Put simply, an 'office fit-out' refers to the construction of a new or improved workplace. It's a type of commercial fit-out that focuses specifically on turning empty or outdated offices into tailored workspaces for organisations.

The fit-out process can vary depending on the size, scale and scope of the project. It could be taking a blank canvas space and turning it into a fully functional office. Or it could mean restructuring an existing office with a new layout and more modern features.

Every company is different which means that no two fit-outs will be the same, but they will often follow a similar process.

In this article, we'll share everything you need to know about the key aspects of an office fit-out journey.

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When do workplaces need an office fit out?

Generally, workplaces will require an office fit-out to accommodate a change of some sort.

This could be:

• Company growth or downsizing
• A rebrand or restructure
• To expand into new markets
• To meet evolving employee expectations
• To reach ESG goals

Changes like these can prompt organisations to upgrade their existing office or move into an entirely new one.

Let's look at each of these different circumstances in more detail.

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Upgrading an existing office

Businesses seeking to enhance their existing space will often undertake an office fit-out. This could take the form of a smaller refurbishment of the lighting or flooring. Or it could be a full-scale renovation of the entire workplace.

Note: not all office refurbishments will require a full office fit-out. If a company is simply switching to new furniture, we wouldn't necessarily classify this as a fit-out. A fit-out usually involves the installation of new features such as flooring, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems or a new overall design aesthetic.

‍Moving into a new office

Newly leased or purchased offices will typically provide a blank canvas space with an open plan finish. Before an organisation moves into the space, they will require an office fit-out to transform it into a tailored, fully functioning office.

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What are the different types of office fit-out?

The jargon around office fit-outs and their different categories can be confusing. Getting a good understanding of the four types of office fit-outs can help you make the right decisions about your workplace. Let's explore them in more detail:

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Shell & Core

A shell and core fit-out concerns the initial stages of building construction. These works will involve creating a basic structure or the 'bare bones' of a building without interior finishes.

This includes elements like the building shell (foundations, walls, roof), cladding and toilets. But does not include interior decoration office furniture & fixtures or floor finishes (carpets, tiles).

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CAT A office fit-out

CAT A (Category A) fit-out involves transforming the shell of a building into a basic finish or 'blank canvas' space.

These works focus on the building's structure, including walls, partitions, lighting, power, flooring, suspended ceilings, and decoration.

CAT A fit-outs are also known as 'landlord works', as in many cases, a landlord will typically recruit a fit-out contractor to complete this work before letting the space to a company.

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CAT A+ office fit-out

The CAT A+ interior office fit-out provides a fully functioning workspace for tenants to move into. This includes key features such as desks, social spaces, kitchens, meeting rooms and IT infrastructure.

However, CAT A+ fit-outs don't include branded elements and they aren't customised to meet the needs of a particular organisation. So they sit in between the fully customised (CAT B) space and the blank canvas of a CAT A.

This type of fit-out would also be carried out mostly by the landlord before letting the space.

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CAT B office fit-out

A CAT B (Category B) fit-out involves the design and build of a customised space. This office interior fit-out focuses on tailoring a space to the specific needs and requirements of the organisation who will occupy it. An organisation will typically work with office fit-out contractors to run through a strategy, design and build process.

The difference between a CAT A+ and a CAT B fit-out is that the design is bespoke to the tenant.

Features of a CAT B space include:

• Custom interiors that reflect the brand
• Selected furniture and fixtures
• Use of company colours
• Specific technology requirements

Cat B fit-outs allow the organisation flexibility and freedom to make decisions about the workplace.

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What is the office fit-out process?

The office fit-out process can vary depending on the company carrying out the works. But generally, there will be a similar path that most office fit-out projects follow. From planning to design and construction.

At TSK, our office fit-out specialists have developed a unique process that ensures the best results. We outline each of these stages in more detail below.

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Strategy

A successful fit-out begins with a comprehensive strategy. We arrive at this strategy by considering current office usage and future requirements in line with business objectives.

The strategy process helps define how this new office office can support employees and changing business landscapes. It lays the groundwork for the design team to bring a new and improved office vision to life.

Design

The office design process involves gaining a deep understanding of the goals, culture and needs of the organisation.

We then take this information, in line with the new strategy, and design a new workplace narrative through a detailed process. This includes everything from selecting the right furniture to optimising spaces for collaboration and encompassing elements that reflect the organisational brand and culture.

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Build

The construction phase is where ideas turn into reality. This involves the process of building and fitting out the space according to the design specifications.

We believe successful commercial office fit-out is based on the integrity of actions and behaviours. Our core principles of workplace delivery include quality, speed, safety, control and sustainability. Communication is key to a successful transformation.

Activation

Workplace change can lead to challenges within any organisation. That's why we've extended the office fit-out process to include a crucial extra phase—activation.

Once the office has been designed and fitted out, we can then help you activate your workplace potential. Our activation and engagement team help your people manage change and embrace the vision by becoming a part of the journey.

To do this, we use a unique toolkit we've developed over 28+ years of transforming workplaces.

Evolution

After the fit-out is complete and you've moved your people in, there may still be some tweaks that need to happen for your team to thrive.

Our dedicated Aftercare team are on hand to support you long after we've completed fit-out. This ongoing evolution is key to maintaining a productive and inspiring workplace.

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Why choose TSK's office fit-out services?

We are workplace strategy, design and build specialists. One team creating and delivering inspiring spaces for the UK's leading brands. We deliver nationally from our London and Manchester studios.

We believe that an office fit-out is more than just a renovation; it's a strategic transformation that supports business growth and employee satisfaction. By focusing on strategic planning, thoughtful design, quality construction, and continuous evolution, companies can create workspaces that inspire and empower their teams.

For businesses across the UK, selecting the right office fit-out company is crucial to achieving these goals.

Want more insights into how office fit-outs can transform your workspace? Explore our projects further.

Note: some industry terms and practices can vary between different fit-out companies.