Office Fit Out
From Empty Space to Exceptional Workplace
Many of the projects we complete for our clients are Design and Build, where we are able to work with the client team from the building selection at the very start of the journey, right until day one on site following completion of the fit out. Our teams will work with you to achieve fully compliant exciting workplaces, integrating our design and management team to ensure all the office goals are achieved.
View some of our latest work
Verulam Point, St Albans
When our client relocated to a newly refurbished floor, we delivered a modern CAT B fit out with new meeting rooms and a café-style social zone. We coordinated closely with the main contractor handling the building’s wider works to ensure everything was completed smoothly and on time.
11 York Street, Manchester
Working within a newly refurbished CAT A space, we delivered a smooth CAT B fit out by adapting existing M&E and coordinating works alongside other contractors in the partially occupied building. A standout feature is the informal amphitheatre-style meeting room, offering tiered seating and high-spec presentation facilities for a more relaxed, collaborative way of working.
The Garden, Leeds South Central
This CAT B refurbishment delivered a flexible, modern workspace on a newly developed estate, giving the client versatile meeting areas and a stylish social zone. A striking 12m ceiling graphic became a standout feature, complemented by enhanced acoustic performance in meeting rooms to support the client’s AV needs.
Ground Floor, Redcliffe Court, Hull
This compact Ground Floor CAT B refurbishment transformed a dated space into a modern, functional area separate from the client’s existing first-floor office. The project introduced a compliant kitchen, improved facilities, and flexible meeting spaces, with design elements reflecting the surrounding local architecture.
Epsom Gateway, Epsom
We worked alongside the landlord to complete CAT B works and targeted CAT A upgrades, including improvements to the lobby and facilities. As the space included a top-floor terrace, we also refreshed the outdoor area to create a more usable and welcoming environment for the new tenant.
The Colmore Building, Birmingham
We delivered both CAT A and CAT B works for a flagship Birmingham City Centre building, collaborating with the client and agents to streamline the CAT A fit out and strip-out to suit the new CAT B layout, saving time and costs. The space features panoramic city views, modern meeting rooms, and a café-style social zone.
One Redcliff Street, Bristol
We recently completed a 10,500 sq ft CAT-B fit out in Bristol, creating a contemporary, bright workspace with professional client areas and relaxed café-style breakout zones. Delivered in 10 weeks with full handover, the project showcased the BOLP team’s professional, friendly, and co-operative approach in an occupied environment.
Capella Building, Glasgow
A combination of colours and textures give a café style feel in the social zone and alternative working space to the more traditional office space, all of which is designed to incorporate an 7:10 flexible working ratio.
Hallamshire Business Park, Sheffield
A challenging project from start to finish but ending in some great results and a very happy client.
Foster + Partners HQ, London
A unique install of acoustic covered fabric sails in the main studio of an architecture company.
The Fit Out Journey: CAT A to CAT B and Beyond
An office fit out can take many forms depending on how ready the space needs to be for occupation. From landlord-prepared shells to fully equipped workplaces, the CAT A, CAT B and CAT A+ classifications define each level of finish. Here’s a simple guide to what’s involved at each stage and how they fit into your project journey.
CAT A Definition
A basic landlord fit out which will generally involve leaving the space compliant to an open plan layout ready for viewings and tenant occupation. The normal standard would be new ceilings, new raised access flooring and decoration to leave a clean blank canvas to work with.
CAT B Definition
This a client fit out which develops the blank canvas left by the landlord. There will be a lot of liaison between client and contractor during this time to achieve the right end result and will range from all fabric finishes, M&E design and expectancy, Reception Desks, AV installs and Finishing touches such as branding.
CAT A+ Definition
This is a more modern approached being used by landlords, where an office space is still in many ways left neutral, but is more ready for occupation, so there may be a reception area, a breakout space and kitchen and some offices, meaning tenants have the potential headache of a CAT B fit out.
Design & Build Definition
This is a method used within construction services where a contractor is appointed to both design and build the project, as opposed to the traditional route of years gone by where a client employs a design team and then a contractor once the design has been agreed.
Why clients across the UK choose BOLP
Consistent Quality, Nationwide
At BOLP, we support clients with commercial property portfolios across the UK. Our long-standing relationships are built on consistently high-quality finishes, transparent communication, and delivering value on large scale fit-outs to minor works.
Integrated Design & Build Expertise
We are a ‘one stop shop’ for fit out and refurb, and offer a full design service (inc MEP services) along with our vastly experienced project management and site team, to take the project from concept to completion.
Minimal Disruption to Your Business
Our projects are meticulously planned to work around you. We offer phased delivery, flexible scheduling, and out-of-hours work to keep your operations running without interruption.
A Trusted, Proven Track Record
Our reputation is built on consistently successful project outcomes, repeat business, and long-term client relationships.
Complete Support, Beyond Handover
Our service doesn’t end at project completion. We offer ongoing maintenance and minor works to keep your workplace looking sharp and running smoothly.
Safety-First Delivery
We adhere to the highest health and safety standards on every project. With full compliance and experienced site management, your peace of mind is built in from day one.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What’s the difference between CAT A and CAT B fit-outs?
CAT A provides the basic infrastructure of an office space-raised floors, suspended ceilings, lighting, and MEP services (mechanical, electrical and public health) ready for tenant customisation. CAT B is the full interior fit-out tailored to the occupier, including partitioning, finishes, furniture, branding, and kitchen/tea point installations. At BOLP, we deliver both and can advise on the most suitable route for your space.
How long does an office fit-out take?
Project timelines vary depending on size and complexity, but most office fit-outs typically range from 4 to 12 weeks. After an initial consultation and survey, we provide a clear project schedule to ensure timely delivery with minimal disruption to your business.
Can we stay in the office during the fit-out?
In many cases, yes. We can phase the works or carry them out during evenings and weekends to minimise disruption. For larger or more invasive projects, a temporary relocation may be recommended, and we’ll work closely with you to plan accordingly.
Do you handle design as well as build?
Yes-BOLP offers a comprehensive design and build service. Whether you already have a concept or need help from the ground up, our team can manage space planning, interior design, compliance, and technical drawings, through to full project delivery.
Will we need planning permission for an office fit-out?
Most internal office fit-outs don’t require planning permission, but certain elements like major structural changes or listed buildings, may need approval. We’ll advise you early on and manage any necessary permissions or landlord consents on your behalf.
What types of businesses do you work with?
We work with a wide range of clients across the corporate, commercial property, retail, and public sectors. We currently support our clients across UK wide property portfolios with the full range of our services.
Let's design something exceptional together
Ready to start your next project? Contact our team today and we'll help bring your vision to life.