lifestyles

Office support

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Local experts blend work and play in today’s professional environments By Kelsey DeClue

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SOUTH

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INDYSOUTHM AG.COM

National Office Furniture, Chicago, by Lehner Designs

THE WORD OFFICE DOESN’T USUALLY CONJURE FEELINGS

of relaxation. Most of us don’t envision being able to catch up on our favorite sitcoms while sitting at our desk. During a meeting, few clients expect to hear from a financial planner: “Can I get you a cocktail while we go over these numbers?” But that blend of work and play does exist. Business owners are beginning to see the value in creating a professional, yet casual environment where they, their clients and employees feel comfortable. “One of the hottest trends is creating spaces that are fun to work in,” said Gerard Lehner, owner of Lehner Designs in Greenwood. “Business owners want a professionally designed space that goes a long way to help lift morale, encourage employee retention and create a place people enjoy being. They need a space they can feel energized and excited in and that helps them be creative and excel in their work.” On the home front, personal offices are transitioning to more than just untouched, impersonal spaces where the monthly bills get filed to rooms where family members enjoy hanging out. “Many times home offices function as work spaces during the day PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GERARD LEHNER