Creating a comfortable office may require an initial outlay but it could pay off in the long-run.

The hours spent at work make the office a home from home and employees want to feel settled, looked after and in control of their environment.

It’s not just providing the basics – the desk, the paper, the computer, the pens. It’s about making those things work for the employees too. Is a chair a chair? Is a desk a desk? Is a computer just a computer?

No, no and no. Each can be tailored for its user so that they are comfortable, ergonomic and these investments will increase or maintain productivity.

For example, a secretary who sits at a desk all day which is too low for the chair will not be comfortable.

They will need to take regular breaks to get away from being uncomfortable, they may start to develop long-term problems or even be less productive and reduced in their morale.

If they ask for a new set-up and it’s not given, their morale and productivity could further be affected but if they are listened to and resources found to make them more comfortable, not only are they looked after but they feel in control and able to change things.

At Pillory Barn, a break-out area with two sofas, plants and a fruit bowl provides an escape from the desk during breaks, encouraged by company boss Miranda Chapman.

She says: “I encourage staff to take breaks and when we chat about projects or clients, we move away from desks and into the break-out area or another part of the office. We wouldn’t be anything without our staff.”

Adding plants and even burning aromatherapy oils could make the office a nicer place to be – even a touch of music but only the soft and uplifting variety – keep it appropriate and consider everyone and compromise.

Some people like it, some people don’t.