In this interview, we talk about:
Miguel and his space, Co-living Sojuela Joven
revitalizing rural areas suffering from depopulation
advantages of remote work
Today, we’re taking a closer look at a fascinating lifestyle shift spearheaded by Miguel Lucea Jimeno. He has transformed an old building into a thriving coliving and coworking space in La Rioja, Spain. This project isn’t just about providing a place to live and work. It’s about building a community that fosters creativity, collaboration, and a deep connection with nature and locals. Let’s delve into the details of this unique venture.
Exploring La Rioja
La Rioja is renowned for its lush landscapes and rich wines. It's here, amid the serene beauty, that Miguel's project finds its roots. The village, where his coliving space is located, is home to only 34 residents. This small community is surrounded by nature's wonders, offering a perfect blend of isolation and accessibility, with Logroño, the capital city, just 20 minutes away. Miguel chose this location for its tranquility and potential to inspire a more balanced lifestyle.
The Birth of a coliving Project
Miguel saw an opportunity in an abandoned tourist house, bringing it back to life as a dynamic coliving and coworking hub. His vision was more than renovating a space. It was about creating a multicultural environment for digital nomads, young entrepreneurs, and artists. People from diverse backgrounds flock here, each contributing their unique ideas and passions. The result is a vibrant, collaborative atmosphere where creativity thrives, and new friendships are born.
Involving the Local Community
A standout feature of Miguel’s initiative is its deep-rooted connection with the local community. Locals share invaluable skills and traditions with the guests. For instance, during mushroom season, they guide guests on which mushrooms are safe to harvest. In return, visitors offer expertise in technology and languages. This exchange enriches both parties, forging meaningful bonds and fostering a sense of shared purpose.
Seasons of Opportunity
The rhythm of the coliving space varies with the seasons. Summers are bustling with energy and activities. Workshops become the heart of learning and interaction. They cover a wide range of topics, from entrepreneurship to environmental efforts. These sessions not only provide education but also act as promotional events, showcasing the innovative spirit of the place. As winter approaches, the pace slows down, offering guests a chance for introspection and focus on personal projects. The serene winter months provide a peaceful backdrop for planning and recharging.
From Support to Independence
The project initially received crucial support from government initiatives aimed at combating rural depopulation. This support was essential in its early stages. Now, Miguel is focused on making the project self-sufficient. He envisions the coliving space thriving independently, driven by its own strengths and the growing interest in such a lifestyle. This transition from supported initiative to self-reliant community underscores the project’s success and potential.
Looking to the Future
Miguel is not resting on his laurels. He has ambitious plans, including a month-long exploration of over 100 villages. This adventure aims to connect participants with the rural lifestyle through walking, biking, and kayaking. It’s a bold initiative designed to engage young people with the charm and opportunities of remote living.
Miguel’s space remains a harmonious blend of work and relaxation. High-speed Wi-Fi and leisure amenities, like a cinema-style room, support productivity and comfort. Beyond this, Miguel's goal is to promote the entire region. Through the Manfred on Tour NGO, ongoing events and programs continue to inspire and educate.
Miguel’s approach is grounded in simplicity. He believes that breaking away from routine unlocks creativity. Whether it’s through casual exchanges or planned activities, the magic happens in those relaxed moments. His project is a gentle reminder of the beauty in connecting with nature, the community, and oneself. Looking ahead, Miguel’s coliving project is poised to grow, offering more people the chance to experience this enriching way of life.
Speakers
Miguel Lucea Jimeno
Miguel has been studying sustainable development and educational social change. Right after graduating from university, he started working on a pilot rural development project: Co-living Sojuela Joven.
Co-living Sojuela Joven is the perfect fusion of rural charm and modern comforts, big cities and nature, work, and chill.
Check his space, Co-living Sojuela Joven:
https://www.manfredontour.es/en/co-living-sojuela-joven/
Fanny Marcoux
I’m your host and passionate about coworking, remote working, nomading, freelancing, and marketing. Many -ing in there.
During the day, I help ecommerce managers manage their Google Analytics and optimize for conversions.
I also post every day on LinkedIn, where you can follow me at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/fannymarcoux/
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