Cardiff Life - Issue 156 by MediaClash

U Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property AT & P P C T E L HE

ISSUE 156 / CITY SPECIAL 2016 / £3

RS OS O E HE NA RR L

CELEB RATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

ISSUE 156 / CITY SPECIAL 2016 / IT’S WHAT’S INSIDE THAT COUNTS

INTERIORS INSPIRATION TO BRIGHTEN YOUR HOME

ANNE MORGAN

JEWELLERY, REDEFINED GETTING A TASTE FOR CHAPEL 1877

KEEP ON RUNNING: TOP TIPS TO AVOID TRAINING BURNOUT WAS THE HYPE WORTH IT? THE VERDICT ON PINTER’S NO MAN’S LAND

editor’s letter / Issue 156 / CITY SPECIAL 2016

Told hue so Colour is such a subjective and divisive thing, and choosing a new colour scheme for your home can be tricky – one man’s Green Smoke (Farrow & Ball, we love you) is another’s boring magnolia, after all. But when talking about interior design, there’s nothing quite like colour, in all its bright, bold, vivid, go-for-it hues, to make the heart soar. But before you go slapping on the paint (and then realising you hate it), it pays to do a bit of research. Turn to page 24 for colour inspiration and advice from some of our sharpest local interiors experts. We’ve been shopping for a few indulgent home accessories to complete your look, too – see page 48 for more. And talking of indulgent, our fashion theme this month is autumn luxe – we’ve picked out a few essentials for your AW16 wardrobe. All that, plus a profile of Cardiff’s visionary pub theatre company The Other Room, Anne Morgan’s cooler-than-cool contemporary jewellery, tips for runners on how to stay injury-free, and much more. See you next time!

Lliwiau i’ch llonni

ORANGE CRUSH

...and other hues. How to add colour to your home, with the help of local interiors experts

Mae lliw yn rhywbeth mor bersonol y mae’n hawdd anghytuno yn ei gylch, ac mae dewis cynllun lliwiau newydd ar gyfer eich cartref yn gallu bod yn anodd. Wedi’r cyfan, gall un o liwiau llwydaidd ffasiynol Farrow and Ball sydd wrth fodd un person fod yn lliw diflas yr olwg i rywun arall. Ond wrth sôn am gynllunio ystafelloedd, does dim byd tebyg i liw yn ei holl ogoniant llachar i godi’r galon. Ond cyn i chi fynd ati fel lladd nadroedd i baentio (a sylweddoli wedyn bod yn gas gennych y lliw), mae’n werth gwneud ychydig o waith ymchwil. Trowch i dudalen 24 i gael ysbrydoliaeth a chyngor ynghylch lliwiau gan rai o’n harbenigwyr lleol amlycaf ym maes cynllunio ystafelloedd. Rydym hefyd wedi bod yn siopa am un neu ddau o bethau chwaethus i’r cartref i ategu’r gwaith addurno – cewch wybod mwy ar dudalen 48. Ac o sôn am bethau chwaethus, ein thema o ran ffasiwn y mis hwn yw dillad hyfryd yr hydref ac rydym wedi dewis ambell ddilledyn hanfodol i’ch cwpwrdd dillad ar gyfer tymor yr hydref a’r gaeaf. At hynny, mae gennym broffil o gwmni theatr dafarn Caerdydd, The Other Room, a’i weledigaeth wych, rydym yn rhoi sylw i emwaith cyfoes Anne Morgan sy’n ffasiynol tu hwnt, ac mae gennym ambell air o gyngor i redwyr ynghylch sut mae osgoi anafiadau, a llawer mwy. Tan y tro nesaf! Velimir Ilic Editor vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @CardiffLifeMag

REGULARS / ISSUE 156 / CITY SPECIAL 2016

MAIN FEATURE 24 Interiors Autumn’s brightest and best colours – and how to use them in your home

M EET T H E T EAM

Godfather of electronic music Jean-Michel Jarre and other must-see goodies in this month’s What’s On

Editor Velimir Ilic vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Andrea Byrne, Andrea Callanan, Elisabeth Mahoney, Hugo Ball, Katie Kissoon, Rhys Williams, Sarah Moolla

