The Social Democratic Party is planning a large‑scale overhaul of its central headquarters, the Willy‑Brandt House. General‑secretary Tim Klüssendorf confirmed the plans to “Der Spiegel” and explained that the goal is to create a modern working environment that fosters creativity, open communication and powerful campaigns.
During the renovation the party will adjust its floor plans and reconfigure the rooms. The staff of the party board will be concentrated on the fourth, fifth and sixth floors. The third floor will be released for rental, just like the first and second floors do today. In addition, employees will be moved back into the headquarters from the neighboring Paul‑Singer House, which is also owned by an SPD‑affiliated company. Those spaces will likewise be put up for rent.
Klüssendorf emphasized that the primary concern is not cost cutting but building a contemporary workplace that fits a modern organization. “The money is a background factor” he said. In fact, the party’s own leasing company plans to make a significant initial investment in the building.
The first phase of the renovation is scheduled to start on the fourth floor later this year. All positions dealing with communications and external representation will be housed there to ensure short distances and quick coordination. “The heart of our campaign will beat in the fourth floor” Klüssendorf said. Once that is complete, the fifth and sixth floors will undergo modernization to accommodate the leadership tier, organisational development, administration and programmatic work.
Klüssendorf acknowledged that some staff members have concerns. “Many younger employees want a modern workplace, while others are apprehensive” he explained. He is taking these concerns seriously and is having productive discussions with employees and the works council. “We will find good solutions for the different needs” he promised.