Helping you unpack the differences between Cat A and Cat B fit outs, and what it means for your next office space.
By Making Moves London
December 20, 2024If you’re in the process of moving office spaces, chances are you’ve encountered the terms Cat A and Cat B fit outs in your discussions. However, unless you’re deeply entrenched in the world of commercial property – like us – grasping the nuances of these classifications might feel like navigating uncharted territory.
But fear not! Here at Making Moves, our team of expert relocation consultants have guided plenty of businesses through the process of designing their new office spaces, and have created this comprehensive guide on all things Cat A vs Cat B to help you navigate the process.
So, keep reading as we unpack the differences between Cat A and Cat B fit outs, their typical characteristics, and which option is likely to best align with the needs of your business. Let’s dive right in!
Before we get into the nitty gritty of classifications, let’s first get to grips with what exactly an office fit out is.
Put plainly, an office fit out refers to the process of customising a commercial space to meet the specific needs and requirements of your business. This can involve transforming a basic, empty workspace, into a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment that reflects the identity, culture and ways of working at your company.
Office fit outs typically encompass various elements such as interior design, partitioning walls, installing furniture, setting up IT infrastructure, lighting and amenities.
Now we’re clear on what exactly an office fit out is, let’s take a look at the four classifications, or tiers, of fit outs.
Understanding these distinct fit out classifications is crucial for both landlords and tenants, as they provide clarity on the level of customisation and finish offered in a commercial space, ultimately influencing leasing decisions and occupancy experiences.
A Shell and Core fit out refers to the foundational framework of the space – so, the structural elements of the building like the shear walls, beams and metal frame. While it’s still classed as a type of fit out, a shell and core fit out can resemble a construction site, more than an office space – so it wouldn’t be a space a business could operate within without additional changes being made.
Characteristics of a shell and core fit out:
So, while Shell and Core fit outs provide a foundational framework for customisation, it’s essential to recognise the potential for additional investment and time required to transform the space into a functional office environment.
A Cat A fit out (short for Category A) is a step up from the basic shell and core offering, which involves the fitting of essential services and basic finishes to get the commercial property to a standard that it can be occupied by tenants.
Characteristics of a Cat A fit out:
While Cat A fit outs are not fully customised, they provide tenants with a functional, ready-to-use space that the tenants can then tailor to suit the individual needs of their business.
A Cat A+ fit out, an enhancement of the Cat A standard, embodies a higher level of finish and amenities provided by the landlord to attract premium tenants. This classification goes beyond the basic requirements of Cat A, offering additional features and enhancements that elevate the quality and appeal of the space.
Characteristics of a Cat A+ fit out:
In essence, a Cat A+ fit out represents a premium offering that strikes a balance between providing a ready-to-use space with enhanced features while allowing tenants the flexibility to personalise the interior to suit their unique needs and preferences.
Last but not least, a Cat B fit out (often referred to as a Tenant Fit Out), represents the pinnacle of customisation and personalisation in commercial property. Unlike Cat A fit outs, which focus on providing a basic framework for occupancy, Cat B fit outs involve the full customisation of the interior space to align with the specific requirements and branding of the tenant.
Characteristics of a Cat B fit out:
A Cat B fit out represents the epitome of customisation and luxury in commercial property leasing, empowering tenants to create a bespoke workspace that embodies their unique vision and identity.
Determining which type of office fit out (Cat A vs Cat B) is right for your business depends on various factors, including budget, timeline, branding requirements, and long-term goals.
Shell and Core Fit Outs: Ideal for businesses seeking maximum flexibility and customisation, Shell and Core fit outs offer a blank canvas for complete customisation. However, this option requires significant time and investment to fully fit out the space.
Cat A Fit Out: Cat A fit outs strike a balance between providing a functional, ready-to-use space and allowing for some customisation. Businesses looking for a cost-effective solution with minimal upfront investment may find Cat A fit outs suitable.
Cat A+ Fit Out: Suited for businesses desiring a higher standard of accommodation and amenities, Cat A+ fit outs offer enhanced finishes and features. Premium tenants seeking a luxurious workspace to reflect their brand image may opt for Cat A+ fit outs.
Cat B Fit Out: For businesses prioritising full customisation and brand integration, Cat B fit outs offer the ultimate level of personalisation. While more expensive and time-consuming, Cat B fit outs provide a turnkey solution tailored to the tenant’s exact specifications.
Ultimately, the right fit out depends on your business’s unique needs, preferences, and budget constraints. Consulting with a commercial property expert (like our team here at Making Moves) can help you navigate the options and make an informed decision aligned with your objectives.
We hope this guide has been helpful in explaining the difference between Cat A and Cat B fitouts, and that you now feel armed with the knowledge to make the right decision for your business.
If you require any further help, our expert team here at Making Moves are always happy to help you with your office move – whether you’re just starting your office search, or want someone to project manage your office fit out on your behalf. Get in touch with us today to explore your options and turn your vision into reality!
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