Shopfront: Finding painters and decorators who do a good job at a good price can be difficult, and the best way to do so is often through word of mouth.

So here's a pair who come with very high recommendation: Louise Kennedy, a stickler for a perfect finish, uses the services of Dubliners Robbie Keating and David Smullen (aka Purple Ark). They did all the paintwork in her house on Merrion Square, so you can take it that they do a meticulous job, charge a fair price and are trustworthy to boot (plus they are two of the nicest guys you could meet). Although they welcome work in less grand properties, they are no ordinary painters but specialise in period homes and describe themselves as paint specialists who can paint anything from delicate furniture to chandeliers, putting forward colour suggestions along the way. They will also do things such as paint a mural for a nursery or guild a looking glass.

Purple Ark are at 087 6424166 or 087 6480303