Shoppers can buy plans for the two-story house built inside the store

The "Lifestore" features a complete two-storey house designed by an award-winning architect.

The dedicated home interiors store is one of M&S's biggest changes in its 120-year history.

In the recent past the company has seen sales falling. Last month its director of clothing, David Norgrove, resigned after poor Christmas sales.

M&S claim the new store - which will open its doors to shoppers on Wednesday - will "revolutionise the home retail market".

More than 12,000 products ranging from cutlery and champagne to sofas and garden benches, will be sold at the 70,000sq ft branch, near the MetroCentre.

'Exciting concept'

Instead of departments, the Lifestore concept means shoppers will browse different "worlds" with each having its own theme - rest, relax, renew, celebrate, cook, organise, play, escape and al fresco.

At the heart of the building is a two-storey, two-bedroom, house, created by architect John Pawson.

Shoppers who like the house can even buy it - the plans cost �1,000, with building costs estimated at more than �300,000.

Vittorio Radice, the former chief executive of Selfridges, who began his career at Habitat, was brought in to oversee the company's expansion in home interiors in February 2003.

The Lifestore has 'worlds' instead of departments

He said: "Marks & Spencer Lifestore is an exciting concept that breaks new ground.

"It represents our first step towards becoming a leader in the home market.

"We've designed the Lifestore to reflect the way we live now and capture the atmosphere and eclecticism of our homes.

"It's a brand new shopping experience that's all about individuality and accessibility. We're confident it has something for everyone."

The concentration on home interiors is part of M&S's attempt to reinvigorate sales across the board.

Its clothing and homeware ranges dropped 2.3% in like-for-like sales for the seven weeks to 10 January.

Other Lifestores are scheduled to open in Kingston-upon-Thames later this year and Lakeside Retail Park, West Thurrock, next year.