OPINION 17 A Man’s World Rhys Williams fills his boots at Street Food Circus

Advertising manager Andy Baker andy.baker@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Claire Hawkins claire.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

95 Girl About Town Andrea Byrne’s been on a bit of a sporty mission...

THE ARTS

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Christina West christina.west@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk

63 Arts Intro Suffer from coulrophobia? Best skip this page...

64 What’s On Rich pickings around the city for you culture vultures

70 The Other Room Autumn/winter preview from Cardiff’s daring and visionary contemporary pub theatre

73 The Verdict Reviews of Pinter’s No Man’s Land (with – yes! – Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart) and go-to music fest Green Man

SHOPPING 48 Editor’s Choice Bold and colourful home accessories – there’s a theme developing here...

52 Window Shopping Behind the scenes at Anne Morgan’s contemporary jewellery boutique and gallery in Penarth

56 Fashion Get all wrapped up in autumn luxe

122

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk

FOOD

PROPERT Y

82 Restaurant

122 Property Showcase

Elisabeth Mahoney samples the seven-course tasting menu at Cardiff’s plush Chapel 1877 restaurant

An immaculate and stylish fivebedroom home in Ystrad Mynach

HEALTH & BEAUT Y 90 Keep On Running ...or how to listen to your body and stay injury-free

DEPARTMENTS 13 Spotlight More acts join this year’s Swn line-up, and the noms for the 25th British Academy Cymru Awards

103 Snapped!

BUSINESS

This month’s glam gatherings...

115 Business Insider

130 Cardiff Lives

Goji Hair, Cardiff Life Awards update, Andrea Callanan and more good news from the commercial sector

“I’d like to get David Cameron and Boris Johnson around the dinner table. They’d never leave.” Ulp! Who’s being a bit too keen?

Cardiff Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, 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.

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrate the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (crumbsmag.com, @ CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag). 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

On the cover We love Scion’s green emerald Riko upholstery fabric, from their gorgeous Tomoko range – turn to page 24 for more on this season’s interiors colours

C A R D I F F: I T S L I F E A N D T I M E S

Xxxxxxx Bling it on: pop powerhouse Betsy

MUSIC Fast-rising London quintet Pumarosa

HOW SWN IS NOW Lots more acts join the line-up for this year’s Swn music festival

Welsh psych-popstrel Cate Le Bon

Cardiff’s flagship new music event, Swn, has announced 41 more artists who will be coming to the Welsh capital next month. They join over 100 previously announced acts who will all play at the celebratory 10th edition of the popular city festival, which takes place from 21-23 October. There’s certainly plenty to see: one of the most exciting live acts in the UK, Melt Yourself Down bring their post-punk exotica to Wales, while the epic soundscapes of Dutch newcomers Klangstof – introduced to the world by Sigur Ros – are not to be missed. Indie troubadour Meilyr Jones follows up his very fine show at Cardiff’s recent Festival of Voice with a much-anticipated headline slot, while pop powerhouse Betsy – think Massive Attack meets Billie Holiday – will no doubt show why the UK music industry Melt Yourself Down: post-punk exotica

all fought for her signature. All that, plus synth popstrel Ani Glass, the anthemic, 80s-influenced sounds of April Towers, fast-rising London five-piece Pumarosa, one of the UK’s most blogged-about bands, and much more. Swn, lest we forget, has an enviable reputation for bringing new artists to attention early on, with formative shows from the likes of Adele, Disclosure, John Grant and many others. And the festival also continues to champion homegrown talent, with Welsh artists such as Cate Le Bon, Welsh Music Prize winner Gwenno (DJ set), Bryde, R. Seiliog and others all appearing this year. “We want our tenth edition to be the best yet,” said Swn co-founder John Rostron. “With Swn, the joy is bringing brilliant live acts to the festival with an emphasis on new, emerging talent. Swn is a festival of musical discovery – the fun is putting your trust in us to see new acts close up and early on, who’ll become future festival headliners. This year, there’ll be some surprise shows happening across the festival weekend, too. It’ll be an absolute treat!” This year’s Swn Festival takes place at various venues across Cardiff from 21-23 October. For more info, see swnfest.com

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C A R D I F F: I T S L I F E A N D T I M E S

(Clockwise from left) Doctor Who, Sherlock and YGwyll/Hinterland have all been nominated at this year’s British Academy Cymru Awards

Local folk share their photos This issue: Deli/cafe Penylan Pantry instagram.com/penylanpantry

Come out of the rain into the dry for a slice of Raspberry, Lemon & Pistachio tart… delicious!

