Fit-out in construction and interior design is a very popular term. Especially in commercial, office and residential projects. But fit-out is not simply the process of completing the space, it also reflects the professionalism, aesthetic value and efficiency of the project. This article will provide a detailed perspective on the concept, process and role of fit-out in the construction industry.

What Does Fit-out in Construction mean?

Fit-out is a technical term often used to refer to the process of completing the rough part of interior items in a construction space. From technical systems to decorative details, to create a completed space with full functionality and ready for installation and operation, meeting the specific needs of the owner or customer.

In addition, fit-out is also considered a space renovation process. This process helps to change the appearance and upgrade the functions of the building space. The time to complete fit-out in construction depends on the area and complexity of the project. The time can range from 1 to 14 weeks or more for large projects that require complex structures and lighting installation.

Fit-out is applied to many different types of projects, including:

• Office: Design a professional, modern working space.
• Residential: Create a living space suitable for the family’s lifestyle.
• Commercial: Complete shopping centers, shops, showrooms, hotels, etc. to attract customers.

Process of Fit-out in construction

This process includes many stages, from the idea stage to the handover of the project. A Fit-out implementation process will be organized by APP as follows:

Survey and Planning

• Evaluate the status of the project and measure the space.
• Determine the needs, goals and budget.
• Search and select a reputable, experienced contractor that meets the project’s requirements.

Design

• Develop ideas: Sketch 2D/3D design drawings to better visualize the space after completion.
• Make a detailed plan of the items that need to be completed.
• Choose materials that match the design style, budget, and functionality.
• Choose interior equipment (tables, chairs, cabinets, partitions, etc.) that are suitable for the space and functionality.

Construction

• Install electrical, water, and air conditioning systems.
• Finish the interior such as ceilings, floors, and decorations.
• Finish the interior in detail, including installing interior equipment, painting walls, flooring, plaster ceilings, etc.
• Install electrical equipment, sanitary equipment, lighting systems, etc.

Inspection and handover

• Carefully check all items to ensure quality and no technical errors before handing over to the customer.
• Clean the entire space before handing it over.
• Hand over the project to the customer, instruct on use and maintenance.

Main stages of Fit-out in construction

The fit-out process consists of 3 main stages: shell and core, Cat A and Cat B. Let’s find out with APP below.

Shell and Core

Shell and Core is the first and most important stage in the fit-out process of a project. This stage is likened to building a frame for a house, creating a rough “foundation” but with all the basic elements to be able to complete the next items.

This is the stage of building the frame and core of the project, including:

• Building a frame system, columns, roof, floor… creating the main shape and structure of the project.
• Preliminary utilities and technical systems such as elevators, stairs and basic infrastructure systems.

If this stage is not done well, it will affect the quality of the entire project, causing problems such as wall cracks, leaks, unstable electricity/water supply systems, etc. If problems arise at this stage, it will lead to increased costs for repairs and finishing. Affecting the entire project plan and progress.

The duration of the Shell and Core phase will depend on the size of the project:

• Small scale projects typically take between 6-12 months to complete.
• Large scale projects can take between 18-36 months or even longer.

Category A (Cat A Fit-out)

Cat A Fit-out is a stepping stone to convert a rough space into a usable space and facilitate more detailed finishing work in the following stages. This stage completes the basic interior items, including:

• Installation of false ceilings, raised floors.
• Lighting, air conditioning and electrical systems.
• The space after this stage is often empty, ready for custom designs.

Category A Fit-out focuses on basic technical and finishing items, creating a rough but fully functional space. This stage helps create a solid foundation for the interior finishing work later. Completing the basic items at this stage saves costs compared to repairing after the interior is completed.

For the Cat A fit-out phase, the estimated time is approximately:

• Small, simple apartments and townhouses usually take 2-4 months to complete Cat A.
• Large, complex office buildings and commercial centers may take 6-12 months or longer.

Note: This is only an estimated time, the actual time may vary depending on each specific project.

Category B (Cat B Fit-out)

Cat B fit-out is a more detailed finishing stage after completing the Cat A stage. If Cat A focuses on basic technical and finishing items, Cat B will turn that rough space into a complete space, fully functional and more aesthetically pleasing.

This stage focuses on completing the interior according to individual requirements, including:

• Installation of furniture, technological equipment.
• Dividing the space: Office, meeting room, reception area.
• Design style: Choosing suitable colors, materials, and finishes.

Typically, the Cat B stage can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete, depending on the complexity of the project.

• Small projects such as apartments and small offices can be completed in 2-4 weeks.
• Large projects such as high-rise buildings and shopping malls can take several months or years.

Why is Fit-out in construction important?

Fit-out in construction is not simply interior decoration but also a complex process. It requires a harmonious combination of aesthetic and technical factors. Investing in fit-out will bring many benefits both economically and socially. APP will show you the reasons why there should be a team to manage the fit-out process when building a project.

Optimize the usable space

Fit-out helps design and divide the interior space to suit each specific space. Make the most of the area and create effective functional areas, improving efficiency. The reasonable arrangement between the aisle, working area and living space helps create a spacious and convenient working environment or living space. The space can be easily adjusted and changed according to future needs.

Suitable for personal needs

Each customer has their own requirements for aesthetics and functionality, Fit-out will meet these needs. They help create a space that bears the personal mark or brand of the business, creating a difference and attracting customers. Interior design suitable for the needs of the user will create a more comfortable and satisfying experience. At the same time, improve the working efficiency of offices and factories.

Increase the value of the project

A project that is fully completed with all the necessary basic elements will help increase the rental or sale value. In addition, a professional space also helps attract customers and partners, creating a competitive advantage. Fit-out in construction is considered a long-term investment, bringing economic benefits for many years.

Factors to considerate during the fit-out process

The fit-out process requires meticulousness and professionalism to ensure that the final result meets the customer’s requirements. For this process to go smoothly and effectively, APP will point out some important factors to note and criteria to help you choose a professional construction project management unit.

• Budget: Clearly define the budget for the project to plan in the most reasonable way.
• Time: Make a detailed implementation time management plan to ensure the project is completed on time.
• Materials: Choose high-quality materials that match the design style and budget.

• Construction unit: Choose a highly skilled construction team to ensure the quality of the project, a professional working attitude to keep up with the set schedule.

With the role of optimizing space, creating aesthetic value and efficiency, fit-out brings outstanding benefits to both investors and users. If you are looking for a professional space completion solution, cooperating with reputable project management units will help you realize your ideas in the most perfect way.

With a team of highly specialized and experienced professionals, APP will be the right choice to accompany your project throughout the project implementation process. We provide many solutions and project management services covering many areas: project control, planning, project cost analysis, schedule monitoring, complaint management, etc. Including fit-out process management.

APP applies technology to professional project management, suitable for many different clients and industries. We are committed to excellence, attention to detail and a customer-centric approach. Whether you are an owner, contractor or subcontractor, working with Asia Pacific Projects will help you confidently navigate the complexities of the construction industry, ensuring successful project outcomes and minimizing dispute resolution.

Please send information or consulting requests to Asia Pacific Projects via:

NGUYEN THI HIEU | Local Relations

Phone: +84 918 331 489

Email: hieu.nguyen@appmvn.com