Bristol Life - Issue 342

ISSUE 342 / NOVEMBER 2023 / £3

ISSUE 342 / NOVEMBER 2023 / BANDS WILL PLAY ONCE MORE

THE TRANSFORMATION OF BRISTOL BEACON (COME AND TAKE A LOOK INSIDE…)

+ KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL + PAZZO PERFECTION + MODERN RUSTIC + GO GOTH OR GO HOME

EDITOR’S LETTER

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Nights on the tiles

It’s taken five years and a cool £132 mill, but the transformation of Bristol Beacon is almost complete. As the dustsheets come down, we grab ourselves a hard hat and take a peek behind the scenes

t’s been quite the season for things opening and reopening. First came the inestimable thrill of being able to cross from Corrie Road to Wapping Wharf over Gaol Ferry Bridge once again; now all you little Southville hipsters can grab your morning macchiatos from Little Vics without having to circumvent the globe.

No sooner had we started to take that for granted than the most anticipated new restaurant of the year opened its doors. We barged our way to the head of the queue at Pazzo to bring you our hot take on page 34.

And while nobody could question the significance of either of the above, along comes Bristol Beacon, guaranteed to steal absolutely everybody’s thunder when it opens its new vestibules, concert spaces and restaurants. And yes, it’s taken longer than predicted, and it’s cost quite a few quid more, but then these things invariably do, and based on what we saw during an early-doors shufti this month it’s all going to look amazingly beautiful and make Bristol very, very proud.

If you can’t wait until opening night on 30 November, turn to page 10.

But look, even we can’t be going out to restaurants and gigs all the time, and with the evenings becoming satisfactorily darker and cooler (fully paid-up autumn fan here), we’re all likely to be spending a lot more time indoors. Maybe you’re gazing around the homestead in dissatisfaction, and contemplating a few improvements.

While you may not have the same kind of budget as the Beacon’s* for a refurb, there are always clever tweaks and glow-ups you can draw on for a refresh; in our latest interiors feature on page 58 we’ve put the spotlight on the kitchen.

Gazing into the crystal ball of issues still to come, I see that our next one is destined to be headily festive, with Christmas gift guides and shows and whatnot; depending on whether you’re an early or late adopter, this will either cause delight or dismay.

Whatever, it’s happening.

DERI ROBINS *Anyone else now wondering what a £132m kitchen refurb might look like?

Bristol Life editor @BristolLifeMag

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Issue 342 / November 2023 ON THE COVER Giles Round’s new tiles for Bristol Beacon; more on page 10

ARTS 10 15 16 24 33

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BRISTOL BEACON Fancy an early look inside?

ART PAGE Out of Afrika WHAT’S ON Three weeks neatly summed up in four pages BRISTOL HEROES Now you see them...

BOOKS Hot releases for a chilly month

FOOD & DRINK

34 RESTAURANT Still pazzo after all these years 37 FOOD AND DRINK Openings, events, gin etc 41 CAFÉ SOCIETY After an unprecedented one-issue break,

tan s bac in the ca s

SHOPPING

46 ED’S CHOICE If you like it, put a skull on it 50 FASHION Make like Humpty Dumpty and have a great fall

HOMES

58 KITCHENS Hot trends and even hotter taps

BUSINESS

73 NETWORK Awards, news and views

PROPERTY

91 SHOWCASE The category is: mid-century modern rustic

REGULARS

6 SPOTLIGHT 9 BRIZZOGRAM 98 BRISTOL LIVES It’s that Steve Hayles from Upfest!

91 Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Colin Moody, Stan Cullimore, Storysmith Books Commercial manager Neil Snow neil.snow@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Craig Wallberg craig.wallberg@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Jake Horwood jake.horwood@mediaclash.co.uk Production/distribution manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane. ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bristol Life MediaClash, Carriage Court, 22 Circus Mews, Bath, BA1 2PW 01225 475800; www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

We’re a West Country-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath and Bristol. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 5

SPOTLIGHT Film and TV

THE STAR TREATMENT

MADE IN BRISTOL Anyone needing an in ection o colou and fun in their lives should head down to Cabot Circus pronto, to feast their eyes on the new high u al c eated by a e ain o Aa d an and est The mural, which aims to celebrate istol s c eati ity is based on o iginal a two by Aa d an illust ato o na Harrington and incorporates all the e ected egasta s o the Aa d an uni e se o haun the hee to Wallace & Gromit, Morph and the cast of Chicken Run. Our claymates run predictably riot in a landscape dotted with famous local land a s including li ton us ension

idge the istol oyal os ital o hild en which o cou se benefits o Aa d an s and the and A eal s a a ing und aising e o ts and a ew highly recognisable boats. ant to a e you iewing e e ience e en o e i e si e ead o e to io sho in ua e s ia s o an a t class o g ab a cheese toastie allace and o it style o o u obile cheese shop The Cheese Connection.

Please can we get another one of these outside Temple Meads, so that it’s the fi st thing isito s see when they a i e in istol instead o e le ate For more: www.aardman.com

Jason as Cary.

We like the chin

Immersive

BRAVE NEW WORLD Cultural centre Watershed has unveiled its plans for a new immersive gallery, to be called Undershed. e now that e e ything s i e si e these days, but this sounds intriguing. he galle y is due to o en ne t s ing but the team is still testing out ideas with audiences and artists, so the concept is still evolving. e now that nde shed will be a galle y eatu ing a yea ound og a eo i e si e wo cu ated to a e the atic lin s ac oss Watershed’s public programme,” says Watershed CEO Clare Reddington, Audiences ight e e ience a iece

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of VR, or attend an immersive dining event. They could be surrounded by screens one month, and listening to audio in the da the ne t e thin that b illiant i e si e wo is too o ten li ited to being shown only at esti als o e hibited with an emphasis on the technology, rather than the quality, meaning and relevance o the wo he e is a huge body o b illiant wo that a ely finds a ublic audience in istol o beyond nde shed eels b a e new e citing and completely obvious for Watershed.

We can’t wait to share it with you.”

For more www.watershed.co.uk

© RIOT COMMUNICATIONS © IT V

Street art

We’re spoiling you this issue with not just one but two local TV and movie sto ies he fi st conce ns istol based actor Paul McGann, who had a pleasingly short commute to the ottle a d tudios while a ing his new fil The Undertaker – a gothic gangste th ille about a ild anne ed funeral director who gets caught up in the shenanigans of the mob, set in the crumbling maze of a northern town in the 1960s.

It premièred at Watershed on 17 October, and will go on general release on 3 November.

Then there’s Jason Isaacs, starring in new TV bio series Archie. Obviously there’s only one Cary Grant, but ason loo s easonably con incing in the fi st loo hotos than s to a new osthetic cle t chin e e not seen a trailer yet, so we guess it will all come down to how well he nails the oice can he ca tu e that ine ably c is an Atlantic accent e do now e citingly that the se ies will co e a y A chie s istol childhood and a e loo ing o wa d to seeing the i aculate Harriet Walter playing his mum, Elsie.

The series premières on ITVX in November.

For more: www.theundertakerfilm.com; www.itv.com

SPOTLIGHT

THE FUTURE’S ORANGE Or at least it will be for the foreseeable. Here are some of the best photos of autumn colour we’ve seen down the years, along with a few new belters Follow us and tag us with your pics! instagram @bristollifemag

@josh.perrett

@fifi_powell

@jlw93_photography

@theperkspective

@bristolparksproject

@shoot.bangers

@leightondaintree

@emiliafuller

@chrshill

@inthepicturebristol

@kruggy01

@boysinbristol

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BANDS

WILL PLAY

ONCE MORE

ARTS

It’s nearly time for Bristol Beacon to reveal its multi-million, five-year transformation – but before you rush to book your seat, take a moment to admire the building’s finishing touches

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Words by Ursula Cole

Giles Round’s new tiles beautifully complement the hall’s Bristol Byzantine architecture

t’s been a while – since June 2018, to be exact – but Bristol’s premier concert venue, the hall formerly known as olston is finally set to reopen on 30 November under the now familiar name of Bristol Beacon. he sca olding is still u du ing the ea ly autu n o ning we call in; there are no o chest as in tu es tuning instruments in the pit just yet, just builders in ha d hats ha e ing nails but it s easy to see how beautiful the space will look when the final slic o aint has d ied A ong the ost eye catching new eatu es are the colourful mosaics in the atrium ante n building by tile a tist iles ound If you’ve visited London over the past year o so you ay ha e seen iles s wo on the Victoria Line, created as part of the Art on the nde g ound o ect to ha e his wo he e in Bristol is a coup. hile his tiles ha e an int icate geo et ic design and d aw on a alette o ib ant colours, they blend beautifully with the architecture of one of the most historically significant a eas o the building he a two is integ ated into the a chitectu e o the ante n s ace iles tells us he design is the esult o esea ch into the histo y o the building and the extraordinary architecture of Bristol, s ecifically the istol y antine and the design e e ences the olych o atic decoration used on the façade. My work is, in a t a o t ait o the building itsel The colour of the tiles pop beneath the natu al light o the e u bished ante n the glass oo which was c u bling when the building closed in his has now been esto ed c eating a light and ai y s ace which leads both into the Lantern and the new

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ARTS

ABOVE: Linda Bothwell’s bronze replaces the original balustrade; INSET: The fabric of the new chairs, by Rana

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Begum; BELOW: The white hoops beneath the new Lantern glass roof; RIGHT: Beacon Hall is nearly ready

PHOTOS BY PAUL BL AKEMORE

restaurant (details on the latter coming soon).

But while the tiles are the most immediately arresting new feature, there’s lots more to see and marvel over. Even the fabric of the new seats are an art intervention; the fabric has been designed by Rana Begum and made

by Bristol-based woven textiles and fabric innovators Dash & Miller, who work with couture houses internationally on the future of ab ic he design a owing double atte ned ca ou age a ies in a ea ance de ending on the angle of your view. These are seats which deserve to be treated with reverence.

If you’re in to see a gig, think twice before ic ing an e ty can o hatche s old o used chewing gum under these seats.

Linda Brothwell and Libita Sibungu co lete the line u o a tists n a conte o a y es onse to the neoclassical facade of the hall, Linda’s new work in bronze was c eated with a cho eog a he to e lace an original balustrade; it moves around the co ne o the building with a ou ish and e esents he fi st la ge scale wo to date ibita ibingu was issued an o en in itation to o ose he own es onse to the enue and its osition close to the wate thin ing about a s and ca tog a hy within the conte t o hidden histo ies and e o ies o eo le

ARTS of colour in the city to create a public audio artwork you’ll be able to see in the foyer.

LET THE MUSIC PLAY

30 November will be a massive day for the city, when opening act The Light Fantastic takes to the stage of the new Beacon Hall. The fi st e o e s ha e Bristol running through the li e a stic o oc Paraorchestra, led by Charles Hazlewood, collaborating with techno composer Surgeons Girl, with Limbic Cinema creating an immersive light show. Tickets are almost sold out for both e o ances so this is you final wa ning i you want to witness the historic reopening and tell your grandkids all about it.

Over the opening weekend, the Beacon will collaborate with artists across the city to create a giant Housewarming on Saturday 2 December, which will go on until very late; Lady Nade, Ishmael Ensemble and Elles Bailey are some of the names revealed to be playing so far, along with glittertastic party favourites Doreen Doreen. You’ll be able to head down to the new cellar space, where the vibes are

designed to evoke Liverpool’s Cavern Club, making a perfectly atmospheric home for jazz and blues.

After that, it’s business as usual, with an impressive rollcall of big-name artists booked in until the end of 2023 and into 2024. As has always been the case the hall will o e a balanced and eclectic programme, from Paloma Faith’s pop to comedy with Romesh Ranganathan, world, folk, jazz, classical and rock music, and movies played with live orchestral accompaniment.

Contemporary music fest Simple Things returns in 2024 after four years absence, while the Beacon will continue to host many artists at other Bristol venues. Even Ricky Gervais is in for December.

A ew final stats o stats ans the newly reopened Beacon is anticipated to hold 800 events annually, with audience numbers predicted to rise to 500,000 a year.

There’s just over a month until doors-open day; get it in the diary, as it promises to be the perfect ode to Bristol’s music at its most iconic and best-loved venue. n

“Even the fabric of the new seats are an art intervention”

Check out the programme at www.bristolbeacon.org

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THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F B R I S T O L’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

T

A

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he istol esti al season has o ed fi ly bac indoo s and ne t u o ou delectation is A i a ye the outh est s biggest celeb ation o A ican cine a and cultu e which this yea esents us with o o tunities to ta e in st eet a t a chitectu e chess olitics and usic o all oints o the continent ictu ed abo e enaud a et s System K docu ents the di e ent ways in which a tists in inshasa use the deb is o city li e including bullet casings bottle to s and lastic waste to ta e a t into the st eets oo out too o A o utu ist o antic usical Neptune Frost awa d winning oc doc W.I.T.C.H (We Intend to Cause Havoc), and the outh est e i e o Mami Watca a undance awa d winning su e natu al th ille ins i ed by ige ian ol yths he wee w a s on o e be with a celeb ation o a chitect i b do ancis the fi st blac A ican a chitect to win the estigious it e i e in Afrika Eye,14- 22 November at various venues; full details at www.afrikaeye.org.uk

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WHAT’S cto er ON ovem er EXHIBITIONS Until 29 October

STITCHING TOGETHER Beautiful textile creations and stories of women across the city, celebrating the joy of making through the shared language of sewing at A nolfini arnolfini.or .uk

Until 5 November

DESIGN ICONS: MADE IN BRISTOL Eclectic exhibition at Ken Stradling celeb ating istol th ough fi e iconic stories, from animation to timber-framing; tradlin collection.or BRISTOL PHOTOGRAPHS Jem Southam’s classic mid-century photos continue to show at Society Café; rr hoto ook .com

Until 22 December

ABANDONED Photographers Jill Quigley and Adrian Tyler explore abandoned homes in Scotland and Ireland, and the household objects that lie within them; at MPF; martin arr oundation.or

Until 14 January

ANNUAL OPEN The South West’s biggest annual open exhibition returns for its 170th outing; at RWA, rwa.or .uk

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OFELIA RODGRIGUEZ A major exhibition by Colombian artist Ofelia; at Spike Island, ikei land.or .uk

