Sostrene Grene, Wakefield: I went to the ‘Poundland of the middle classes’ but be careful of this one thing

It’s rare I get excited about a shop opening but when it comes to this luxurious store with bargain basement prices, I was eagerly awaiting the cutting of the ribbon and the tufting of the rug.

Sostrene Grene is based at Trinity Walk, a super modern and accessible shopping centre, which has managed to survive despite the huge loss of Debenhams department store.

Finally, good news for the high street, this stylish sought after shop has opened.

Sostrene Grene is a Danish ‘homeware and lifestyle brand,’ which has the inventory of a haberdashery store meets Paperchase with the gloss of a Habitat store (when they were in their heyday) combined with the usefulness of Ikea. It has a Laura Ashley style feel but B&M prices. Farrow and Ball wallpaper for the frugal. A poundland for the middle classes - actually it’s cheaper.

I could go on.

I visited the store during its opening weekend, eager to check out the products and the relaxed homely ‘Hygge’ vibe that sets these shops apart from the cold strobe lighting and unattractive shop layouts.

It didn’t disappoint. Granted for the opening there was ballerina and live classical music playing and unless it’s after hours on a weekend, I doubt live music and dancing at the shop doors will be a regular occurrence.

While the shop staff were more than welcoming and the atmosphere inviting, I felt like Pretty Woman as I was dressed in my scruffs yet surrounded by some of the prettiest homeware and delicately displayed crafts I’ve seen while shopping.

I’d say it’s like an art gallery, but it actually is, with local artists exhibiting in one corner on a rotational basis, a crafting area and Instagrammable corners.

As I wander around the shop based on a labyrinth layout, I’m greeted at every glance by a new area of ‘home inspo.’

Sostrene Grene shops have become destinations in their own right, giving you a warm Christmas glow all year around.

Wakefield’s Sostrene Grene is surprisingly spacious, a real tardis off the main thoroughfare.

I’d love the brand to take over the huge Debenhams unit and create a Christmas experience all year around in its trademark style.

At last there’s some hope for the high street.

Just be warned, you’ll go in for some loose leaf tea and come out with beads, a cake tin and a rug.

With the relaxed ambience and aromas taking over my senses, I went in to capture content and browse but managed to convince myself I would become the Mary Berry of baking, the Marie Kondo of organisation and the Mrs Hinch of cleaning, anything to justifying buying some of the pretty products.

I’d say it’s a must visit but if I’m honest I want to be selfish and keep the place for myself to saunter around in my own indoor dream secret garden. This is slow cooking’s version of shopping. Worth the wait. Delicious.