Understanding the different types of office fit-out

Shell & Core

Shell and core refers to a commercial building delivered in a partially finished state. The developer provides the essential structural elements, leaving the internal spaces for tenants to customise.

shell and core

Key Features:

Completed external building frame, facade, and roof.
Installed base utilities: HVAC systems, electrical risers, water supply, and drainage connections.
Empty floors and walls, no partitions or final finishes.

Cat A the blank canvas

Cat A refers to a basic landlord fit-out, leaving the interior demise empty, allowing potential occupiers to design and construct their own tailored spaces.

cat a, nos fot outs, nos case study

Key features:

Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Services
Raised Floors
Suspended Ceilings
Lighting Systems
HVAC Systems
Basic Finishes: Painted walls and simple flooring
Fire Detection Systems

Cat A+ the plug and play option

Cat A+ is a hybrid fit-out bridging Cat A and Cat B, offering ready-to-use, mutually beneficial spaces for landlords and tenants. Often called “Built to Lease”, as these spaces suit a wide range of businesses without being tenant-specific.

cat a, nos fot outs, nos case study

Key features:

Partitions: Meeting rooms, private offices, or other divided spaces
Kitchenettes: Tea points and basic break-out areas
Furniture: Desks, chairs, and essential storage

Cat B the fully customised space

Cat B fit-outs create fully customised, branded workspaces tailored to a tenant’s design and operational needs.

cat b, nos fit outs, nos case study

Key features:

Personalised Design: Custom walls, partitions, flooring, and finishes
Branded Elements: Incorporating the tenant’s branding into the design
Furniture Installation: Complete setups, including desks, seating, and storage
Specialised Facilities: Meeting rooms, breakout areas, and other tenant-specific features
Custom Systems: Tailored lighting, HVAC, IT, and audiovisual equipment

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