Until 18 February

ELIAS SIME: EREGATA he fi st a o solo u o ean museum exhibition for Elias, one of Ethiopia’s leading contemporary a tists at A nolfini arnolfini.or .uk

Until 21 April

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR he e y best natu e hotog a hy in the world returns to M Shed for its annual AW residency; ri tolmu eum .or .uk

30 October-4 November LUXMURALIS: FORCE OF NATURE A new e sion o the s ectacula i e si e lightshow co es to Bristol Cathedral; book at uu .co

SHOWS

Until 28 October

GISELLE ne o the best things we e e e seen on a Bristol stage – hell, any stage – Akram Khan’s contemporary reimagining of the classic ballet for ENB returns to Hippodrome. If you

The gospel according to Nancy Medina: Choir Boy at BOV

thought ballet wasn’t for you, this could well change your mind; at ticket .com DIANA: THE UNTOLD AND UNTRUE STORY oin iana in hea en as she sha es the tale of her life through drag, multimedia puppetry and a lot of queer joy. It’s what she would ha e wanted and no o ged ban statements required (#Bashir). Alma a e n almatavernandtheatre.co.uk

Until 11 November

CHOIR BOY Nancy Medina’s directorial debut at is a ell Al in c aney s Tony-award nominated musical play; ri tololdvic.or .uk

30 October-1 November

WATCH ME DIE A twisted one-woman comedy exploring obsession and the phenomenon of online shaming, played in the hauntingly atmospheric tunnels of Loco Klub ta lora lin .co.uk

30 October-4 November

PROJECT DICTATOR It’s Rhum and Clay, with the clown show about totalita ianis we ne e knew we needed, and it’s at BOV, ri tololdvic.or .uk

31 October-4 November

DREAMS OF THE DARK ’Tis the ideal season for a bunch of original spooky tales from Peter li o d and eathe hoeni and they e at the Al a a e n almatavernandtheatre.co.uk

31 October-11 November PRETTY WOMAN If you’re on board with a musical romcom about a sex worker hoo ing a ich co o ate ultu e this is the night out for you; Bristol Hippodrome; at ticket .com

31 October, 14 November

CARVING’S CARNIVAL It’s hard to sum up this show from i e si e theat e a ni l c ew in just a few lines, but ‘fantastical i e si e ga es e o ances and ad entu es ind o co e s it it s at The Volley; headfir t ri tol.co.uk

2-4 November

CRACKING When Welsh writer and performer Shôn Dale-Jones playfully cracks an egg on his mother’s head, he has no idea that real-life internet trolls will appear on his doorstep. Well, you wouldn’t expect that, would you A new show about lo e and hate, madness and reality, at The Wardrobe; thewardro etheatre.com

WHAT’S ON 4-11 November

JEKYLL AND HYDE A radical reimagining of the Gothic classic hen efined well ead e essed icto ian wi e attie Jekyll decides to continue her dead husband’s revolutionary research, strange things start to happen; whispers of the 21st century distort the timeline and her world unravels.

At TFT, tobaccofactorytheatres.com

6 November

HOUSE OF FIGS: THE AWKWARD GUIDE TO FRIENDSHIP wo eths o the ice o one as il oet y esents oet eth al e ley and usician eth Roberts in a show celebrating all the shapes of friendship, from perfectly platonic meet-cutes to courageous conversations and beyond, at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

7 November

DUGSI DAYZ Described as ‘a thought-provoking itish o ali usli etelling o The Breakfast Club,’ which sounds etty good un to us at bristololdvic.org.uk

8-9 November

THE RAGGED TROUSER PHILANTHROPISTS A one -man show based on the 1914 Robert Tressell tale, and the only one we’re aware of this month that makes use of a magic lantern; Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk

10-11 November

DRAG ‘N’ DROP In a show that puts the feathered eyebrow in highbrow and the dick joke in Phillip K Dick, Dragona asks: if a drag queen falls in a forest, will her makeup survive? Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk

13-15 November

BERYL’S DAY OUT ts at istol oo and e yl is having a well-deserved break from her salon in Weston-super-Mare and those incessant blue rinses...

Ministry of Entertainment brings the quirkiness to Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk

COMEDY Ongoing TOP: Rhum and Clay: if you see just one clown show about totalitarianism this month, let it be this one MIDDLE: They’re so lovely: indie popsters Scouting for Girls come to O2 BOTTOM: Fiona Allen has annoying school-gate mums in her sight at Alma Tavern

CLOSER EACH DAY The world’s longest-running improvised comedy soap continues to bubble away amusingly at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

27 October

THE SHADE PULLERS & LASH STACKERS SOCIAL CLUB It’s the drag show within a drag show set at a northern working-man’s club that we all need in our lives right now, and it’s back at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com TOM STADE: NATURAL BORN KILLER The ‘legendary Canadian superstar’ comes to Redgrave to chat about the complexities of our ever-changing world, and navigate his way around progressiveness and pronouns; redgravetheatre.com

29 October

NABIL ABDULRASHID: THE PURPLE PILL A show about trying to be a good e son while staying a bad an find out how that’s going for Nabil at the Hen & Chicken; henandchicken.com JOSIE LONG The underdog Fringe hero and deli ious new othe the fi st person in the world to have two babies) returns with a show about the changes wrought by time, passion, moving to Scotland, and loving the world under, let’s face it di cult ci cu stances bristololdvic.org.uk

2 November

RACHEL FAIRBURN: SHOWGIRL Rachel casts her acerbic eye over everything from your children to her new alcohol-free life (accurate at time of writing). Has she mellowed a bit? She carries a lucky crystal now.

Catch her at The Hen before she disappears to the countryside with only joss sticks and taxidermy for company. henandchicken.com

3 November

PAUL FOOT: DISSOLVE Paul reveals how he discovered the secret of life on the outskirts of Lancaster. Inevitably he does get distracted by King Tutankhamun, the ouse o o ds i li icha d o cious lolli o ladies and what Jesus might have achieved if he’d been a plumber; join him at The Hen for his most personal show to date, henandchicken.com REUBEN KAYE: THE BUTCH IS BACK s a ou ite co edian we e told is back to tear the world apart and put it back together, backed by a full band. At 1532; 1532bristol.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON

4 November

11 November

5 November

15-18 November

MARK WATSON: SEARCH Arguably the funniest of all Bristolborn comedians, and now a fullypaid-up mid-lifer, Mark considers the search for meaning that we’re all on, with or without the help of Google; TFT, tobaccofactorytheatres.com

16 November

JIMMY MCGHIE Top circuit act Jimmie headlines Stand-up For the Weekend at The Hen, with Micky Overman and compère Meryl O’Rourke; henandchicken.com THE LOST CABARET Now, presumably, safely found, as the wild rambunctious night of alternative comedy and games comes to The Wardrobe thewardrobetheatre.com

MILTON JONES: PROPER COMEDY The ‘king of the one-liners’ (though Jimmy Carr might have something to say about that) headlines at Propyard; propyard.co.uk LUCY BEAUMONT: THE TROUBLE AND STRIFE An award-winning stand up comedian before she met Jon Richardson, thanks very much, Lucy is going to let loose and let slip on her roller coaster world. Life through the Beaumont lens is more surreal than you could ever imagine; at BOV, bristololdvic.org.uk

9 November

JULIA MASLI: CHOOSH! & VIGGO VENN: BRITISH COMEDIAN A double whammy of two Edinburgh hits. Julia pays an absurd homage to migration, in which an Eastern European clown voyages to America for a hot dog. All reviews of Viggo read, as if by mutual consent, “Viggo is Norwegian.” At The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com HELEN BAUER: GRAND SUPREME DARLING PRINCESS Helen’s at The Hen to talk about the women in her life, from her mum to her bf and that one girl who was mean to her in 2008. Also, Disney princesses. henandchicken.com

10 November TOP: Synthy anti-pop princess Baby Queen comes to Trinity

MIDDLE: Tim Yip’s costumes: yet another reason to see ENB’s Giselle BOTTOM: Take me to church: Luxmuralis at Bristol Cathedral

JOSH JONES: GOBSMACKED A new show from everyone’s favourite gobby Manc princess [sic] comes to the Hen; henandchicken.com

CARL DONNELLY Carl, and his stories of everyday life mined for stretches of selfdeprecating silliness, takes his turn at the mic for the Hen’s Stand-up for the Weekend; henandchicken.com HELP! I THINK I’M A NATIONALIST Seamas Carey is confused. House prices soar, the population shifts, tensions rise. Can nationalism be the answer? What’s the line between pride and power? What happens when it all goes too far? At BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk FIONA ALLEN: ON THE RUN The Smack the Pony star is on her debut tour with a show about family, marriage, and things that truly annoy her. It’s a show for everyone, even those passive-aggressive school mums. At Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk

17 November

JOHN HEGLEY The evergreen quirky stand-up is bringing a show devised for adults but of interest to some nine-yearolds. There are songs, poems, stories, cardboard creatures and optional joining-ins. At The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

MUSIC 27 October

IZCO & REEK0 DJ and producer IZCO’s output e ects his ac ney u b inging immersed in grime, garage, and jungle; Reek0 combines jazzy inst u entals and ga age ows At Trinity; trinitybristol.org.uk

28-29 October

ELECTRIKAL SOUND SYSTEM HALLOWEEN: DICK AND DOM Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in da Bungalow any more... gotta love the way these guys have pivoted over the years. Join them at Trinity for a bass-rattling Halloween experience. trinitybristol.org.uk

29 October

SYMPHONIC UNIVERSE: THE MUSIC OF THE AVENGERS AND BEYOND Very much doing what is says on the tin; stirring movie themes played

by London Concert Orchestra. We

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WHAT’S ON

TOP: The butch is back, and going by the name of Reuben Kaye MIDDLE: Deaths in Venice: it’s Don’t Look Now at BFF BOTTOM: Rock chick Lizzie‘s at The Louie

assume the Avengers in question a e the a el a ou ed ones rather than a homage to the British 1960s TV series. Which seems a sha e i od o e atgtickets.com

2 November

A abella atha as she s nown to he u is o outh A ica but sounds as i she g ew u ne t doo to ily Allen hec out he Dream Girl id on ou ube and catch he at inity be o e she beco es e en bigge trinitybristol.org.uk

7 November

SCOUTING FOR GIRLS hey e so lo ely the li e a ing singalong indie o da lings a e tou ing new albu he lace e sed o eet and co ing to academymusicgroup.com

NEWTON FAULKNER The English singer-songwriter is ad usting to a usical landsca e do inated by u see where he’s at at inity trinitybristol.org.uk VISTAS he cottish indie oc e s b ing thei chaotic li e a ing show to inity trinitybristol.org.uk

8 November

17 November

VIVA VIVALDI istol nse ble candles Dixit Dominus, The Four Seasons and o e you could al ost be in the hiesa di anta a ia ella ieta in the s t s stgeorgesbristol.co.uk LIZZIE ESAU he eo die singe songw ite oseys o d ea y sweet ocals to o e oc chic ene gy with e owe ing ly ics to boot catch he headlining he ouie thelouisiana.net

9 November

THE MARY WALLOPERS onte o a y ish ol o o outh thei aw ene gy has been desc ibed as the lancy othe s c ossed with ohn ydon thei the e eactiona y stu to o e ty At inity trinitybristol.org.uk

10 November

HEAVEN17 he ost un e s loo bac at yea s in the bi eeling old e o ing albu The Luxury Gap at academymusicgroup.com

10-11 November

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www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 21

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THE INVISIBLES Invisible Circus has taken its final bow at Unit 15 – its home for a decade. Are there still enough spaces left in this city for art and theatre to flourish?

Words and pics by Colin Moody 1

BRISTOL HEROES

2

F

or sale’ signs are dotted around the Unit 15 site; the word ‘Eviction’ is beamed on to a façade, and Invisible Circus’s own take on a security team keep on stopping the show, because it’s time for this to end.

And there could be one massive mega irony in the way eo le ha e oc ed to istol o its cultu e and ibe as those doing the vibing retreat to ever-remoter postcodes.

1

We’re at the Invisible Circus site, and just before the show, ringmaster and creative director Doug Francisco reads the script one more time.

Or I guess it could be other paperwork.

2

Let’s shine a light on the creative space that is still here, at Unit 15, at this moment, at the time of going to press. And let’s hope that wo li e the n isibles continues to ou ish and astound us e lo ing the themes that are vibrating and radiating in multiple directions at the moment.

3

3

As I said: there’s a culture here under the surface, vibrating. The energy from that vibration is circulating in undulating waves in all di ections it can ow o he e o the uninitiated is a isual eta ho o one e o e s owe s ill and ene gy eet fi ly lanted on the stage that is istol

4

4

Let’s take a trip to an imagined future, Invisible Circus being the guide who o e s us the ed ill The cranes are marching all over the city, like in the H G Wells novel. lide War of the Worlds analogies to one side, and grab the time machine. his achine has been cobbled togethe o the stu all a ound us a well-known-brand espresso machine handle is cranked forwards, steam pulses from some valves, it’s all very cool, and the machine pushes us slowly into the future. an that handle down ha de at white s eed and we a e acing forwards. From our bolted-on vintage barber’s chair we can see cranes rise and fall, as more and more the shadow of tower blocks clunk into e i he al iew then suddenly we find ou sel es ento bed in steel and concrete. Hit the brake and pressure is released, we glide to normal time and stop. te ing out o this g ey cube we e e ge into the istol o the future. Looking up, we see little squares of life, plasma-glowing realityTV auras dancing out into the night. ut wait hat is this wo ed s ect al ene gies not aying any heed to this have found a way to dance and weave their energy around this bloc hei o solidified one eaches out to the othe and in the energy of return… Connection. age the finale o the n isible i cus final e o ance on the currently crane-free site.

“There could be a massive irony in the wa eo le have ocked to Bristol for its culture and vibe, as those doing the vibing retreat to ever-remoter postcodes” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 25

BRISTOL HEROES 5

6

7

5

As a fella on the ferry once told me, as we slid past the ss Great Britain, “You think that’s impressive? Just imagine the machines they had to make to press the iron, bend the iron, contort under insane energies the metal into Brunel’s design.”

And I, for one, imagine his spanner must have been huuuuuuge.

6

Behind every super-fast, locally engineered supercar there are people in shirts,who get to work at 20 is Plenty speed.

