Dunelm is among those humble high-street brands that don't get their flowers nearly enough. To that I say, no more.
The high street hero has come in clutch for my home furnishings more than a few times, thanks to its affordability and quick shipping, among other things. Born in 1979 as a mere market stall, the now-nationally renowned Dunelm is the down-to-Earth destination for all things furnishing and homeware.
Available in brick and mortar, there’s a far broader selection amid the online shelves. Just one walk through my flat would show you three Dunelm rugs, two Dunelm shelving units and even one Dunelm sofa – but you’d be forgiven for thinking they were found in an East London boutique, rather than online for sub-£100.
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Beyond its wealth of affordable options, Dunelm has a wide array of pretty luxe-looking pieces that could rival any of its more highbrow – and high-priced – counterparts, including Soho Home.
To save you some time scrolling through the site yourself, I’ve picked out five favourites available right now that give Soho Home a run for its money – from mid-century table lamps to marbled side tables.
Dunelm Maddie Tile Chunky Table Lamp: £65, Dunelm.com
For £65, this Dunelm Maddie lamp looks like a piece of lighting over double (maybe triple) the price thanks to its rich, saturated colour palette and tiled base. The mid-century inspired piece nods to the Soho Home Greyson lamp (£395, Dunelm.com), at a fraction of the cost.
Dunelm Khari four-door sideboard: Was £440, now £384, Dunelm.com
A little Art Deco with modern construction, this sideboard features two cupboards and adjustable shelves, with plenty of room for plates, glasses, cups, et al. Elevated by its retro-inspired design with curved details and slatted fronts, the large four-door sideboard easily combines form and function – oh, and it’s on sale right now. It’s a stellar substitute for the Soho Home Marcel media unit (£1,995, Sohohome.com).
Dunelm Amina chair: £169, Dunelm.com
Now this really is something you’d see listed on Soho Home and the like for £700+. But on Dunelm? You can cop it for under £170. Sewn from smooth chenille fabric and sculpted tub back create a warm, inviting feel; this Amina chair is both bold and easily placed in your interiors... as well as actually being rather comfortable. Win-win.
Dunelm Seana Side Table: Was £179, now £125, Dunelm.com
Something about this Seana side table puts me in mind of a plinth at a museum; crafted with a burl wood veneer and curved edges, this piece brings both warmth and sophistication to its surroundings. A near-identical alternative to Soho Home’s Dawson side table (£995, Dunelm.com), visitors won’t notice the difference.
Pondus marble and wood coffee table: Was £449, now £314. dunelm.com
Combining an organic shape with a luxe construction, Dunelm’s Pondus coffee table is a centrepiece if ever I saw one, just like Soho Home’s Oxley marbled coffee table (£3,995, Dunelm.com). The defining feature of this piece is, very clearly, the real cherry marble top with natural veining, based on solid mango wood legs.
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