Penylan Pantry looking pretty in the early evening light

ENTERTAINMENT

THE STARS ARE COMING OUT

Pop in for an awesome salad bowl – harissa roasted veg with sweet pickled red onions. So colourful and yummy

Nominations have been announced for the 25th British Academy Cymru Awards The glittering ceremony, which will celebrate Welsh talent across film and television production, craft and performance roles, will take place on 2 October at St David’s Hall in Cardiff, with special guest performances and celebrity award presenters representing the very best of the UK’s creative and media industries. Y Gwyll/Hinterland receives nominations once again for Television Drama, Director: Fiction (Gareth Bryn), Actress (Mali Harries) and Actor (Richard Harrington, who won the award last year). The new, broader eligibility criteria for this year’s awards, which allow recognition for Welsh talent working on UK network productions, sees Aneurin Bernard head up the list, with an Actor nomination for his role as Boris Drubetskoy in War And Peace. And Sherlock receives three nominations: Production Design (for previous winner Arwel Wyn Jones), Sound, and Special and Visual Effects, Titles and Graphic Identity. 14 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Doctor Who is in the mix in the latter category, too. “Once again this year we have some really exciting names in the line-up,” said BAFTA Cymru director Hannah Raybould. “This year, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the awards, members of the public who purchase tickets will have the full VIP treatment, with access to the champagne reception, red carpet, ceremony and postevent party, which we are all really looking forward to. “It’s heartening to see new names alongside those who have been nominated and won in the past – many as a result of our new broader entry criteria. I wish everyone who has been nominated the very best of luck. Pob lwc i bawb!” The British Academy Cymru Awards take place at St David’s Hall on 2 October, with tickets priced at £90 each. For more information on tickets and this year’s nominations, see stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk and bafta.org

Team coffee training with @cliftoncoffee

Gracie picking tomatoes from the Pantry’s tomato plant

A MAN’S WORLD

CARDIFF DOES THE POP-UP THING SO WELL

RHYS WILLIAMS Ou r ma n at Ca rdif f Blues

WE’LL MEAT AGAIN Rhys chows down at Street Food Circus, Cardiff’s food pop-up du jour

finally made it. After two years, I did it… I had my first experience of the meaty goodness of Hang Fire Smokehouse, at the Street Food Circus food pop-up at Sophia Gardens. You may have noticed a recurring theme of food in my column; let’s just say it’s a big part of my life, and Hang Fire has been on my hit list for too long. It certainly won’t be two years until my next visit. The pork ribs were just immense: smokey, barbecued goodness – undoubtedly the best I’ve ever had. Hang Fire was just one of numerous pop-ups at the festival, and [wife] Liz and I also sampled great food from Dirty Bird fried chicken, Purple Poppadom’s Tukka Tuk and Greek/Cypriot ‘go-to’ Meat and Greek... although she might argue I didn’t share. Anyway, there was such a great buzz – I’ll be back! Cardiff does the pop-up thing so well, and we’re certainly giving London a run for its money – maybe Jay Rayner should have popped along following some of his uncomplimentary comments about the Cardiff food scene earlier this month. I also visited a brilliant business in Splott a few weeks ago, Wild Creations. The company has made props for Independence Day, The Lost World: Jurassic Park and many others, but you will know them as the creators of the brilliant ‘ball in the wall’ at Cardiff Castle during last year’s Rugby World Cup. Their workshop was jaw-dropping. I parked up next to a crocodile exploding through the pavement, ‘eating’ a great white shark; and as I sat in the boardroom, a velociraptor was looking over my shoulder. They have been working with us and Cardiff Airport to create a new way of delivering the kicking tee during home matches at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park – cue the Flybe ‘tee-bird’! It was great to unveil this remote-controlled Flybe plane, and it got a great reception from the fans. Despite the atrocious weather on the night, take-off was smooth, and despite a little turbulence, it was a successful maiden flight – and the Blues had a successful bonus-point victory over Edinburgh. Result! Here’s hoping our season continues to hit the heights...

