Continental has unveiled its first prefabricated house, marking a step into innovative accommodation solutions. The ContiHome, a compact 30-square-meter dwelling, debuted on the shores of Lake Belau in northern Germany. This tiny house is now available for overnight stays through online booking platforms.
A recent survey conducted for Continental revealed that over two-thirds of people in Germany can envision vacationing in a tiny house. The survey highlighted particular interest among families with two to three children, indicating a growing market for compact, flexible accommodation options.
Continental plans to expand this venture. By autumn 2024, a second ContiHome will be ready near Amsterdam, catering to a broader European market. The company aims to partner with vacation parks and campsites seeking to enhance their offerings beyond traditional camping.
The ContiHome is available in two variants: with or without a trailer, providing flexibility in placement. It features sustainable and functional surface materials, a fully-equipped bathroom and kitchen, and sleeping accommodations for up to four people. The 30-square-meter floor plan offers more space than typical motorhomes or caravans, making it an attractive option for families and groups seeking comfort in a compact space.
Michael Hofmann, Continental’s materials expert, stated, “With our materials expertise and our courage to break new ground, we want to help create a fantastic holiday feeling in a small space.” The ContiHome showcases Continental’s materials expertise, which has grown since 2018, demonstrating the company’s commitment to innovation in diverse sectors.
Continental’s entry into prefabricated housing aligns with camping’s growing popularity. According to the German Federal Statistical Office, 2023 saw a record 42.3 million campsite stays in Germany, a 5.2% increase from 2022 and an 18% jump from 2019. This trend underscores the potential market for innovative accommodation solutions like the ContiHome.
The widespread appeal of tiny houses as vacation accommodations is evident, with 69% of respondents envisioning themselves vacationing in one. This figure rises to 79% among camping enthusiasts.
Hofmann sees this as validation of Continental’s strategy: “The high approval ratings for camping vacations in tiny houses show that we are tapping into the zeitgeist with the ContiHome. With the ContiHome, vacationers can experience the flexibility and independence of camping combined with the comfort and facilities of a vacation home.”
The inaugural ContiHome is located at a glamping site operated by George Glamp on the lake’s shores, embodying the concept of luxury camping in natural settings. The ContiHome offers a unique blend of mobility, comfort, and nature immersion, potentially providing campground owners with a new accommodation option to attract diverse guests.
Featured image by Continental via continental.com
