HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BUILD A MANUFACTURING BUILDING PER SQUARE METER?
When it comes to building a manufacturing facility, one of the first questions people have is, "How much will it cost me?"
As you’d imagine, this simple question doesn’t have a simple answer, as the costs to build a manufacturing building vary based on a range of factors including size, features, location, and site conditions.
In this guide, we’ll provide clarity by exploring the key variables that impact pricing. If you’re in the early planning stages or want to understand what drives costs up and down, this article will help you anticipate costs and make informed decisions.
Table of Contents
- Base Build Costs: Structure and Dimensions
- Site-Specific Considerations
- Office Space Costs: Shell and Fit-Out
- Manufacturing Fit-Out Costs
- Exterior and Civil Works
- Regional Cost Variations
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BASE BUILD OF THE MANUFACTURING BUILDING: STRUCTURE AND DIMENSIONS MATTER
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE COST FOR THE MANUFACTURING BUILDING SUPERSTRUCTURE?
The base build of a manufacturing facility typically ranges from $750 to $1,200 per square meter, depending on features and complexity. This includes the foundations, concrete floor, walls, and roof but excludes earthworks, offices, and specialized systems.
Here’s a closer look at the factors that influence the price:
Building Dimensions: Manufacturing buildings over 1,000m² with 10m bays and spans between 25–40m are generally more cost-effective. Smaller buildings tend to have higher costs per square meter due to fixed costs, meaning costs per m² typically decrease as you go from 1,000m² to 5,000m², before leveling off.
Height: Manufacturing buildings under 8m are typically more cost-effective. If you need a structure over 4,200m² or higher than 8m, additional fire compliance measures, like sprinklers, may be required. However, large projects that are 6,000m2 – 12,000m2 are less influenced as the costs are spread over a much larger area.
Precast Panels: Precast concrete walls are common for durability or fire compliance, particularly for manufacturing buildings located near boundaries. Adding precast increases the cost towards the upper range.
Gantry Cranes: Overhead cranes can be essential for manufacturing operations, improving efficiency. There is no one-size-fits-all approach—options include traditional overhead travelling cranes, underslung mono cranes, or custom lifting solutions. The ability to integrate gantry systems early in the design phase can lead to significant efficiency gains. For information on the costs of installing a gantry crane, click here.
SITE-SPECIFIC CONSIDERATIONS
Costs are based on level sites with good ground conditions. If significant earthworks, grading, or rock removal is required, expenses can quickly rise. For manufacturing buildings with heavy machinery, preloading the soil, piling, or gravel raft foundations may be needed to ensure structural integrity.
OFFICE SPACE COSTS: SHELL AND FIT-OUT
HOW MUCH DOES AN OFFICE SPACE COST IN A MANUFACTURING BUILDING?
Office spaces are important for administrative work and customer interactions.
SHELL (BASE BUILD) COSTS
Office shell costs generally fall into three categories, depending on features and quality:
Base/Basic Offices ($2,500–$3,200 per m²)
Features: Minimal design with standard toilets, simple cladding (e.g., Coloursteel or Hardies Panel), and basic windows.
Example: Cirtex Kopu – A robust yet no-frills option.
Commercial/Mid-Range Offices ($3,200–$3,700 per m²)
Features: Includes larger glazing areas, moderate architectural detailing, and upgraded cladding options.
Example: Equip 2 – A mid-range two-storey build with a touch of sophistication.
Executive/Premium Offices ($3,700–$4,500 per m²)
Features: High-end materials like aluminium cladding, precast panels, expansive glazing, and additional architectural features.
Example: Advanced Quip or Cleanline Tasman – Designed for larger staff teams and customer-facing showrooms.
FIT-OUT COSTS
Bathrooms, kitchens, and custom features impact costs significantly. For example:
Bathrooms and Kitchens require specialised finishes for flooring, waterproofing, and cabinetry.
Custom Features: Architectural glazing or bespoke décor adds to the budget.
Durable wall linings may be preferred for heavy-duty applications, increasing costs.
MANUFACTURING FIT-OUT COSTS: SYSTEMS AND CUSTOM FEATURES
WHAT ADDITIONAL FIT-OUT ITEMS SHOULD I BUDGET FOR?
The fit-out phase includes the systems and features needed for daily operations. Fit-out costs can vary widely depending on the manufacturing size and complexity.
Here’s what to consider:
Electrical Systems: Power demands in manufacturing facilities are higher than in warehouses. Standard electrical wiring can range from $80–$150 per m². If a transformer or power supply upgrade is needed, this can add $300,000–$500,000 depending on site access.
Insulation: Basic insulation costs $40–$65 per m², but for fully insulated buildings or temperature-controlled environments, this can rise to $100- $150+ per m².
Custom Floor Coatings: Specialised coatings may be required for cleanliness, durability, or anti-slip properties, adding to the overall costs.
EXTERIOR AND CIVIL WORKS: PREPARING THE SITE
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT TO PAY FOR EXTERIOR WORKS?
Site preparation and exterior works are critical to a functional manufacturing facility. These costs can vary significantly:
Site Preparation: Level sites with stable ground cost less to prepare, while sloped or soft ground may require expensive grading or reinforcement.
Yard Concreting: $120–$190 per m², depending on subbase preparation, local aggregate/concrete prices and drainage needs.
Stormwater Management: Basic systems start at $10 per m², but extensive soakage or advanced systems can reach $80 per m².
REGIONAL COST VARIATIONS
HOW MUCH DO COSTS VARY REGIONALLY?
Material and labour costs differ by location. Urban areas may have higher labour rates, while remote sites incur additional transport costs. Factors like soil conditions and zoning regulations also influence costs.
CONCLUSION: PLAN AHEAD WITH EXPERT GUIDANCE
Building a manufacturing facility is a significant investment, with costs ranging from $750 to $1,200 per square meter for superstructures and $2,500 to $4,500 per square meter for office spaces. To recap, the main factors influencing costs are:
- Dimensions, materials, and features of the manufacturing building.
- Office space shell and fit-out costs.
- Essential systems like electrical upgrades and insulation.
- Exterior works, including site preparation and stormwater management.
- Regional and site-specific variables.
GET EXPERT SUPPORT TODAY!
Planning your manufacturing facility? Use our Budget Estimator Tool for a quick cost range or contact us for a personalised estimate. Our experienced team can guide you through every stage of the build to ensure you get value for your investment. With accurate planning and expert advice, your facility can be tailored to your needs without blowing your budget.
