The lead architect was Oscar Niemeyer, who had previously designed many buildings for Brazil's new capital of Brasília.

[7] Niemeyer, himself a communist, designed the building while living in exile in France during the military dictatorship in Brazil.

[9] A survey by 20 minutes in 2020 found the building to be one that divided opinions the most among Parisians, alongside the Tour Montparnasse and the Sacré-Cœur.

[8] When Robert Hue was party leader, it was agreed for fashion shows and filming to take part at the headquarters for extra income.

Belgian singer Angèle filmed the video for "Jalousie" here, as did Alain Souchon for "Et si en plus, y a personne".