How Much Does Office Fit Out Cost Per Square Metre in Singapore: Price Guide for Commercial Spaces

Office fit-out costs in Singapore can vary based on location, building type, and design choices.

A basic fit-out might cost as little as S$50 per square foot, while high-end renovations can reach S$150 or more per square foot. The average office fit-out cost in Singapore ranges from S$80 to S$120 per square foot (S$861 to S$1,292 per square metre).

Different areas in Singapore affect fit-out prices. Prime locations like Marina Bay and Raffles Place command higher rates due to building regulations and premium materials.

Tenants should plan for extra costs like permits, design fees, and furniture.

The type of fit-out makes a big difference in the total cost. Open-plan layouts tend to cost less than spaces with many private offices and meeting rooms.

Smart planning can help companies stay within budget while creating an office that meets their needs.

Overview of Office Fit-Out Costs in Singapore

Office fit-out costs in Singapore range from S$50 to S$200 per square foot. The price varies based on the quality of materials, design complexity, and location of the office space.

A basic fit-out package starts at S$50-80 per square foot. This includes simple partitions, basic flooring, standard lighting, and essential electrical works.

Mid-range fit-outs cost S$80-120 per square foot. These feature better-quality materials, custom carpentry work, and improved lighting systems.

Premium fit-outs range from S$120-200 per square foot. They include high-end finishes, sophisticated design elements, and advanced technology integration.

Key Cost Factors:

• Building location and accessibility
• Design complexity
• Material quality
• Labour costs
• Project timeline
• Mechanical and electrical requirements

The size of the office space affects the total cost. Larger spaces often benefit from economies of scale, resulting in lower per-square-foot rates.

Renovation permits and compliance requirements add 5-10% to the total cost. These include fire safety certificates and building authority approvals.

Most projects take 8-12 weeks to complete. Timing affects costs, with rushed projects demanding premium rates for faster completion.

Current market conditions and material costs can impact prices significantly. Supply chain disruptions and labour shortages may increase costs by 10-15%.

Factors Affecting Fit-Out Costs

Office fit-out costs in Singapore vary significantly based on several key elements that impact the final price per square metre. Building owners and tenants need to consider these critical factors during their planning and budgeting process.

Location and Market Conditions

Prime locations like Marina Bay and Raffles Place command higher fit-out costs than suburban areas. Grade A office buildings typically require premium materials and strict renovation guidelines.

Current market rates in Singapore’s CBD range from SGD 800 to SGD 1,200 per square metre for basic fit-outs.

Labour costs fluctuate based on market demand and construction activity levels. During peak periods, contractor rates can increase by 15-20%.

Material costs vary by location due to transportation and storage requirements. Buildings with restricted access or limited loading bays may incur additional charges.

Size and Scope of the Project

Larger projects often benefit from economies of scale, with costs per square metre decreasing as the total area increases.

Typical Cost Variations by Project Size:

• Small (<500 sqm): SGD 900-1,100/sqm
• Medium (500-1,000 sqm): SGD 800-950/sqm
• Large (>1,000 sqm): SGD 700-850/sqm

Space efficiency plays a crucial role in cost management. Open-plan layouts generally cost less than cellular office designs.

Design Complexity and Specifications

Custom designs and unique architectural features increase costs significantly. Complex ceiling works and special lighting systems can add 20-30% to base costs.

Common Design Elements Affecting Costs:

• Curved walls and partitions
• Glass installations
• Raised flooring
• Specialised acoustic treatments
• Custom joinery

Standard of Finishes

Material quality directly impacts the overall fit-out cost. Basic finishes start at SGD 700 per square metre, while premium finishes can exceed SGD 1,500.

Finish Grades and Cost Ranges:

• Basic: SGD 700-900/sqm
• Mid-range: SGD 900-1,200/sqm
• Premium: SGD 1,200-1,500+/sqm

Floor and wall finishes typically represent 25-30% of the total fit-out budget.

Sustainability and Green Building Standards

Green Mark certification requirements can increase initial costs by 5-15%. Energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials command premium prices.

Common green features include:

• LED lighting systems
• Motion sensors
• Low-VOC materials
• Water-efficient fixtures
• Energy-efficient HVAC systems

The long-term cost savings from reduced energy consumption often offset the higher initial investment. Most Grade A buildings in Singapore require minimum Green Mark certification standards.