Digging in at Street Food Circus

Rhys Williams is an ex-Wales and Cardiff Blues rugby star, now commercial director at the club. For more, see cardiffblues.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 17

SOFT FURNISHINGS | BLINDS | AND MUCH MORE... Haus Contemporary Furnishings 6C Heol-y-Deri Rhiwbina Cardiff CF14 6HF Tel: 02920 611 372 | Email: info@haus-cardiff.co.uk | www.haus-cardiff.co.uk ab

P R O P E R T Y adve r tisi n g f eat u r e

It’s All About the Orangery Lifestyle Based in the Vale of Glamorgan, Vale Orangeries specialise in designing and building bespoke living spaces, tailor-made to their clients’ specifications

e all need our own space – somewhere to relax, enjoy our home comforts and spend quality time with family and friends. Look no further: husband and wife team Dean and Leanne Edmonds are dedicated to providing the space you need. Their company, Vale Orangeries, based in the Vale of Glamorgan, specialises in designing and building bespoke extensions. “An orangery is a great way to extend and create a seriously stylish addition to your home," says Leanne. "There are various design packages available including bi-folding doors, recessed lighting options, underfloor heating, home entertainment solutions and an interior design service to help with those allimportant finishing touches."

Dean adds: “If you’re not sure exactly what you want, we can help. We offer a free consultation and design service, and have numerous orangery show-homes throughout South Wales available for inspiration and ideas. “Having a living space built to your specification is a dream for many – and a reality for our clients. There is no need to concern yourself with architects, planning or building control as this is all part of the package. The only planning we want you to worry about is where to put your sofa – but we can even help with that, too!” If you're thinking of an extension, but want something different or need inspiration, call Dean or Leanne on 01446 746353 to discuss how a Vale Orangeries orangery can work for the way you live.

Dean & Leanne Edmonds

n ig eeDestion Fronalulta rs ns Pe Co

20 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

AUTUMN INTERIORS

PINKS ARE REALLY POPULAR WITH CONTEMPORARY DESIGNERS AND FURNITURE MAKERS RIGHT NOW

Meridiani soft seating, in shades of on-trend pink, is available from Momentum in Cardiff 24 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

AUTUMN INTERIORS

LOOK on the BRIGHT SIDE Forget boring neutrals – be fearless and embrace the colour! Local interiors experts share top tips on bringing brights into your home – and we tell you where to shop the looks w By K AT I E K I SSOON

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 25

Beautiful handmade kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and more....

t: 029 2023 3308 www.chalkhouseinteriors.co.uk 3 Bessemer Close Workshops, Cardiff CF11 8DL

AUTUMN INTERIORS

EYE-POPPING

PIGMENTS ADD DEPTH, WARMTH AND WIT, WHATEVER THE STYLE OF PROPERTY

C Farrow & Ball’s Yeabridge Green No. 287, a lusty green discovered in an old Georgian farmhouse in Somerset, when the original gun cupboard was removed – grab a tin at Rabarts and other Cardiff stockists

olour is one of those things that means very different things to different people. While we’ll always love offwhites, greys and their subtle ilk, our hearts soar at the sight of a home that’s been treated to bright colours; eye-popping pigments add depth, warmth and wit, whatever the style of property. In period homes, they can emphasise quirky features and illuminate dark corners, and in modern ones, careful deployment prevents a cold, overminimalist feel. From a teal front door to a scorching yellow sofa, a lime range cooker or splashy, vivid artworks, a peppy pink-painted dresser or a technicolour feature wall – colour brings fizz and conversation to the party, in every single room. But there’s no need to go mad and start slapping on the paint as if your life depends on it. Avoid a jarring Skittles-like rainbow of fruit flavours by sticking with either a cool or warm palette – the latter might involve turquoise, pea green and indigo; on the other side of the colour wheel, orange or magenta can work well – and balance with a dose of white paint or furniture and accessories. So there’s really no need to feel glum as the nights draw in. Whether you’re redecorating, renovating or starting a self-build from scratch, prepare to dial up the colour volume… w www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 27

