From Blank Canvas to Ready-to-Use
A Cat B fit out transforms a basic internal space into a fully functioning office. From the floor plan to the finishes, every detail is tailored to suit your team, brand, and business goals. Whether you’re fitting out a new office space or updating your current one, we deliver complete, ready-to-use environments across London and the South East.
With over 30 years of experience, HQ Renovations manages the entire process, from design consultation to handover, with a sharp eye for detail and a clear focus on getting it right.
What’s Included in a Cat B Fit Out?
A Cat B fit out turns infrastructure into a finished workspace.
Branding and finishes
Colours, textures, and signage aligned with your company identity.
Partitions and office layout
We create distinct zones for focus, collaboration, and comfort.
Meeting rooms and breakout areas
Design and build of functional rooms and quiet spaces for how your team works.
Reception and entry zones
Custom joinery, feature walls, and welcoming finishes.
Kitchens and amenities
Complete installation of tea points, kitchenettes, and shared-use areas.
Furniture and workstations
Supply and installation of desks, chairs, storage, and shared tables.
Technology and integration
AV, data, power, and connectivity built into your space from the start.
Why Cat B?
Tailored to your team
Every element is designed to support your daily operations and workflow.
Reflects your brand
From finishes to layout, the space is uniquely yours.
Ready for day one
A fully completed environment where your team can get to work.
Designed for performance
Comfort, layout, and acoustics built with productivity in mind.
Ready to upgrade your space with a Cat B fit out?
Get in touch with HQ Renovations today.
Other Fit Out Categories
A basic internal space with lighting, ceilings, HVAC, and services, ideal for landlords or pre-lease preparation.
A move-in ready space with some added features like kitchens or meeting rooms, suitable for short-term leases or flexible tenancies.
Your Cat B Fit Out Questions Answered
What is a Cat B fit out?
A Cat B fit out transforms an internal space into a fully operational workplace. Unlike a Cat A fit that prepares the basics, a Cat B fit out involves installing partitions, office furniture, meeting rooms, tea points, breakout spaces, and finishes like ceiling design and brand detailing. It takes the internal surface finishes and electrical systems and turns them into a space ready for immediate occupancy.
How does Cat B differ from Cat A or shell and core?
A shell and core office is just a concrete shell with no internal finishes, essentially an empty shell. A Cat A fit includes raised floors, suspended ceilings, fire detection, and air conditioning, making the internal space suitable for lease. A Cat B fit out, also known as Category B, adds everything else: office layout, furniture, power points, reception areas, and interior partitions that reflect your company’s needs.
Who is a Cat B fit out for?
Cat B is ideal for businesses moving into a new office space or customising an existing one. If you’re handed a blank canvas or a Cat A base, a Cat B fit allows you to tailor the internal space to your team’s workflow and operational needs. It’s the final stage of most office fit outs and is essential for companies looking to create a functional office aligned with their brand.
What does a Cat B fit out include?
A Cat B fit out typically includes meeting rooms, breakout spaces, tea points, office furniture, ceiling design, electrical services, lighting, and all interior space finishes. It also includes layout planning, staircase installation (if needed), and protection services to ensure building regulations are met. The result is a fully fitted, branded, and practical workspace for incoming tenants.
Can you help design the office layout?
Yes. As a trusted fit out contractor, we either work with your preferred designer or connect you with a fit out specialist. Together, we’ll plan the office layout, select materials, and design a Cat B space that suits your culture, workflow, and team. We also make informed decisions about infrastructure design to maximise long-term flexibility.
How long does a Cat B fit out take?
The duration depends on the size of the office space, the complexity of the design, and whether it’s a new office or part of a staged build. After a site visit, we provide a detailed timeline. Our process ensures smooth installation of systems like smoke alarms, air conditioning, lighting, and basic mechanical services without unnecessary delays.
Can Cat A and Cat B be delivered together?
Yes. We frequently manage both stages of the fit out cat process, from the Cat A infrastructure to the final Cat B office fit out. Combining both allows better cost control, continuity, and quality, especially if you’re moving into a new office space that started as just a shell or basic level fit.
Ready to Start Your Cat B Fitout?
If you’re looking for a fully tailored office that works for your people and your business, HQ Renovations is ready to help. Book your site visit today and see what’s possible.
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