FLOOR FIT OUTS

    Fit Out vs. Renovation: What’s the Difference?

    Often, people confuse fit-outs with renovations, and most times, the two are used interchangeably. However, while they’re closely related, both have distinctive purposes and procedures.

    To easily understand these two terms, let’s take the example of an office fit-out.

    What is an Office Fit-Out?

    This involves taking an empty space and transforming it into a usable office set up. This means putting up structural features like window placements, door fittings, heating, plumbing, and ventilation.

    What is an Office Renovation?

    Office renovation has more to do with the interior design aspects of the office. These are the features needed to give the space a professional look. Ideally, renovation is more about revamping a space to give it more aesthetics. This may include painting, adding better furniture, and including some décor items. Generally, an office renovation takes longer than a fit-out process.

    What are the Different Types of Fit-Outs?

    Commercial fit-outs are classified into three major categories – Category A, Category B, and Shell-Core fit-outs. To make a more informed decision when fitting out a commercial space, you need to understand what each category involves:

    Shell and Core Fit-Out

    Here, the framework of the building is already in place waiting for the fitting out process. From the outside, the envelope of the building may appear done, however, it’s missing several components such as power, interior walls, lighting, and heating.

    A shell and core fit-out allows a business to custom fit a space to its specifications. This is suitable for large companies taking up a lot of space.

    Category A Fit-Out

    Category A fit-out is typically what is found in a commercial space that’s ready for renting. This is a basic functional unit with some utilities such as electrical wiring and plumbing fixtures already in place.

    Usually, a Category A fit-out will involve installing features such as:

    • Electrical outlets
    • Raised access floors
    • HVAC systems
    • Fire protection systems
    • Toilets
    • Grid ceiling

    Basically, the space is functional but lacks the secondary features of design that’ll make it fit for its intended use. From this building phase, a business moves in and implements a Category B layout.

    Category B Fit-Out

    Category B fit-out is the layout that takes into account your business needs and image. This fit-out involves installing features and systems lacking in Category A. In other words, Category B is the aesthetic design fit-out phase where the space is made to be more specific to the business.

    This phase may involve window treatments, adding furniture, installing the lighting, adding some flooring, partitioning, painting, and branding.

    For best results, Category B should be inspired by the company’s culture, work ethics, team size, and protocols. This is the stage to tap into your creativity and business style to create a compelling brand image.

    Things to Consider Before You Start a Fit-Out Project

    Commercial fitting out requires a lot of planning and preparation. Before starting any project, consider the following important factors:

    Comprehensive Price Estimate

    Before conducting a commercial office fit-out project, confirm that the initial quote received from the interior design company is comprehensive and eliminate any additional expenses. Take time to review the quote, making sure it covers the following:

    • Design briefs
    • Technical plans
    • Building assessment
    • Project management
    • Material delivery
    • Construction

    With a comprehensive quote, the company can budget for the whole project effectively and never fall victim to sudden increases in the final costs.