In a Lotus Institute initiative, employee receives a full home renovation.
Brasília, July 2025 – Dreaming is what drives human beings. It’s what transforms expectations into projects and desires into reality. And it was precisely a dream — nurtured for years with simplicity and affection — that inspired one of the most moving initiatives ever carried out by Lotus Construction. Paulo Regis Araújo da Costa, affectionately known as Paulinho, the longest-standing employee in the company’s history, received a fully renovated home, complete with the long-awaited gourmet area. The tribute, promoted by the Lotus Institute, the company’s social arm, highlights the importance of recognizing those who, with dedication and humanity, have helped build the company’s journey even before its founding.
Paulinho’s relationship with Lotus dates back to before the company was even founded. In 1998, he began working for the family of Ruy and Luiz, now the company’s CEOs. In 2022, he officially joined Lotus’s team, but his emotional bond with the family had already been strong for many years. His story embodies the values the company cherishes: respect, gratitude, and appreciation for those who walk alongside it.
The tribute was born during a Lotus Institute meeting as part of the 2025 annual action plan. One of the themes discussed was “Employee Recognition and Appreciation,” and within that context came the idea of honoring Paulinho, the employee with the longest history connected to the company. The initial plan was simple: record his story and present him with a plaque of appreciation. However, the symbolic gesture quickly evolved into something much greater.
“Paulinho has been part of our lives for over 25 years. When we saw the opportunity to do something concrete for him — something that would truly change his reality and last for years to come — we didn’t hesitate. This tribute is also a way to thank him for the legacy he has helped us build,” says Ruy Hernandez, CEO of Lotus.
During a technical visit to Paulinho’s home, with the presence of engineer Paulo Tavares, members of the Institute team, and Ruy Hernandez, it became clear that the needs went far beyond building a leisure area. The house was poorly ventilated, had only one bathroom, and little natural lighting. From that realization, the decision was unanimous: Lotus would undertake a complete renovation of the residence.
“The house needed much more than a gourmet area. We redesigned every room, prioritizing the family’s comfort and dignity. We created a space with better ventilation, more light, new finishes, and, of course, the dream social area he always wanted,” explains Paulo Tavares, the engineer in charge of the project.
Delivered in July, the new home has become a symbol not only of employee appreciation but also of Lotus’s commitment to transforming lives through engineering, architecture, and human care. Paulinho now lives with his wife Joelma, their children, and granddaughter in a warm, functional, and renewed home.
“I never imagined this would happen to me. I dreamed of having a gourmet area, but I received an entire new home. Lotus has changed my life and my family’s life. My heart is filled only with gratitude,” says Paulinho, now a true symbol of affection and dedication within the company.
“Valuing the people who help build our journey is what gives meaning to what we do. Paulinho represents an emotional connection that spans generations. This gift is also a symbol of the kind of company we want to continue being: close to people and committed to real transformation,” adds Luiz Hernandez, cofounder and CEO of Lotus.
More than just a renovation, this initiative stands as a tribute to the creation of genuine bonds in the corporate environment. Paulinho’s story is a powerful reminder that behind every project there are people who, through hard work and dedication, build not only structures but also stories worth celebrating.
