Staff Spotlight 💡
Next up in the staff spotlight series is Ben Goble. Ben joined Hodder and Partners in July this year, since then he has been leading the development of Bristol’s tallest building. The scheme consists of purpose-built student accommodation and co-living spaces. The scheme was granted planning approval in 2024. Ben’s previous professional experience ranges from residential, office spaces, commercial, medical facilities to transport and across all project stages from concept/competition to completion.
◾ Which project or building do you admire the most, and why?
I admire the Richard Rogers Madrid Barajas Terminal 4 for the sheer beauty and simplicity that they achieved on such a fantastically complex building. An evolved version of the RR trademark high-tech style, softened by elements of timber and colour, I am in awe of the effort that it must have taken to envisage and build it.
◾ What’s your favourite part of the design process?
Concept phase. The dialogue with clients, the development of ideas and visual realisation provides me with the most gratification.
◾ If you could design a building anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I have a friend who started a studio back in his native Costa Rica, and the buildings all sit within lush idyllic forested hillside landscapes overlooking beaches and waterfalls creating the most spectacular opportunities to frame the landscape, whilst the temperate climate allows the buildings to be lighter and airy.
◾ How do you unwind after a busy day at the studio?
I’ve had a passion for strategy games my entire life and enjoy online play daily against others.
◾ What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
I used to run the 100m in national competitions.