A metaphorical description: The Haus der Wirtschaft is not just a building. It is a cornerstone of German economic power. The Haus der Wirtschaft stands here in Berlin-Mitte. It is the headquarters for the BDA, BDI, and DIHK. These are the top organizations for German business.
The building’s story starts long before its construction in 1997-1999. This area was once part of the historic town of Cölln. Cölln merged with Berlin in the Middle Ages. In the 12th century, this site was a customs post. Merchants used it to transport goods on the Spree River.
By the 18th century, Breite Straße was home to nobles and officials. But Unter den Linden became more popular. In 1805, Karl Kühn, brother of Gustav Kühn, founded a printing house on this property. He expanded it to include a paper shop.
During World War II, buildings on Breite Straße were damaged. In the 1960s, the DDR government demolished them. This was to create a government district. Only houses 30-37 remained. Number 28 was also torn down after 1971. It had been a protected building with a baroque staircase. Until 1965, the “Schlossklause” restaurant was located here. The cleared area became a parking lot. It wasn’t until after the reunification that the area gained attention again.
Initially, DIHK planned to build here with Groth+Graafs. But BDA, BDI, and DIHK decided to share a building. Groth+Graafs became the general contractor. Construction was delayed because of old settlements. Analysis of wood beams showed Berlin was older than thought. The wood dated back to 1171. Before, it was believed that the Margrave brothers Johann I and Otto III developed the city in this area.
Professor Peter P. Schweger designed the Haus der Deutschen Wirtschaft. He also designed the Main Tower and the Kunstmuseum in Wolfsburg. The building is a classic Berlin block. A 32-meter conference tower faces the Spree. An entrance passage is on Breite Straße. It has six floors and a top floor with apartments.
The section between the main entrance and the Spree is covered in grey-green Brenna sandstone. The atrium floor is Italian marble. The facade near the Berlin City Library is light Rackwitz sandstone. Here, you will find the BDI art window. This glass surface displays contemporary art. Artists like Daniel Pflumm and Candida Höfer have exhibited here. Since March 2011, Michael Sailstorfer’s “Hangover” was on display. Astrid Nippoldt’s “Cape Coral” replaced it on January 13, 2012. A large glass roof protects the inner courtyard.
After BDA and BDI moved in, security changed. Originally, the courtyard was to be public. A promenade along the Spree would draw visitors. Authorities denied a planned dock.
The Haus der Deutschen Wirtschaft was built from August 1997 to September 1999. The property is 6,585 square meters. The building covers 3,900 square meters. BDA uses 6,800 square meters. BDI uses 8,000 square meters. DIHK uses 12,200 square meters. The total investment was around 92 million euros.
The building has occasionally been vandalized for political reasons. In June 2009, 14 windows were damaged. Left-wing extremists had called for protests. In April 2010, a “left-wing group” hung a gallows on the facade.
You can reach the Haus der Deutschen Wirtschaft by public transport. Metrobus M48 and night bus N42 stop at Breite Straße. Bus 147 stops near the Berlin City Library and Fischerinsel. The U2 subway line is a few hundred meters away. You can use Märkisches Museum or Spittelmarkt stations.
The Haus der Wirtschaft stands as a symbol. It shows the strength and history of German business in the heart of Berlin.