Bristol is full of heroes who live on normal streets, with haircuts and dreams, who imagine the near impossible and make it reality. ’Cos that’s how we roll.

7

Once a year, the warm air from summer ends, it drops a few degrees almost immediately and hits a warmer seascape. At Weston, the e ect o this can be a sea og that swee s in and a es e e ything in front of you invisible.

So, here’s to the two who wandered out in it a few years ago, and, like me, realised they had no idea which way was seaward and which back to the land. The tide retreats so far in Weston that you can’t hear the sea.

Lost. Completely. A little bit of fear, but a good time to shoot fellow wary travellers.

When the whole world goes away, it’s like another dimension. And it’s good to be lost o ti e to ti e we ight find ou sel es out the e

“Bristol is full of heroes who live on normal streets, with haircuts and dreams, who imagine the near impossible and make it reality” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 27

8

It’s important to get taught.

To all those role models out there who light the fuse, you don’t always make a song and dance about it. But your work is appreciated.

Like the father who, I guess, here brought his daughter down to see the Jen Reid 2020 sculpture by Marc Quinn, A Surge of Power.

Not at the big moment, when the press were scattering like hawks around it to get the editor’s preferred angle with huge crowds, but in the quieter moments.

You are part of the lessons, and make no fuss.

You are the silent army educator, and we salute you.

Colin Moody; content creation, online images X @moodycolin Instagram @colinmoodyphotography www.colinmoodyphotography.wordpress.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

GARDINER HASKINS INTERIORS

GARDINER HASKINS introduces a stylish and modern kitchen case study...

Designer: Zoe Waller. Words by Annabelle Grundy. Photography by Colin Poole

D

esigned for a new phase of life, Naomi and Jonathan’s new kitchen was part of a larger reorganisation of their ground floor space. With their family now grown up, their lifestyle had changed, so the existing kitchen, dining room and 30-year-old conservatory have been replaced by a home office, a snug and a relaxed, open-plan kitchen and dining space.

This is a busy household. Naomi, an enthusiastic cook and baker, caters for at least six adults every day, so when it came to planning the new kitchen, she had very clear ideas. Functionality, efficiency and easy maintenance were top priorities, although she wanted an attractive, symmetrical look, and a warm, welcoming vibe, too.

The couple took time to research other local kitchen suppliers before choosing Gardiner Haskins. After an initial conversation, our designer Zoe Waller visited their home to measure up and discuss their ideas in detail.

She listened carefully to Naomi’s preferences, adjusting the cabinet design and layout to build in the functionality and neat, balanced effect she wanted, “Zoe was very helpful and receptive to my ideas,” says Naomi, “For example, my foodmixer is so heavy that it was always left on the work top. I wanted a special drawer to keep it accessible, but out of sight, and Zoe found 30 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

exactly the right thing for me.”

The result is a U-shaped kitchen, with the sink in the centre section under the window.

The ovens, hob, fridge and food-storage are all along the wall to the left. The right-hand units, which conceal the bin and dishwasher, form a sociable breakfast bar in the heart of the room.

On the other wall is a large unit that Naomi finds convenient for tableware and cookery books, as she stores the majority of food closer to the cooking zone. The exception was her large selection of spices, which are now kept on two tidy racks inside the wall-unit, “The spice racks are a favourite feature,” she says, “I can see everything and it’s so easy to put my hand on whichever ones I want.”

Keen to keep their kitchen low-maintenance, Naomi and Jonathan chose flat, easy-wipe doors in a warm, neutral shade. They specified a wood-effect finish inside the cabinets but requested that the underside of the wall-units matched the doors, and that the integrated lighting did not protrude. Zoe’s attention to detail ensured all their must-haves were met, and they were impressed with the care taken, and high standard of fitting achieved by our recommended installer. Bronze-toned laminate work tops and pinkish-brown glass splashbacks emphasise an inviting feel.

Generous cooking space was top of Naomi’s appliance wishlist, and she is delighted with her sleek, electric induction hob and two ovens.

The ovens feature multiple functions including two grills and a microwave, and are stacked at eye level, eliminating bending. As her existing dishwasher was only about two years old, this was integrated into the new design. Naomi’s main fridge and freezer space is in the utility room, but she added a new undercounter fridge in the kitchen, following Zoe’s guidance on the most cost-effective and capacious option.

Naomi and Jonathan are thrilled with their new kitchen. Although they had a very clear idea of what they wanted, they appreciated Gardiner Haskins’ flexibility and expertise in helping them to choose the materials and appliances to suit their needs, “Zoe understood what we wanted, and she was knowledgeable and responsive,” says Naomi, “She made sure we were aware of all the options so we could make the best decisions for us. I love how the kitchen flows now and works with the whole dining and living area. We’re very, very pleased.” n

Gardiner Haskins Interiors: imagination brought to life.

1 Straight Street, Bristol. BS2 0FQ 0117 9292288 www.gardinerhaskins. co.uk

EMILY & DAN ROSS STORYSMITH BOOKS

How will our Storysmith pals be celebrating five years in the bookselling biz? With a fresh batch of books, of course...

Y

ou join us on the cusp of celebrating a milestone: at the end of October, Storysmith will be celeb ating fi e whole yea s o bookselling on North Street.

If you’d told us in the autumn of 2018 that in these short years we would’ve taken on a new and larger e ises a s all but fie ce a y of booksellers and an unruly shop dog, then welcomed Pulitzer Prizewinners, Guggenheim fellows and Booker Prize-winners to our city just to talk about books, we would’ve asked you to sit down, exit your delusional reveries and rejoin us in the land of the lucid.

As is the way with small businesses, it has been and continues to be a rollercoaster in the most pleasant sense as we lurch from project to project and season to season, but we cling on to the constants. For us, that’s the actual books we sell, and as such our column does not change merely because we’ve circled the sun yet again, so here are three more recent bangers we can’t wait to tell you about.

Tremor – Teju Cole With literary garlands being egula ly ung at hi bac in his American homeland, it is slightly mystifying that Teju Cole doesn’t have a more ardent and voluminous following over here.

But fortunately his new novel, Tremor, is a work of staggering and powerful subtlety, the sort of slowburn sleeper that might just entice a whole movement of enthusiasts to make him a star on this side of the pond too. Beginning as a tense and understated campus novel revolving around renowned academic Tunde, it evolves beautifully into a searching and melancholy reckoning with West African identity and all the inherent complexities of building a meaningful life a long way from home.

Pulitzer-winning memoir focuses on the college years of aimless music obsessive Hua Hsu, wrestling with how best to present himself to the world as a second-generation Taiwanese-American who also happens to be preoccupied with pop culture minutiae. At this seemingly unremarkable time in his life, he builds a friendship with Ken, a fellow student who forces Hsu to reconsider his own attitudes to authenticity, relayed in simple but aching prose that neatly sidesteps nostalgia at all times. This gentle narrative is upset by a tragedy, however, and that’s when the book dissolves and rearranges itself as something else, something strangely hopeful in the face of immense sadness. Beautiful, compulsive reading.

We’re going to resist standing still or looking backwards at this juncture in the life of our little shop, but – if we hadn’t made it clear to you already – we love what we do, and we love that Bristol has taken us in so readily, allowing us to do what we do in this column.

Hopefully, if you’ll join us for anothe fi e yea s the e will be plenty more to come.

“Hsu’s attitudes to authenticity are relayed in simple but aching prose that neatly sidesteps nostalgia at all times”

Split Tooth – Tanya Tagaq This is a genuinely brilliant novel from the northern reaches of Canada, in equal measure gentle and brutal, seamlessly weaving the domestic with the supernatural.

Tagaq combines prose, poetry, and illustrations by Jaime Hernandez in a loose coming-ofage tale. We follow an Inuk girl in the poverty-stricken hamlet of Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, which falls within the Arctic Circle where alcoholism and abuse is rife and kids entertain themselves through truancy and inhaling solvents. It’s not for the fainthearted, but is also totally transformative.

Stay True – Hua Hsu Fresh out in paperback, this

Visit Storysmith Books at 36 North Street, Bedminster www.storysmithbooks.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 33

PAZZO

Still crazy, after all these years . . .

Words by Deri Robins Photos Ben Robins www.benrobinsphoto.com

RESTAURANT

D

uring her stint at the Evening Standard, Julie Burchill famously a multitude of flavours. You might, for example, discern a nod to St Paul’s didn’t bother visiting half the restaurants she wrote about; in the curried goat tortellini, while sea bass ceviche with Japanese yuzu, she’d send in husband Cosmo Landesman instead, and get Calabrian chilli and coastal samphire ticks several continents in one dish. him to take notes. She also commented that she could quite We begin with ‘bread and other bits’. I will return to Pazzo specifically to easily review any film just from its title, the name of the eat more of their pumpkin, the sweet, earthy wedges battered and fried as director and the cast. fritti before being topped with crispy sage and honey. Also for their coppa, I could probably have done something similar with Pazzo. One of the cured in fennel and oregano. Swerving the predictability of arancini, Pazzo many delights afforded me as editor of this magazine has been a solid have gone for croquettes, though admittedly stuffed with a wholly Italian excuse to visit the restaurants owned by the Bianchi group on a regular proscuitto filling, which spills promiscuously from its casing at the gentlest basis, from their beloved OG, Pasta Loco on Cotham Hill, to intimate prod of the fork.

Ripiena and Cotto, and elegant Bianchis. Each one is slightly different, Both the starter and main menus are brief as a haiku, which is just as but all bear the classy hallmark of the cousins who kicked the whole thing well as we’re already havering over the options. The sea bass is fresh as off: executive chef Ben Harvey, and in front of house, doing what he does a daisy, its mild sweetness shining through its complex, spicy curing, but better than anyone else in the biz, Dom Borel. Obviously, with several arms the starter we all squabble over, clashing spoons like rapiers as we try of the business to oversee these days, they can’t be everything, everywhere, to bag more than our fair share, is a creamy risotto with bosky shiitake all at once, but as a extra superpower they seem to mushrooms and sticky, tart-sweet agriodolce. have a knack for attracting the kind of staff that other Cacio e pepe draws on a mysterious alchemy restaurants would kill to clone. in which cheese, butter and pepper combine in a So yes, I could probably have bashed out 1000 fairly DINING DETAILS sauce that fools you into thinking it’s made from Pazzo, 89 Whiteladies Road; 0117 973 3000 accurate words simply by studying the menu from the cream. Done well, it’s as smooth as a Puccini aria. www.pazzobristol.co.uk comfort of my own home, declaring it ‘the opening of Done badly, it’s just substandard mac’n’cheese; Kitchen hours Mon 5.30-9.30pm; Tues-Sat the year’ with breezy impunity before settling down more Shaddup ya Face. But Ben Harvey doesn’t have midday-2.30pm, 5.30-9.30pm; first Sunday with a cheese toastie in front of Beckham. But where Lombardy blood flowing through in his veins for of the month, midday-4pm would be the fun in that? nothing, and his cacio e pepe lasagne fritti is our dish Price Starters £8.5-£12; pastas £17-£21; Pazzo has opened just around the corner from of the night, a satisfying, carby two-fingers up to keto mains £18-£24; puds £8 Pasta Loco, whose recent closure led to professionalbeneath a snowfall of parmesan on a slick of spinach Veggie good choice mourner-levels of wailing and garment-rending crema. We ponder meaningfully whether it might Service Impeccable, efficient, engaging among Bristol’s food lovers. It’s moved into the old become as much of a signature dish as the carbonara Atmosphere Buzzing Bar Humbug site; one of a dying breed of superbars used to be at Loco; I hope very much that they keep that used to line Whiteladies Road when it was it on the menu, despite the dire implications for known as ‘The Strip’, a pulsating party mile frequented by noisy students, my autumn/winter capsule wardrobe. Another standout is a beautifully shrieking hens and stags dressed as chipolatas. A good time guaranteed, as cooked dish of Iberico pork spiced with amatriciana and charred friggitelli, long as you stayed home. served on creamy stracciatella.

Number 89 has now been transformed into two tasteful new dining By this stage in proceedings we’ve sunk two bottles of wine, along with rooms, with an open kitchen and a bar glowing with backlit Campari a prosecco apiece, and are pleasantly drunk on the jovial buzz ricochetting bottles. The old flagstone floors are set off by a neutral paint scheme and off the walls; everyone seems to be having a thoroughly nice time. For this simple furniture, softened by pretty little paper lampshades and greenery reason – shamefully, given that we were in for a fact-finding mission and I cascading from macramé plant holders, while walls are lined with stylish really should have been focusing on the wobble-factor of the panna cotta black-and-white photos of faces from the Bristol food scene; bring your – my memory of the puds is a bit of a blur, though I do remember the spotters’ guide with you, and see how many you can tick off. wood-fired apples conjuring up memories of firework nights, and bonfires They’d only been open a week when four of us visited, a time when you and sticky toffee apples, in the nicest possible way. Then it was on to the could reasonably expect a few teething problems. Tables might wobble. limoncellos and the frangelicas, and I’m not even sure how we got home.

The commis may have wildly exaggerated his knowledge of gremolata The Bianchis crew bring all the considerable charm and skill we’ve come during the interview. A chef could get locked in a fridge (we’ve seen The to expect to their latest gaff. The offering is closer to high-end Bianchis Bear). Remarkably, though, everything goes off with a smoothness matched than more casual Ripiena, but with a distinct vibe of its own which seems only by the crème anglaise panna cotta. pretty much guaranteed to win Bristol hearts and minds.

Hang on; crème anglaise? But don’t these guys cook Italian? Good spot; ‘Pazzo’ is Italian for ‘crazy’, and you could argue that anyone opening a and therein lies a clue. Because while Italian cooking is still the bedrock new restaurant at the moment has to be slightly unhinged; but it’s a divine of the menu, there’s a twist: it’s also influenced by Ben and Dom’s cheffy madness we can totally get behind. travels, and the diverse cultures found in Bristol, allowing them to draw on Opening of the year? Oh, go on then; we’re calling it.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 35

THE HIDEAWAY Cocktail Masterclasses Bespoke, private classes (4-8 mixologists) Mon-Thurs.

Contact our team to book: hello@thehideawaybs9.com 63, Shirehampton Rd. Bristol. BS9 2DW 0117 949 0142 | www.thehideawaybs9.com

Christmas at Whatley Manor Join us to celebrate the festive season with menus full of traditional flavours. Lunch & dinner in Grey’s, private dining in The Garden Room, Michelin starred festive celebrations in The Dining Room, and a festive afternoon tea.

