The cost of building a shophouse is a key consideration for anyone looking to start a business or invest in commercial property. In 2025, the trend for building one- to three-story shophouses will continue to increase as more people begin to realize the economic potential of renting out business space.
However, before starting construction, it is important to understand the cost estimates, the factors that influence them, and how to choose contractor services for shophouses appropriately so that the results are optimal and efficient.
As a prospective property owner, you may have also heard various terms such as home building services, contract contractors, or even... commercial fit out services.
All these terms are interrelated in the process of building a shophouse, because even though they have different functions, the principles of workmanship and planning remain the same: building with optimal cost efficiency and quality.
Overview of Shophouse Construction Costs in 2026
In general, the cost of building a shophouse in 2026 will increase slightly compared to the previous year, primarily due to rising material prices and labor wages. However, this increase is still considered reasonable and can be anticipated with careful planning.
For a 1-story shophouse, the estimated construction cost ranges from IDR 4.5 million – IDR 6.5 million per square meter, depending on the location and quality of the materials.
Meanwhile, 2-story shophouses are in the range of IDR 5.5 million – IDR 7 million per square meter, and 3-story shophouses can reach IDR 6 million – IDR 8 million per square meter.
The cost includes contractor services, main materials, and standard structural and finishing work.
However, if you want a modern design or a certain concept, such as a shophouse with an industrial or minimalist style, of course there will be additional costs from the services of a home architect or interior designer.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Building a Shophouse
Understanding the factors that influence costs will help you create a more realistic budget. Here are some key points to consider:
a. Area and Number of Floors
The larger the building area and the more floors, the higher the total cost. However, in terms of efficiency, building two or three floors at once can be more economical than adding more floors later.
b. Project Location and Access
Building shophouses in the city center certainly has higher costs than in the suburbs due to material transportation, environmental permits, and labor availability.
c. Types of Building Materials
The choice of materials such as cement, steel, ceramics, and paint will significantly impact the total cost. Using premium materials certainly improves quality, but also increases costs.
d. Architectural Design and Complexity
If you use the services of a professional home architect, the results will be more optimal in terms of aesthetics and space efficiency. However, complex designs can also increase the cost of structural and finishing work.
e. Work System: Contract or Daily
Many project owners choose contract contractors because they are more efficient. With this system, the contractor calculates all requirements until the job is completed. Alternatively, a daily system allows for more flexible control but tends to be more time-consuming.
Comparison of the Costs of 1, 2, and 3-Story Shophouses
1-Story Shophouse
Typically used for small businesses or private offices. A single-story shophouse costs less to build due to its less complex structure. However, ensure a strong foundation if you plan to add more floors in the future.
2-Story Shophouse
An ideal choice for a growing business. The ground floor can be used as a business area, while the upper floor can be used for offices or living spaces. Additional costs typically include structural columns, stairs, and two-story ceiling work.
3-Story Shophouse
Suitable for large-scale businesses or long-term investments such as boarding houses and shophouses. Three-story construction requires more detailed structural calculations, particularly regarding foundations, concrete columns, and building security systems.
If you use the services of a boarding house & shophouse contractor, they usually offer multi-functional shophouse designs—combining commercial and residential areas in one building—which can increase rental potential and sales value.
Efficient Steps Before Starting Construction
Initial Consultation and Site Survey
The first step is to consult with a contractor to estimate material, time, and labor requirements. Services such as home building or home improvement services often offer free site surveys to provide more accurate estimates.
Design and Cost Estimate Making
The Design and Budget Plan (RAB) is a key element in any construction project. The RAB serves as a guideline for controlling expenses to ensure they do not exceed the budget.
If you want maximum results, use the services of a home architect to create an efficient yet attractive shophouse facade and interior design.
Work System Selection
Choose a piecework system if you want convenience and faster turnaround times. For smaller projects like bathroom renovations or kitchen remodeling, a daily system can be more flexible.
Supervision and Documentation
Ensure all stages of construction are recorded and documented. This is crucial for monitoring progress and preventing technical errors in the field.
Cost Estimate Details Based on Work Components
Although prices can vary by region, here is a general overview of the main components in building a shophouse:
- Preparation & Foundation Work: 15–20% of total cost
- Concrete & Wall Structure Work: 30–35%
- Finishing Work (Plaster, Paint, Floor, and Ceiling): 25–30%
- Mechanical & Electrical Work: 10–15%
- Commercial Interior / Fit Out Work: 10–20% (depending on design requirements)
If you use commercial fit-out services, the interior, lighting, and space systems will be professionally designed so that your shophouse is ready to be used or rented out as soon as construction is completed.
Tips for Saving on Shophouse Building Costs Without Compromising on Quality
Use Efficient Design
Design something simple yet functional. Avoid excessive decorative elements that don't add significant value.
Choose Medium Quality Materials
Learn house building materials before starting construction. Mid-range materials often offer good durability at a more affordable price than premium products.
Use the Contract System
Contractors usually offer more competitive prices and more measurable work times.
Use One-Stop Service
Use a contractor who also provides architectural, interior design, and licensing services, such as a specialized facility contractor or office contractor, so you don't have to coordinate multiple parties.
Why You Should Use Professional Services Like Bloka Build
Many building projects fail to meet deadlines or cost overruns because they do not involve experienced contractors.
This is where Bloka Build comes in as a professional solution ready to accompany you through every stage of your shophouse construction.
Bloka Build is not only experienced in building houses and shophouses, but also in commercial fit-outs, office space renovations, and the construction of special facilities.
With a team of experts consisting of experienced architects, technicians and project supervisors, each project is carried out to high standards, efficiently and transparently.
You don't need to worry about budgets, schedules, or quality. Everything is organized within a professional work system that guarantees client satisfaction.
Conclusion: Make your dream shophouse come true with Bloka Build
Building a shophouse is not just about erecting a building, but also a long-term investment that needs to be carefully planned.
By understanding the estimated costs of building a shophouse in 2025, you can make wiser decisions from the outset.
If you are looking for a trusted partner to make your dream shophouse a reality, Bloka Build is ready to help from planning to completion.
Consult your project needs with our professional team now to get accurate cost calculations and the best design solutions.
Contact Bloka Build today, and start smartly building your future shophouse!
