Dr. Thomas Welter

What convinced you to become part of the hej.build architecture advisory board?

What convinced me was the interdisciplinary expertise that comes together here. Exchanging ideas beyond the boundaries of one's own field of expertise opens up new and valuable perspectives.

What concerns you most at the moment in terms of architecture, interior design, or even building products?

I am currently very concerned with the need to strengthen incentives for quality and durability in buildings and infrastructure – among planners, builders, suppliers of building products, and in government action. At present, the government is distorting planning and construction by promoting many individual goals, sometimes with negative consequences for the overarching goals of resource conservation and CO2 emission reduction. We need a coherent regulatory, subsidy, and tax policy.

In a few words, what is good architecture/interior design for you?

In short: an enrichment and a stroke of luck for body and soul.

Is there a current highlight or an all-time favorite project that you would like to tell us about?

There are several highlights. However, as Federal Managing Director of the BDA, I am bound to neutrality and therefore cannot single out or highlight individual examples.

Is there a question you would have liked to ask yourself? What would it be, and what would the answer be?

One question that constantly occupies my mind is: »How can the quality of planning and construction be improved?«

My answer to this is: we must initiate cultural, social, and administrative change that will enable collegial, honest, and trusting cooperation between all parties involved once again.