Find out more www.whatleymanor.com Call 01666 822 888, or email reservations@whatleymanor.com

A warm welcome awaits you this season.

Scan to view our festive menus.

Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa Easton Grey Malmesbury SN16 0RB whatleymanor.com

FOOD & DRINK A TA S T E O F B R I S T O L’ S F O O D S C E N E

GOOD TARE DAYS

Matt Hampshire, owner of excellent modern-British restaurant Tare, has tweaked his second Cargo venue, former wine bar Picole, into Tare ist o with a bigge e hasis on the ood o e ing than be o e Manager Davey Alford says Tare Bistro will “remain true to the quality and alues that ha e defined a e o the e y beginning while o e ing a dining e e ience at an accessible ice oint he e anded menu features a blend of newly developed dishes and classic favourites, taking inspiration from the best local producers and suppliers, paired with an extensive selection of carefully chosen wines.”

We’ve always been massive Tare fans; it’s surrounded by a lot of very well-known restaurants, so it’s not on everyone’s radar, but it should be. www.tarerestaurant.co.uk

ROLL OUT THE BARRELS Oktoberfest, we have discovered, is pretty much a moveable feast. Lost & Grounded held theirs in September, and now here comes Hopyard at Propyard, fashionably late between 10-11 November. Expect all your favourite craft beers and ciders, plenty of bratwurst and a diverse range of music: an oom-pah band will be blasting out the tunes throughout the day, Norman Jay is bringing a classic set of disco and house on Friday night, while Idles take over the decks on Saturday for day and night sessions.

The wearing of lederhosen is encouraged but not compulsory. wwwpropyard.co.uk

THE DARK SIDE

he th centu y witch finde gene al atthew o ins wouldn t ha e liked Hyde & Co one little bit. Their team went over to the dark side a long while ago; it all began with supernatural vibes and twisted tales at The Raven, then we witnessed all kinds of occulty things cropping up at the Milk Thistle and Hyde & Co bars too.

Now, fully embracing the spooky season, The Milkie has launched a ‘dreadful’ new conceptual cocktail menu which promises an unholy fusion of children’s tales, Victorian penny dreadful-style horror stories and The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party.

The team have long been fans of recipes that tell a story, and the Dreadful Tea Party has a poetry-led narrative based around the Milkie’s vast collection of taxidermy, in which the animals come together for a seemingly civil tea party which ends in chaos.

The cocktails are the result of a year’s worth of development from the team who, we suspect, had been around in the 1630s would have been promptly burned at the stake. www.milkthistlebristol.com

THE STAR TREATMENT

When it stopped being the Pony & Trap, the Pony Chew Magna voluntarily relinquished its Michelin Star. However, it was only a matter of time before the inspectors came a-calling once again, and sure enough the gastropub is now back in the Guide where it belongs.

“Featuring stunning views over the eponymous valley, this aptly named former pub now operates more as a restaurant,” writes the Guide. “The short menu uses the seasons as a guide, and showcases produce from the kitchen garden in vibrant, colourful dishes which mix creative and a few traditional elements. Desserts like almond and polenta cake are a highlight, and the themed evenings at weekends are often centred around a local ingredient or producer.”

Can this twinkle in the inspector’s eye mean a new star can’t be far behind? www.guide.michelin.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 37

HOT PLATES

IT’S SIX 0’CLOCK SOMEWHERE...

IN THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE Well, this is pleasingly quirky from Yeo Valley.

The organic farm has unveiled a series of edible landscapes to mark the end of harvest season and celebrate the importance of great taste and food provenance The four landscapes, which include the Avon Gorge and the Suspension Bridge, were created by former Britain’s Got Talent artist Nathan Wyburn with support from Yeo Valley’s chef Ali Pumfrey. Nathan and Ali took 48 hours to craft the pics, using 67kgs of fresh organic produce from the farm.

The Avon Gorge, for example, was rendered

with a colourful kaleidoscope of organic produce including strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, complemented by the earthy richness of beetroot and broccoli with crisp leeks and curly kale.

And before you start shouting indignantly about food waste, that’s not how Yeo Valley rolls. Following the creations, Ali repurposed some of the ingredients into recipes, while others were donated to food charity City Harvest, helping to deliver 143 meals to families in need across the country. www.yeovalley.co.uk

As confidently edicted on these ages a ew issues ago, Bristol’s 6 O’clock Gin has now opened its new site on The Glassboat at Welsh Back, transforming it into Bristol’s ultimate gin destination with a bar, retail shop and versatile events space.

It also, it says, wants to be a hub of entertainment and exploration in which guests can enjoy gin-blending experiences, live music evenings, and pop-up dining events featuring collaborations with local culinary talents.

“Our vision is to preserve The Glassboat’s historic charm while infusing new energy into this treasured site,” said Paul Sullivan, MD 6 O’clock Gin. “We invite guests to join us, not only to savour our gins but also to learn more about the art of gin-making. Most importantly, we want everyone to have a wonderful time in this unique space.”

Oh, and more good news for gin fans; 6 O’clock’s pop-up shops are returning to Cabot Circus and Cribbs Causeway next week, just in time to lubricate the festive season. www.6oclockgin.com

BAKE IT ‘TIL YOU MAKE IT Another Bristol contender for the reat riti h ake , and this year it’s Tasha tones who also ha ens to be its fi st dea contestant n he nstag a bio Tasha cheerfully describes herself as ‘deaf af ’; she’s a longtime advocate for the community, and has worked at the National Deaf Children’s Society.

Tash has already been crowned star baker in one episode, for her Japanese Katsu & Matcha illusion showstopper. According to her bio on the show, “much like her attitude to life, Tasha’s baking is fearless. She uses it as a way to express herself creatively, often embarking upon near-impossible designs.”

We don’t want to jinx anything, but at time of going to press Tash was still very much a contender for the crown. www.the reat riti h akeo .co.uk

JUST OPENED...

Often cited by architects as their favourite building in the city, the beautiful Granary on Welsh Back was built in 1869 in Bristol Byzantine style as a grain store. It spent the latter part of the 20th century as a music venue, and was even a location for Only Fools and Horses; according to www. ofah.net, who should know, it was here that Del Boy fell through the bar. The last esidents we e fish estau ant och yne and before that Belgo, whose demise we have never ceased to mourn.

Now it’s been brought back to life by the team who’ve been doing such

38 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

e cellent stu at another historic Bristol venue, Harbour House, bringing an all day o e ing that celebrates Bristol’s rich culinary landscape.

The kitchen is overseen

by Charlie James, latterly the founder of Jamaica Street Stores, who’ll be drawing on a panoply of local suppliers, with much of the cooking being done o e fi e o e in ou ne t issue @granarybristol

CAFÉ SOCIETY STAN CULLIMORE

Sippin’ on the dock of a bay In which a rainy day in Bristol town leads to a Harbourside revelation

S

hould probably admit, right now, here at the get-go, this issue s co ee sho of choice was not, actually, a choice.

It was a complete accident. A happy one, but still. You know.

Full disclosure and all that.

The place was never on my bucket list; it wasn’t even a blip on the Café Society radar. For some reason I’d always assumed it was part of a chain. Not that there is anything wrong with chains necessarily, but they are not the sort of place the discerning CS crew would normally frequent.

Of course, as my editor gently points out, if I paid a little more attention to her food and drink

“Then my eye fell on the breakfast choices, and it was game over for ham and cheese”

editorials I’d have realised the error of my ways much sooner.

Because I was wrong. Very much so. In fact, this place is a fullypaid-up member of Bristol’s indie café élite, part of the excellent Assemblies group which also runs The Canteen and Old Market Assembly, and actually pretty bloomin’ marvellous, especially once you get inside, where everything is shipshape, Bristolashion and te ifically tastetastic Our visit came about because a mate and I were biking our way through town, heading down Park Street, about to pass The Hippodrome. When all of a sudden, for no good reason, raindrops started to fall. Serious ones. No doubt you know the sort I’m talking about. Soaks you to the skin in mere seconds.

Once the heavens opened, we quickly parked up and went in search of a café, aiming to sit it out. Which is how we ended up at No 1 Harbourside. Being situated along that covered walkway just past the Cascade te s it was the fi st lace we found as we headed for shelter. ood news is they do co ee and cake. Better news is that they also do a fine line in coo ed foods. Nothing too exotic.

All sounded like sensible and solid stu he enu see ed to mainly consist of toasties, burgers and breakfasts, with plenty of useful options in each department.

We quickly ditched the notion of cake, reasoning that snacks are

for sunny days. We decided to go for a bit of savoury satisfaction.

First thought was to get a Croque Monsieur, I’m a big fan of those toasty French fancies, and this one sounded just about perfect.

But then my eye fell on the breakfast choices, and it was game over for ham and cheese.

I mean, really, who can resist a full-on fry-up, English-breakfast style? Who would even want to try? Not me. Especially when it’s raining stairrods outside, the world ain’t as warm as it could be and quite frankly, disappointment has filled the ai with its sad sweet song. It’s times like these that a proper breakfast can work wonders. So we ordered one each, along with a cup of tea, and sat back to await results.

Turns out, a full-on Bristol brekkie can indeed work wonders. Not sure what exactly it was that made the sun come out in our hearts, might have been the usual suspects, or maybe even the slice of hash brown, which appeared to take its inspiration from deep-fried bread and butter pudding. Mmm. Tasty.

Either way, we ate, we smiled, the rain stopped and life was good again. Outside the window we could see the sun sparkling on the water and boats bobbing merrily upon it. Hurrah for Harbourside. n Former Housemartins guitarist Stan is now a journalist and travel writer @stancullimore on instagram

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 41

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TRANSFORMING GLAMOUR PRICE DRISCOLL HAIR is celebrating its one-year anniversary with a 30% off deal for new clients

I

n the heart of Bristol, Price Driscoll Hair stands as a testament to a year filled with style, confidence, and unparalleled hair transformations. As it marks its first anniversary, this sophisticated hair salon is sharing the joy with an exclusive offer: new clients, get ready to be dazzled, because Price Driscoll Hair is offering new clients an incredible 30% discount on all services.

Price Driscoll Hair emerged on the scene, at The General in Redcliffe, a year ago, driven by a passion for redefining the hairsalon experience. Since its inception, it has become synonymous with understated elegance, light glamour and professionalism, attracting a devoted clientele seeking top-notch services and personalised attention. The salon’s success story is woven with threads of creativity, skill, and a dedication to making every client feel extraordinary.

Over the past 12 months, Price Driscoll Hair has earned multiple 5* reviews for excellence. The salon’s skilled stylists understand that a great hairstyle is not just about cutting hair; it’s about crafting a look that enhances confidence and reflects individuality.

You receive more than just a haircut; you receive an experience tailored to you and your lifestyle.

Whether you crave a trendy haircut, a bold colour change or a glamorous balayage, the team at Price Driscoll Hair guarantees exceptional services that redefine glamour and pampering.

What sets Price Driscoll apart is its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The team comprises Book your not just hairstylists but colour artists and fashion week appointment today stylists who understand the intricacies of hairstyling. and quote “NEW30” to Every visit begins with a personalised consultation, enjoy the exclusive 30% ensuring that your desires and preferences are at discount on all services the forefront of your hair journey. Moreover, Price either online or when Driscoll Hair is an Oribe exclusive hair salon; PETA calling the salon. certified cruelty-free, eco-friendly, premium products, which emphasise both your hair’s health and an ethical consciousness. n Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to revamp your style and embrace a new you. Find us at: Unit 6, The General, Lower Guinea Street, BS1 6FU. Tel: 0117929998.

Visit: www.pricedriscoll.co.uk.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 43

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KITCHEN SYNC

After the extensive refresh of their kitchen showroom, IKEA Bristol sat down with designer Tao to discuss the benefits of owning a new IKEA kitchen

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ccording to, Tao, you will always find her in the kitchen at work – “And at home, and always at parties!

“I have been with IKEA for almost 17 years, including 14 amazing years working with the interior design and visual merchandising teams – the teams responsible for all the displays, room settings, the layout of the store and everything you see, from floor to ceiling.

“My passion for creating beautiful displays, and my deep understanding of how people use their spaces inspired me to join the kitchens team as a planning specialist. I have been with the team for almost three years now, and I am loving it; every day and every moment is new and exciting, and I have embraced the role with all I have learned in my previous job. I especially enjoy spending time

44 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

with my customers: something I missed in my previous, non-customer-faced role.

Why would I choose IKEA kitchens over any other kitchen supplier?

I would love for everyone to read Ingvar Kamprad’s Testament of a Furniture Dealer – an incredible insight into the values by which IKEA lives and thrives, and upon which every piece of furniture is thought about and created. It is a truly humbling read.

There is so much more to an IKEA METOD kitchen than meets the eye, with soft-closing doors, hands-free push-to-open solutions, and a selection of high-quality interior organisers, it is a delight to work and plan with, and offers something for everyone.

The lowered 8cm plinth, and full use of

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Photos by Leon Day-Nicholls

the 60cm depth of the cabinets and drawers, give IKEA METOD kitchens almost 30% more storage space than any other kitchen, making it my first choice for any space.

Recycling in a kitchen is often overlooked, but I just love how IKEA thought about using the sink unit for this job. Our sinks come with a slimline water trap, which allows space below for recycling solutions, housed all neatly and hidden in a drawer under the sink. There’s even space for a small drawer above for the handy storage of sponges and cloths.

We have a fantastic range of sinks, from the traditional visible-fronted ceramic sinks to the more modern quartz composites and stainlesssteel sinks; IKEA has something for everyone, and all kitchens come with a free 25-year guarantee.

What does the customer journey look like while purchasing an IKEA kitchen?

Your journey with IKEA kitchens starts with a free two-hour planning session in which you will sit down with one of our specialists to plan and design your new kitchen. Just bring your measurements and some photos or inspiration to talk over. If you are not confident about measuring up your space, we also offer a professional measuring service for £35.

Once you have completed your kitchen planning, IKEA can offer you a tailored installation service, complete with a preinstallation visit. Here, the installer will visit your home, and check all your measurements are correct as planned, and that your kitchen will fit as intended in the space you have.

This all happens before you make a purchase.

The installation comes with a free five-year workmanship guarantee, for that extra peace of mind.

