How much budget should go towards your office fitout?

How much budget should go towards your office fitout?

Planning an office fitout is exciting—just think about the potential of a modern, energising space that boosts productivity, sparks creativity, and leaves a lasting impression on clients. But before you dive into the world of stylish furniture and bold design choices, there's one crucial question to answer: How much is this going to cost?

Budgeting for an office fitout can feel overwhelming, with countless variables at play. From layout decisions to materials, the price tag can swing dramatically depending on your goals and vision. But don't worry—after over 30 years in the industry, we've seen it all, and we’re here to help you navigate the ins and outs of office fitout costs.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors that influence your budget, and reveal why investing wisely in office furniture might just be the smartest choice you make. Curious to know how to make your budget work harder for you? Let’s dive in!

Office fitout costs can be overwhelming

There’s no doubt about it—office fitouts can be expensive. But here’s the thing: they don’t have to be. The trick is understanding all the moving parts that contribute to your total costs, so you can prioritise what really matters and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Many businesses start with a rough estimate, only to find that costs spiral as they move through the project. Whether you’re a builder working on a purpose-built office or a large corporation upgrading a multi-state operation, staying on top of your budget is critical. And that starts with knowing exactly where your money is going.

Modern office space with high wooden tables and green chairs in the foreground. Several workstations with computers are visible in the background.

Breaking down your office fitout costs

So, what’s included in an office fitout? Here’s a breakdown of the main components, so you can plan ahead and keep things on track.

1. Design and consultation (5–10%)

Before a single wall is moved, you’ll need to bring in the experts—designers, architects, and fitout consultants. They’ll help you translate your vision into a workable plan and guide you through building codes, space planning, and aesthetics. This phase typically costs between 5% and 10% of your total budget.

You might be tempted to skip this step and go straight to construction, but trust us: a well-thought-out design will save you money in the long run. A smart layout can optimise space, improve workflow, and reduce the need for costly changes later on.

2. Construction and fitout (50–60%)

Here’s where the bulk of your budget goes—actual construction work. This can include everything from demolishing old walls to building new ones, installing lighting and electrical systems, upgrading heating and cooling, and putting in new floors. In short, it’s all the “behind-the-scenes” work that turns your office from a shell into a functioning workspace.

Construction costs vary depending on the complexity of your project. A simple refit will be cheaper than a full-scale renovation, but you should expect this category to eat up about 50–60% of your budget. Essential services such as plumbing and electrical work would be included here.

3. Furniture and equipment (20–35%)

Once the walls are up, it’s time to furnish your space. Here’s where you can have some fun, but it’s also where costs can quickly escalate if you’re not careful. Office furniture—including desks, chairs, storage, and collaborative spaces—usually accounts for 20–30% of your budget.

We’ll dive into furniture in more detail later, but for now, remember this: investing in quality office furniture is not only about style—it’s about creating a space where people actually want to work. Ergonomic chairs, standing desks, and modular setups all play a huge role in employee satisfaction and productivity. Just remember, joinery tends to be more expensive than standard furniture.

4. Technology and IT infrastructure (5–10%)

Every modern office needs a robust IT setup. From internet and phone lines to server rooms and cybersecurity systems, the cost of tech infrastructure can’t be ignored. You’ll want to budget 5–10% for this, depending on your company’s specific needs. 

5. Contingency fund (10-15%)

No matter how carefully you plan, things can—and often do—go wrong. Unforeseen issues like structural repairs, delays in materials, or last-minute changes can add extra costs. That’s why it’s a good idea to set aside 5–10% of your budget for contingencies.

The heart of the office: furniture that works for you

A modern office space with wooden desks and black chairs. Each desk has a computer monitor and is decorated with potted green plants.

Now that you’ve got a handle on the general costs, let’s talk about the part of the fitout that your employees will interact with every day: the furniture.

At Topaz Furniture, we know that office furniture is more than just a collection of desks and chairs. It’s a crucial investment that impacts everything from employee retention to workplace culture. Here’s why furniture deserves a prime spot in your budget.

1. Office furniture affects productivity and wellbeing

Imagine working in a chair that leaves your back aching by lunchtime, or at a desk that’s too low for your height. Over time, discomfort leads to distractions, frustration, and even absenteeism. That’s why investing in ergonomic furniture is a must.

Adjustable chairs with proper lumbar support, height-adjustable desks, and breakout spaces with comfortable seating can make all the difference in how your team feels and functions. A happy, healthy team is a productive one—so don’t skimp on the pieces that promote wellbeing.

2. Quality over quantity: long-term savings

Cheap furniture might seem like a budget-friendly choice in the short term, but it often means frequent replacements and repairs. On the other hand, high-quality office furniture from trusted suppliers like Topaz Furniture comes with generous warranties and is built to last.

Think of your furniture as an investment. When you choose durable, well-made pieces, you won’t have to worry about replacing them every few years, saving you money in the long run.

3. Flexible furniture for a changing workplace

Gone are the days of rigid cubicles and static workstations. Today’s offices need flexibility—furniture that can adapt to new team sizes, shifting projects, and collaborative workstyles.

Modular desks, movable partitions, and multi-use furniture offer the versatility you need to future-proof your office. As your business grows, your furniture should grow with you, providing a workspace that’s as dynamic as your team.

Modern office interior with large windows. Features open workspaces with desks, ergonomic chairs, and hanging plants. A cozy seating area includes a curved sofa, round tables, and colorful ottomans. Abundant natural light and views outside.

Ready to start your office fitout with the perfect furniture? 

Ready to take the next step in creating a workspace that helps your business thrive? At Topaz Furniture, we’re more than just a furniture supplier—we’re your partner in designing an office that boosts productivity, encourages collaboration, and supports your growth.

With over 30 years of experience, our team of experts is here to guide you through every decision, from selecting the right ergonomic chairs to creating flexible workspaces that adapt to your changing needs. We understand the importance of getting it right, so whether you're a large corporation or a growing business, we’ll help you make informed choices that maximise your budget while ensuring your office is equipped for success.

Get in touch with us today, and let’s collaborate to select the perfect office furniture, designed to look great and empower your team to perform at their best.

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