When businesses start exploring ways to improve their workspace, two terms often come up: office fit out and office refurbishment.
While they sound similar, and both involve transforming a space, but they actually describe very different stages and types of projects.
At WOWVI Spaces, we deliver both, and understanding the difference is key to choosing the right solution for your business.
What Is an Office Fit Out?
An office fit out is the process of transforming an empty or shell space into a functional, ready-to-use workplace. It typically happens when you’re moving into a new building or taking over a freshly developed office that hasn’t yet been equipped for daily use.
Think of it as starting from scratch, everything from installing walls and flooring to fitting lighting, power, data, furniture, and branding elements.
Types of Office Fit Outs
There are generally two main types:
Category A Fit Out (Cat A)
This is the basic infrastructure setup provided by a landlord or developer. It includes essentials like raised floors, suspended ceilings, lighting, air conditioning, and fire systems, but no internal partitions, furniture, or brand finishes.Category B Fit Out (Cat B)
This is where WOWVI Spaces comes in. Cat B covers the design and build phase that tailors the space to your business needs. It includes meeting rooms, breakout areas, kitchens, branding, décor, and furniture, the finishing touches that bring your workspace to life.
In short: a fit out transforms an empty shell into a fully operational workspace.
What Is an Office Refurbishment?
An office refurbishment focuses on revitalising an existing workspace rather than starting from scratch. It’s perfect for businesses who are staying put but want to refresh their environment, reconfigure layouts, or improve functionality and employee wellbeing.
Why Businesses Choose Refurbishment
Modernisation: Update outdated interiors with new finishes, furniture, and technology.
Reconfiguration: Adapt layouts for hybrid working or collaboration.
Sustainability: Reduce waste and energy use by upgrading lighting and HVAC systems.
Culture & Branding: Refresh your space to better reflect your business identity and values.
Refurbishments can range from light cosmetic upgrades to complete reworks of how teams use space — all while minimising disruption to your operations.
In short: a refurbishment enhances and re-energises an existing workspace.
Which Is Right for Your Business?
If you’re relocating or taking on a new building, an office fit out ensures the space reflects your brand and supports your team from day one.
If you’re staying in your current location but want to refresh or improve how it functions, an office refurbishment is the ideal solution.
Either way, WOWVI Spaces can guide you through the process, from initial consultation and design to final delivery – creating a workspace that inspires productivity and showcases your culture.