We understand that a kitchen purchase and the subsequent installation can be tough on the finances, and so IKEA offers 0% finance so that you can spread the cost of your kitchen and installation over a period. The loan is taken with IKANO bank, and it is easy to apply online, through the IKEA website.

Is it possible for me to design, buy and install a kitchen myself?

Yes! You can design, buy, build, and install your kitchen yourself, but you do not have to.

It is a big process, and I would strongly advise seeking our specialist knowledge before you make a purchase. I always take my hat off to any customer who creates, or even attempts to use, the planning software. We are given all the training, but our customers must learn by themselves, but the planner is easy to navigate once you have pressed all those buttons!

We are happy to look over your kitchen plans and guide you through the process, and we can even suggest a few online tutorials, should you decide to DIY. Book a free appointment to see a Kitchens Planning Specialist via the IKEA website before you make a purchase.

Can I take my IKEA kitchen home today?

Naturally; here at IKEA we are a cash-and-carry store, so if you are looking for an individual unit or a worktop, you can pick it up from the store. We do also offer a delivery service that costs £40, so that you do not have to do all the lifting.

Why should I visit IKEA Bristol?

Over the last year we have planned and installed at least eight brand-new room settings to show as many solutions as possible that are relevant to our local area.

We have done extensive research in the area regarding the kitchen market. Members of our interior design team, as well as my fellow colleagues in sales, have gone out into the public and met with the customers in their own homes to discuss what they would like to see in their local IKEA. We also have an amazingly comfortable planning area and some fantastic planners who can truly bring your dream kitchen to life.

You may even be paired up with me for your appointment– hopefully I will see you soon in the store! n

Eastgate Shopping Centre, Eastgate Rd, Bristol BS5 6XX. www.ikea.com/gb/en/stores/bristol www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 45

VIOLANTE NESSI MORRICONE MIDI DRESS, £695 hannel you inne o ticia and clic clic you way to the chec out o this e e so slightly oth w a d ess in a y st etch sil From Harvey Nichols, 27 Philadelphia Street www.harveynichols.com

OTOTO VINO BAT BOTTLE OPENER, £25 ould this be what en y a es had in ind when he w ote his s oo y no ella The Turn of the Screw h obably not but atty he e is su e to hel you s oo y libations go down a t eat From John Lewis, Cribbs Causeway; www.johnlewis.com

A hat s you e e ed allowe en style ull on oth o itsch yet st angely cool ay o the ead ust don t get too oe aced about it all and e e be i you li e it ut a s ull on it BLACK VELVET FLAT PUMPS, £109 e ictu e wicca ashionistas sliding thei eet g ate ully into these ointy el et nu be s a te a long day at the cauld on From Mint Velvet, 44 Regent Street; www.mintvelvet.com

LULU COPENHAGEN SKULLY SINGLE SILVER EARRING, £25 And this is how ini alists do alloween he e s also a eaning behind it ully e esents a t ans o ation o you own li e o a celeb ation o a lo ed one lost From Grace & Mabel, 32 The Mall www.graceandmabel.co.uk

STUDIO ARHOJ CERAMIC GHOST FIGURINE, £19 etty sca y no o ns i ed by a anese ce a ics with a candina ian twist each iece is hand ade in o enhagen From UStudio, Bristol North Baths, Gloucester Road; www.ustudio.shop

46 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PLATINUM RING WITH BLACK ROSE-CUT DIAMOND, £1,774 b iously we e not suggesting you s ing o a ing just o allowe en but this one is a yea ound ee e with the blac dia ond stone lending a hint o othic yste y From Diana Porter, 33 Park Street www.dianaporter.co.uk

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN REVERSIBLE SCARF, £185 Put ‘skull motif ’ and ‘designer fashion’ together, and you get Alexander McQueen. Also in pink or red, if black and white is too stark From Garment Quarter, 23-25 Penn Street www. annel .com

ED’S CHOICE

BLACK VELVET FEATHER TROUSERS, £99 If we’d interrupted Liza Minelli at home in the mid 1970s, we wouldn’t have been remotely su ised to find he slin ing about in a pair similar to these From Mint Velvet, 44 Regent Street www.mintvelvet.com

STUDIO ARHOJ GHOST TEA LIGHT HOLDER, £33 We’ve never seen a less frightening ghost in our life; hand-cast and glazed in translucent porcelain, with room for a tealight inside to make your spooky li’l ghost buddy glow From UStudio, Bristol North Baths, louce ter oad; www.u tudio. ho

KARTELL VICTORIA GHOST CHAIR, £POA The only ghostly thing about this design classic is that it’s transparent, making it suitable even for those of a nervous disposition From Oskar Furniture, 47 Whiteladies Road www.oskarfurniture ALEXANDER MCQUEEN SKULL PAVÉ HOOP EARRINGS, £220 With a crystal embellished hoop, and little skulls suspended from the bottom From Garment Quarter, 23-25 Penn Street www. annel .com ALESSI BOTTLE OPENER, £17.50 This smiley little devil can’t wait to pop open your favourite brew From Bristol Guild, 68-70 Park Street www. ri tol uid aller .co.uk

SELETTI ‘WAITING BIRD’ LAMP, £133 “Quoth the raven: Nevermore”... Seletti’s birds come in a range of poses, but we like the idea of this one ominously ‘waiting’…

From John Lewis,Cribbs Causeway www. ohnlewi .com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 47

FASHION

MAKE LIKE HUMPTY DUMPTY...

H

... and have a great Fall, with a flexible autumn wardrobe for all weathers

By Marianne Cantelo

ow do you choose your outfit e e y day A e you seduced by the ashions on the latest catwal s o you lan you loo onths ahead eticulously a anging outfits in ad ance o you find you sel linge ing outside sho windows o ing in to gi e you wa d obe a e esh do you si ly e e to sna u e satile ti eless classics cu ating a ca sule wa d obe that will ta e you anywhe e e ha s li e ost o us you loo at you wa d obe in des ai thin ing that any o the abo e is utte ly ointless because you li e in the his yea has o en o e than e e that a itish wa d obe needs to co e with an un edictable cont a ian and ca icious weathe syste oes this a e o a diso ganised incohe ent closet s this why ou island ashion is nown o its eccent icity e shouldn t lose hea t though we lo e s all

tal ing about the weathe so why not use the national e e tise on the qui s o eteo ology and ut ou sel es bac in cont ol hen it s aining cats and dogs a e you in ossession o a a ishing aincoat ot the ind in in u le o tu quoise with ulti le i s and a hood that olds u unde a elc o astened oc et but a e ennial t ench o ac intosh well cut with beauti ul lining and details light enough to laye o e su e d esses in onsoon li e showe s ca acious enough to o on o e a chun y nit t s b ass on eys out the e but we don t ca e ediu weight nitwea in bold ints is a chee ul way to ee the sunshine close to you hea t e en when the season has decided to ha e du et day o an e t a two onths n autu n days with coole e enings use you nits unde

“The humongous cape, or blanket-size scarf can work for you all year round”

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2

SHOPPING LIST

1.. Alice + Olivia faux leather trench coat £895, Harvey Nichols; 27 Philadelphia Street, www.harveynichols.com 2. Stine Goya oversized Orphea scarf, £80 (from £160), Grace & Mabel, 32 The Mall; www.graceandmabel.co.uk 3. Indi & Cold T-neck jumper, £160, Maze Clothing, 26-28 The Mall; www.mazeclothing.co.uk

50 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

you light su e d esses hi sical actical quintessentially itish lowing a gale he e s a eason that tweed and fine wool ha e been a sta le in the count yside o a ew hund ed yea s ts unique insulation acto eans it s a g eat laye to ba icade you against the wind on t eel you ha e to choose t aditional colou s o these ust ha e ite s the u ta osition o a he itage ins i ed ab ic with adical colou s is the e ito e o idiosync atic chic t s bloody altic ne t a nod to autu n winte t ends and with a g eat dollo o ad i ation o the hu ongous ca e o blan et si e sca that can wo o you all yea ound han you to all those autho s o o antic no els o w iting this use ul ga ent into ou i aginations ou lea e the house in A il with ost on the g ound and by lunchti e you e indulging in an i o tu icnic in you local a in bla ing sun aid ite will double u as a use ul al esco dining accesso y and de ende against a da botto but will also add d a a and scul tu al e cite ent on the g eyest o dull winte days he he d s delight inco ing A ed s y he alding a b ight sunny day o ed eyes o the night be o e eans that sunglasses should be in e e y istolian s bag e e tal ing eyewea that is the e ect co bination o i olous and otecti e o e olly olightly than oo ay en y o e ady enelo e o Thunderbirds a hugely unde ated ashion icon than onou able a iet

Marianne Cantelo is the business development project manager for Dorothy House Hospice Care. The charity has 25 high street shops across the region selling fantastic pre-loved items, which provide a large part of its income, plus it also has an online shop.

For more: www.dorothyhouse.org.uk

Photographer: Egle Vasi; www.eglevasi.com Model: Elisha Green Styling: Jennifer Lovell and Marianne Cantelo Clothes sourced from Dorothy House; www.dorothyhouse.shop

MEET THE

MAKERS

Bristol is teeming with talented craftspeople, designing and making beautiful artisanal products with their own hands (and hearts).

Here are some of the best...

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how things were made on a mass scale, and wanted to do my own thing! A trip to Sri Lanka sparked a love affair with passionfruit jam, I came home, started jam making, and the rest is history.

How long have you been creating jam?

I launched Single Variety Co in 2016 from my kitchen table and initially sold at local farmers markets. We moved the family and business life to Bristol in 2021 and set up our very own jam factory here.

NICOLA ELLIOTT

SINGLE VARIETY LTD 0117 452 5303; www.singlevariety.co.uk What inspired you to start creating your products?

I’ve always worked in food, and after a 10 year career in product development and buying for the major multiples I was frustrated with

NEIL MACARTNEY FINEST JOINERY 07921 611 659 www.finestjoinery.com

Tell us about yourself and your career to date...

With 18 years experience in the trade, I specialise in the design, manufacture and installation of bespoke furniture and joinery throughout Bristol, the South West and London. After many years working for joinery shops and cabinet makers in London, as well Perth, Australia, I decided to settle in Bristol with my young family, and now work out of a communal workshop in Old Market. I started Finest Joinery in 2014 as the owner and director.

What makes your products different from competitors?

I design, make and install all our projects, for both residential and commercial clients – allowing me to provide a service that is concise and efficient from start to finish.

I have well-established relationships with local specialist manufacturers, such as metal fabricators and spray finishers, and work closely with interior designers and architects, to create a service that is truly bespoke and high end manufacturing.

I love what I do and feel very privileged to work with such beautiful and varied

make the best tasting jam, and we’ve won multiple Great Taste and Taste of the West Awards to prove it!

What are your future aspirations?

I’d love to see our products on more menus in Bristol and beyond. With the help of a grant we have recently purchased an automatic filler and lidder which will enable us to make mini jars. We’re hoping to sell these to hotels, restaurants, trains, planes etc. Anywhere jam is consumed we would love to be!

What is the most enjoyable aspect about what you do?

I love developing new products! We launch a seasonal jam every month, to showcase what’s in season, so there is always something new to taste.

What achievement are you most proud of when it comes to your work?

Winning the Bristol Life Award for Best Retailer earlier this year. Moving to Bristol was the best thing we’ve done for the business, it’s such a supportive city of small independent businesses.

What makes your products different from competitors?

Taste is at the heart of everything that we do. All our products showcase just one single variety, our fruit preserves all contain much more fruit and less sugar than traditional jams, and we use British fruit where possible too. We believe we

Where can we find your products?

We have lots of lovely independent stockists across Bristol, including Food Shop on Gloucester Road, Papadeli in Clifton and Hugos Greengrocers in Bedminster. We also work closely with Pizzarova who have a pizza on their menu using our Jalapeno Jam (it’s incredible!)

materials, I feel this is communicated in the furniture and joinery I create and hope to continue this long into the future.

Where can we see your work?

Most recently I have produced commercial joinery for The British Library, Corks Bristol and Origin Coffee on Victoria Street, Bristol. I’m passionate about my craft and pride myself on the care and precision that I put into my joinery. More examples of my work can be found on Instagram, @finestjoinery, or on our website.

Where do you source the materials for your products and why?

We are conscious of the impact our craft has on the environment and work only with sustainably sourced timbers. Our timber offcuts are also recycled through a local waste management company.

We look to use suppliers that are concious of the amount of plastic used with their packaging and we mostly deliver our joinery and furniture using brown paper sheets and blankets where possible. We donate monthly to woodland charities who actively plant trees across the UK. We are always looking for new ways to become more sustainable and to reduce our carbon footprint.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 53

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ALEX TRONCOSO & ANNIE CLEMENTS

LOST AND GROUNDED BREWERS 0117 332 7690; www.lostandgrounded.co.uk What is your history with brewing?

When I started in brewing all I wanted to make was Pale Ale, and I had an amazing eight years with Little Creatures in Australia, where that was our focus.

However, over the years I started to become obsessed with how to make the most simple of beer styles: lager.

From Little Creatures we moved to London where I took up the position of brewing director with Camden Town Brewery, which was a decision based on wanting to immerse myself in lager production. I spent a lot of time in Germany and Belgium, and slowly but surely I became increasingly fascinated by the world of lager.

We set up Lost and Grounded Brewers in 2016 and built the brewhouse of our dreams to produce awardwinning beers, including our flagship lager, Keller Pils.

Of which product are you particularly fond?

Keller Pils will always hold a special place in our hearts and was inspired from a trip to the hop harvest in Tettnang. I had a Keller Pils from a local brewery and had a lightbulb moment: what if we made a simple lager, unfiltered, using only traditional hops and make that our focus. Over the years little has changed in terms of recipe – still the same hops, although the base Pils malt can change from season to season. All we’ve done is become better at it over the years.

What are your future hopes for the business?

On the brewery front we will be installing a new keg line – in summer 2023 it was tough to keep up with demand, so the team are looking forward to being able to keg faster, empty tanks quicker. I’m especially looking forward to having a new whizz-bang keg lifter, as manually handling over 300 kegs a day takes it’s toll on the crew!

Of what achievement are you most proud when it comes to your work?