Cost Breakdown by Fit-Out Categories

Office fit-out costs in Singapore range from S$70 to S$200 per square foot, varying based on the quality level and specific requirements. The total expense divides across several key components that require careful planning and budgeting.

Structural Alterations

Basic structural changes cost S$15-25 per square foot in Singapore. These modifications include:

• Wall demolition and construction: S$8-12 per square foot
• Load-bearing reinforcements: S$12-18 per square foot
• Raised flooring installation: S$10-15 per square foot

Complex alterations might need specialised engineering, adding 20-30% to base costs. Building core modifications typically require landlord approval and additional permits.

Mechanical and Electrical Services

M&E services represent 30-40% of total fit-out costs in Singapore offices.

Common M&E expenses:

• Air conditioning: S$20-30 per square foot
• Electrical wiring: S$15-25 per square foot
• Plumbing works: S$10-15 per square foot
• Fire protection systems: S$8-12 per square foot

Power requirements for modern offices often need upgraded electrical systems. Smart building features add S$5-10 per square foot.

Ceilings, Floors, and Partitions

Interior finishes average S$25-35 per square foot.

Typical costs:

• Suspended ceilings: S$8-12 per square foot
• Carpet tiles: S$6-10 per square foot
• Glass partitions: S$15-25 per square foot
• Vinyl flooring: S$7-12 per square foot

Premium materials like hardwood or acoustic panels can increase costs by 40-50%.

Furniture, Fittings, and Equipment (FF&E)

FF&E costs range from S$20-40 per square foot for standard office setups.

Basic FF&E components:

• Workstations: S$800-1,500 per person
• Office chairs: S$200-500 each
• Storage solutions: S$150-300 per square foot
• Meeting room furniture: S$3,000-5,000 per room

Ergonomic furniture and custom-built solutions can double these base prices.

IT and Data Infrastructure

Network infrastructure costs average S$15-25 per square foot.

Key IT expenses:

• Structured cabling: S$8-12 per square foot
• Server rooms: S$300-500 per square foot
• Wi-Fi systems: S$2-4 per square foot
• Access control: S$3-5 per square foot

Modern offices need redundant systems and backup power, adding 15-20% to IT costs.

Compliance and Approvals

Regulatory compliance costs range from S$5-10 per square foot.

Required permits include:

• Building Control Authority approval: S$2,000-4,000
• Fire safety certification: S$1,500-3,000
• Environmental health permits: S$1,000-2,000

Professional fees for submissions and inspections typically add 5-8% to the total project cost.

Average Fit-Out Costs per Square Metre

Office fit-out costs in Singapore range from S$750 to S$1,500 per square metre for basic renovations. Mid-range fit-outs typically cost between S$1,500 and S$2,500 per square metre.

Premium or high-end office fit-outs can cost S$2,500 to S$4,000 per square metre. These prices include materials, labour, and basic furnishings.

Here’s a breakdown of costs by fit-out quality:

Fit-out Level	Cost per Square Metre
Basic	S$750 – S$1,500
Mid-range	S$1,500 – S$2,500
Premium	S$2,500 – S$4,000

Several factors affect the final cost:

• Building location and accessibility
• Design complexity
• Material choices
• Project timeline
• Building regulations

A standard 100-square-metre office space with basic finishes would cost approximately S$75,000 to S$150,000 to fit out. This includes simple partitions, basic lighting, and standard flooring.

The construction market and material costs can cause these prices to change. It’s worth noting that prices in prime business districts like Marina Bay or Raffles Place often fall in the higher range.

Budgeting and Cost Management Strategies

Effective budget planning and strict cost controls help businesses achieve their office fit-out goals whilst maintaining financial stability. Smart financial strategies can reduce expenses by 15-25% without compromising quality.

Developing a Realistic Budget

Start with a detailed cost breakdown for each fit-out component. Set aside 5-10% of the total budget for contingencies and unexpected expenses.

Create a comprehensive inventory of required items:

• Construction materials and labour
• Furniture and workstations
• Electrical and data cabling
• HVAC systems
• Interior finishes

Engage multiple contractors and suppliers for competitive quotes. Many Singapore-based vendors offer package deals that can save 10-15% on bulk purchases.

Cost Control Measures

Implement a phased approach to spread costs over time. This method allows companies to manage cash flow more effectively whilst maintaining daily operations.

Track expenses through dedicated project management software. Regular monitoring helps identify cost overruns early.

