Shopfront: We're big fans of Dunnes Stores. The items in the homewares department aren't all beautiful but there are many great things. One is this nest of tables that sells for €100.

There's not much to it and that's its beauty. Haus in Temple Bar sells a similar, albeit somewhat larger, table by Conran for €960.

So the wood in Conran's is stained oak . . . but this is basically a ready-to-wear version of the designer piece.

If you want something larger, buy two at Dunnes and sit them side-by-side.

Equally crafty is Dunnes' glassware which you won't be able to tell apart from some designed by fashion designers for Irish crystal companies.

The weight, the shape, the shine, is all there but at €25 for two, instead of around €50 for one glass.

Dunnes is also the place for everyday basics at good prices: large white plates for €3, white breakfast bowls for €2, serving bowls for €6 and so on.

The best Dunnes Stores for homewares is in Cornelscourt where they have introduced a new range of furniture this week, the first move in a plan to expand the area.

Chocolate leather-bound coffee tables are €300, leather console tables cost €350, and wood dining tables sell for €400.