Cat B Fit-Out Cost Guide

Most clients have never procured a fit-out before, so the costs can feel abstract and, at first glance, steep. But there are good reasons why office fit-outs cost what they do.

The buildings we work in are complex environments. They come with life-critical systems, fire regulations, building control requirements, building management rules, HSE compliance, and strict maintenance obligations. Layered on top of that is the insurance, the project management required across every trade, and the reality of employing skilled people in London. The expertise needed to work confidently within these constraints and still deliver a quality finish that’s built to last a decade or more, is exactly what’s reflected in the cost.

Below is a straightforward breakdown of what to expect at each budget level. These figures are based on inheriting a compliant Cat A space.

A note on bespoke joinery Whatever your budget, we’d always recommend ringfencing around 10% for a bespoke element whether that’s a joinery feature, a custom reception desk, or a standout social space. It’s what makes an office feel considered rather than generic, and what keeps it feeling current years down the line.

Furniture, AV, and security sit outside these numbers. Below are typical benchmarks, though actual spend will depend on specification and requirements.

With the cost of everything rising, the fit-out industry is no different. But the conversation sometimes needs to shift from cost to value. When you look at what you’re actually investing in — the impact on your team, your culture, your ability to attract and retain people — the decision-making process gets easier, and the budget tends to stretch a little further.