AUTUMN INTERIORS

SPLASH OUT

“Our ‘go to’ colours of the moment are chartreuse, pink and a hint of ruby red,” says Penny Allen, founder of interior design brand and retail boutique Pad Deco. “Contemporary and timeless, they work well as strong accent colours, and can be paired with white for a fun, modern look. They also work well with dark backdrops such as greys or navy blues to create a sophisticated regal design. “Tracy Kendall’s colourful, handmade statement wallpaper designs are a great example of how these colours can be used in your home. Her Another Colour wallpaper features hundreds of multi-coloured paper swatches, all stitched on to create texture and impact. A great way of using these is to create one-off statement panels – an affordable way of introducing art to an interior space.” “Precious jewel colours – ruby, sapphire, emerald – are very much in vogue,” reckons Yvonne Jones, owner of Chameleon Interiors. “Their brilliance adds verve to any room scheme. They can also be juxtapositioned in a kaleidoscopic, geometric fashion to create a huge impact – think Missoni fabrics. “Interestingly, copper, gold and brass have superseded silver, chrome and nickel, creating a much warmer effect. And monochrome is still an important element in a design scheme, to act as a relief to the haphazard colours – use white, black, grey to offset the wild jumble of bright colours.” Blue continues to be a dominant hue, too. “It’s definitely the colour of the moment,” reckons interior designer Deborah Drew, formerly of popular BBC series DIY SOS. “From the deepest inks all the way through to sky blue, this calming yet striking palette works perfectly in rich elegant schemes as well as coastal or relaxed settings. It balances extremely well with both muted and bright accents, so it works beautifully as a floral and looks stunning with a contemporary infusion of metallic elements. “My home has plenty of blue and pebble grey, which I use as accents against a backdrop of pure white. I have a plain powder blue feature wall in my kitchen/dining area, a pale blue striped carpet on my stairs and landing and standalone pieces of painted furniture. “And I use bright splashes of colour in cushions, such as Romo Black Edition cushions by Jessica Zoob, and artwork to give the rooms a happy, uplifting vibe.” Blue is a dominant hue right now – check out Little Greene’s beautiful range of blue paints (and other colours!), available from Interiors Etc 28 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

AUTUMN INTERIORS

Harlequin’s new Callista range, created by Clarissa Hulse (“great for a feature wall”), is available from Jewels Canley and various other Cardiff stockists

“Blues and pinks are really popular with contemporary designers and furniture manufacturers right now,” adds Nicole Daniels from Momentum. “From really muted dark blue and dusky pink to stronger teal blues and raspberry, they are bang on-trend and really help to bring an interiors scheme up to date.” Green is currently the go-to colour for Gail Jones, co-owner of Haus Contemporary Furnishings in Rhiwbina. “One of our favourites right now is the bright emerald green from Scion’s latest Tomoko collection of fabrics,” she says. “It looks amazing paired with charcoal, black and citrus. We love adding in pops of colour – we’re just about to paint a large wall in a newly-installed white gloss and oak kitchen space, using Designers Guild Emerald No. 92 (available from Haus).” And yellows, in all their glorious hues, are getting a real look-in, too. “Mustards are great with a grey scheme, and still very fashionable,” says Jewels Canley’s Julie Perkins. “The new Callista range by Harlequin, created by Clarissa Hulse (known for her ‘branchy’ style), is very colourful. It’s great wallpaper for a feature wall – very striking!” “Mustard, ochre and sunshine yellow are really strong,” agrees interior designer Andy Bradshaw from Hamptons in Penarth. “Mini Moderns’ Backgammon wallpaper in mustard works even in the smallest of spaces. I’ve used it in en-suite bathrooms and it looks spectacular.” Justine Bullock from Taylors Etc suggests making the most of that staple autumnal hue: orange. “It’s always a strong choice for bringing warmth into any room at this time of year,” she says. “For bright and bold, you can’t beat [Italian contemporary furniture designers] Kartell, and their collaboration with Laufen makes for a very striking bathroom, which we adore. It comes with colourful orange accessories, too.” “You don’t always have to add ‘bright’ to make a statement,” advises Dorian Bowen, co-founder of Penarth-based interior architects Project One. “Metallics, for example, add glamour and drama. They make a statement without compromising your space, and always look fabulous. I have a sky blue sofa, with hints of metallics running through the artwork and workspaces, with volcanic black flooring and accessories to give it an edge.” w

