A convenient and simple three step synthesis of 1,7-diazaspiro[5.5]undecane via Claisen condensation and acid catalyzed decarboxylation and spirocyclization of N-Boc-δ-valerolactam is described. Reactions of this spiroaminal with electrophiles including alkyl halides, alkane dihalides, acid chlorides, and sulfonyl chlorides gave either spirocyclic adducts or tetrahydropyridine derivatives. Additionally, the parent heterocycle is a novel bidentate ligand and formed complexes with ruthenium(II) and copper(II).