In an age of social media, Ricky Beliveau is a new breed of developer, his goal to #builddopebuildings. Volnay Capital has nearly 25,000 followers on Instagram showcasing the process behind their luxe development projects. Founded in 2010, Volnay Capital now has over 350 units currently in development across East Boston, Charlestown, Dorchester, Everett, and Chelsea. In February, Beliveau won approval for his biggest project yet, THE 600 in Everett, an 85 unit building set to include a roof deck overlooking the new Encore Casino.
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BLDUP: What is the last book you read that you would recommend as a "must-read" to the construction and design community? Why did you find this book so important?

Ricky Beliveau: Never Split The Difference by Chris Voss. In this business, we are always in negotiations and this book really opens your eyes to the science behind it

BLDUP: Do you have a daily or weekly routine that you follow? If so, how do you feel it has contributed to your success? How has this routine changed/been adjusted given the current situation?

Ricky Beliveau: I try to be at the job sites daily. Being onsite is vital to having a project be a success. With COVID and construction stopped I really concentrated on things that were in my control. We dove into our projects that are currently in design and permitting to ensure that they are the best they can be

BLDUP: During the course of your career, what was the biggest challenge you faced and how did you overcome it? What other accomplishments hold a special place in your heart and why?

Ricky Beliveau: Going into my first development I had a lender back out on the terms of the original term sheet. This caused me to have to pivot to find additional funds but luckily I am surrounded by many amazing people who were able to help me through it! Recently we just received approvals for "THE 600" in Everett. This will be an 85 unit rental building located at 600 Broadway. It was a wild journey throughout the approval process and it was really amazing seeing all the people who came out to support me and my team throughout the process. We couldn't have done it without each and every one of them.

BLDUP: What do you foresee for the future of Boston's development? The past few months have brought on a unique set of challenges, how has this affected your business in the short term. Do you expect to see long term effects on your projects?

Ricky Beliveau: We are still moving full speed ahead with development opportunities in and around Boston. 

We still have a massive housing shortage and I believe we still have another couple years of opportunities ahead of us

BLDUP: What upcoming projects are you most excited about?

Ricky Beliveau: THE 600 - 85 Units in Everett
51 Crescent - 10 Units in Chelsea
38 Lexington - 4 Units in East Boston

A rendering of the dope roof deck at THE 600.

BLDUP: What other types of projects are you looking for right now (if any)? Certain areas, project type/size?

Ricky Beliveau: We currently have over 350 units in development ranging from as small as 2 units to as large as 85 units. These consist of a mix of both rental and condo projects located in East Boston, Everett, Chelsea, Dorchester and Charlestown

A stylish, high-end yet unique kitchen at 331 Chelsea Street in East Boston

BLDUP: Have you had a mentor or someone who has helped you during your career? What are the most valuable lessons you learned from that person?

Ricky Beliveau: I have had so many amazing mentors. Surround yourself by people smarter and more successful than yourself and great things will happen!

BLDUP: What do you hope for the future of your company in the next 30 years? What legacy do you want to leave?

Ricky Beliveau: Continue to build buildings in and around Boston that we are proud of and that create amazing housing opportunities for all.

BLDUP: What is a favorite quote that inspires you or you strive to live by?

Ricky Beliveau: Your Network is Your Net Worth