Strategic workspace planning is not just about aesthetics; it is about operational efficiency. In Dhaka’s competitive corporate landscape, the final quarter (Q4) represents the peak season for office fit-outs. However, without a structured roadmap, projects often face schedule bottlenecks, budget overruns, and compliance failures.

To transition from a grey shell to a fully functional headquarters requires more than selecting furniture. It requires a mastery of Space Planning, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) Coordination, and BNBC (Bangladesh National Building Code) Compliance, which means hiring an expert office interior design company.

This guide serves as your definitive roadmap for office interior design in Dhaka, covering cost-per-sft breakdowns, fire safety protocols, and acoustic engineering.

The Q4 Fit-Out Rush: Strategic Planning vs. Operational Chaos

Why do most corporate fit-out projects in Gulshan, Banani, and Motijheel face delays in December? The primary cause is the “Resource Bottleneck.”

When multiple corporations rush for handover simultaneously:

• Material Scarcity: Lead times for imported acoustic panels and premium seasoned wood increase.
• Labor Shortage: Skilled MEP technicians and carpenters become overbooked.
• Compliance Delays: Rajuk and Fire Department approvals take longer due to backlog.

The Solution: The “Pre-Fit” Critical Path

Treat your fit-out like a relay race. Mapping milestones from the Initial Site Survey to the Snag List is essential. A standardized pre-fit checklist mitigates risks associated with procurement and execution.

Office Interior Design Cost in Dhaka: The Breakdown (2025 Estimates)

Budgeting requires distinguishing between Shell-and-Core (raw concrete spaces) and Retrofit (renovating existing setups).

Shell-and-core projects require heavy investment in civil work, HVAC ducting, and electrical backbones, whereas retrofits focus on surface finishes and joinery.

Estimated Cost Buckets per Square Foot (SFT) in BDT:

Note: Prices vary based on material origin (Local vs. Imported) and automation levels.

Key Cost Drivers

1. Partitions: Choice between 10mm tempered glass (Single vs. Double Glazed) affects both cost and acoustic privacy.
2. Furniture Engineering: Mass-produced particle board is cheaper but lacks durability. Oakwood Craft emphasizes seasoned teak and mahogany structures that withstand Dhaka’s humidity without warping.
3. MEP Complexity: VRF AC systems cost more upfront but reduce long-term electricity bills compared to split units.

Fire Safety & BNBC Compliance (What Inspectors Check)

In Dhaka, aesthetic design must never compromise safety. Inspectors strictly enforce the Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC). Your layout must include:

• Egress Width: Minimum 1.5m – 2m wide corridors for main evacuation routes.
• Fire-Rated Doors: 2-hour fire-resistant doors for server rooms and stairwell exits.
• Active Fire Protection: Sprinkler coverage (1 per 120 sft approx.) and smoke detectors linked to a central addressable panel.
• Emergency Lighting: Battery-backed exit signage visible in zero-light conditions.

Acoustic Strategy: Balancing Open Plans and Privacy

Open offices encourage collaboration but often suffer from Noise Criteria (NC) issues. High noise levels reduce employee focus.

Optimization Strategies:

• Reverberation Time (RT60): Aim for an RT60 of 0.6 seconds in open areas using ceiling baffles and acoustic wall panels.
• Sound Masking: Use white noise emitters in high-density sales or support zones.
• Hybrid Layouts: Integrate “Focus Pods” or phone booths with high STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings to isolate loud calls from deep-work zones.

MEP Coordination: The Nervous System of Your Office

Over 40% of fit-out delays in Dhaka stem from MEP clashes. To avoid this:

1. HVAC Zoning: Map return air paths before closing the ceiling to prevent mold and stale air pockets.
2. Electrical Load Calculation: Audit your total wattage to ensure the building’s substation and your UPS/Generator backup can handle the load.
3. IT Backbone: Plan Cat6/Fiber cabling routes and Wi-Fi Access Point (AP) density to ensure zero dead zones.

Lighting Standards for Visual Comfort

Proper illumination is a productivity tool. We follow international standards adapted for Dhaka’s context:

• Workstations: 300–500 Lux (Task lighting + Ambient).
• Meeting Rooms: 300 Lux with dimmable controls for presentations.
• Corridors: 100–150 Lux.
• Color Temperature: 4000K (Neutral White) for focus areas; 3000K (Warm White) for pantries and lounges.

Biophilic Design & Wellness

Modern Dhaka offices are moving towards “Living Workspaces.”

• Air Quality: Incorporate snake plants or spider plants to filter indoor pollutants.
• Ergonomics: Utilize chairs with lumbar support and desks at optimal typing heights to prevent Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI).

Final Checklist: The Snag List & Handover

Before the final handover, conduct a rigorous “Snagging” process 48 hours prior to occupancy:

• Joinery Check: Ensure all cabinet hinges and drawer channels operate smoothly.
• Level Check: Verify flooring and desk alignment.
• MEP Stress Test: Run ACs and lights at full load for 4 hours to check for tripping.
• Finish Inspection: Check for paint undulations or scratches on glass.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the average interior design cost per sft in Dhaka for 2025?

For a standard functional office, costs range from BDT 1,800 to 3,000 per sft. For premium corporate headquarters utilizing high-end wood, imported acoustics, and VRF systems, costs typically range from BDT 4,200 to 6,500+ per sft.

2. Is BNBC compliance mandatory for office fit-outs?

Yes. Landlords and building authorities require compliance with BNBC 2020 regarding fire exits, sprinkler systems, and electrical load distribution before issuing occupancy permits.

3. How do you reduce noise in an open-plan office?

We utilize a mix of acoustic ceiling baffles, carpet tiles (which absorb footfall noise), and double-glazed glass partitions. Maintaining an RT60 (Reverberation Time) of under 0.6 seconds is the target for productivity.

4. How long does a 5,000 sft office fit-out take in Dhaka?

A typical timeline is 45 to 60 days. This includes 10 days for design/approvals, 30 days for civil/MEP/woodwork, and 10 days for finishing and snagging. Shell-and-core projects may take longer.

5. Do we need landlord or authority approvals for office fit-out in Dhaka?

Yes, fire, egress, and MEP compliance documents are commonly required..

6. What’s usually included in an office fit-out BOQ?

Partitions, flooring, ceilings, lighting, furniture, MEP, IT/AV, and contingency items.

7. Can you work after hours to reduce downtime?

Yes, after-hours installation ensures minimal disruption to office operations.

8. Do you manage AV/IT vendors and coordinate MEP?

Yes, coordinated management avoids clashes in installation and ensures smooth handover.