Test-fit layout plans can save your boss thousands
Test-fit layout plans can save your boss thousands
Researched and written by Kenneth Poh
Updated —
When you’re considering a new office space, one of the first questions that comes to mind is — will it actually work for us?
That's where a test-fit layout plan comes in.
Key takeaways:
Empty spaces are difficult to visualise
Test-fit layout plan shows you if a space fits your business — or not
Design & Build firms typically provide it for free to win your business.
If charged — costs range from S$500-3,000 per layout plan
It’s a smart, low-risk way to compare spaces, shortlist faster, and get everyone to agree
Test-fits gives you confidence, avoids costly mistakes, and earns management support.
The cost of "feeling" a space
Many often pick office spaces without proper analytical tools — making office rental decisions based on "feeling" rather than spatial information. Statistics sourced by Caldwell Commercial show that on average 51% of desks are under-utilised at any given time — telling us that many businesses are miscalculating their space requirements.
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What is a test-fit layout plan?
A test-fit layout plan is a visual tool, complete with work zones, rooms, and furniture. It serves one goal: to help you see how your plans might fit into the physical constraints of a space — or not.
This isn't just a simple drawing — it's data-driven spatial planning. It often reflects:
Headcount numbers
Room numbers
Space standards
Work zones, workflow and worker adjacency needs
Circulation (Singapore's Fire Code recommends 107.6 square feet per person for safety)
Growth projections
Hybrid WFH ambitions
It’s essentially a trial run of your space before you sign the lease.
Done right, a test-fit gives you clarity — it reveals whether that “perfect” 15,000 sqft unit on CapitaSpring has enough room for focused work, collaborative breakout areas, client-facing zones, and business support.
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Test-fit plans are essential in expensive office leasing market
A test-fit layout plan is a critical step that protects you from expensive misfits down the line. Most people struggle to visualise the difference between, say, an 11,000 sqft unit and a 14,000 sqft one. But with Grade-A office rental averaging S$9.83 psf (Source: Savills), that difference could mean an extra S$29,490 per month.
And that’s just the lease.
A 2024 study by Cushman & Wakefield has Singapore's office renovation cost S$179 psf (US$140 psf). That makes any mistake in office planning costly — especially if you give up your space mid-tenancy.
A test-fit plan bridges imagination with reality:
Spaces look great empty — add desks and meeting rooms, things get cramped
When choosing between 2 or more units, a test-fit shows which is better
Prevents incorrect space estimates
Especially useful for hybrid/WFH offices where current sqft isn't a reliable guide
Helps you (and leadership) move forward with confidence
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When should you request a test-fit?
Ideally, before you commit to a lease. If you’re serious about a space, request a test-fit layout during your shortlisting process.
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Who creates test-fit plans?
Most test-fit plans are created by Design & Build (D&B) firms, though some large leasing agencies with in-house design capabilities also offer this service.
Good D&B firms will also ask about your team size, workflows, and any future growth plans — so they can tailor the layout to your real needs.
If you have floor plans like: a base-building plan or as-built plan available, they'll be able to provide a test-fit plan. It typically takes them 2 days to create a CAD drawing for a 5,000 sqft space.
If you do not have any plans, they may offer a site survey and measure out your space.
Pro Tip: This site visit is also your chance to evaluate the firm's expertise — an experienced designer will notice critical existing infrastructure like sprinkler, floor trap and hose reel locations, which shows they understand how these elements will impact your layout.
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How much will a test-fit layout plan cost me?
In many cases, a test-fit layout plan is free — especially if you’re working with a Design & Build firm that’s hoping to win your business (it’s a way for them to show you their design thinking and gain your trust).
Producing a test-fit is a costly affair for the D&B firms, which is why some choose to charge for it and waiver it after they win your business. That said, costs can vary depending on:
The size and complexity of the space
Whether you need multiple layout options
If you’re engaging an independent architect instead of a D&B firm
If charged, prices range from S$500-3,000 per layout plan.
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What can't a test-fit tell you
A test-fit plan is meant to "test" the space. It is not a full technical drawing.
It won't include renovation cost estimations — two similar-looking test-fit layouts can have very different renovation costs. It also doesn't cover regulatory compliance requirements.
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Final Thoughts
Leasing an office in Singapore is a big investment — a test-fit layout plan shows you whether it’s the right fit. If you’re touring office spaces now, this is the best time to get a test-fit done. You can also use this space calculator to get an idea of how much space you need.
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Kenneth Poh created RightSpace after serving as CEO of a Design & Build firm. This guide draws from real projects, real budgets, and practical insights gained from real client experiences.
