Ben recently sat down with the editorial team at SHOUTOUT LA to talk shop and share his passion for architecture. Read the full article here.
We had the good fortune of connecting with Ben Ballentine and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ben, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
You know, the idea of starting my own business wasn’t like a sudden “aha!” moment. It was more like a little seed that had been planted and just kept growing over time.
I spent some really valuable years working with some super talented folks and soaking up everything like a sponge. I got to be part of all sorts of amazing projects, which was fantastic. But deep down, there was this little voice saying, “Hey, I’ve got some ideas about how things could be done, how we could really connect with clients, and the kind of positive mark we could make on our LA landscape.”
So, when I really started thinking about it, a few things felt super important to me. First off, I really wanted to team up with clients in a much closer way. I pictured a studio where we truly listen – like really listen – to what they dream of, not just the nuts and bolts of the project. I wanted to move away from just doing a job and really build genuine friendships and partnerships.
Secondly, I had this design vibe brewing in my head. Los Angeles is just bursting with so much coolness – different styles, stories, and that amazing California sunshine! I really wanted to create spaces that not only look beautiful but also feel like they belong here. You know, respecting the history while still bringing in fresh ideas and being kind to the planet. It’s all about creating thoughtful design that makes people’s lives better.
Thirdly, I was really excited about having the freedom to be creative and try new things that comes with having your own place. I wanted to build a studio where we could get a little adventurous, explore different solutions, and really tailor what we do to each unique project without feeling stuck in old ways of thinking.
And last but not least, I really wanted to create a happy and inspiring place for a team to grow. I truly believe that amazing buildings come from everyone working together. My dream was to have a studio where talent is nurtured, where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas, and where they feel empowered to do their absolute best.
So, it wasn’t just about putting up a sign. It was about building a studio with a heart, driven by a real love for design, a passion for connecting with people, and a deep appreciation for our incredible city. And honestly, watching that dream slowly become reality has been such a joy!
Read the full article here.
