Let me say this straight up — a good office fitout isn’t just about slapping on a fresh coat of paint or picking trendy furniture. It’s about building a space where people actually want to work. I’ve worked with businesses across Sydney for over ten years, from small startups in Surry Hills to larger firms near North Sydney, and if there’s one thing I’ve learnt, it’s that every business has its own rhythm — and your office needs to reflect that.
The New Office Normal
The way we work has changed, hasn’t it? Hybrid work, hot desks, breakout zones — what was once “nice to have” is now expected. I remember helping a creative agency in the Inner West that was moving away from fixed desks. They wanted a space that sparked ideas — somewhere people could bounce thoughts around or tuck away quietly when needed. We gave them acoustic booths, collaborative lounges, and even a barista-style coffee nook (yes, it was a hit). Their team called it “the office they never knew they needed.”
That transformation didn’t come from copying Pinterest boards — it came from listening, planning, and understanding how they worked.
Things You Should Absolutely Think About
1. Ask Your Team
Before you even think about design, talk to your people. Seriously. What’s not working in your current setup? What do they wish they had? One legal firm we worked with kept getting feedback that there weren’t enough quiet zones — so we built in soundproof pods and suddenly, productivity soared.
2. Know the Rules
Sydney building codes are no joke. Between council approvals, fire safety regs, and accessibility standards, it can get overwhelming. We always say — don’t DIY this. A solid fitout partner will help you stay compliant without the headaches.
3. Design for Growth
Even if you’re not hiring today, you might be six months from now. Can your layout handle that? Modular furniture, flexible wiring, and movable partitions might cost a little more upfront, but they’ll save you big in the long run. One Parramatta client thanked us a year later when they doubled their headcount and didn’t need to start from scratch.
4. Choose Experience Over Hype
There are lots of fitout companies in Sydney, but not all of them “get it.” Look for someone who’s done similar work in your industry. Ask for real examples. If they can’t explain how they improved another business’s space — and why — keep looking.
So, How Long and How Much?
Ballpark? Most small to mid-sized office fitout in Sydney take about 6–10 weeks from the first design chat to the final handover. Costs can vary heaps — basic fitouts start from around $700/m², but with premium finishes or custom features, it can creep over $1,200/m². The key is finding balance — spend where it matters, save where you can.
A Final Word
If your office feels a bit “meh,” it might be time for a change. And no, you don’t need to move into some swanky skyscraper to make it happen. The best office fitouts I’ve seen weren’t always the flashiest — they were thoughtful, functional, and tailored to the people who use them every day.
If you’re thinking about an office fitout in Sydney and want someone to bounce ideas off, I’m always up for a chat. No hard sell, just real advice.