Creating an office that supports your team, brand, and business goals involves careful planning and budgeting. Cushman & Wakefield’s 2024 Office Fit-Out Cost Guide helps companies navigate the costs involved in designing and building workspaces tailored to their needs, covering everything from collaborative setups to advanced hybrid spaces.

Key Takeaways from the 2024 Office Fit-Out Guide

  1. Comprehensive Cost Breakdown: The guide covers all major costs for office fit-outs, including architectural trades, millwork, drywall, acoustic ceilings, mechanical and electrical services, and more. Average fit-out costs per square foot are provided for key Canadian markets like Toronto (CA$207), Vancouver (CA$190), Montreal (CA$196), and Calgary (CA$162), reflecting regional variations.
  2. Four Key Considerations for Office Fit-Outs:
    • Technology: Ensuring the office is equipped with the latest technology to support hybrid work and collaboration.
    • Workplace Design for Neurodiversity: Creating spaces that accommodate a variety of work styles and needs.
    • Attracting Employees Back to the Office: Designing an inviting, functional space that encourages in-office engagement.
    • Labour Market Challenges: Managing timelines and costs in a competitive market for skilled labour.
  3. Factors Impacting Costs:
    • Size and Type of Space: Open-plan and client-facing spaces often have different requirements and costs.
    • Customization and Quality of Finishes: High-end finishes, complex designs, and sustainable features can increase costs.
    • Location: Labour and material costs vary by city, influencing overall expenses.
    • Fees and Contingencies: Professional fees, expedited timelines, and contingencies for unforeseen changes add to the budget.
  4. Office Fit-Out vs. Office Refresh: A fit-out is a full redesign tailored to specific needs, often involving new mechanical and electrical installations. In contrast, a refresh typically involves aesthetic updates, like painting or new flooring, and can often occur with minimal disruption.

Why Work with Cushman & Wakefield Waterloo Region, Brokerage

Our brokerage provides unparalleled expertise and local market insight, making them the ideal partner for your office fit-out project. Here’s how we add value:

  • Local Expertise with Global Reach: With a team deeply familiar with the Waterloo Region and backed by Cushman & Wakefield’s global network, you gain access to both local insights and global trends.
  • Sustainable and Future-Ready Solutions: Cushman & Wakefield is committed to creating sustainable office spaces that meet your needs today and anticipate future demands.
  • Cost Efficiency and Risk Mitigation: We help you maximize your budget by managing costs effectively, identifying potential risks early, and advising on value-added design elements.

Start Your Office Fit-Out Journey

Planning an office fit-out is an investment in your business’s future. Cushman & Wakefield Waterloo Region, Brokerage is here to guide you through each step, from budgeting to completion, ensuring that your space reflects your brand and supports your team’s productivity. Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your ideal office to life within your budget.