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AUTUMN INTERIORS SMALL STEPS

YOUR AFFAIR WITH BRIGHTS CAN BE AS SIMPLE AS YOU LIKE

If you just want to ‘dip a toe’ into colour, your affair with brights can be as simple and low-cost as you like. “The easiest way is to use brightly coloured cushions,” says Yvonne Jones. “You could also think about indulging in some Missoni fabric, and making cushions with a velvet back. The shiny and warm fabric is lovely to the touch, and the combination of colours looks great. And look out for over-scaled gold, ceramic pots or brightly coloured glass jugs and vases – they don’t need to be expensive, just colourful.” “Introduce textiles such as throws in bright and bold colours,” adds Penny Allen. “The more you like it, the more you add – small baby steps!” For really strong colour, Dorian Bowen suggests using statement pieces such as a sofa or large custom/commissioned artwork. “Our artist-in-residence, Lois Seco, creates bespoke artwork for our projects by incorporating elements of colours already in the design, together with your chosen accent colour,” he says. “You can then go to town with any other colour you want!”

“Artwork is a great way to add bursts of colour,” agrees Deborah Drew, “but you can also add bold statement colours with a contrasting armchair or striking dining chairs. Look at incorporating bright or richly-toned rugs with a silk or viscose content – they reflect light beautifully and add depth to your scheme with a hint of luxury.” Nicole Daniels, however, believes in going the whole hog. “I’m not a great believer in using just a shot of colour,” she admits. “If you want to make a difference, then go for it! Either use colour on walls or on larger pieces (sofas and feature chairs). If you’re worried about it looking too garish, keep the scheme to one colour but in different tones. And make sure you mix it with neutrals and natural materials to keep it fresh, subtle and stylish.” When all else fails, you can always call in the professionals. “They will hold your hand and gently take you on a wonderful journey of colour,” says Andy Bradshaw. “Life is too short to spend it living in magnolia.” w

This lush, fern green freestanding bath from Mandarin Stone works perfectly against the dark grey Casablanca tiles

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AUTUMN INTERIORS

PREPARE TO DIAL UP THE COLOUR VOLUME

Tracy Kendall’s showstopping Another Colour wallpaper (available at Pad Deco) features “hundreds of multicoloured paper swatches, all stitched on to create texture and impact”

YOU HAVE BEEN READING Local designers, suppliers and stockists Chameleon Interiors 73 Pontcanna Street, Pontcanna; Tel: 02920 371277 chameleoninteriors.co.uk

Momentum 31 Charles Street, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 236266 momentumcardiff.com

Chalkhouse Interiors 3 Bessemer Close, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 233308 chalkhouseinteriors.co.uk

House Envy Westwinds Business Park, Bridgend; Tel: 01656 863412 house-envy.co.uk

Rossiters 33 Royal Arcade, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 224118 rossitersofbath.com

Deborah Drew Designs 18 Penlline Road, Whitchurch; Tel: 02920 520828 dddesigns.co.uk

Pad Deco 35 Castle Arcade, Cardiff Tel: 02920 233020 paddeco.com

Curtain Raisers 2 Kelston Road, Whitchurch; Tel: 02920 614966 curtain-raisers.co.uk

Interiors Etc 4 Sovereign Quay, Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay; Tel: 02920 448080 interiors-etc.co.uk

Space Fitting The Design Quarter, 4 Colchester Avenue, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 455778 spacefittingfurniture. co.uk

Hamptons Design 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth; Tel: 02920 705391 hamptonspenarth.co.uk Haus Contemporary Furnishings 6c Heol-y-Deri, Rhiwbina; Tel: 02920 611372 haus-cardiff.co.uk Jewels Canley Interiors 2 Glebe Street, Penarth; Tel: 02920 707779 jewelscanley.co.uk

Project One Tel: 02921 406283 projectonewales.co.uk Taylors Etc 143 Colchester Avenue, Penylan; Tel: 02920 358400 taylorsetc.co.uk

Floored Genius The Business Centre, Cardiff Road, Barry; Tel: 01446 746555 flooredgenius.com

