ensuring your space not only meets the high standards of today's UK workforce but also promotes productivity and well-being. Our Office Fit Out Cost Guide provides an in-depth fit out cost section covering architectural trades, millwork, doors, frames, and hardware; drywall, acoustic and carpentry; general finishes; mechanical, plumbing fire protection; electrical, and more, offering a comprehensive resource for planning exceptional workspaces across the United Kingdom.

Maximizing your budget: understanding typical office fit out costs 

Are you planning an office fit out but don't know where to start with budgeting? It's crucial to have a clear understanding of typical office fit out costs before embarking on any project. From furniture and construction work to professional fees and audio-visual installations, the expenses can add up quickly.

Our comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process and ensure you are making informed decisions. Discover the key factors to consider when calculating your budget and how to optimize your investment. Don't let unexpected costs derail your project. Start planning today and achieve your dream office within your budget.

Average office fit out costs in the UK by city 

The UK, with its blend of historical cities and modern commercial hubs, presents a spectrum of fit out costs. London, as the financial and creative heart of the UK, showcases costs ranging from £1,364 for standard specifications to a premium £3,343 per square meter for high-end spaces, illustrating the city’s leading role in setting trends for office environments that are both inspiring and functional. Other cities like Birmingham, Glasgow, and Manchester also reflect diverse cost structures, catering to a wide array of business needs from traditional industries to emerging tech sectors. For instance, medium-quality fit outs in Manchester are priced at an average of £1,910 per square meter, indicating the city's dynamic business environment's influence on office design standards.

Reinstatement costs, which consider the restoration of office spaces to their original condition, vary by city, underscoring the financial implications of end-of-lease agreements. For example, in London, the financial hub commands reinstatement costs from £106 to £267 per square meter, whereas in Birmingham, costs range from £75 to £204 per square meter for medium-quality finishes.

This variability in fit out and reinstatement costs across the UK underscores the complexity of office design and construction projects within the region. Engaging with Cushman & Wakefield’s Project & Development Services team is recommended to navigate these intricacies effectively. Their expert advice and comprehensive planning services ensure that office fit out projects meet both aesthetic and functional requirements while adhering to budgetary constraints, leveraging the UK’s unique position at the intersection of tradition and innovation in the workplace.

Our Services

Cushman & Wakefield offers a range of services to help you create your ideal office space. We are a trusted partner for occupiers and investors managing their capital expenditure and project delivery across the UK. By providing consistent, trusted client service, we have created an excellent reputation locally, across UK and globally. Our experienced team can guide you through the entire fit out process from concept to completion.

Why Choose Us?

Whether you want more value from your space and a better design, or you’re an investor and your asset needs repair, a refresh or reimagining, Project & Development Services (PDS) is here for you. We know we’ve done our job when the design and construction of the space you occupy works like clockwork, or you’re thrilled by the on-time, on-budget results.

Our team has knowledge in all verticals and specializations, managing projects, programs, and development. We watch out for risk, and our processes and buying power keep costs down for you. We have a broad perspective of the real estate life cycle and align with where you are in your journey, so the result reflects your culture and goals.