Guide to Office Fit Out and Refurbishment

Office and industrial fit out and refurbishment projects demand meticulous planning and preparation, along with rigorous budgeting considerations. Regardless of whether you require a new mezzanine floor installation, a novel partitioning system, or a comprehensive transformational refurbishment, a well-engineered strategy is paramount.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the critical steps and considerations involved in planning and budgeting for office fit out and refurbishment work, empowering you to get your project started with confidence.

Employers must approach these initiatives with a decisive mindset, leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of a successful outcome. The stakes are high, and a comprehensive, unwavering strategy is the only path to achieving the desired results.

Stage 1 - Define your Goals and Objectives

Before embarking on the details of your office refurbishment project, it would be advisable to establish clear goals and objectives. This can be achieved by considering the following questions:

Is the current space being utilized to its full potential? What specific needs and improvements are you aiming to address through this project? How can the new layout enhance productivity, space utilization, and employee well-being? Additionally, are there any aesthetic or branding considerations that should be taken into account?

Nowadays, our workspaces serve as more than just a place to work; they form the foundation of how we operate as an organization. By defining your workspace objectives upfront, you can ensure that your planning and budgeting align with your organization's overarching goals.

Stage 2 - Create a Detailed Project Plan

It is understandable that while determining the desired outcome for your space transformation is crucial, businesses sometimes feel uncertain about how to achieve it. Please do not worry, as that is where we can assist you.

Whether you have a clear vision for the elements you wish to incorporate into your workspace refurbishment, need some inspiration, or would like a team of experts to uncover the full potential of your space, OFC is here to help. We would be honored to work closely with you to bring your vision to life.

Our team is dedicated to understanding your unique needs and preferences, and we will approach the process with the utmost professionalism and attention to detail. We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with you and are committed to delivering a space that exceeds your expectations.

Please feel free to reach out to us at your convenience to discuss your goals and how we can best support you in this endeavor. We look forward to the privilege of working with you.

At OFC, we would be honored to visit your commercial premises and design a bespoke refurbishment project tailored to your specific requirements. During this initial stage, we would be delighted to review the following aspects with you:

The scope of work – We would be happy to discuss what is included in order to achieve the desired outcome, whether that be space planning, interior design, partition walls or a new mezzanine. Our aim is to understand your vision and requirements thoroughly.

The timeline – We would be pleased to advise you on the estimated timescales by the point of order, if not before. Here at OFC, we specialize in modular building solutions, which are typically dry trades (quick and clean!). This can result in a small office being installed in as little as 1 – 2 days, for example.

The project team – We understand the importance of knowing and trusting the individuals you'll be working with. The OFC team is small enough for you to be acquainted with who's on the other end of the phone, but large enough to manage your commercial fit-out as the Principal Contractor.

The budget – While it's an obvious point to make, we recognize that you'll need to allocate a budget for the refurbishment project based on your objectives and expected outcomes. Our team is exceptionally talented, and it's not uncommon for us to make design suggestions that can help our clients save money, time or both. We would be delighted to discuss this aspect with you in detail.

We appreciate the opportunity to be considered for your commercial refurbishment project and look forward to the possibility of collaborating with you.

The Quotation

When you partner with OFC, getting a quote for your project is a straightforward process. We will visit your premises, discuss your requirements, and conduct a full site survey, all at no cost and without any obligation. Within 7-10 working days, we will return a detailed quotation that addresses your business space requirements comprehensively.

You can trust that our quotations cover every aspect of the project. We do not engage in the practice of quoting one price and then adding a list of extras to the final invoice. Our aim is to provide you with a transparent and accurate cost estimate from the outset. Of course, we understand that customer requirements may change over time. In such cases, any alterations to the original quotation will be clearly documented and agreed upon before the project work begins, ensuring you know exactly what your project will cost.

Many of our clients prefer to spread the expense of their mezzanine installation rather than absorbing the upfront capital cost. To accommodate this, we collaborate with a specialist leasing company to offer flexible financing options. If you are interested in exploring a lease option, let us know, and we will liaise with our chosen lease provider during the quotation stage.

Things to Consider 

Constructing your perfect workspace is our specialty. We ensure that our customers at OFC understand and are prepared for the requirements that come with an office fit-out.

When it comes to mezzanine floor installations, businesses must consider the load-bearing capacity, structural integrity, and accessibility. There is no room for compromise on these critical factors.

Regarding partitioning systems, customers must factor in material quality, sound attenuation, flexibility, aesthetics, lighting requirements, and electrical/data requirements. Budgeting for these elements is essential for a successful fit-out.

Ceiling and flooring upgrades play a crucial role in the overall look and feel of the workspace. Customers must choose materials that suit their aesthetic and acoustic needs, as well as ensure durability and ease of maintenance.

At OFC, we guide our customers through every step of the process, ensuring they make informed decisions and end up with a workspace that exceeds their expectations.

Why Choose Office Fit Out Contractors?

OFC offers a comprehensive turnkey solution to meet your interior fit-out or refurbishment requirements, regardless of your budget. From mezzanines to meeting rooms, we've got you covered.

Our proposals include robust fire safety measures to ensure your commercial building has a protected escape route. We provide guidance on relevant regulations and collaborate seamlessly with you and Building Control throughout the design and installation process.

Safety is our top priority. We work closely with a health and safety partner to conduct comprehensive risk assessments and submit detailed method statements for all works. We are well-versed in adhering to site-specific requirements.

Building Regulation Approval is a critical component of any project. We will advise you on whether your scope of work requires such approval. As a general rule, if the means of escape in the event of a fire are affected in any way, your project will require building regulation approval. Rest assured, OFC will handle the application process on your behalf, eliminating one more task from your plate.

OFC is your trusted partner for a streamlined, hassle-free interior transformation that meets the highest standards of safety and compliance.