Smart budgeting starts with a clear scope: zones, ergonomics and finishing works.
Why the right budget choices save money
The truth is hard: a poor office interior costs more than you think. It is not only the initial investment in desks and chairs that weighs, but above all the loss of productivity caused by non-ergonomic workstations and higher sickness absence.
If you want to furnish now, you face a complex challenge: how do you avoid hidden costs and still create a future-proof, healthy working environment within budget?
At BNR Kantoor we see that the total costs for a complete, ergonomic office interior in 2025 range from €300–€1,200 per m² (excl. VAT) or €3,500–€9,500 per workstation (excl. VAT). That range depends mainly on ergonomics, sustainability, flexibility and bespoke work.
1. What is Project Furnishing in 2025? The hybrid and NPR standard
Project furnishing is more than putting furniture in place: it is the creation of a complete, strategic working environment. Where a fixed workstation used to be central, it now revolves around Activity Based Working for the hybrid worker.
NPR 1813:2025 sets higher requirements for adjustability, so that almost the entire working population can work properly. Preferably choose office chairs that comply with NPR 1813 and sit-stand desks to prevent complaints and people dropping out.
NPR chairs are more expensive than basic models, but pay for themselves in fewer back complaints and lower absence costs.
2. The core: costs per m² and per workstation
The most practical way to budget is to work with a price per m² and per workstation (please note: in hybrid environments you often have fewer workstations than staff).
Budget level
Price per m² (excl. VAT)
Price per workstation (excl. VAT)
Suitable for
Basic & functional
€300 – €500
€3,500 – €4,500
Start-ups and SMEs focused on basic functionality.
Comfort & ergonomics
€500 – €850
€4,500 – €7,500
Growing SMEs; occupational health and safety/NPR, atmosphere and sustainability (most often chosen).
High-end & bespoke
€850 – €1,200+
€7,500 – €9,500+
Corporates; bespoke design, circular interior, a lot of tech.
Please note: In an efficient hybrid layout (‘clean desk’) the number of workstations is lower than the number of staff, which brings down the cost per FTE.
3. Three common budget mistakes
Budgeting for furniture only: furniture is often only a part of the total. Count in the finishing works (walls, floor, painting), the technical side (lighting, data) and acoustics as well.
Choosing on price, not on ergonomics: saving on NPR 1813 leads to complaints and loss of productivity later on. Choose NPR chairs and ergonomic accessories.
Designing IT separately from the interior: integrate monitor arms, cable management, power/data and charging points into the design straight away to avoid expensive changes afterwards.
4. Main cost factors and trends (2025)
A. Ergonomics & health (ROI)
An electric sit-stand desk and an NPR 1813 office chair together form the largest item per workstation — and at the same time the item that pays for itself fastest in fewer complaints and less absence.
B. Sustainability & circularity
Refurbished and circular furniture sometimes raises the initial cost, but lowers the TCO and strengthens your brand. Combine it with quality brands and longer warranties.
C. Flexibility and multifunctionality
Modular walls, movable phone booths and smart zoning reduce the m² needed per FTE. See also project furnishing for integrated solutions.
D. Level of design and finish
Higher requirements for design and finish push projects more quickly towards the “Comfort & Ergonomics” or “High-end & bespoke” level.
Design, technology and ergonomics: three cost drivers you want to include early.
5. Practical steps: checking your budget in 4 steps
Map out the needs (now & later): determine the simultaneous number of workstations and the mix of quiet, focus and meeting zones.
Set aside a buffer: for unforeseen matters (structural/technical).
Social/atmosphere (medium): canteen, lounge, meeting rooms (combine with refurbished where appropriate).
Bespoke/luxury (optional): special reception desks, logo panels, extra bespoke acoustics.
Build in project supervision: professional supervision prevents coordination errors and delays between contractor, electrician and furniture supplier. See our step-by-step plan.
6. A look ahead: 2025 and beyond
The focus is shifting from more m² to better m²: healthy, multifunctional and circular. Because of NPR 1813:2025 and higher quality requirements, basic costs rise slightly, but the TCO falls with well-considered choices.
Would you like a future-proof, ergonomic workplace that fits your budget? BNR Kantoor takes care of everything from strategic design to installation and aftercare.
Quotation & advice
Curious about a clear budget estimate for your premises? We work out scenarios per m² and per workstation, including ergonomics and acoustics. BNR delivers throughout the country; on-site advice, a fast response and installation by our own team are provided within approximately 50 kilometres of Moordrecht.
High-quality ergonomic furniture (such as NPR chairs and sit-stand desks) often lasts 10–15 years under normal use. A long warranty (5+ years) is a good indicator of quality.
How many square metres do I need per workstation (FTE)?
Traditionally about 8–10 m² per member of staff. In a modern, flexible layout this can drop to 4–6 m² per workstation, depending on the mix of zones.
Can I deduct the costs of an office interior from tax?
Yes. Investments in an interior are business expenses and are depreciated. Sustainable investments may qualify for tax benefits. Consult your adviser.
