When you’re looking to set up a new modern office, you need to think about the cost. How much does an office fitout cost?
This can be a difficult question to answer as many factors must be considered.
In this blog post, we will share how office fit out costs are determined and what you can expect to pay depending on your budget. Plus, we also provide some tips on how to get the best value for money!
What you need to know about office fit out costs
The size of the space is a critical factor for determining the cost of your office fitout. The larger the space, the more expensive the fit out will be.
Second, the level of finishes you choose will have an impact on the cost. If you opt for high-end finishes, expect to pay more.
Finally, structural changes will increase the cost. If you’re simply painting and adding new furniture, the cost will be lower. Making major changes to the layout of the space will always result in higher costs.
How Office Fit Out Prices Are Determined
Prices can be based on several factors:
- Size of the space
- Level of finishes
- Structural changes.
Generally speaking, office fit outs fall into one of following three price categories:
ENTRY LEVEL
An entry level office fit out might cost anywhere from $500 to $750 per square metre. Usually includes simple changes like painting, new flooring, and basic office furniture.
MID-RANGE
A mid-range office fit out might cost $750 to $1000 per square metre. Includes higher-quality office furniture, as well as some minor structural changes like partitions.
HIGH-END
A high-end office fit out could cost upwards of $1000+ per square metre. Includes significant structural changes, high-end office furniture and finishes, and state-of-the-art technology.
Of course, these prices are only estimates. The actual cost of your fit out will depend on the specific details of your project. But knowing what to expect in terms of cost can help you budget accordingly. So you get the office that’s right for your business.



What Factors Can Affect Office Fit Out Costs
Factors that can affect office fit out costs include the size of the office, the type of office, the complexity of the office fitout design, and the materials used.
Office size is one of the most important factors. It depends on the labour and materials that are required for the project to be completed.
The complexity of the office fitout design can also affect costs, as more intricate designs may require more time and resources to complete.
The type of office can also play a role, as different office types may have different requirements (e.g. a medical office fit out may need to meet specific regulations).
Finally, the materials used can also affect costs, as some materials may be more expensive.
When budgeting for an office fit out, it is essential to consider all of these factors to get an accurate estimate of costs. Before making any decisions, consider all options, as office fit outs can be a significant investment.
How to Get the Best Value For Your Money
Office fit-outs are a significant investment, but with careful planning, you can get the modern office of your dreams without breaking the bank. Here are a few tips to get the best value for money:
- Work with your designer to create a suitable layout
- Choose more affordable finishes
- Pick office furniture that is both stylish and affordable
- Make sure you have considered every project detail
- Consider longer timeframes.
Choosing the Right Office Fitout Partner
Office fit outs demand expertise, creativity, and precision. Collaborating with the right office fitout partner can significantly impact the success of your project. Here are some crucial factors to consider when selecting a fitout partner:
Experience and Expertise: Look for a company with a proven track record in delivering office fitout design solutions. Experienced office fit professionals understand the intricacies of workspace optimisation and can cater to your specific needs.
Portfolio and References: Review their portfolio and seek references from previous clients. A reputable fitout partner should be able to showcase successful projects and have positive testimonials from satisfied customers.
Customisation and Flexibility: Each office space is unique, and your fitout partner should offer personalised office fitout design solutions that align with your brand identity, culture, and workflow.
Compliance and Regulations: Ensure the fitout company follows all local building codes and safety regulations. Compliance is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free fitout process. As registered building practitioners, Zircon Interiors guarantees that every aspect of the project, from design to fit-out completion and aftercare, will be to the highest quality standards.Budget and Timeline Management: An efficient fitout partner should be able to work within your budget constraints and deliver the project on schedule.
Cost-Saving Strategies for Office Fitouts
A successful office fitout shouldn’t just meet your budget, we believe a successful office fitout should be value engineered to enhance workplace productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall business performance.
By choosing the right office fitout professionals and implementing cost-saving strategies, you can achieve a workspace that reflects your brand identity, encourages collaboration, and maximises your return on investment.
Remember, a well-executed office fitout is an investment in the future success of your business. Optimising costs without compromising on quality is a top priority for any office fitout project. Here are some effective cost-saving strategies to consider:
Space Planning and Furniture Selection: A well-planned office layout can maximise space, reducing the need for unnecessary expansions. Choose versatile and ergonomic office furniture fitout options that cater to your employees’ needs.
Refurbished and Recycled Materials: Consider using refurbished or recycled materials for certain aspects of the fitout, such as furniture, flooring, or decor items. Not only is this environmentally friendly, but it can also help lower costs.
Long-Term Versatility: Prioritize durable and adaptable design elements that can accommodate future changes in your business needs. A flexible fitout allows for easier modifications without significant expenses down the line.
Energy-Efficient Lighting and Fixtures: Invest in energy-efficient lighting solutions that reduce power consumption and lower utility bills. LED lighting, for instance, can provide substantial long-term savings.Project Management: Effective project management is crucial for cost control. A proficient fitout partner will plan and execute the project efficiently, minimising downtime and unnecessary expenses.
Leveraging 3D Renders and Detailed Design Modelling
In the early stages of office fitout design, 3D renders play a pivotal role in visualising concepts and ideas. They provide a realistic representation of the proposed design, allowing stakeholders to understand the project’s direction. By using 3D renders, you can make informed decisions and refine the design before moving forward.
As the design progresses, the focus shifts to more detailed design modelling, encompassing interior design elements, office furniture selection, and workplace layout. This stage is tailored to suit your project strategy and plans, ensuring that the design aligns with your specific requirements.
With detailed design modelling, you can explore various interior design options, select suitable office furniture that complements your brand and needs, and create an optimised workplace layout that fosters productivity and collaboration.This integration of technology and thoughtful planning enables you to make cost-effective decisions, minimise potential design changes later, and ultimately achieve a successful and tailored office fitout that meets your goals and exceeds expectations.
Questions to ask before starting
Asking these questions before starting an office fit out project will help ensure that the project stays on budget and meets all of the requirements.
- What is the budget for an office fit out?
- What are the office dimensions?
- How many people will be working in the office?
- What type of office furniture is required?
- What type of office lighting is needed?
- Are there any special requirements for the office fit out?

