How Much Does It Cost to Build an Office Room?

The cost of building an office room can vary widely based on a range of factors including location, design specifications, materials used, and the type of office being constructed. Here we’ll explore typical costs associated with different office building scenarios to provide a comprehensive guide.

Standard Office Fit-Out Costs

For those looking to fit out a standard office space, costs can range from approximately £58 to £120 per square foot (£624 to £1,292 per square metre). This cost generally covers the following aspects:

• Fit-out and Construction: Costs typically range from £45 to £75 per square foot, encompassing basic construction and fit-out expenses.
• Furniture and Installation: Furniture costs can vary significantly, usually falling between £9 and £32 per square foot.
• AV & IT Equipment: Essential tech installations might cost between £3 and £10 per square foot.
• Relocation: If relocating, additional costs of £1 to £3 per square foot may apply[1].

Comprehensive Office Construction Costs

For completely new office constructions, the following costs per square metre are typical:

• Non-air-conditioned Offices (1-2 stories): Estimated costs range from £2,020 to £2,240.
• Air-conditioned Offices (1-2 stories): Costs are slightly higher, ranging from £2,350 to £2,610.
• Air-conditioned Offices (6+ stories): For larger, more complex builds, costs can escalate to between £2,860 and £3,180[3].

Garden Office as an Alternative

A garden office provides a potentially more economical and flexible option. The costs for these structures vary primarily based on size:

• Smaller Garden Offices (2m²): These can cost between £9,250 and £20,000, averaging at about £13,500.
• Larger Garden Offices (4m x 3m): For more spacious designs, costs range from £13,000 to £38,800, with an average cost of approximately £24,605[4].

Factors Influencing Office Room Costs

The variance in cost can be attributed to several factors, including:

• Materials: The choice of materials affects both durability and aesthetics, impacting the overall cost.
• Labour: Labour costs can differ significantly depending on the geographical location and the skill level required.
• Customisations: Specific design features, custom fittings, and luxury installations can also escalate the overall expenses.
• Regulatory Requirements: Compliance with local building codes and regulations may require additional investment.

Conclusion

Building an office room is a significant investment that requires careful planning and budgeting. The costs can vary widely based on a multitude of factors, and it’s advisable to obtain detailed quotes and make comparisons to ensure you are getting the best value for your investment. Whether opting for a standard office fit-out or a bespoke garden office, understanding the breakdown of costs can help in making informed decisions.

Further Reading

• Office Insight – Office Fit-Out Costs
• K2 Space – Understanding Office Fit-Out Costs
• Cost Modelling – Building Costs for Offices
• The Page – Building a Garden Office