Our design team is ready to help make your space a reality.
At Progress Studio, design is personal. Our team combines an architecture firm with interior design for thoughtful with refined design to create environments that are both functional and inspiring. From healthcare and wellness spaces to commercial and residential projects, we approach every detail with collaboration, creativity, and purpose—helping bring your vision to life in a way that reflects who you are and how you work.
meet progress studio.
Founder & Principal Architect
joseph lese
Meet the Team
Joseph Lese, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, is the founder and Principal Architect of Progress Studio, an NGLCC Certified Business Enterprise and award-winning commercial interior design firm based in Indianapolis. Licensed in 12 states and backed by 25+ years of experience, Joseph has delivered projects across wellness, housing, automotive, and hospitality—earning recognition among top Indianapolis architects for his expertise in both new construction and transformative renovations.
Under Joseph’s leadership, Progress Studio has built a strong reputation in Indianapolis interior design and architectural services, offering innovative, client-focused solutions that combine aesthetics, functionality, and lasting value. A LEED Accredited Professional and member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Joseph brings a commitment to sustainable, high-performance design. Since founding the firm in 2018, he has also championed the use of advanced LiDAR scanning technology, enabling precise site documentation and more efficient project delivery.
Beyond his professional work, Joseph is actively engaged in community and industry leadership. He serves as Board Member and Land Use Committee Chair for the Meridian-Kessler Neighborhood Association and is a member of the Urban Land Institute. His collaborative approach, technical expertise, and dedication to client vision have positioned Progress Studio as a trusted choice for Indianapolis interior designers, developers, and businesses seeking exceptional commercial spaces.
Connor kapala
ke'toren mendoza
Project Designer
Project Designer
Associate aia
Associate aia
Connor is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago with a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture and is currently pursuing his Master’s in Architecture. He brings strong technical expertise to the team, focusing on project documentation, coordination, and construction detailing. Connor works closely with project leads to ensure design intent is seamlessly carried through every phase of a project.
Ke’Toren is a graduate of Ball State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture. His expertise in 3D modeling, visualization, and space planning helps translate conceptual ideas into engaging built environments. Drawing from experience in wellness, residential, and corporate design, Ke’Toren contributes a collaborative and creative perspective to every project at Progress Studio.
Henry enhances Progress Studio’s design team with his strong eye for spatial composition, finish selection, and material coordination. With experience in both residential and commercial interiors, he focuses on creating cohesive environments that balance function and aesthetics. Henry is a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin Steven's Point in Interior Architecture and Interior Design.
interior designer
Henry Maas
Evan is a graduate of Ball State University College of Communications Information and Media with a Bachelor Degree in Organizational Communication and focus in Campaign Communications. Evan provides strategic direction for our marketing, proposal writing, and business development for our team at Progress Studio.
director of communications
evan bell
Associate aia
Ke’Toren is a graduate of Ball State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture. His expertise in 3D modeling, visualization, and space planning helps translate conceptual ideas into engaging built environments. Drawing from experience in wellness, residential, and corporate design, Ke’Toren contributes a collaborative and creative perspective to every project at Progress Studio.
Project Designer
ke'toren mendoza
Associate aia
Connor is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago with a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture and is currently pursuing his Master’s in Architecture. He brings strong technical expertise to the team, focusing on project documentation, coordination, and construction detailing. Connor works closely with project leads to ensure design intent is seamlessly carried through every phase of a project.
Project Designer
Connor kapala
Henry enhances Progress Studio’s design team with his strong eye for spatial composition, finish selection, and material coordination. With experience in both residential and commercial interiors, he focuses on creating cohesive environments that balance function and aesthetics. Henry is a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin Steven's Point in Interior Architecture and Interior Design.
interior designer
Henry Maas
Evan is a graduate of Ball State University College of Communications Information and Media with a Bachelor Degree in Organizational Communication and focus in Campaign Communications. Evan provides strategic direction for our marketing, proposal writing, and business development for our team at Progress Studio.
director of communications
evan bell
"The ability of their team to understand and design an idea that I could only verbalize is extraordinary. As a small business owner, I would give them 6 stars"
Our mission is to deliver architectural solutions that inspire creativity, drive innovation, and promote sustainability. We strive to transform the built environment by enhancing the lives of those who experience it and creating spaces that make a lasting positive impact on communities. Through thoughtful design and responsible practices, we aim to create environments that elevate human experiences and foster connection.
Our Mission
who we are /
We believe in seamless project management and building long-lasting relationships with our clients. Our design strategy fosters innovative thinking, ensuring each project moves forward in a meaningful, progressive way. At Progress Studio, we are committed to elevating every project to a higher level of development, driving success through thoughtful design and a forward-thinking approach that consistently delivers results for our clients.
Don’t hesitate on your search for the perfect design team. We are ready to help.
Our Solution
Craftsmanship Meets Timeless Design
Certified LEED AP
member with the aia
licensed in
designated aia emerging professional friendly firm
14 States
& growing!
Award-Winning Design Team
25+ Years of Dedicated experience
Architecture Firm of the Year
Trusted by +100 Businesses
