A fit out is the term used to describe the process of developing an office space in accordance with the needs of the people who use it. Depending on the state of your potential property and the scope of your project, you will need to consider the following fit out categories and their relationship to the cost, time and effort required to develop your future workplace.

SHELL AND CORE (OR BASE BUILD)

This refers to the mainframe of the building, or the concrete and metal structure of the space. The building is complete but the interior is yet to be installed.

CAT A

Cat A refers to a basic landlord fit out including the installation of mechanical, electrical and fire detection services. It may also include flooring, suspended ceilings, lighting and air conditioning. This basic fit out leaves the interior of the building empty for the potential occupier to establish their own design and construction.

image source: McCauley Daye O'Connell Architects

CAT B

A Cat B fit out refers to the process of developing the internal space to be functional and in accordance to the tenants’ requirements. This type of fit out gives you the opportunity to bring your space to life and work with your design partner to create a vision that works perfectly for your company. The space will be built to the design specifications, from partitioning and facilities (e.g. meeting rooms, private workspaces, kitchens and breakout area), to the installation of furniture, IT and AV equipment.

CAT A+

Cat A+ fit outs are for landlords wishing to lease their space immediately. They’re almost as comprehensive in furniture and facilities as a tenant’s instruction but are not made for a specific occupant or brand. They have enough fully-finished features and amenities such as meeting rooms and teapoints to give an occupant everything they need to get to work straight away. Cat A+ makes it possible for small businesses, who may have otherwise struggled to fund their own refurbishment, to move into a furnished and fully functioning workspace.