Category B fit outs explained

In this guide, we explore Category B fit outs. We take a look at the meaning of a Cat B fit out, what is typically included, who they best suit, and how Cat B fit outs differ from Cat A and Cat A+ solutions.

A Category B fit out, typically referred to as a Cat B fit out, is a comprehensive office solution that transforms a basic Cat A space into a fully customised, branded workplace ready for occupancy by a business. It is the stage where a blank office space becomes a finished, functional workspace adapted to an occupier's specific requirements.

Unlike a Cat A fit out, which provides essential infrastructure and basic finishes, a Cat B fit out includes all the design, layout, and interior finishing work needed to create a workspace that reflects a business's brand identity, culture, and operational needs. Cat B fit outs are typically chosen by tenants who are seeking to relocate into an office that is ready to work from on day one.

What is included in a Cat B fit out?

A Cat B fit out typically includes:

• Building partitioning walls to create meeting rooms, offices, and communal spaces

• Bespoke floor finishes

• Wall finishes and tailored ceiling treatments

• Custom-fitted furniture, such as reception desks, kitchens, and storage solutions

• Lighting beyond basic Cat A provision, such as branded lighting pieces.

• Audio-visual and technology infrastructure

• Office furniture, including workstations, seating, and soft furnishings

• Wayfinding and signage

• Specialist installations specific to business operations

To learn more about office fit outs, make sure to explore our office fit out guide, to learn everything about office fit out types, costs, and more.

Who are Cat B fit outs suitable for?

A Category B fit out is typically suitable for tenants who are seeking a professionally designed, move-in-ready workspace designed for their business needs. Cat B fit outs might be preferred by:

• Tenants seeking a bespoke workplace: Businesses that require a customised office environment representing their corporate culture and brand values.

• Growing companies: Organisations looking to create an inspiring workspace that attracts and retains talent.

• Established businesses: Companies relocating and requiring a fully equipped, brand-aligned office.

• Businesses with specific functional needs: Organisations requiring specialist installations or particular layouts to support their line of work.

• Companies wanting immediate occupancy: Businesses that need to move into a fully functional office without delays.

Cat B fit outs afford a comprehensive, tailored solution for businesses serious about their workplace environment. With a Cat B office space, tenants benefit from a professionally designed interior that has been planned to meet their specific requirements, workflows, and brand identity. The space is ready for immediate occupation, with no barriers to productivity upon handover.

A well-designed Cat B fit out improves morale and efficiency amongst employees by creating a workspace where staff are valued and supported. These environments are typically energy-efficient, which reduces running costs whilst increasing property value. The customised nature of Cat B spaces means they can be designed to support collaboration, focus work, client engagements, and wellbeing, depending on business needs.

Since all infrastructure, finishes, furniture, and facilities are already in place, a Cat B fit out removes the challenge and cost of managing a full fit-out project yourself.

Organisations and businesses can move their teams in and start working immediately, with desks, meeting rooms, kitchen facilities, and technology infrastructure already operational. This is highly valuable for businesses with tight timelines as well as those looking to minimise downtime during a relocation.

Whilst Cat A, Cat A+, and Cat B are all stages in preparing commercial spaces for occupancy, they perform distinct purposes and involve different scopes of work.

• Cat A fit out: A basic interior fit-out and essentially a blank canvas. Incoming tenants have the flexibility to customise the space to their own specifications and create a workplace of their choosing.

• Cat A+ fit out: Usually commissioned by commercial landlords as a way to provide a functional, plug-and-play office that tenants can move into and start using immediately. The landlord funds and manages the fit-out, typically including basic furniture and facilities. Tenants have limited customisation options.

• Cat B fit out: A comprehensive, bespoke fit-out commissioned by the tenant and designed around their specific business requirements. Includes full design, custom joinery, branded finishes, office furniture, and all technology infrastructure. Ready for immediate occupation with maximum customisation.