Office Renovation Cost Malaysia 2026: Price Per Sqft & Budget Guide

Business owners and facility managers often face a common challenge: accurately forecasting the budget for a new workspace.

Whether you are setting up a corporate tower in Kuala Lumpur or a boutique cafe in a shoplot, understanding the office renovation cost Malaysia market is crucial to avoiding overspending. Prices have shifted in 2026 due to labor and material changes, making up-to-date data essential.

Commercial interior design is more than just aesthetics; it is about allocating funds wisely between M&E (Mechanical & Electrical) works, carpentry, and furniture. This guide breaks down the current office renovation cost Malaysia rates to help you plan effectively.

From standard shoplots to premium corporate suites, understanding the commercial interior design cost per square foot KL ensures your project remains viable and profitable.

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Office Renovation Cost Malaysia: The 2026 Ranges

In the current market, office renovation cost Malaysia varies significantly based on the “state” of the unit (bare shell vs. partially fitted) and the desired finish quality. Generally, you can expect the following ranges:

• Basic / Standard Office: RM 80 – RM 130 per sqft.
  (Functional layout, standard flooring, system furniture, minimal partitioning).
• Mid-Range Corporate Office: RM 140 – RM 200 per sqft.
  (Enhanced lighting, custom carpentry, glass partitions, acoustic treatments).
• Premium / MNC Headquarters: RM 250+ per sqft.
  (High-end finishes, advanced IT infrastructure, imported furniture, smart office automation).

💡 Budget Tip: If you are leasing a “bare unit,” allocate at least 30% of your office renovation cost Malaysia budget to unseen costs like wiring, air-conditioning ducting, and fire sprinkler relocation before thinking about aesthetics.

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Shoplot Renovation Cost PSF

Renovating a shoplot differs from an office tower. You often have more freedom with the facade and layout, but you may also bear the cost of security shutters, staircase upgrades, and toilets.

The typical shoplot renovation cost psf ranges between RM 60 – RM 120 for general office use. However, if the shoplot is old, “make-good” costs for plumbing and rewiring can push this higher.

💡 Design Tip: For shoplots, maximize natural light from the front and back windows using glass partitions. This reduces electricity usage and makes the often narrow unit feel wider.

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Budget for Cafe Interior Design vs. Offices

It is a common misconception that a cafe costs the same to renovate as an office. The budget for cafe interior design is almost always higher due to heavy M&E requirements—kitchen exhaust systems, grease traps, heavy-duty plumbing, and specialized lighting.

Expect to budget between RM 150 – RM 350 per sqft for a cafe or F&B outlet. The lower end represents a simple grab-and-go kiosk, while the higher end covers full-service dining with instagrammable decor.

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Scenario: How Much to Renovate Small Office 1000 Sqft?

A very common question we receive is: “How much to renovate small office 1000 sqft?”
Let’s look at a realistic estimation for a 1,000 sqft unit accommodating 8-10 staff, a meeting room, and a pantry.

Estimated Total: RM 80,000 – RM 120,000

• Partitions (Glass/Gypsum): RM 15,000
• Flooring (Carpet Tiles/Vinyl): RM 8,000
• Electrical & Data Cabling: RM 18,000
• Ceiling & Lighting: RM 12,000
• Built-in Furniture (Pantry/Storage): RM 15,000
• Loose Furniture (Desks/Chairs): RM 15,000
• Preliminaries & Misc: RM 10,000

*Note: This is an estimation for a standard fit-out. Your final office renovation cost Malaysia will vary based on material selection.

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Office Renovation Cost Breakdown Malaysia

To control your spending, you must understand where the money goes. A typical office renovation cost breakdown Malaysia usually looks like this:

1. M&E Works (30-40%): This is the most expensive component. It includes air-conditioning (ACMV), electrical wiring, server room cooling, and fire protection systems.
2. Carpentry & Joinery (20-25%): Custom reception counters, pantry cabinets, and feature walls.
3. Civil & Wet Works (15-20%): Partition walls, painting, ceiling works, and flooring installation.
4. Furniture (15-20%): Workstations, ergonomic chairs, and meeting tables.

💡 Budget Tip: Do not cut costs on M&E. Poor wiring or insufficient cooling will cost you more in maintenance and employee discomfort in the long run.

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Renovation FAQ

1. What is the average office renovation cost Malaysia per sqft?

In Kuala Lumpur’s central business district, the average office renovation cost Malaysia ranges from RM 120 to RM 220 psf for a professional commercial fit-out. Premium addresses often require after-hours work permits, which can slightly increase labor costs.

2. Does the shoplot renovation cost psf include furniture?

Usually, construction estimates (RM 60 – RM 120 psf) cover “built-in” items and renovation works only. Loose furniture (chairs, sofas, standalone desks) is typically calculated separately, though full turnkey contracts can include them.

3. How can I lower my office renovation cost?

To save costs:
1. Retain existing ceiling grids and lighting if they are in good condition.
2. Use open-plan layouts to reduce partition costs.
3. Choose vinyl flooring instead of timber or tiles.
4. Minimize custom carpentry; use modular furniture instead.

4. How long does a 1000 sqft office renovation take?

A 1,000 sqft office renovation generally takes 4 to 6 weeks. This allows 1 week for site protection/demolition, 2-3 weeks for wiring and partitions, and 1-2 weeks for carpentry installation and finishing.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you are calculating the budget for cafe interior design or finalizing the office renovation cost breakdown Malaysia for a corporate HQ, clarity is key.

A well-designed office does not just look good—it improves workflow and employee retention.

If you are ready to plan your workspace, the team at Interiors Fit Out Industry (IFOI) can help you navigate these costs with a transparent consultation and detailed BQ. Start your renovation journey with a clear budget and a design partner who understands your business needs.