A GUIDE TO FIT-OUT
AND REFURBISHMENT

While often used interchangeably, "fit-out" and "refurbishment" have distinct meanings:

• Fit-out: Typically refers to making an interior space suitable for occupation. This involves installing essential elements like partitions, flooring, ceilings, lighting, electrical wiring, HVAC systems, and initial furniture. It can range from a basic "shell and core" (providing the bare bones) to a "Category A" (basic finishes) or "Category B" (full customisation including branding and furniture) fit-out.
• Refurbishment: Involves updating, restoring, or improving an existing space. This might include aesthetic upgrades, layout modifications, or system overhauls to modernise and enhance functionality.

A well-executed office fit-out or refurbishment offers significant benefits:

• Optimised Productivity: Thoughtful layouts and ergonomic designs can boost efficiency and collaboration.
• Enhanced Brand Image: A modern, aesthetically pleasing space reflects your brand values and professionalism.
• Improved Employee Wellbeing: Natural light, good air quality, and comfortable spaces contribute to a healthier and happier workforce, leading to reduced absenteeism and increased engagement.
• Talent Attraction & Retention: High-quality workspaces are a key factor in attracting and retaining top talent, especially in a competitive market like Sydney.
• Future-Proofing: Designing with flexibility and scalability in mind allows your space to adapt to future growth and evolving work models (e.g., hybrid working).
• Strategic Investment: While there's an upfront cost, a quality fit-out can lead to long-term operational efficiencies and increased asset value.

At Marshall Group Services, we offer comprehensive project management, guiding you through every stage:

Initial Consultation and Defining Your Needs

This crucial first step involves a deep dive into your business objectives, workflows, and aspirations. We collaborate closely to understand:

• Your Vision & Goals: What do you want to achieve with this project? (e.g., accommodate growth, rebrand, implement hybrid work, improve energy efficiency).
• Space Utilisation: Current and future staffing numbers, hot-desking, individual vs. collaborative spaces, and required zones (reception, meeting rooms, breakout areas, quiet zones, kitchens, storage).
• Technical Requirements: Detailed IT, AV, and power needs, including network, server, cabling, screens, and conference technology.
• Sustainability & Wellness Goals: Are you aiming for green certifications (e.g., NABERS, WELL)? We'll consider lighting, air quality, energy use, and material selection.
• Budget & Timeline: Establishing a realistic budget, including a 10-15% contingency for unforeseen costs, and a clear project timeline.

Design and Planning

Our experienced professionals translate your vision into detailed designs:

• Concept Design & Floor Plan: Finalising the layout to ensure it meets functional needs and reflects your brand. We often use 3D visualisations to help you envision the final outcome.
• Interior Finishes & Branding: Selecting materials, colour schemes, and branding elements that balance style, durability, and comfort.
• Material Selection: Prioritising durable, easy-to-maintain, and where possible, recycled materials.

Navigating Statutory Approvals with Ease

Dealing with permits and regulations can be complex, but Marshall Group Services streamlines this process:

• Landlord & Building Management Approval: Essential for most commercial fit-outs and refurbishments in Sydney. We ensure your project aligns with building guidelines and base building standards.
• Council Approvals: Depending on the scope of works and changes to building use, you may require:
  • Complying Development Certificate (CDC): A faster approval process (weeks) typically used when there are no changes to building use and the project complies with all regulations. Issued by a private certifier.
  • Development Application (DA): A more involved process (months) issued by the local council, typically for more significant changes. A Construction Certificate (CC) is required after DA approval before works can commence.
• Compliance with Regulations: We ensure all designs and works adhere to:
  • National Construction Code (NCC) / Building Code of Australia (BCA): Australia's primary technical design and construction provisions.
  • Australian Standards (AS): Relevant industry standards.
  • Accessibility Standards (AS1428.1 2009 Design for Access and Mobility & Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA)): Ensuring inclusive and accessible workspaces for all.
  • Fire Safety Regulations: Incorporating alarm systems, sprinklers, emergency lighting, and fire extinguishers.
  • Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OHS): Ensuring a safe work environment during and after the fit-out.

