Good question, since the two terms are often interchangeable. Firstly, to fully understand the difference we’ll explain what each one entails:

Office fit out

This is often a larger scale project that can take a building from a shell, to a useable office space. It may begin with suspended ceilings or mezzanines, window installation, bespoke kitchen areas, partitioning to create quiet areas, or even the addition of lifts and new staircases. Think internal construction.

Photos of an office that Refurb converted to flats in a fit-out

Office refurbishment

Much more low-key than fit out, an office refurbishment may refer to new flooring, furniture and re-imagined layout. Electrical elements such as wiring, lighting and IT trunking can be included in a Refurb project, as can plastering, painting and decorating. This is would be the final stage before the office is ready for occupation.

Office refurbishment phots, by Refurb Property Renovations

Now you know the fundamental differences between office fit out and office refurb, how do you know which one you need?

Does my office need a fit out or refurb?

Ask yourself three questions:

  1. Are the current problems related to the AMOUNT of space, i.e. lack of or too much?
  2. Are the current issues regarding the USE of the space I have right now?
  3. What do I actually need to gain from making a change?

If you need to expand your office space, perhaps to fit more employees or equipment in, or to maintain safe distancing between employees you may need to consider a fit out, particularly if you can’t rotate the use of the space.

Alternatively, if you have moved into a new space and want to put your own stamp on it, need to change up how the space is used or are re-branding, then a Refurb may be more suitable.

Take our advice…

As seasoned professionals in the office fit out and refurbishment industry, we can help you see through all the options and opinions and drill down to real issues. We’ll help you decide what is best for your office, your staff and your budget and help you put a plan in place.

And if you like the plans and our team, we’ll do the hard work for you too!

‘Refurb were excellent. The work was carried out professionally and to a very high standard. Overall service from the initial quotation right through to any aftercare was very good. The work was finished exactly when they said it would be, within the original quoted price and with no problems at all. I would highly recommend Refurb Property services and would not hesitate to use them again. Extremely professional, high standard and quality finish, and easy to work with.’Witney office refurbishment

Take our advice and give us a call on 01993 665998. Construction work is considered essential, and we can assure you that our team is fully prepared for Covid-safe working.