So, you’re planning a shop fit out. Maybe you’ve just signed the lease on a new space. Maybe your current shop’s in need of a serious refresh. Either way, it’s not just about picking paint colours and putting up shelves. There’s a whole process involved, and knowing what to expect makes everything a lot less stressful.
At Baptt Interior Fit Out, we’ve worked on projects of all shapes and sizes, and while every job is a little different, most follow the same basic steps. This article walks you through what actually happens during a shop fit out.
Here’s how it usually goes:
1. Initial Client Consultation
It all begins with a chat. We sit down with you to find out what you’re aiming for: your business goals, how the space will be used, what kind of style you’re after, and what budget you’re working with. This is the point where you tell us everything, even the wild ideas you’re not sure are possible. It’s all valuable.
2. Site Survey and Assessment
Once we understand what you’re after, we visit the site. This gives us a clear picture of the space as it is; its size, condition, and any practical limitations or opportunities. We check everything from ceiling heights to natural light and structural details, which all help shape the early design thinking.
3. Concept Design Development
This is where the creative side kicks in. Our design team starts turning your ideas into a workable plan. We explore layouts, materials, and the general look and feel of the space. You’ll start to see how everything could come together.
4. 3D Visualisation (If Wanted)
Some people love seeing 3D visuals at this stage. It makes it easier to picture the finished shop. If that’s something you’d find helpful, we can create detailed 3D renderings showing how the layout, colours, and materials will work together. It’s not essential, but it’s a great tool for decision-making.
5. Budget Estimation and Approval
Once we’ve got a solid concept, we put together a budget. This includes materials, labour, design, and any specialist work. We talk through it with you in detail so there are no surprises. Once you’re happy and give the green light, we move into the next stage.
6. Detailed Design and Technical Drawings
Now it’s time to get specific. We produce all the technical drawings needed for the build, including electrical layouts, joinery details, lighting positions, and plumbing plans. These documents are crucial, because they make sure everyone working on the project knows exactly what to do.
7. Planning Permissions and Approvals (If Required)
Some shop fit outs need formal approvals, especially if the building is listed or you’re making structural changes. If permissions are needed, we’ll help manage the process and handle any paperwork, so you’re not left navigating red tape on your own.
8. Procurement of Materials and Furnishings
Next, we start ordering everything needed for the build, like timber and tiles or lighting and signage. Timing is important here; we make sure everything arrives when it’s needed to keep the project running smoothly.
9. Site Preparation and Strip-Out (If Needed)
If the space was previously occupied, we may need to strip it back to a blank canvas. This can include removing old fixtures, walls, ceilings, and flooring. Once the space is cleared, we prep it for construction.
10. Construction and Partitioning
Now we’re really building. We put up any internal walls, create rooms or zones, and bring the structure of your new shop layout to life. This is one of the busiest parts of the process, with joiners, builders, and trades on-site working together.
11. Electrical and Data Cabling Installation
Wiring gets installed next: power outlets, lighting circuits, internet connections, and any data cabling your business needs. Everything is set up according to the technical drawings, with safety and functionality front of mind.
12. Plumbing and Mechanical Works
If the space includes sinks, toilets, or kitchen areas, this is the stage where we install pipes, drainage, and water supply systems. It’s also when things like ventilation ducting start to go in.
13. HVAC Installation
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are fitted, making sure your shop is comfortable for both staff and customers all year round. Depending on the building, this might be a simple install or something more complex.
14. Ceilings and Flooring Installation
Now the finishes begin. We install suspended ceilings, feature ceilings, or exposed details, whatever the design calls for. Flooring comes next, whether it’s polished concrete, timber, carpet tiles, or vinyl.
15. Joinery and Bespoke Furniture Fit-Out
This part is often the most exciting. Custom counters, display units, storage, shelving, and other built-in furniture are installed. These are the pieces that often make the space feel unique and tailored to your brand.
16. Painting, Decorating, and Finishes
Walls are painted, feature walls completed, and decorative elements added. This is when the design really starts to shine. Colours, textures, and finishes come together and make the space feel cohesive.
17. Installation of Fixtures, Fittings, and Equipment (FF&E)
Lighting fixtures, signage, point-of-sale equipment, furniture, and accessories are all installed. Everything is connected, tested, and adjusted. At this point, it’s starting to feel like a real shop.
18. Final Styling and Detailing
We add the final touches: things like mirrors, artwork, planters, or branded elements. This step is about making the space not only functional but visually on-brand and ready for customers.
19. Snagging and Quality Inspections
Before we hand over, we go through a detailed snag list to make sure every aspect of the fit out is complete and to the standard agreed. If anything needs tweaking, we fix it.
20. Client Walk-Through and Handover
We walk you through the finished space, explain how everything works, and make sure you’re happy. It’s a proud moment on both sides.
21. Post-Handover Support and Maintenance
We don’t just disappear once the handover’s done. If there’s anything you need afterwards (adjustments, maintenance, or extra work), we’re just a phone call away.
A shop fit out is a big project, but when it’s broken down into clear stages, it feels much more manageable. At Baptt Interior Fit Out, we guide our clients through each step so there’s no confusion, no guesswork and just a clear path to a space that works for you.
If you’re thinking about a fit out, or you’ve got questions about how it all works, feel free to get in touch. We’d be happy to chat.