A coffee machine for automatic preparation of coffee or espresso includes a housing (1) with components arranged therein for the preparation and dispensing of coffee and components (10, 11, 12) for the supply of hot water and the supply of steam. The housing (1) is subdivided by a partition (6) into two compartments (8, 9), namely a front compartment (8) that accommodates the components for the preparation and dispensing of coffee, and a rear compartment (9) that contains the carrier element (7). The components (10, 11, 12) for the supply of hot water and the supply of steam are arranged in the carrier element (7). The partition (6) provides thermal separation and shielding between the two compartments (8, 9) and a dry-moist separation. This modular structure substantially eases and simplifies the assembly and service tasks on the coffee machine.