In a surprising move that combines the worlds of coffee and construction, Tchibo, a well-known German coffee retailer, is venturing into the home building market with its offering of a weekend house. For a price tag of nearly €51,000, buyers can purchase a wooden holiday home designed for those seeking an escape or a cozy retreat.
The partnership between Tchibo and Weka Holzbau has led to the creation of this unique housing option. The house, officially named the "Wochenendhaus," is a log cabin constructed primarily from European spruce wood. It spans 66 square meters and is meticulously designed with three rooms, a bathroom, and a loft area, making it a perfect starting point for anyone dreaming of homeownership.
Max Herz and Carl Tchilling-Hiryan founded Tchibo in 1949 in Hamburg, originally focusing on mail-order coffee. Over the decades, the brand has diversified, expanding into various consumer goods, from clothing to electronics. Now, the introduction of a weekend house marks an unexpected yet fascinating new chapter in the company’s history.
Marketed for €49,999.99 plus shipping costs of €40, the weekend house is attracting attention among potential homeowners, particularly those looking for a vacation property. The structure measures 890 x 401 x 834 centimeters, providing a compact yet functional living space, reminiscent of traditional log cabins. Weighing in at a wall thickness of 70 mm, the house is designed to withstand the elements, allowing for year-round use, although it is primarily marketed as a weekend getaway.
With a living arrangement that includes three rooms, a loft area accessible by a ladder, and a bathroom complete with a toilet, the house is not just an empty shell. Beautifully designed double-glazed windows open inward and include a tilt-and-turn mechanism for easy ventilation. The exterior is painted in a stylish graphite gray, complemented by white accents on the windows, doors, and roof trim.
"The house is a real eye-catcher," an official Tchibo representative stated, emphasizing the distinctiveness of the design. Inside, the natural wood finish adds warmth and charm, setting the stage for customizable interior decorations.
However, prospective buyers should be aware that, while the basic structure is provided, significant additional investments may be needed. The necessary sanitary and electrical installations, as well as the interior furnishings, are not included in the base price. Buyers should consider the substantial investment in roofing materials, too—29 packages of bitumen roofing shingles will be required to complete the roof.
Notably, the weekend house cannot be used for permanent residence, as local regulations typically prohibit full-year living in such properties. Potential owners are advised to consult their local authorities to ensure the house meets zoning requirements before purchasing.
A safe foundation is crucial for the house’s stability and, as such, Tchibo explicitly requires that purchasers have a solid foundation prepared prior to delivery. The package, which includes the house and all necessary assembly materials and instructions, is delivered in six parts, with a wait time of about 10 to 12 weeks.
With the assembly service included in the price, buyers have the option to undertake the assembly themselves or engage professionals. However, an expert assembly is recommended to navigate the unique aspects of constructing a timber house.
The design also considers environmental factors. The weekend house has a snow load capacity of 0.85 kN/qm, meaning it can safely hold up against snowfall found in most areas across Germany, though those in regions with heavier snowfall will need to assess whether it suits their climate.
In addition to the practical aspects, the aesthetic appeal surely draws in potential buyers. Tchibo's weekend house, although unorthodox for a coffee retailer, reflects a commitment to affordability and quality, delivering a potentially life-changing opportunity for many.
As Tchibo continues to innovate, the weekend house could very well represent a new trend in the market of accessible vacation homes. With its combination of reasonable pricing and customizable potential, it has the potential to attract a wide array of consumers looking for a way to make their homeownership dreams a reality.
