An office fit out can be a large investment. But a well designed office leaves an unforgettable impression on clients, and stakeholders, and makes it pleasant and comfortable for employees to spend their working day. So it can definitely provide a huge ROI over time.

Some people believe the whole contracting side of fit out is a dark art and because of this there are quite a number of misconceptions about the whole industry. As a result of these misconceptions/myths, some businesses can be hesitant about renovating or upgrading their spaces. Some believe commercial fit-out is a DIY job - they just need to do some research on the internet, pick the material and elements, and that’s it! We would classify this as quite a big misconception depending on the details of course.  

Commercial fit-out contractors are good at what they do, usually because of their experience. They’ve worked with the developers, building owners and suppliers and know what to expect when. They also know how to plan for it and also mitigate it.

Today, we will debunk 5 common office fit-out misconceptions 

Misconception 1: Commercial Fit-outs Are for Large Businesses 

That only large companies can do a commercial fit out is one of the most misleading myths in the market. If you take a look at startups, retail stores or cosy F&B outlets, you find small or mid-sized businesses are investing in custom fit-outs. In fact businesses of all sizes are fitting out their premises, just different requirements of the fit out contractor based on the size. 

Custom fit-out solutions make the commercial space (even the smallest ones) look unique, boost productivity and often improve the flow of the space. Whether you run a new venture or an established firm, a strategic commercial fit-out can be a big part of taking your company to the next level. You could be growing, downsizing, shifting due to tenancy agreements or just want a change. Custom fit out solutions can help bring your design ideas to life and really wow your customers, internal and external. 

Misconception 2: Commercial Fit-outs Cost Too Much 

This is one of those statements that has to be put in context. There will definitely be an outlay! But at Contractors Direct we have unique financing options that could help you avoid cap exing that cost! Costing too much has to be quantified and you do that by coming up with a budget. A realistic one. Commercial fit-outs are an investment, but they can be a strategic one.

With careful planning and smart budgeting, companies can get high-quality office fit-out solutions to fit their financial and functional requirements. By approaching the entire process transparently and objectively labelling your requirements as ‘must have’, ‘nice to have’ and optional you can then make strategic decisions about design and material  choices and keep  the costs under control. 

Misconception 3: Commercial Fit-outs Are Purely Aesthetic

Once again the statement needs context - the look of the office is of course a huge part of a commercial fit out, so the aesthetic design element is of paramount importance. However, we have to step into the world of workspace planning at this point to consider how else the new office can benefit the overall business. 

A well-fitted commercial space beautifully balances both form and function. It optimises the space for efficiency, workflow and employee well-being. Investing in your fit-out partner is 100% the right step for revamping or redesigning an office, but you need pre-qualified fit-out contractors to step into that partner role. They help incorporate thoughtful layout design, ergonomic furniture, strategic placement of workstations and communal areas too. Bringing everything together to have the biggest overall impact. 

Misconception 4: Commercial Fit-outs Take A Long Time

The misconception of taking too long needs nuance. There has to be a timeline and the impact of not being able to come into the office has to be accounted for but it will take some time. How much time depends on the size and complexity of the project. And the key is a contractor that can a) set realistic timelines and communicate them and b) stick to the timelines given.

Yes, project timelines sometimes change because of the size and complexity. Good planning, leveraging experience and clear communication are the tools a great fit out contractor will employ to finish on time. Fit out contractors will come up with the necessary plans and strategy to allow for the work to take place, with the minimum impact on the running of the business. 

Misconception 5: Commercial Fit-outs Are One-Size-Fits-All

Copying an office layout for another office very rarely works. A previous project can be used as inspiration but copy and paste isn’t viable. No two businesses are the same (even if their offerings are similar), and neither are their fit-out needs. A successful commercial fit-out is always tailored to the specific requirements of a business. Custom fit-out solutions depend on the size and overall shape of the office space, where pipes and wires currently reside, industry demands, workflow patterns, employee needs, brand identity, cultural influence and the list goes on. These are more often than not unique to each business.

Custom fit-out solutions ensure that the space meets operational needs and reflects the company’s values and objectives. It’s why it’s called a custom fit out! 

Final Words

When looking for fully-vetted and pre-qualified office fit-out contractors or interior designers, use our reliable and easy-to-use platform, Contractors Direct.

Our platform is designed to connect small, mid or large-sized businesses with qualified commercial fit-out contractors in Dubai, and other emirates in the UAE. 

Plus, you can access our smart Fit-Out Cost Calculator to get an accurate estimate of the fit-out cost based on up to date industry pricing. Financing options are also available (T&C’s apply). Visit our website to find out more!