Renovation of your offices is a difficult task that needs a well thought out plan. In Singapore the best way to go about it is to hire office renovation contractors or an office interior design company. They can execute the dream plans you have for your office in a smooth and according to your set budget.
Factors to consider before starting an office renovation in Singapore:
• The cost of office renovation
Cost is a huge factor in influencing what sought of renovation your office will undergo. Their various factors that determine the cost of renovation which include; layout complexity, the size of the unit, technical know- how needed and quality of the material used. Other costs include fitting out cost required for any addition, cost of alterations made, mechanical and electrical services plus materials, furniture and finally the consulting fee. When all the above cost are put together the average cost range are as follows;
Low cost range – S$30 to S$60 per sq.ft. and S$320 to S$650 per sqm
Medium cost range -S$70 to S$90 per sq.ft and S$ 750 to S$970 per sqm
High cost range -S$ 100 per sq.ft and S$1080 per sqm
You will be required to also pay a renovation deposit of between S$1000 to S$5000 to the landlord so as to cater for any damage during renovation. It is usually refunded after the landlord is satisfied that his property is good minus deductions of what is destroyed. It is advisable to seek more accurate cost from your preferred office interior designer or office renovation contractor. They will do a thorough evaluation of what is needed from fitting, interior designing and office furniture.
• What do you aim to achieve by the renovation?
Why exactly do you expect from the renovation; is it to enlarge the space, is it to make your office look more professional, is it to make your office look more welcoming and friendly or is it to follow certain guidelines by relevant bodies. All your remodelling should aim at making your business more profitable and cost effective.
• How long will the renovations take?
You need an office interior design company that is quick and flexible. This should also not compromise the quality of the work they do. Get people who are willing to work at odd hours or work on one office at a time. This way your work will not be disrupted a lot and you will not lose a lot of money or customers by closing for many days. If the office has to be closed completely know the exact time they will be done so that you find an alternative temporary solution.
• Choose a reliable company or person to do the renovation
Get someone that is trustworthy and reliable .You need someone who understands exactly what you need. They should also offer quality services while doing it fast. Read their reviews online or ask for a recommendation from your colleagues. The company should have a
reasonable price range and work fast to save you from high cost of closing the business.
• What are the regulations
If the office is rented then you should seek the approval of the landlord before starting on any renovation. So before customizing the office ask for a written approval from your land lord to avoid being sued for destroying personal property. After the lease term is over you are usually required to reinstate the office to its original condition. Ensure your office renovation contractor submits the relevant application forms to regulating bodies like URA, BCA and FSB for approval. In case you want a separate electricity meter and telecommunication lines you must apply to the relevant bodies. Singapore power (SP Services Ltd) or Singapore Telecoms (Singtel) respectively. You may also be required to apply for water installation from the Public Utilities Board (PUB) if there is no water. Add up all the necessary cost of getting the approval and materials needed to fix the utilities before starting the renovation.
Office renovation follows four steps which will determine the cost:
1. Preliminary evaluation
An office renovation contractor will come and assess the work space and listen to your ideas. They then offer their professional advice. Some high end designers charge almost $100 per hour to the shopping. You can choose to be charged a flat rate or per hour charges depending on what suits you best.
2. Interior designing
The designers will get down to using their knowledge to actualize the ideas to a workable practical space for your business. The building management which is part of the interior designing ensures the designs can work, they estimate the cost and time needed to complete the project.
3. Fitting
This includes almost everything from the door ways, external and interior features, storage wall and countertops among others. It also deals with all electrical or mechanical installation like air conditioning systems, lighting and ceiling systems among others. This will include the cost of buying materials and paying the technicians.
4. Office furniture
You should consider the budget, style and space before picking the furniture. They should serve both the functionality and aesthetic value.
Office renovation is mostly affected by cost. Everything from evaluation to buying of the furniture requires money. So before embarking on this journey call a reliable and reputable office design company in Singapore to get the accurate estimates.