Our recent World Beer Cup Gold award for Keller Pils in Nashville, USA was a particularly sweet moment: the WBC is the largest competition in the world and the the judging is very rigorous. To have Keller Pils beat nearly 90 other kellerbiers from around the world was a great feeling.

Where can we find your products?

You can find our beers in bars, pubs and restaurants around Bristol, the South West and London as well as nationwide. You can also try our beers at our taproom, open Fridays and Saturdays, as well as to order online from our webstore.

CARLA JAMES

SALLY WOOD

What inspired you to start creating your products?

I am an artist driven by my passion to create. I produce artwork in the form of painting and drawing.

My work is inspired by my surroundings, identity and travel. My products include: original art, art prints, mugs, phone covers, fashion and homeware.

What do you do?

We restore vintage furniture, priding ourselves on giving neglected pieces which might be overlooked or thrown away a new lease of life so that they’ll be loved for decades to come.

CARLA JAMES www.carlajames.co.uk

What is the most enjoyable aspect about what you do?

I love the variety of what I do in my art business.

It enables me to wear many different hats. For example, painting in the studio producing new work, photographing work at a professional standard, editing and converting artwork to design work. I then develop these aspects by working on my web design, updating blogs and social media, framing prints, delivering stock, ordering, and of course exhibiting my work.

WOOD AND STEELE 07718 130309; www.woodandsteele.co.uk

Carla James

What makes you different from traditional antiques restorers?

We don’t shy away from giving a piece a whole new identity. We strip the old finish to reveal the natural wood underneath, then re-finish using modern, ecologically friendly products. The result looks new but retains the character of a vintage piece.

What is the most enjoyable aspect about what you do?

Each piece is so different, and the process is very organic.

As I get to know a piece I build a relationship with it and it guides the restoration, almost as if it has a ‘spirit’ of its own.

What inspires the design of your products?

I am inspired by my heritage of Bristol and Trinidad.

I show this in my work through subject matter such as typically Bristol designs or tropical colour palettes.

I love combinations of these qualities along with techniques and styles.

What inspired you to start restoring furniture?

It came from a deep dislike of waste. I saw so much furniture being discarded in Bristol I just started rescuing it. I saw the pride and artistry that went into vintage pieces and wanted to preserve that.

Where do you source the materials for your products?

All materials are locally sourced in Bristol or within the UK. I am proud to support local businesses and stay loyal to my suppliers. I re-used or re-cycle packaging.

How long does it take you to restore a piece?

The process takes time. The devil really is in the details – the little things that take much longer than you expect but really make a difference to the finished piece.

54 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Sally Wood & Richard Steele

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73% 75% 112% of consumers say they prefer receiving print advertisements because they can read them when they want

of people said receiving a printed advertisement made them feel special

is the return on investment which print advertising offers. Which is higher than SMS, email, social media, paid search, and digital display ads, proving that print advertising is still very much effective

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82% 39% 57% of people said they trusted printed advertisements

of people from the same study said they trust online banner and mobile ads

Contact: bathlife@mediaclash.co.uk | bristollifecommercial@mediaclash.co.uk

of email addresses are abandoned because users receive too many marketing emails

CURA: HELPING PATIENTS WITH KNEE ARTHRITIS Are you looking for relief from pain and immobility caused by osteoarthritis, back conditions and sports injury?

WE CAN HELP. Here at CURA, we use the latest technologies: MBST Cell Regeneration Therapy and Deep Tissue Laser Therapy to heal and repair the damaged tissues. We combine these technologies with hands-on Chiropractic and Physiotherapy to ensure your body heals itself to its maximum potential.

Award winning treatment for: Osteoarthritis | Back & disc problems Bone conditions & fractures | Cartilage damage Ligament, tendon & muscle damage | Sports & accident injuries

To talk about your treatment, contact Cura Clinical’s Director, James Scrimshaw, and be one of over 270,000* people worldwide who have been treated successfully with MBST.

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Knee Arthritis Steven and Margaret both came to me within the last 8 months with painful arthritic knees, decreased mobility and both were facing the prospect of total knee replacements.

Fortunately their clinical presentation (joint mobility, quality of movement and appearance) met with the criteria for MBST to be a viable approach and both are now so much better. Margaret now has no pain at all and Steve’s pain and mobility are drastically improved from the poor state he was in at our consultation. Both are delighted with their outcomes!

0117 959 6531 www.curaclinical.com

KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL It’s a well-worn truism that the kitchen is the heart of the home. But then that’s the thing about truisms; they have a habit of being true…

Words by Deri Robins

Little Greene paint (available from Nola Interiors)

K

KITCHENS

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itchens don’t come cheap. Even on a budget, a new one can easily set you back £3k, while larger, luxury ones can soar upwards from £30k. Then there’s all the chaos involved in living in a house that’s temporarily kitchen-less while the builders rip it out and start again – all in all, it’s no wonder that most people are reluctant to embark on a full renovation more than once or twice in their lifetime. If that.

However – and when it comes to interiors, there’s always a however – that doesn’t mean you can’t tweak and upgrade the kitchen you already have. It could be painting the cabinets a cool new colour, or maybe removing the top ones altogether; this is apparently a big thing at the moment, although no, we have no idea where you’re going to stash your family-sized boxes of Frosties either.

Even at the lower spending end, it’s not something you want to rush. You really can’t ask too many questions, or gaze at too many Pinterest boards. But we get it – you’re busy – which is why we’ve tried to make the whole thing easier by speaking to a bunch of experts on your behalf, and asking them: what’s hot and what’s not in kitchens right now?

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HOW BOLD CAN YOU GO?

“As the kitchen is such an energetic space, you can really embrace bolder or deeper colours that may feel a little overwhelming in other rooms”

“There’s been is a move away from the greys and neutral colour palettes, with more and more customers choosing bold colours in their kitchens,” says Lily Dahl of Neat Kitchens. “Multiple shades of green are really popular, from pale sage greens to dark and vibrant greens. Dark colours are also becoming more popular – think graphite and black combined with lighter wood shades or bronze or brass handles and accessories.”

“As the kitchen is such an energetic space, you can really embrace bolder or deeper colours that may feel a little overwhelming in other rooms of the house,” agrees Ruth Mottershead of Little Greene.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 59

KITCHENS

2

“Rich browns can be used to create a captivating, sophisticated interior”

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EVERYONE – AND WE MEAN EVERYONE – IS TALKING ABOUT BROWN…

“Earthy shades, particularly browns, are often dismissed as being dated or dull,” says Ruth Mottershead. “However, rich warm colours based on umber and ochre deliver cocooning, restful and charming spaces; perfect for use in ‘all-over’ schemes in both contemporary and traditional settings, they work really well in a colour-drenched room. Juxtapose them with deeper browns and blacks to create a captivating, sophisticated interior.”

“Bristol residents are embracing brown hues in thei itchens e ecting the city s a nity o ea thy ustic aesthetics ag ees Marielle Medaets of Schmidt. “Brown cabinets and oo ing a e a o ula choice, bringing a sense of local charm to the heart of the home.”

“Browns might not be an obvious choice for kitchens, since we don’t tend to think of them as particularly fresh, clean colours but they can actually work surprisingly well,” says James Sirett of Fired Earth. “The trick is

3 to use them with plenty of white and to go for lighter shades rather than anything too earthy or muddy-looking.”

3

BUT THERE ARE ALTERNATIVE HUES, TOO…

“Dark blues and greens are still very popular, but pinks and coastal blues are making a comeback,” says Adam Harris and Joe Schafer of The Kitchen Den. “New ceramic and porcelain worktops are enabling customers to make bold choices, keeping the kitchen furniture minimalist to make the worktops the standout feature.”

4

COSY UP TO YOUR KITCHEN

Of course, if you want a chef’s kitchen of gleaming white and stainless steel under harsh, unforgiving light, don’t let us stop you.

But most people don’t…

“Use soft, earthy tones to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere,” say Adam and Joe of The Kitchen Den. “Using natural materials such as wood, stone or brick adds texture and

4

OPPOSITE PAGE AND MAIN PHOTO: Paint by Little Greene; INSET: A kitchen by Jetsam Made

warmth, paired with soft-toned lighting. Textiles add comfort to a cosy breakfast nook; use a thick luxurious throw placed over island seating to soften the space. We love to add locally in uenced ieces to ou designs, whether it’s a Bristol Brick vase or local art from our great city.” electing wood oo ing as the base for your kitchen design is an excellent way to enrich the space in charming character, eye-catching texture,” says i u adine o haunceys a is naturally warm in colour when oiled, and there are many warmer, richer colou o tions too o e ing cosy mid-tones to make a kitchen truly

inviting. You could even opt for reclaimed oa oo ing o added ustic cha acte

5

ACCENTUATE THE ACCESSORIES

“Kitchens are becoming increasingly eclectic s aces filled with e e ything o soft furnishings to artworks,” says James

Sirett of Fired Earth. “A mixture of ate ials along with intage finds a two and plants is key”, agrees Francesca Gaskin of Jetsam Made – a notion echoed by Lily ahl ha is all about those c ucial finishing touches he ight handle can li t any kitchen to a new level, as can a feature patterned wallpaper”.

“Kitchens are becoming increasingly eclectic ace filled with everything from soft urni hin to artwork

5 Gemstone tiling by Fired Earth

KITCHENS

6

MAIN PIC: Wallpaper

by Farrow & Ball;

INSET: Little Greene

6

AND SPEAKING OF WALLPAPER…

“Wallpaper is one of the most transformative elements in our arsenal” says Joa Studholme of Farrow and Ball. “For a touch of originality, try two colourways of the same pattern in the same space.

Taking wallpaper up and over the ceiling also makes a room feel taller, for a statement that’s practical and packs a punch. Wallpaper always brings unexpected delight to every decorating project.”

7

HAVE WALL CABINETS HAD THEIR DAY?

It probably comes down to how much space you have to play with; some home owners will always want as many units as possible to stash clutter out of sight; but all the cool kids are ditching eye-height cabinets in favour of pretty shelving.

As Lily Dahl of Neat explains, “many customers are now choosing to utilise vertical space by choosing extra tall cabinets that go right up to the ceiling,” but they are also seeing a trend towards attractive open shelving in place of wall cabinets. (This also chimes in with point 5, above.)

7

KITCHENS

8 9

Selecting a wider plank can create a sense of space: flooring by Chauncey’s INSET: We’re still all wild for open-plan: kitchen by Schmidt

MIXED MESSAGES …in metals that is. You know how we’ve all been trying like crazy to stick with one finish in the kitchen? Well, that’s not a thing any more.

“Sometimes it can be difficult to exactly match colours in appliances, taps, handles etc, and they can end up looking mismatched. By utilising completely different metallic finishes for the different items in a kitchen, you instantly create a design-statement” – Lily Dahl, Neat Kitchens.

“Mixed metals really look beautiful together; by using warm metals such as copper and brass, with cooler metals such as steel and gunmetal you can create points of interest and highlight the focal points in a room. It’s important to stick with one style when mixing metals, as mixing both colour and style can become haphazard” – Alec Yull, Gardiner Haskins “Bristol’s interiors are embracing the mixed-metal trend with enthusiasm, using a combination of brass and stainless steel to add character and a contemporary edge to kitchen designs, reflecting the city’s diverse style” – Eleanor Mason, Schmidt

“Wall units are being used sparingly to give a open, spacious feel to the kitchen,” says Alec Yull at Gardiner Haskins. “There is a trend away from having wall units, or to smaller wall units to give less imposing storage.

Rooms look and feel bigger without them.”

“In Bristol’s interiors, upper cabinets are still appreciated for their practicality, especially in smaller city homes where storage space is at a premium. However, some are exploring open shelving for a more contemporary feel,” says Chrissie Decker of Schmidt.

“Depending on the amount of storage in a kitchen, some wall units may still be necessary but clients prefer a mixture of open and closed shelving, that’s interesting to look at and in proportion to a space, so kitchens look open athe than bo ed in oo to ceiling units says Francesca Gaskin of Jetsam Made.

8

APROPOS, WHAT IF OUR KITCHEN IS REALLY SMALL?

“Use clever storage solutions,” says Lily of the appropriately named Neat Kitchens.

“Keeping everything hidden away, and keeping the worktop space free and open, instantly creates a feeling of space. Using lighter colours for the worktop, tall or wall units, and using open wall units or shelving (rather than cupboards with doors) all helps to make the space feel more open and spacious.

“The other way to make a small space feel larger is using lighting – making sure there are

no dark corners and the whole space is well lit instantly lifts the space.”

Alex Yull of Gardiner Haskins recommends “Simple clean design, using fewer lines and details. Where possible, use similar widths on all cabinets, and where it is practical minimise the use of wall units”. ou choice o wood oo ing style is ey to making a small kitchen feel bigger than it is says i u adine o haunceys “Selecting a wider plank can create a sense of space, and a herringbone pattern can make a small kitchen feel bigger, too. The colour o finish can also ha e a big i act in a s all itchen hoosing light toned wood oo ing can be a better option for very small kitchens, especially if there’s a lack of natural light.”

9

ARE WE STILL ALL MAD FOR OPEN PLAN?

In a nutshell, yes. “Most people are after a greater sense of space, creating larger multipurpose rooms where they can cook, dine and relax all in one place,” says Alec Yull of Gardiner Haskins.

“Open-plan is still the preferred option for the majority of our customers, agrees Lily of Neat Kitchens. “Island units or larger peninsulas are being used in most layouts and we are still seeing customers requesting internal walls removed to create larger, openplan living areas.”

But here’s another ‘however’ for your consideration . . .

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 65

KITCHENS Are you a Quooker convert?; INSET: Kelly Hoppen tiling for Fired Earth

10

“There’s a subtle shift in Bristol homes towards semi-open layouts that aintain a sense o unity but o e distinct zones, accommodating the multifunctional needs of families,” says Georgie Williams of Schmidt.

And Francesca Gaskin of Jetsam ade confi s this g owing wish o e ibility thin that clients now want the option, whether it’s creating zones in larger spaces or having sliding or bi-fold doors on joining areas.”

10

NIGHTS ON THE TILES

James Sirett of Fired Earth brings us back to the practicalities. “The kitchen is one of the most hard-working rooms in the ho e alls and oo s need to be esilient and low-maintenance, because splashes, spills, footprints and paw prints are inevitable.

