If you’re relocating and found your perfect location, or staying put and need a complete overhaul, you may be considering a fit out. But where should you start?
We know from our clients that it can be confusing trying to navigate the terminology in the design and build industry. But not to worry, as we’re here to help you find the right office fit out to suit your needs now, and for the future.
When it comes to an office refurbishment and fit out, there are basically three types of projects: the traditional CAT A and CAT B, and the more recent hybrid of the two, referred to as CAT A+.
What sets each of these packages apart are the elements included, so choosing the right one depends on which best aligns with your company’s workspace aspirations.
So, let’s debunk what they mean…
What’s the difference between a CAT A and CAT B fit out?
CAT A and CAT B projects are the most well-known. Whilst there is no industry standard definition for these types of projects, typically, your CAT A fit out is your nuts and bolts. It’s a refurbishment of the shell and core of the building, so it’s ready for a subsequent fit out.
A CAT B fit out focuses primarily on the layout and feel of the workplace, designed to suit a tenant’s needs from an operational and culture perspective – typically it’s carried out after the successful completion of a CAT A project.
A CAT A fit out is essentially a blank canvas; where landlords invest in refurbishments to breathe life into older buildings. Tenants then have the opportunity and freedom to customise this space according to their needs and brand identity through the CAT B. A project of this type usually involves approaching an interior designer to transform the space from its initial shell state into a thoughtfully designed, personalised working environment.
What’s involved in a CAT A fit out project?
A CAT A workplace fit out refines the basic structural elements of the internal building. A team of mechanical and electrical (M&E) experts will get the space in functional-working order so it works effectively and efficiently, including power, lighting and operational layout while respecting the building’s character and age.
What’s included in a CAT A fit out scope of work?
- Structural elements
- Mechanical and electrical overhaul – including heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing and lighting
- Fire protection
- Raised access floors
- Suspended ceilings
- Toilets and showers
- Lifts and stairs
- Car parks and EV charging
- Bicycle enclosures
What’s involved in a CAT B fit out project?
A CAT B project is tailored to both your operational and aspirational requirements, with a look and feel that enhances your unique company culture, so your teams can feel at home in the space. A traditional CAT B office fit out includes everything from building walls and ceilings, altering the MEP to suit the new layout, adding in welfare facilities, finishes, furniture and dressing the space with final touches, such as planting and wall art.
What’s included in a CAT B fit out scope of work?
- Partition walls
- Alterations to existing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems
- Alterations to existing lighting and new decorative lighting
- Data room and infrastructure
- Fire stopping to new penetrations
- Suspended ceilings
- Floor and wall finishes
- Tea-points and kitchens
- Audiovisual equipment
- Branding and signage
- Furniture
- Dressing the space with plants, books, and miscellaneous decorative items
What is a CAT A+ fit out?
A CAT A+ fit out, also widely known as ‘Plug and Play’, is a hybrid solution that combines both the CAT A works whilst integrating the core scope elements of a CAT B fit out.
This more recent offering provides a fully functional workspace free of branding, so a tenant can simply turn up and work. In short, it is a turn-key solution, which means you can move in without delay!
Why choose a CAT A+ fit out?
A CAT A+ fit out is the newest offering and an increasingly popular choice for landlords and tenants alike. The CAT A+ model makes it an ideal option for companies hesitant to commit to the initial capital expenditure as the cost is spread over the lease period, and time required for a full CAT B fit out, whilst its adaptable design also makes it an excellent choice for enabling co-working spaces.
What’s included in a CAT A+ scope of work?
- Partition walls
- Alterations to existing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems
- Alterations to existing lighting and new decorative lighting
- Data room, data infrastructure, and live network
- Fire stopping to new penetrations
- Suspended ceilings
- Floor and wall finishes
- Tea-points and kitchens
- Audiovisual connectivity
- Furniture
- Dressing the space with plants, books, and miscellaneous decorative items
If you’re looking for a design and build company with extensive knowledge of CAT A, CAT B, and CAT A+ fit outs ranging from 2,000 sq ft to 130,000 sq ft, and you’re considering an office refurbishment or fit out, get in touch with our team of design and build specialists, they’ll guide you through the process.