Next Steps
Office fit out costs can vary widely depending on the size and scope of your project. office fit out prices are determined by several factors, including the type of office space you have, the amount of work required, and the quality of materials used. There are three basic price categories for office fit outs: budget, mid-range, and high-end. You can save money on your office fit out by doing some research and planning.
The key is knowing what you want. It’s important to have a clear idea of what you need and want from your office fit out.Office fit outs don’t have to be expensive – with careful planning, you can get the office of your dreams without breaking the bank. They are a great way to improve your office design and the productivity of your teams.
Choose Zircon Interiors For Office Interior Design, Commercial Fitouts And Office Furniture In Richmond, Victoria
Do you own a business in Richmond’s CBD or looking to do a commercial office fit out in Melbourne’s inner-city, such as the famous Bridge Road or Church Street? If so, you’ll want to ensure that your workplace matches the kind of clientele that you are trying to attract with a highly aesthetic office interior design and some equally attractive office furniture.
Engage Richmond’s most trusted and revered office fitout professionals, Zircon Interiors, for a commercial office fitout designed to suit your budget and exceed your expectations.
Do you feel you need to be more inspired by the current state of your commercial office space?
Unbeknown to many, subpar design could impede your organisation’s operations, contributing to creative block, demotivation, monotony, and retention challenges.
We invite you to take a moment to compare your current workspace against some of the compelling trends in the commercial office design sphere – check out ‘5 Commercial Interior Design Trends That Will Make Your Office Stand Out.’
In this blog post, we dive into the latest trends, providing actionable insights and inspiration for your office transformation, including:
1. Minimalism
2. Natural Materials
3. Greenery
4. Metallics
5. Geometric Patterns
If you enjoyed this article, please share it with your friends or colleagues!
Times are changing at a rapid pace within the business industry and it can be hard to keep up with the evolution of the modern office fit out. No longer is it clear what the layout of your workspace will be anymore. The predictable and classic “The Office” style workspaces that have been prominent since the 70s are shifting more than ever.
As a business, staying up to date with the latest trends and understanding what is just a fad is essential. In terms of what things you should start to consider and what you can expect to find in modern office fitout designs are the following; A host of modern luxuries, from in-office gyms and wellness centres to coffee stations designed by leading artists. If you’re looking for a way to keep your employees happy and productive; then including these morale-boosting amenities is a must.
Let’s get into some more extensive modern office fit out considerations to make when evolving your workspace. Here are 5 tips that will enable you and your business to pave the road to success.

1. Consider your needs
It’s important to start by considering your needs as a business. What type of work do your employees primarily do? What type of space will best suit their needs? Open-plan workspaces have been popular for a few years now, but there are other options out there if this doesn’t suit your company. So think about if employees are mainly working in private areas or open space collaborative areas. These are very important considerations to make. Because if the flow of the office doesn’t address the needs of your employees; your new fit out will have the opposite of the intended effect. This is especially important now with people slowly being introduced back into the office, so you want give your employees reasons to want to return to the workplace.
It’s important to think about these things and other factors such as the company culture before you start planning your modern office fit out. This will help ensure that you create a workspace that is not only functional but also comfortable and conducive to productivity.
2. Think about the future
You should also think about the future and what you want your office to look like in five or ten years. Will you need more space? Will the layout still suit your needs? And most importantly will it become dated and be due for another complete change. This is an essential consideration and it can sometimes be more beneficial to ignore the layout that seems to be the best option for your business today. Because even though it is going to maximize your business’s success in the short term, will it burn out and become dated sooner.
It’s important to plan ahead and not be afraid to make changes as your business evolves. Businesses are changing all the time and making sure your business can adapt and remain relevant is key. This includes allowing for space for future growth, both in terms of employees and in terms of the type of work that will be done in the office.