FURTHER CONTACTS:

Fountain Fine Art 6-8 Morgan Arcade Cardiff; fountainfineart.com

Beti Biggs 1 Romilly Crescent & 90 Albany Road; Tel: 02920 372111 betibiggs.com

Home By Kirsty 16 Castle Arcade, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 373429 homebykirsty.com

32 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Jacob’s Market West Canal Wharf, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 390939 jacobsmarket.co.uk Natuzzi Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay; Tel: 02920 488698 natuzzigroup.co.uk Peastyle (online) Tel: 07796 443273 peastyle.co.uk

Topstak Vale Business Park, Cowbridge; Tel: 01446 771567 topstak.co.uk Your Space Living 3A Commercial Street, Llantwit Major; Tel: 01446 796731 yourspaceliving.com

Made to measure curtains Electric tracks supplied and fitted Re-upholstery Bespoke sofas and chairs And much more...

Brands Romo, Osbourne and Little, GP and J Baker, Harlequin, Zoffany, Sacho, Alhambra, Casamance, Voyage, Sanderson, Blendworth, Jab, Zinc, Villa Nova, Warwick, Wemyss and much more...

Visit us at: 2 Glebe Street, Penarth CF64 1EB. Tel: 02920 707 779 or 02920692255 Email: info@jewelscanley.co.uk Keep up to date with our latest projects, ideas and inspiration www.facebook.com/jewelscanley

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107 Caerphilly Road, Cardiff CF14 4QA. Tel: 02920 628387 Find us online at: www.loft-pro.co.uk

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A Loft Conversion is the Answer Whether you are buying a property or looking to extend... New Property

Looking for a property but can’t find the required amount of bedrooms in your price range? Often an existing property without the required bedrooms can be utilised to fulfil your needs. An additional bedroom can be achieved by converting the loft space at a fraction of the additional cost of a larger property. The majority of properties can easily be converted and gain at least one extra bedroom.

Existing Property

Modern lifestyles demand more space, in particular more personal space for relaxation, leisure and enjoyment. From a modest twobedroom terrace to the most luxurious home, everyone is always looking for an opportunity to improve their standard of living. The most cost-effective way to add space to your property is a loft conversion. Financially, a loft conversion can prove to be a sound investment of your money. You may, for instance, be enjoying £60,000 equity in a property; if £30,000 is borrowed against this for the purpose of a loft conversion comprising two bedrooms and an additional bathroom, then the property’s value can increase by up to £50,000. There have been instances where home-owners have moved their mortgage and used 30% of the equity, increased their property value and reduced their monthly mortgage repayments!

Common Loft Conversion Types

The majority of properties are convertible – here are the most typical examples:

Convert your existing space If the existing height in your loft is adequate, then this becomes a great option. Roof windows can be used to service bedrooms, bathrooms and a new staircase. Planning permission is not required for this type of conversion, unless your property is a listed building, or is within a conservation area or national park. Converting the existing space is a very cost-effective method of achieving that additional room.

Hip to gable/apex dormer A hipped roof may be restricting the head clearance and available space in an existing loft. However, the roof can be extended either by a ‘hip to gable’ or side apex dormer roof extension. Generally, this type of roof extension can be carried out under the property’s permitted development rights and does not require full planning permission. The additional height and space achieved is often used to accommodate the staircase and/ or bathroom.

Rear dormer A rear dormer utilises the loft’s available space to its fullest potential, allowing you

to walk into both comers of the conversion at the rear of the property, with maximum ceiling height. This option often proves the most cost-effective method of achieving more living space, at up to 80% of the original property’s footprint. This common form of development on semi-detached properties maximises the available space within the roof.

Trussed roof conversion Steelwork in conjunction with strengthened roof rafters follows the traditional method of achieving extra space. Alternatively, the roof can be ‘re-trussed’, which involves replacing the existing trusses with new attic trusses specially designed and manufactured to provide an attic room – particularly useful if the existing property is of timber frame construction. Another advantage of this method of re-trussing your home becomes clear if the existing ridge height is not sufficient and the ridge line needs to be raised.

