Keeping It Real

As the founder of boutique real estate agency The Bamboo Group and one of the directors of The Working Capitol, Ben knows a thing or two about spaces, and the people in them, so what is his idea of the perfect workspace? “It would be bright, convenient, and allow for quiet contemplation and focus, but still offer opportunities to have lively debates and exchange ideas.” It seems that making spaces work is Ben’s life goal, as he says that he can’t really imagine doing anything else. “The family spirit, challenge, and hustle are what I love most about the job,” he says. “The belief that anything is possible and that what we’re working towards is greater than the sum of our parts gets me out of bed every morning.” A piece of advice he’d give to anyone just starting work would be: “Observe, listen, do, and ask for more.” He hopes to be able to take the concept at The Working Capitol to different shores, and would love to develop a hotel or an agroturismo, a rural-type accommodation. As one of the faces of The Working Capitol, Ben has to keep up appearances, but says he would love to be able to wear a t-shirt, shorts, and sneakers to work. “We’re always on the move, and it’s hot!” While Ben admits that he has “big time” problems juggling both work and life, he says that making time for friends and family “definitely keeps him sane”. His key to keep going? “Right now, I’m just trying to keep it together and stay positive!”