Money-saving strategies:

• Use modular furniture systems
• Choose durable materials that reduce long-term maintenance costs
• Optimise space planning to maximise square metre usage
• Schedule work during off-peak periods for better contractor rates

Regular progress meetings with contractors ensure work stays within budget parameters. Document all changes and their financial impact.

Choosing a Fit-Out Contractor

Selecting the right contractor for an office fit-out project requires careful evaluation of expertise, contract terms, and cost-optimisation strategies. A qualified contractor will ensure quality workmanship while maintaining budget constraints and project timelines.

Evaluating Contractor Expertise

A contractor’s track record speaks volumes about their capabilities.

Look for companies with at least 5 years of experience in Singapore’s commercial fit-out sector.

Request to see their portfolio of completed projects, particularly those similar in scope and budget to your requirements.

Past performance is a strong indicator of future success.

Check their Building and Construction Authority (BCA) registration grade.

Grade A1 to B2 contractors are typically best suited for office fit-outs.

Verify their financial stability through credit reports and bank references.

This helps ensure they can complete the project without cash flow issues.

Understanding Contract Terms

The contract should clearly outline payment schedules, project milestones, and completion dates.

Standard payment terms often follow this structure:

• 30% upon contract signing
• 30% at project midpoint
• 30% upon substantial completion
• 10% retention for defects liability period

Make sure warranties and defects liability periods are clearly stated.

The industry standard is 12 months for general works.

Include provisions for variations and dispute resolution mechanisms.

This protects both parties if changes are needed during the project.

Value Engineering

Value engineering identifies cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality.

Focus on these key areas:

• Material substitutions
• Construction methods
• Design optimisation

Compare different material options.

For example, vinyl flooring might offer better value than hardwood in high-traffic areas.

Consider modular solutions where possible.

These often reduce installation time and labour costs while maintaining quality standards.

Request detailed cost breakdowns for major items.

This helps identify areas where savings can be achieved through bulk purchasing or alternative specifications.

Case Studies of Office Fit-Out Projects

A recent project at Marina Bay Financial Centre involved fitting out a 500-square-metre office space for a financial services firm.

The total cost reached S$750 per square metre, including high-end finishes and custom-built meeting rooms.

Tech startup ByteWave completed their 300-square-metre office fit-out in the CBD area for S$600 per square metre.

The project featured open-plan workstations, breakout spaces, and soundproof phone booths.

Notable Project Costs:

• Basic fit-out: S$450-550/sqm
• Mid-range fit-out: S$600-800/sqm
• Premium fit-out: S$850-1,200/sqm

A law firm in Raffles Place spent S$900 per square metre on their 400-square-metre office.

The fit-out included premium materials, sophisticated meeting rooms, and a client reception area.

At Suntec City, a media company transformed their 250-square-metre space at S$550 per square metre.

The project emphasised collaborative areas and creative spaces while maintaining cost efficiency.

Cost Factors in These Projects:

• Material quality
• Design complexity
• Building location
• Timeline requirements
• MEP modifications

The most cost-effective project was a 150-square-metre office in Tai Seng, completed at S$400 per square metre.

This basic fit-out focused on essential elements like workstations and basic meeting rooms.

Best Practices for Planning and Executing Office Fit-Outs

Start with a detailed space plan that aligns with the company’s workflow and culture. A well-thought-out design maximises efficiency and supports employee productivity.

Create a realistic timeline and budget for the project. Most office fit-outs in Singapore take 8-12 weeks to complete, depending on the size and complexity.

Key Planning Steps:

• Engage with experienced contractors early
• Obtain necessary permits and approvals
• Schedule works during off-peak hours
• Plan for IT infrastructure and connectivity
• Consider future growth and flexibility

Maintain clear communication channels between all stakeholders.

Regular project meetings help track progress and address issues promptly.

Select materials and finishes that balance aesthetics with durability. High-traffic areas need robust materials that can withstand daily wear and tear.

Cost Control Tips:

• Get multiple quotes from contractors
• Order materials in bulk when possible
• Keep a contingency fund of 10-15%
• Focus on essential elements first

Consider sustainability in the design process. Energy-efficient lighting and eco-friendly materials can reduce long-term operating costs.

Factor in workplace safety requirements and building regulations. Compliance with local codes is essential for project approval and occupancy permits.

Remember to plan for temporary workspace arrangements during the fit-out process. This helps minimise disruption to daily operations.