“As the room we tend to spend most time in, it’s also important that the kitchen feels like an inviting place to be, particularly if it’s somewhere for eating and entertaining too and tiles o e the e ect co bination o practicality and visual appeal. They can be i ed atched and co bined with ainted walls to achie e countless e ects so the e s lots of scope for creativity.

“Whether you live in an old country cottage, a Victorian terraced house or a contemporary apartment, there are tiles for every style of kitchen and for every budget, from hand-decorated wall tiles and tumbled stone oo ing to c is ode n designs

11

INSPECT A GADGET

11 YOU HAVE BEEN READING Chaunceys Timber Flooring www.chauncey.co.uk

Jetsam Made www.jetsammade.com

Neat Kitchens www.neat-kitchens.co.uk

Farrow and Ball www.farrow-ball.com

The Kitchen Den www.thekitchenden.co.uk

Gardiner Haskins www.gardinerhaskins.co.uk

Little Greene www.littlegreene.com

Schmidt Kitchens www.home-designschmidt.uk

Fired Earth www.firedearth.com

And what’s topping every single designer’s must-have list?

“Easy – a Quooker boiling water tap,” says Lily of Neat Kitchens. “They look amazing, co e in a wide choice o fi nishes a e su e ene gy e cient and sa e wo to s ace because there is no need for a kettle” “Most clients just think of it as being an e ensi e ettle but when we show the and e lain the ultitude o uses it has it quic ly beco es a defi nite on thei wish list say Adam and Joe of The Kitchen Den. “Not ust o tea and co ee but also to coo asta potatoes and rice, make stock, skin tomatoes, blanch s inach soa aisins oach fi sh and what about warming the plates? And rinsing i e blades And how about air fryers? Georgie Williams of Schmidt says she’d have loved to have had hers before she designed her kitchen so she could have incorporated it within the design.

Finally, while kitchen trends come and go, you can’t beat a timeless classic. For Francesca Gaskin of Jetsam Made, “A top-quality Aga ange coo e is a che ished addition ts classic, elegant design and versatility resonate with residents who value tradition and culina y e cellence n www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 67

JETSAM MADE Bespoke Kitchens, Furniture & Interiors

SUSTAINABLE

SOLAR SOLUTIONS RAL 3022 St Werburghs

www.jetsammade.com | info@jetsammade.com

t: 0117 279 0980 | m: 07956 846307

e: simon@solarcitypanels.co.uk

WINNER

WINNER

“We are so proud to be this year’s winners of the Bristol Life Awards” - Andrew Sperring, CEO

Home Renovation Project Management That WORKS Every Time

FAMILY-RUN MULTI-AWARD-WINNING BUILDING SERVICES COMPANY WHO SPECIALISE IN HOME RENOVATION Call us today on: 01454 506108

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THE CITY’S HOTTEST BUSINESS NEWS

© @JONCR AIG_ PHOTOS

The EntreConf Awards were created by local maker Ross Bennett

WELCOME TO THE FUTURE THE FIRST ENTRECONF WINNERS HAVE BEEN CHOSEN

ALL PHOTOS BY FUTUREPROOF CREATIVE

THE FUTURE IS BEING WRITTEN… The first EntreConf Awards were a joyous affair, celebrating entrepreneurialism through the region

74 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

D

istinctive, surprising, memorable – and that was just the venue.

The inaugural nt e on Awards gathered founders and advisors together for a singular evening to celebrate entrepreneurialism through the region, across multiple sectors and at various sizes and stages of business.

The hubbub was joyous.

Entrepreneurs clearly love to talk, and share, and partner, and to explore new ideas, new ways of working.

The future may be unwritten, but it’s evidently not not talked about…

What was particularly notable was everyone’s huge interest in the acceptance speeches; those remarkable

stories of entrepreneurialism. And there’s rivalry of sorts, of course.

Always. And all wish to win. Ditto.

But for the most part there was the sense of discovery, helped by the diversity of types of businesses and laces with finalists o o nwall to South Wales as well as Bristol.

The evening was hosted, in predictably idiosyncratic way, by the remarkable entrepreneur, Maxine Laceby, who grew up in the South West and founded, and still runs, the now multi-million-pound Absolute ollagen a ine lent an e t a authenticity of being an insider, someone who knows the risk of starting up a business.

Even this element of the evening was akin to a start-up: Maxine had never presented before. Quite the risk. he ca ied it o with ha y a lo b

NETWORK

OPPOSITE: The Awards were hosted

by entrepreneur, Maxine Laceby of Absolute Collagen THIS PAGE: A dramatic and distinctive settings for the first Awards INSET: Maxine Laceby

ENTRECONF IN 2024

Next year the EntreConf conference will run over two days, June 19-20, again at Watershed. It will include the unveiling of the EntreConf Awards finalists, with the awards themselves held in September. EntreConf dinners will be held this winter and next spring.

Amid the Awards, the evening eatu ed inte iews with a nu be o leading figu es about what being an ent e eneu eant to the t elt e y di e ent to othe awa ds ceremonies.

One of the standout moments was the highly e otional e sonal and extraordinarily gracious, thoughtful s eech gi en by athan a anows i the ounde o igital onde lab which won the loye catego y athan s a ily has had a a ticula ly tough ti e which the udges ob iously didn t now when a ing thei choice his ade the win all the sweete and his acce tance all the more moving. Details are on his in ed n and the unding lin is in the next column. nt e eneu s get to set thei own t a ecto y to c eate thei wo lds as

DONATION

Those wishing to donate to Nathan Baranowski’s fundraising, Running for Nicky, can see details here: www.justgiving.com/ team/running-for-nicky Proceeds go to the RNLI, NSPCC and the RUH Bath

they wish, from their half-hunches and blan sheets o a e to wo ed ideas he theo y is they get to define success on their own terms, whether that’s having freedom to act, doing cool stu sol ing oble s c eating so ething unique wo ing with g eat eo le o yes si ly being s ecifically financially ocused

Usually, that is. For once, not wholly at the EntreConf Awards though, where the ultimate success of winning one of the inaugural gongs was defined by ou anel o udges And that sense o ee ecognition gave an extra heft to the evening and value to the wins. You can see who t iu hed o e the age And next time? Well, with the utterly wonderful Bristol Museum & A t alle y fit to bu sting and tic ets sold out a cou le o wee s be o e the nt e on Awa ds will be held in anothe enue t ll be in e te be again with the finalists un eiled at the next EntreConf event on June 1920 next year. Beyond that, there’s an aw ul lot o c eating and de elo ing and i oting and building and scaling u to do nt e eneu s go For more: www.entreconf.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 75

CATEGORY WINNERS

eCOMMERCE WINNER:

HUBOO

PHOTOS BY @JONCRAIG_PHOTOS

EMPLOYER Sponsored by

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR WINNER:

WINNER:

DIGITAL WONDERLAB

FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR Sponsored by

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

WINNER:

WINNER:

MARTIN BYSH, HUBOO

FINTECH WINNER:

BIPSYNC

HANNAH WALKIEWICZ, THE BUILD BRISTOL GROUP

OLD MILL

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HOSPITALITY

LEGAL ADVISOR

WINNER:

WINNER:

WINNER:

CLEVERCHEFS

THRINGS

EPIC SOLUTIONS 76 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

NETWORK

MEDIA

Sponsored by

PROPERTY WINNER:

SCALE UP Sponsored by

NETWORK N

JAS BUILDING SERVICES

WINNER:

SCIENCE

SMALL BUSINESS

SUSTAINABILITY

WINNER:

WINNER:

KELPI

RUSSELL COMMUNICATIONS

WINNER:

SUSTAINABILITY

TECHNOLOGY

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR

WINNER:

WINNER:

YOUR ECO

ROCKETMAKERS

JAMES COURTNEY, LUX REWARDS

WINNER:

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

TRUESPEED

Sponsored by

KELPI

Sponsored by WINNER:

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 77

SNAPPED AC ROSS B R IS TO L , O N E SH I N D I G AT A T I M E

PHOTOS BY PHOTO BRISTOL AND @JONCRAIG_PHOTOS Amanda and Nick Spicer

Maxine Laceby

Matt Crisp and Nathan Baranowsk

Epic Solutions Team Bath Office Co and Unividual Teams

Neil Morris, Julia Maxwell, Ed Jones, Megan Kelsall and Georgios Gkotsis

Thrings Team

78 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Real SFX Team

Tim Edwards and James Binns

NETWORK

Hannah Walkiewicz and Bianca Hill

Glyn Blaize, EntreConf Awards Judge

Clockwise Team

James Courtney and John Courtney

Claire Ladkin

Photo Bristol’s Mrunal

Lois Baggott and Amber Rochette SustainIt

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 79

NETWORK Dominique Edwards,Sophie Delaney, Ruth Wainwright and Kate Wyatt

Michelle Midwinter and Beth Derrick Kat Sunnucks and Lee Rayner

BE OUR GUEST We love to explore exciting new Bristol openings, so we invited a bunch of friends, clients and colleagues across the city to a drinks reception at the beautifully restored, historic Armada House on Telephone Avenue.

Photos by Mrunal Deshmuck, Photo Bristol

Izzy Kirby and Lizzie Moss Matthew Dobbins and Nathan Pretty

Michael Coe and Mitchell Toogood

Jon Craig, Amanda Adams, Deri Robins and Colin Moody Guests, guesting

Samantha Jenkins and Matt Slade

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 81

NETWORK

© @JONCR AIG_ PHOTOS

“SPECTACULAR ON MANY LEVELS WITH LOCALLY SUPPORTED BUSINESS, PRODUCE AND SUSTAINABILITY AT ITS HEART. OPENING IN 2022, ITS STANDOUT THE MIGHTY FORGE ROAST HAS BECOME A POPULAR STAPLE”

BRISTOL LIFE AWARDS WINNERS

FORGE AND FERN

At the 2023 Bristol Life Awards, the FORGE AND FERN trooped home with not just one, but two trophies; best newcomer, and best restaurant. Nice!

NEW BUSINESS

RESTAURANT

SPONSORED BY

SPONSORED BY

A

s manager Jon Hutchings tells us, the concept for the Forge and Fern came from a collective enthusiasm for design and local great food and drinks. It all started in 2019, with an old spit-andsawdust boozer called The Red Lion, and a few hungry Bristolians . . .

So, who founded the Forge & Fern?

Vertex Investments, which specialises in strategic long-term investments in land, residential property, commercial real estate, and fast-growth companies.

Our founders are born, bred and live locally in Bristol, with a huge passion for design and locally sourced food and drink.

Why did you choose to open a venue at Staple Hill?

While working on a build development in the area, our founders discovered there was a gap in the market for a quality food establishment. The Red Lion was very much a spit-and-sawdust pub when

it was purchased in 2019, but it had a great location on Broad Street, plenty of original features and huge scope to develop.

Why the name Forge & Fern?

The site was originally an old blacksmith’s (the Forge); the Fern is a celebration of our living wall, and the beautiful neighbouring Page Park.

What are the main philosophy and aims behind the Forge and Fern?

To champion local makers, growers, and producers from the Bristol and South West region. In a nutshell, great experiences, forged with us.

You have a great rep for sustainability…

Our green credentials begin outside the building with our living wall, home to a complex weathersensitive watering system, with 12 species of plants across an area of 10.5 metres by four metres, making for a unique focal point for the high street. Inside we’re entirely carbon neutral, being all-electric (commercial kitchen included), partly powered by solar panels and through electing an ene gy co any with a enewable only ta i We also ensure all our menus, napkins, straws, chemicals and other general disposables are all environmentally friendly. We have a rooftop herb garden with eight beehives making honey that’s won a regional silver award for taste, which we use in some dishes, salad dressings, desserts and cocktails.

Now that’s local!

THE BRISTOL LIFE AWARDS JUDGES

What’s the secret of surviving these tricky times for hospitality? e belie e that an enticing o e ing which represents amazing value will always stand us in good stead. We are a positive bunch, and focus on what we can control, ie delighting our guests on a daily basis.

We’re guessing that with the group name ‘Forges’, plural, you have plans to open more venues…

There might have been a little teaser on our socials recently involving an extremely exciting development opposite St George Park on Chalks Road – follow @forgeandfox on Instagram for updates. Our friends down in St George are smart, shrewd and playful, like our mischievous urban friends – this will be one not to be missed.

Where would you like to see the business in five years’ time?

We’re really only getting started. The Forge & Fern has amazing potential, and its location, community support, beautiful interior and exterior design and sheer size means we are only just scratching the surface with what it can achieve. All I would wish o in fi e yea s is o e o the sa e o what we have now – a very busy, locally supported venue with an exceptionally talented, happy team and equally happy guests.

Anything else you’d like to tell us?

Our gin is rather special! We have a distillery in the cellar – the 150L copper still is visible from the restaurant through a viewing platform. Try it garnished with fresh rosemary picked that day from our roof-top herb garden...

For more www.theforges.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 83

NETWORK

FACTORY SETTINGS

YET MORE ABOUT THE COOKS

Bertel Martin has been named as the new Chair of the Board at the obacco acto y ta ing o e o a ah ith who is standing down a te yea s e tel has been in ol ed in istol s olunta y secto and a ts scene o o e yea s as a di ecto oduce anage and eelance w ite he s wo ed o the lac olunta y ecto e elo ent nit istol ld ic and uu ba and sat on the boa d o i co edia Albany Centre, Bristol Broadside, Theatre Bristol, Come the Revolution, Nilaari and Bristol Short Story Prize.

