If you’re a business owner landlord or facilities manager planning an office refurbishment you’re probably asking: how long will this really take? Getting the timeline right matters. It impacts cost operations staff disruption and your return on investment. This guide walks through realistic timelines phases key factors and how Barry Turner & Son ensures delivery without surprises.

Why Knowing Your Timeline Matters

• Prevents extended downtime that could impact business productivity

• Helps you budget accurately and avoid cost blowouts

• Keeps contractors accountable and avoids scope creep

• Enables stakeholder planning from employees to senior leadership

Typical Duration for Office Refurbishments in the UK

Small Offices (under ~2‑3 000 sq ft)

• Minor updates or cosmetic work can take 4‑6 weeks on site (painting flooring lighting) when everything aligns.

• Full small fit‑out with partitions branding can stretch to 6‑8 weeks.

Medium to Large Offices

• More comprehensive refurbishments (layout changes, M&E upgrades, new finishes) commonly take 8‑12 weeks. Access Interiors reports 4‑12 weeks depending on scope.

• Higher complexity (structural changes, bespoke joinery or sustainability features) can push timelines into 3‑6 months or more when planning permissions approvals or conservation issues are involved. Kova Interiors notes full‑scale renovations may take 3‑6 months.

Phase‑By‑Phase Breakdown

Below is a sample timeline showing common phases and approximate durations. Each project is different so consider this a working model.

Key Factors That Affect Timelines

Several variables can lengthen or shorten the durations above:

• Size of space and condition — an older building with hidden issues or obsolete services will slow things down

• Occupied vs empty during works — working around staff or phased works adds complexity

• Design complexity and custom features — bespoke finishes or brand identity features take more time

• Material and product lead times — delays in sourcing materials or specialist items can push out schedules significantly

• Approval and regulatory requirements — building control, planning permission or landlord consent may introduce waiting periods

• Client decision speed — design changes late in the process can add weeks or even months

How Barry Turner & Son Helps Keep Projects On Schedule

• We begin with detailed briefing and realistic timelines based on your space and goals

• We handle approvals and compliance work proactively to avoid hold‑ups

• We use phased scheduling so that part of the workspace can stay live if needed

• We maintain communication with clients at every milestone so adjustments are managed quickly

• We build buffer time into our project plans to allow for the unexpected

Final Thoughts

A realistic office refurbishment timeline protects your budget operations and reputation. Trying to rush without full planning often means issues later, costs overrun fixtures delayed compliance or client dissatisfaction.

If you plan carefully set clear expectations and work with experienced professionals your refurbishment can be smooth efficient and deliver value.

📣 Need a timeline tailored to your space?
Contact Barry Turner & Son and get a custom refurbishment plan that fits your schedule not the other way around.