What is a fit-out?

Fit-out is the term used to describe making an interior space inhabitable.

It involves the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and decorative work that the tenant (who leases the pace from the landlord) undertakes.

A landlord provides the shell and core - which comprises the structure, cladding, external works and common areas.

Types of fit-outs:

Cat A - the bare structure with just the basics installed. These include:

• Raised floors and suspended ceilings
• Basic mechanical and electrical services
• Fire detection services and smoke alarms
• Air-conditioning and ventilation (HVAC)
• Basic internal finishes

The developer or landlord provides CAT A fit-outs.

Cat B fit-out - a workplace that’s ready to move into.

This involves laying out your floor plan and designing your space.

Cat B fit-outs cover everything from interior partitions (including meeting rooms) to ceiling design, staircase installation and even furniture.

They also include:

• Choosing the final finish for the floors, walls and doors (including textures and colors)
• Planning and installation of new IT infrastructure.
• Planning and installation of power outlets, desks, and connected meeting rooms.

The tenant typically manages cat b fit-outs in collaboration with architects and fit-out contractors.

Difference between interior fit-out and interior design

Fit-out is the term used to describe making an interior space inhabitable

It involves the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and decorative work that the tenant (who leases the pace from the landlord) undertakes.

A landlord provides the shell and core - which comprises the structure, cladding, external works and common areas.

Interior designers on the other hand, work closely with architects, engineers, construction workers, and the rest of the fit-out team to make spaces functional, safe and beautiful.

The following are some of the duties that interior designers perform:

• Create the initial design, including electrical and partition layouts
• Specify lighting, furniture, wall finishes, flooring, and plumbing fixtures
• Create timelines and estimate project costs
• Place orders for materials and oversee installation
• Oversee construction and coordinate with general building contractors