3. Keep up with the latest trends
To stay ahead of the competition, it’s important to keep up with the latest trends in modern office fit outs and designs. This may seem counterintuitive when considering the last point we just spoke about. However, when allowing for a fitout that won’t date quickly you also want to consider trends that can work for you and your business. Especially sections of your modern fit out that can be easily replaced down the track, this could include certain furniture styles. Whereas following design trends for something like an entire boardroom layout might not be the best idea as it is much more expensive and laborious to change.
This can help you remain up-to-date and modern while also being well-equipped to make changes when needed. This essentially gives you the best of both worlds, you’re modern but you’re not going to struggle to redesign when need be. So make sure you follow social accounts that are involved in your industry so you can see what’s trending with people. So remember this doesn’t mean blindly following every trend that comes along, but rather taking the time to understand which ones will work best for your business.
4. Use technology wisely
Technology has a big role to play in office design and fit outs, and it’s important to use it wisely. Don’t fill your office with unnecessary gadgets and gizmos that will only end up cluttering the space and distracting employees. Choose wisely and use technology to improve workflow and efficiency.
For example, if you decide to go for an open-plan office, think about using technology such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams for video conferencing. This will help to reduce the need for employees to travel for meetings and therefore save time and money.
Another great way to use technology is by installing screens in key areas of the office. This can be used to display important information such as upcoming deadlines or company news. You can also use screens to showcase your company’s brand and culture. This is a great way to make a statement and show off your business in a modern and innovative way.

5. Get creative
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your office design. There are no set rules when it comes to modern offices, so feel free to experiment and see what works best for you and your team. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to office design, so be creative and find what works for you.
For example, if you have a modern and stylish office, why not consider using this as an opportunity to host client meetings? This will help to impress potential clients and show them that your business is modern and professional.
Or if you have a lot of employees who work remotely, think about using the office space for team-building exercises or training sessions. This will help to bring employees together and improve communication.
There are plenty of great ideas out there and especially good platforms to inspire you when looking for a new look. I can recommend Pinterest as a great place to start when looking for new design ideas and you can get a grasp of what is possible and what people are doing today. So definitely jump onto some social media platforms to help get that creative thinking flowing. The designs and fit-outs that people are doing today for their workspaces are incredible; just about anything can be done and the possibilities are endless, so be creative and think outside the box.
In today’s competitive business landscape, the expertise of commercial interior designers is crucial for achieving a cutting-edge office environment. A successful modern office fit out, executed with meticulous office fitout design, can significantly impact your company’s productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall brand image. To ensure your business remains at the forefront of innovation, consider these five essential tips when embarking on an office fit out journey:
- Collaborate with Experienced Commercial Interior Designers: Partnering with skilled commercial interior designers is the foundation of a successful office fit out. These experts possess the insight and creativity required to transform your workspace into a dynamic and functional environment. Their in-depth understanding of modern design trends, spatial optimization, and ergonomic considerations will help you create a workspace that not only looks impressive but also enhances employee well-being and productivity.
- Prioritize a Modern Office Aesthetic: A contemporary office fitout design goes beyond mere aesthetics; it encapsulates an atmosphere that fosters creativity, collaboration, and innovation. Incorporate clean lines, open layouts, and a harmonious color palette to reflect a modern and forward-thinking ethos. Striking a balance between minimalism and functional elements can create an inspiring and energizing workplace that resonates with both employees and clients.
- Embrace Technological Integration: In today’s digital age, seamless technological integration is paramount. Your office fit out should accommodate modern technological needs, from robust IT infrastructure to adaptable AV systems. Consider providing ergonomic charging stations, smart lighting controls, and versatile connectivity solutions that cater to the tech-savvy demands of your workforce.
- Focus on Flexibility and Versatility: Modern office fit outs emphasize flexibility and versatility to accommodate evolving work dynamics. Incorporate modular furniture systems, movable partitions, and multifunctional spaces that can adapt to various tasks and team sizes. This approach ensures that your workspace remains agile, enabling your team to effortlessly transition between individual tasks and collaborative projects.
- Prioritize Employee Well-being and Comfort: The well-being of your employees should be at the core of your office fitout design. Integrate elements that enhance comfort, such as ergonomic furniture, ample natural light, indoor plants, and well-designed breakout areas. A thoughtfully designed workplace not only boosts morale but also contributes to increased productivity and reduced stress levels.
In conclusion, a successful modern office fit out entails collaboration with experienced commercial interior designers who understand the significance of a contemporary aesthetic, technological integration, flexibility, and employee well-being. By adhering to these principles, you can create an inspiring and efficient workspace that positions your business at the vanguard of innovation. Remember, your office environment is a reflection of your brand’s values, so don’t hesitate to explore creative ideas and experiment to find the perfect fit for your team’s needs.