Our experts are well-versed in these complexities, handling documentation and liaising with private certifiers, town planners, and other consultants to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Construction and Implementation

This is where your vision takes shape. Our meticulous execution ensures:

• Expert Trades: Engaging qualified and experienced contractors for all aspects of the build.
• Quality Control & Safety: Rigorous oversight to ensure work meets the highest standards and all safety regulations are adhered to.
• Minimal Disruption: For occupied offices, we are live environment specialists. We plan staged works and coordinate closely with your team and IT to minimise noise, dust, and disruption.
• Regular Updates: Consistent communication and site meetings to keep you informed of progress and address any adjustments promptly.

Final Touches and Handover

The final phase brings everything together:

• Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (FFE) Installation: Coordinating delivery and installation of all chosen elements.
• Finishing Details: Painting, flooring, branding elements, artwork, and accessories.
• Thorough Cleaning: Ensuring the space is immaculate and ready for occupation.
• Final Walkthrough: A comprehensive inspection with our project manager to ensure your complete satisfaction.
• Post-Construction Support: We offer ongoing support, including maintenance, warranty assistance, and potential upgrades.

Sydney generally has higher fit-out costs compared to other Australian cities due to labour rates and material costs.

• Average Fit-Out Cost (Sydney, Moderate Quality): Approximately A$2,665/sqm (JLL 2025 data).
• General Office Fit-Out Range: A$1,200−A$3,000+ per square metre, varying significantly based on complexity, finishes, and technology.
• Breakdown of Typical Costs:
  • Builders' Works: Approximately 41% (structural elements, walls, flooring, ceilings). Heavily impacted by landlord base building and client design.
  • Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) Works: Approximately 17% (HVAC, electrical, fire, UPS). Varies based on warm shell specifications and engineering requirements.
  • Security, IT & AV: Approximately 12%. Reflects increasing adoption of technology and SMART features.
  • Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (FFE): Approximately 23% (workstations, chairs, loose furniture, white goods). Prices vary based on specifications and import duties.
• Contingency: Always budget 10-15% for unforeseen expenses.
• Hidden Costs: Consider temporary office relocation if needed, and ongoing maintenance.

There's an increasing focus on sustainable fit-outs in Sydney, driven by environmental regulations, government initiatives, and employee demand.

• Benefits: Reduced operating costs (e.g., energy savings of 25-40%), enhanced employee wellbeing, strengthened brand reputation, and future-proofing against evolving regulations.
• Key Elements:
  • Sustainable Material Selection: Prioritising durable, low-impact, and recyclable materials.
  • Energy Efficiency: Maximising natural lighting, LED lighting, smart climate control systems, and improved insulation.
  • Water Efficiency: Water-saving fixtures and responsible water management.
  • Indoor Air Quality: Good ventilation systems and incorporating biophilic elements (indoor plants).
  • Waste Management: Implementing robust recycling programs and exploring reuse/donation options for old furniture and equipment.

Organisations are increasingly prioritising high-quality spaces with enhanced technology and wellness features. This is driven by the desire to attract and retain talent, meet evolving employee expectations, and align design with brand identity. Investing in innovative, employee-centric workspaces is seen as a strategic move to uplift human experience and organisational culture.

When you partner with Marshall Group Services, you're choosing a team that's passionate about transforming spaces and dedicated to exceeding your expectations.

• Over 30 Years of Experience: Deep industry knowledge and a proven track record in Sydney.
• Comprehensive Project Management: We handle every detail, from initial concept to final completion.
• Tailored Solutions: Bespoke designs crafted to your unique needs and objectives.
• Statutory Approvals Expertise: We navigate regulations with ease, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.
• Commitment to Excellence: Meticulous execution, quality control, and a focus on delivering exceptional results on time and within budget.
• Collaborative Approach: We work closely with you, ensuring your vision is realised.