Offices
Reception Budget and Scope for Offices
Compare like-for-like scopes by separating base work, specialist items and upgrades before requesting a quote.
Explore the ideas
Compare the options
- Set the brief
- List the functions the finished space must support, then assign items to base scope or upgrades.
- Compare
- Get quantities and materials described consistently across quotes. Ask who covers making good and waste removal.
- Before buying
- Set aside a contingency for survey-dependent work and price likely substitutions before choosing finishes.
Worked example
A foyer refresh includes a new storage cabinet, mirror, lighting, and floor repair, but quotes describe different work.
Separate necessary floor and electrical work from optional mirror and cabinet upgrades. Compare cabinet internals, finish, installation, and making-good as matching line items.
How to test it
Read the exclusions back with each supplier and ask what must be purchased or arranged separately.
Apply it to this space
- Layout
- Place the desk in direct sight of the entrance, with waiting seats beside it and a clear path onward.
- Detail
- Use a durable counter face and a warm, even light on the visitor side; keep the sign visible from the door.
- Trade-off
- A dramatic desk can make a strong first impression but consume space needed for circulation.
- Test the entry sightline from outside
- Walk a visitor route without crossing desk queues
The Elixir portfolio
Details worth a closer look
