Furniture Stores in Germany: From IKEA to Kitchen Studios

Budget discounters, mid-market Möbelhäuser, and how to buy a kitchen for a rental without EBK.

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Germany’s furniture market is dominated by large out-of-town warehouse stores (Möbelhäuser) run by a few big retail groups. Most newcomers start with flat-pack basics, then upgrade over time.

One housing detail matters first: many rental flats do not include a built-in kitchen (Einbauküche, EBK). You often buy and install the kitchen yourself, or buy it from the previous tenant. See Finding an Apartment for lease terms.

For overall monthly costs, see Cost of Living in Germany.

Budget and value stores

IKEA

Price level: budget to lower mid-range.

Known for: flat-pack Scandinavian design, in-stock modules (for example Pax wardrobes, Billy shelves), and strong storage systems.

Kitchens: modular Metod kitchens with online 3D planning and in-store planning desks. Delivery and assembly cost extra.

Poco Domäne and Roller

Price level: strict budget.

Known for: high-volume discount furniture, laminate flooring, carpets, and basic household goods. Styles are often traditional or utilitarian rather than minimalist.

Kitchens: low-cost pre-configured kitchen lines (Küchenzeilen) for quick pickup. Good for student housing, temporary setups, or simple rental kitchens.

Mid-market and upper-mid stores

Möbel Höffner and Möbel Kraft

Price level: mid to upper mid-range.

Known for: large traditional showrooms, solid wood ranges, major European brands, and home textiles.

Kitchens: full kitchen studios (Küchenstudio) with planning service, custom orders from German manufacturers (for example Nobilia, Nolte), delivery, and professional installation.

XXXLutz and Mömax

XXXLutz — price level: mid to upper mid-range.

Mömax — price level: budget to mid-range (often positioned as XXXLutz’s trend-oriented sub-brand with more ready-to-use furniture than flat-pack).

Known for: very large stores (XXXLutz is famous for oversized red chair displays outside), wide brand selection, configurable ranges, and frequent discount campaigns.

Kitchens: extensive custom planning, often with integrated brand appliances (Miele, Bosch). Delivery and installation are standard options.

Kitchens when your flat has none

In many German rentals, the kitchen is your responsibility.

Budget / DIY path

  • IKEA or Poco for modular or pre-configured lines
  • You order, transport, and install (or hire installers)

Full-service custom path

  • Höffner, XXXLutz, or a local Küchenstudio
  • In-store planning, manufactured to measure
  • Lead time often 6 to 12 weeks for custom German kitchens
  • Delivery and hookup usually available

Before signing a lease, confirm whether a kitchen is included, whether you must leave it when moving out, and whether the landlord approves installation changes.

Practical tips

  • Most major chains sit in edge-of-city retail zones; city-center shops tend to be smaller decor specialists.
  • Compare delivery fees before you buy heavy items.
  • For kitchens, measure the room twice and check water, power, and ventilation positions.
  • Second-hand platforms (eBay Kleinanzeigen, local Facebook groups) are popular for short-term furnished setups.

Fiduciary Disclosure: The information provided in this guide is for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information contained herein. Please consult with official municipal or legal authorities for binding advice.