A conversation with Konstantin Kortmann, CEO of JLL Germany
“Location, location, location” – why the location remains the centrepiece of the office building even in the age of New Work and sustainability
An interview with Konstantin Kortmann, CEO JLL Germany, on the importance of location – using the example of the Anna Lindh Haus in Berlin
In the real estate industry, there are few words more popular than the old estate agent saying: “Location, location, location.” But how relevant is this principle in an age in which hybrid working models, ESG requirements and flexible office concepts characterise the market? For Konstantin Kortmann, CEO of JLL Germany, the answer is clear: “The formula ‘location, location, location’ is more than just a standard phrase. It is just as valid today as it was in the past – only we now view location in a broader context.”
Location remains a key value driver
In Kortmann’s opinion, the location of an office building is still a decisive factor for value creation, corporate identity and long-term success. “The location within a city largely determines which business models can work there, how close you are to your customers and which talents you attract,” he explains. “From connections to private and public transport to proximity to partners, customers or service providers – all of this influences the quality and price development of a property.”
This aspect is particularly important in a dynamic and growing urban area such as Berlin’s Europacity. “The Anna Lindh Haus is in a location that is not only central today, but will continue to gain in importance in the future.”
Centrality as the key to accessibility and talent retention
Kortmann particularly emphasises the role of the Anna Lindh Haus’s excellent connections: “The immediate proximity to the main railway station not only means perfect connections within Berlin and the surrounding area, but also to major cities such as Hamburg, Leipzig and Hanover via the ICE network. The connection to BER airport emphasises the international networking of the location.”
This accessibility has a direct impact on the success of companies. “A location like the Anna Lindh Haus acts as a real talent magnet. The easier and quicker an office is to reach, the larger the pool of skilled workers a company can attract.” But that’s not all: the central location also strengthens networks and cluster effects and creates proximity to customers and partners – an aspect that is becoming increasingly important in an era of hybrid working models.
The urban environment as a strategic advantage
In addition to the transport links, the immediate surroundings of the Anna Lindh Haus are another decisive advantage. “An urban infrastructure with restaurants, culture, shopping facilities and green spaces contributes enormously to employee satisfaction and loyalty,” says Kortmann. “Berlin has seen strong development in this area – similar to Arnulfpark in Munich, where an urban neighbourhood has been created near the train station that combines business, culture and living.”
The Anna Lindh Haus benefits from the diversity and dynamism of Europacity – an urban neighbourhood that is equally attractive to Berliners and newcomers.
The office in transition: collaboration centre instead of just a workplace
Hybrid working has redefined the role of the office, emphasises Kortmann. “Today, the physical office is primarily a place for meetings, collaboration and creative exchange. Central locations such as the Anna Lindh Haus are becoming increasingly important here, as they serve as a ‘cultural campfire’ for teams.” Employees who come to the office less frequently need to experience real added value on days when they are present – the Anna Lindh Haus offers this with its architecture, facilities and location in the heart of Berlin.
The central location also enables larger catchment areas for skilled workers: “Hybrid models allow longer commutes because these are no longer necessary on a daily basis. This makes central hubs with supra-regional connections even more important.”
The Anna Lindh Haus supports these new working environments by:
- Optimal transport connections for regional and national teams
- The proximity to coworking spaces and hotels, which give temporary employees flexibility
- Integration into the urban neighbourhood, which can also be used as an extended workspace
- A modern technical infrastructure that enables seamless hybrid working
Sustainability starts with the location
Kortmann makes it clear that sustainability does not end with building design. “Location is one of the key factors in achieving sustainability goals. A central address like the Anna Lindh Haus reduces CO₂ emissions through shorter commutes and encourages the use of public transport.” Integration into an existing urban structure is also sustainable because it conserves resources and does not seal any new areas.
He also sees central locations as a contribution to social sustainability: “They promote diversity and inclusion because they are accessible to everyone – whether with or without a car, young or old. The proximity to cultural and social facilities strengthens social engagement.”
Market trends: Quality prevails
According to Kortmann, the office market is undergoing a profound transformation. “We are seeing a polarisation: premium locations such as the Anna Lindh Haus continue to gain in importance, while B locations are coming under pressure. Companies are often reducing their space, but are investing in high-quality offices. The ‘flight to quality’ phenomenon shows: premium prices are still being paid for top locations – despite all the economic uncertainties.”
At the same time, he is observing the trend towards “hub-and-spoke” models, in which central locations are combined with decentralised satellite offices. “The Anna Lindh Haus is predestined to be a representative hub that works for the company externally and serves as a place of identification internally.”
Conclusion: The Anna Lindh Haus as the office of the future
Kortmann summarises: “The Anna Lindh Haus combines a central location, supra-regional accessibility, sustainable construction, modern technology and iconic architecture. It fulfils the requirements of modern companies and is an address that remains indispensable even in a hybrid working world.”