A ounding e be and coo dinato o istol lac ite s ou which hel ed change the e ce tion o lac a ts in istol his national wo has included being di ecto o ly outh nte national oo esti al e has sat on A ts ouncil ngland ad iso y boa ds o de elo ing lac theat e in ngland and he cu ently wo s as the finance and o e ations anage o acta co unity theat e For more www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com

ig cong atulations to lai e ad in and all he coo s who ha e been na ed as finalists in the o unity ood ha ion catego y o the ood and Farming Awards . i en by the belie that ood acts as a catalyst to b ing eo le togethe lai e c eated a lat o in in which talented ho e coo s can a e oney selling thei ood to local eo le he catego y s onso ed by BBC Morning Live, celeb ates those wo ing in ood who a e a ing a di e ence to thei co unity he final ta es lace on ctobe For more www.allaboutthecooks.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF

The Bristol & Bath Regional Capital und is bac ing istol fi s in the healthtech ood and digital e e ience secto s to the tune o with the ai o c eating a healthie and o e esilient city econo y he unding is a t o the o ganisation s wide ity unds sche e which was launched in as one o the fi st o its ind in the to b ing togethe in est ent g ant and local autho ity su o t www.bab-rc.uk eading fil a e s oduce s and w ite s will oin oduction co anies co issione s and oliticians at the second Bristol and Bath Screen Summit on o e be he istol e ent at A nolfini will celeb ate the ise o the egional oice but will also e lo e what is equi ed o e the ne t fi e yea s to d i e g owth and to continue to de elo talent in the city egion www.uwe.ac.uk

SPACE TO WORK e don t need to u le o e the s any o e o etable new o ce hub a go o is now o en o business and the fi st tenants a global fintech co any ha e al eady ta en o e the to oo owe e that s ust a e e sq ft of the total 20,270 sq ft available in the building, housed within the restored o e y wa ehouse and enhanced with a cou tya d cano y and shi ing containe style etal cladding with balconies and te aces on all ou oo s his is a e y e citing letting o a go o which unde lines the a eal o the neighbou hood we ha e built at a ing ha said tua t atton anaging di ecto o be slade de elo e o the a ing ha co unity a go o has an unbeatable location bang on the wate ont inutes o the city cent e and with the ost e citing a iety o estau ants ba s and ca s per sq yard than any other part of Bristol. uddenly the os ect o wo ing o ho e has ever so slightly lost its shine...

Full details at www.cargowork.co.uk

Cleverchefs the local cate ing fi which also ha ens to be the headline s onso o the Bristol Life Awa ds has achie ed si gold istol ating ette chool Awa ds including ingsweston chool cha d chool istol asis Acade y ightstowe ed inste own chool and laise igh chool le e che s co it ent to quality e tends to e e y as ect o its se ice from food quality to nutrition and hygiene e encou age othe businesses and institutions in istol to oin this o e ent and co it to aising the bar for food quality, nutrition, and hygiene,” says founder ic ollins. ogethe we can make Bristol a model for other co unities to e ulate www.cleverchefs.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 85

AWARDS

SEE YOU NEXT YEAR Unique gathering of region’s entrepreneurs For partnerships: annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk For event details: claudia.butler@mediaclash.co.uk

EntreConf.com

#EntreConf

NETWORK

RIGHT: Former Charity winners

Empire Fighting Chance

EXCITEMENT BUILDS… The next highlight on the local business calendar comes in the shapely form of the Bristol Property Awards.

The Grand Reveal of finalists took place on 11 October – see page 88 to find out who made the cut – and the winners will be revealed at the Awards ceremony at Ashton Gate on 24 November. Look out for the full preview in our next issue.

For more www.bristol propertyawards.co.uk

NO PRESSURE…

T

But it’s time to start thinking about your Bristol Life Awards 2024 nomination . . .

he Bristol Life Awards are the biggest, most glamorous celebration of businesses and organisations in the city, celebrating excellence in multiple areas and promoting business through the city and wider region.

The 2024 event is due to be held at Ashton Gate Stadium on 27 March, with nominations due to open on 7 December – take a look at the categories on the website to see which ight be the best fit o you It’s free to enter, you can enter as many categories as you like, and businesses of all shapes and sizes have an equal chance, from the smallest indie to the largest corporate – it all co es down to how success ul you a e in you own field and whether your nomination catches the eye of our judges.

Like the idea winning an award (and who doesn’t?), but no idea where to start? There’s a special Top Tips section on the website, and on Wednesday 15 November at 2pm you can oin a s ecial ow o enefit o the Awa ds webina covering practical advice on everything from creating the best possible nomination to understanding the commercial ad antages in getting in ol ed with the any di e ent inds of partnerships and sponsorships; we’ll also be hearing from past winners and current sponsors.

Independent chef-led contract caterers Cleverchefs are the headline sponsors this year, and other sponsorship opportunities are going fast – contact neil.snow@ mediaclash.co.uk The Bristol Life Awards are at Ashton Gate Stadium on 27 March 2024 For more: www.bristollifeawards.co.uk

Offices in: Henleaze, Whiteladies Road Clifton Village, Shirehampton 0117 962 1205 www.amdsolicitors.com

PRIVATE CLIENT - FAMILY - PROPERTY - COMMERCIAL

HEADLINE SPONSOR

THE PROPERTY WORLD GATHERS… 24 NOVEMBER 2023 Remaining Tickets and Tables here

LAST CALL

Remaining Sponsorships: Please email bristollifecommercial@mediaclash.co.uk Final tickets and Tables: bristolpropertyawards.co.uk/tickets Bristol’s leading property companies: together, one place, one time…

24 NOVEMBER 2023 | BRISTOLPROPERTYAWARDS.CO.UK | #BristolPropertyAwards

OUTSTANDING ARRAY OF FINALISTS: ARCHITECT Sponsored by Airsat Real Estate • AHR Architects • Alec French Architects • AWW • EJ Studio • Stride Treglown CIVIC DEVELOPMENT Sponsored by SBS Design and Build • Baileys Court Primary School, Western Building Consultants • Goldfinch Create & Play, Earthwise Construction & Seb+Fin Architects • Manor Gardens, Aequus Group • One Lockleaze, Countryside Partnerships & Goram Homes • Soapworks, Socius COMMERCIAL AGENT Sponsored by Vertex Investment Group • Burston Cook • Lambert Smith Hampton COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT Sponsored by NE Appliances • EQ, CEG • One Hundred, V7 • Unit G5, Coreus Group CONSULTANCY Sponsored by Rappor Consultants • Brookbanks • Coreus Group • Hydrock • Logika Group • Marrons • Method Consulting • Mode Consult

Winner of Winners sponsor:

• Pride Consulting IMS • Ridge and Partners • Sustainable Construction Services

Accountants • Lucra Mortgages • Mortgage Style • Windsor Hill Mortgages

CONTRACTOR Sponsored by ETM Recycling • Airsat Construction • The Build Bristol Group • Cotswold Design • CW Duke • JAS Building Services • SBS Design & Build

INTERIOR DESIGNER Sponsored by Missiato Design & Build • AWW • BS9 Interior Design • EJ Studio • Hannah Redden Interiors • Ivywell Interiors • Kitchens by Nolte • Kutchenhaus Kitchens Bristol • Marta Rossato Interiors

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PROPERTY

MIDCENTURY MODERN They had us at “it has a tetradecagon-shaped garden room…”

Words by Ursula Cole

I

PROPERTY

f you’ve always nurtured a yen for the rural life but have zero enthusiasm for the traditional country-living aesthetic, this extraordinary midcentury modern home could be for you.

Set in the Chewton Mendip Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the York’s Lane house was originally designed in the 1960s by acclaimed Bristol architect Ray Moxley, and later extended by the equally renowned Robert and Tim Organ; a recent renovation has honoured the house’s heritage features and its panoply of original mid-century details.

The single-storey main house, built from timber, concrete and stone, was originally created by Moxley for two Bristol University academics, who were passionate about modern architecture and wanted to transform their 18th-century stone cottage into something more appropriate for the late 20th century. At the end of the decade, they commissioned Robert and Tim Organ to design an extension, including the tetradecagon-shaped garden room.

A beautifully bright entrance hall tells you all you need to know about the way that light has been jealously harnessed in this home through huge windows. The hall leads straight into the distinctive garden room; a wholly inviting space to sit, read or simply bask in the peace and quiet, with ribbons of glazing framing views of the woodland. To the left of the entrance hall, a quiet sleeping area with a i ate en suite bath oo has been ideally econfigu ed to o ide

92 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“Glass doors frame calming views of plants, trees, and water; we have visited less serene yoga retreats”

PROPERTY a private resting space for guests, well away from the rest of the house.

Glass doors provide natural light, as well as framing calming views of plants, trees, and water; we have visited less serene yoga retreats.

A dining room connects the west wing of the house to the central living areas, where the open-plan living space elegantly cantilevers over the hillside. Glass walls invite striking natural light into the room, while framing snapshots of layer upon layer of woodland. Designed to be versatile in its layout, and adaptable to season, mood and occasion the oo is defined by ee standing u nitu e which a o ds o e a o iate e ible di isions o s ace than the e anence o walls o co ido s n winte onths it s econfigu ed towa ds a large woodburning stove set upon a cast- concrete plinth, creating a comforting, cosy retreat.

The new kitchen feels perfectly in keeping with the mid-century aesthetic, while making generous provision for contemporary cooking and food prep requirements, with clean lines of bespoke cabinetry creating plenty of storage and neat concealment for the appliances.

Tucked into the north-easterly corner, the main bedroom is another incredibly quiet and peaceful room; a third bedroom has yet more leafy views across the gardens and over the treetops.

The original stone cottage is connected to the house by an adjoining internal staircase, which can be closed via a doorway on both sides.

Built of stone and concrete block, the house dates back to the 1700s, and has been sensitively updated while retaining many charming o iginal eatu es such as agstone oo s and stone fi e laces ith a private garden, the cottage makes an ideal holiday let.

94 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PROPERTY Outside, the undulating lawns to the front of the house attract a great diversity of local wildlife. The terrace and internal courtyard e ect the ode nist eatu es o the a chitectu e and a e a tly laced a ound a ectilinea ond designed to e act the sunlight and oonlight eating a eas ha e been thought ully laced to ta e in the senso y oys o the natu al su oundings and the sound o owing wate adds to the natu ally eace ul en i on ent he house occu ies a wonde ully quiet and secluded s ot at the end o its i ate d i eway which leads in tu n o a count y lane o osite the woodland o the otected aldeg a e state o e e yday needs the illage o hewton endi with its cha ing e nacula li estone buildings is close by and the e a e lenty o inde endent g owe s and dai ies on the doo ste ells is ou iles away and o ull on u ban delights which whis e it quietly you ay find you sel issing athe less than you i agined istol is a e e inutes d i e

HOUSE NUMBERS Guide price

£1.95m

Receptions

2 in main house; 2 in cottage

Bedrooms

3 in main house; 2 in cottage

Bath/showe rooms

2 in main house; 1 in cottage

Grounds

Beautifully landscaped gardens with pond

Contact

The Modern House; www.themodernhouse.com

96 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Block & Estate Management Raising the bar in block and estate management services across Bristol.

DNA Property Management St Brandons House, 27-29 Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5QT Email: info@dnaproperties.co.uk Tel: 01179 200141

www.dnaproperties.co.uk Transparent property management offering genuine cost savings with no compromise on service level standards

BRISTOL LIVES

“Bristol has always played a role in every underground scene going” about painting on walls, but creating conversations and making statements that amplify important social messaging.

Bristol’s been at the forefront

of the worldwide street art movement since its inception; of course, there’s Banksy, but also Inkie, HazardOne, Rich T, Zoe Power, Cheo, Andy Council, Lucas Antics, Bex Glover… the list goes on. Bristol is at the heart of culture, diversity and creativity, and it’s a city where all of this is celebrated.

STEPHEN HAYLES The gaffer of Upfest takes us back to when it all began . . .

T

hese days, we cheerfully take for granted that the walls of this city will be regularly transformed by the best street artists in the world.

It wasn’t always that way. For any yea s g a ti was seen as a guerrilla activity, with many a police arrest and cheeky house raid, and artists now heralded as local heroes being obliged to kick their heels in the cells.

This change in public perception didn’t happen by magic. Someone was required to harness all that talent and bring it out of the shadows, and few have done more to popularise street art than Stephen Hayles, the co-founder of Europe’s largest street art festival: Bristol’s brilliant Upfest.

Street artists used to be just like bedroom DJs, practising

and honing their skills solo, many fie cely otecting thei identity and getting up on the streets in

the dead of night. Things were changing though, with artists joining online forums and planning meet-ups. Upfest came about by giving these artists a space to do so.

It all started in 2008 with

15 likeminded artists getting together to paint at the Tobacco Factory. Word got around, 15 became 40, and before we knew it, Upfest was born.

Since then, we’ve seen so much support from Bristol

and beyond, and the festival has grown exponentially. Since those humble beginnings we now see global artists travelling to Bedminster to share their art with Bristol. We thought that the original jump from 15 to 40 artists was incredible; we never imagined we’d see 400.

Bristol has always played a role in every underground scene going, and street art

was no di e ent t s not ust

98 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Without the festival taking place in 2023, you’d think

we’d have had a quiet year, but it’s been our busiest so far.

Highlights included welcoming the Lionesses home after a brilliant World Cup bid with a giant message of support laid out on a field nea eath ow reading ‘Lionesses, you did us proud’ – it was visible while they were landing at the airport.

Obviously we celebrated 650 years of Bristol this summer.

We sprayed three massive hopscotches in the shape of 650 with line-marker paint in three central green spaces, in partnership with Bristol BID, as well as hosting a brush-only paint jam on Queen’s Road, in which artists created Renaissance-style paintings on shop fronts.

One of our biggest highlights

was bringing Weston Wallz back to Weston-super-Mare. These murals bring so much positivity to the town, which is really why we do what we do.

Community is everything in our city. Bristol wouldn’t be

Bristol without the amazing people who live here, which is why we’ve always kept Upfest

as a free festival for anyone and everyone. We love working with people and projects that involve the community. Last year, we worked on a project with Brighter Places and HazardOne to bring a new collaborative mural to the community on Lower Ashley Road. We did a community callout and consulted with residents in St Pauls and St Agnes, who said they wanted the artwork to tell an authentic story of the area, using the theme ‘Putting Down Roots’. The massive artwork was inspired by their words, and has left a legacy mural for everyone to enjoy.

Working on collaborative murals is always up there,

and this year’s repainting of the mural on the Tobacco Factory

by Inkie and Silent Hobo was so rewarding, not just for the bright and bold artistic brilliance, but equally the messaging behind it, designed to create conversation on strengthening communities and local economies worldwide as part of the Local Futures campaign. If we could facilitate the painting of these hugely important messages every day then we’d be the happiest crew.

He’s not what you call one of the old masters, but my earliest

recollection of being inspired by all things creative came from watching Tony Hart on Hart Beat during the ’80s; my love for all styles o isual a t was definitely driven by this early inspiration.

My favourite thing about Bristol? It’s home to so

many amazing souls, and our achievements over the past 15+ years have been because of such people supporting us year after year; thank you all.

See also page 6; www.upfest.co.uk

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