A couple of weeks ago I was searching for Playmobil items in our local buy/sell website. There was a seller who directly imports almost any current set... For a high price, of course. Even regular "Special" boxes are sold for more than US$20 EACH. Most of that cost is associated to the import and customs fares, so it's far more convenient to bring a large box, such as the Dollhouse 5951.
Once I discovered this set some time ago I immediately wanted it in my collection. Although this "foldable" house features only two rooms, its versatility makes it a valuable item in terms of accessories, figures, and furniture. The kitchenette is a remarkable piece exclusive to this set (and set 6020).
There are two characteristics in this house that called my attention. First, its colours are neutral, which is truly appreciated, especially in collectors' photography. We have to admit it, pink and magenta are not colours we see in everyday houses.
And second, while it is a portable house, and all its contents can easily fit inside, there is no handle, which would look kind of awkward in dioramas. I know, I know, this a toy meant for children, meant to be played with, but hey, we are all here for the same reasons.
The house facade is very realistic despite not having movable pieces, a nice improvement from the flat painted facades of other portable dollhouses, and the exterior lamps are a lovely detail too.
The quantity of accesories is just enough to be a simple set without being boring. The sofa and couch can be converted into beds. There is dinnerware for 2 figures, although there are cups and cutlery for 4. Unlike other sets, this house is on a scale closer to figures, and it's far easier to assemble, something that parents will appreciate when giving this set to children desperate to start playing right away.
This box is absolutely fantastic, yet there is room for some improvement. For instance, it would have been great if the fridge door opened (it's just one piece with a sticker on it, and hollow on the back), as it would be an excellent container for small pieces.
It's quite remarkable that the living room is decorated with a thin piece of cardboard depicting a colourful interior with lavish windows and a natural landscape, secured in place by a plastic piece representing a wall lamp, simply brilliant! However, there is no cardboard piece for the kitchen area, which is kind of dissapointing, as the wall does have an overhanging connector fit for another wall lamp. I will probably figure out a home-made solution for this, like my custom curtains for the Fao Schwarz Victorian Dollhouse 5955.
The Playmobil Dollhouse 5951 is a wonderful, versatile set, appropiate for small dioramas and scenes, quite adaptable with plenty of room for customization. I can see myself setting entire soap operas using only this house and a few pieces of extra furniture.