Visit us at: 107 Caerphilly Road, Cardiff CF14 4QA Tel: 02920 628387; www.loft-pro.co.uk

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

Classic and Modern Kitchens Claim up to ÂŁ500 when purchasing either, a selected single or double oven, along with any FOUR additional current NEFF appliances, as part of your overall kitchen purchase. www.neff.co.uk

Classic & Modern Kitchens Ltd, Caerphilly. info@classicandmodernkitchens.co.uk. tel: 02920 888200

www.classicandmodernkitchens.co.uk *The Promotion is the offer by the Promoter of up to ÂŁ500 Cashback to purchasers in respect of selected NEFF appliances that are purchased as part of an overall kitchen purchase between 1st August 2016 and 30th November 2016 and for which the Promoter has received a completed and valid claim before midnight on 31st March 2017. For full Terms and Conditions including participating appliances please visit www.neffpromotions.co.uk

FINISHING TOUCHES UPDATE YOUR INTERIOR SPACE WITH THESE BOLD AND COLOURFUL HOME ACCESSORIES

1. HOLDING PATTERN

2. WHEN I’M CALLING HUE

3. IT’S ALL BLACK & WHITE

4. SUNNY SIDE UP

5. PRINTS CHARMING

Tile print lidded jar, £115 Time to get the biscuits in From Rossiters, 33 Royal Arcade, Cardiff; rossitersofbath.com

Colour by Abigail Ahern, £20 Banish that beige! From Waterstones, 2A The Hayes, Cardiff; waterstones.com

London Funk Compass tiles by The Baked Tile Co, £1.80 each Ooh, yes – porcelain tiles with serious personality From Taylors Etc, The Design Quarter, 143 Colchester Avenue, Cardiff; taylorsetc.co.uk

Sol Day print by Tom Pigeon, £35 Minimal foil print, with a nod to glamorous 80s beach parties From Home By Kirsty, 16 Castle Arcade, Cardiff; homebykirsty.com

Virgola chair by Missoni Home, from £970 Playful, low slung comfort From Pad Deco, 35 Castle Arcade, Cardiff; paddeco.com

48 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING 8

6. SHINE ON

7. ALL CLEAR

8. PLUMP IT UP

9. GOGGLE BOX

10. STACKED!

Broste ‘Poul’ pendant light, £129 Made from antique brass – perfect hung over a kitchen island or breakfast bar for instant industrialstyle cool From House Envy, Westwinds Business Park, Llangan, Bridgend; house-envy.co.uk

Labirinto tables, from £690 Brightness, geometry, beauty and functionality in perfect harmony From Natuzzi, Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay; natuzzigroup.co.uk

Kerrie Brown Bento Box ‘Happy Hour’ cushion, £115 When cushions go punk... From Pad Deco, 35 Castle Arcade, Cardiff; paddeco.com

BeoVision 14 4K Ultra HD LED TV, £7,925 The king of tellies, no less. A real looker, too From Bang & Olufsen, 12 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; bang-olufsen.com

Isola shelving system by Gallotti & Radice (contact stockist for price) Storage gets seriously cool From Momentum, 31 Charles Street, Cardiff; momentumcardiff.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk II CLIFTON CARDIFF LIFE LIFE II 49 www.mediaclash.co.uk 69

E D U C AT I O N a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

LEAGUES AHEAD By Dr Andrew Daniel, Headmaster of Monmouth School

onmouth has just been listed at number 14 in The Times’ independent boys’ school A level league tables. Reading this was a very proud moment for me. Thanks to the incredible hard work and dedication of sixth formers and staff, almost one in three pupils gained all A* or A grades this year. The school enjoyed its best set of A level results in four years, with 50.2% A* to A grades and three quarters of all grades A* to B. Three boys, Freddie Parker, Dan Smith and head boy Sam White, all achieved four A*s. Sam, who remarkably scored 100% in his physics paper, will take up his place to study maths at Oxford. The 1st XIII rower is one of eight boys in the cohort to be progressing to Oxford or Cambridge universities. Freddie’s four A*s will enable him to study medicine at King’s College London. Coming from a line of farmers, he is set to become the first medic in the family and plans to specialise

in forensic psychology or surgery. Such strong results have allowed the vast majority of our leavers to accept places at their first choice colleges, including the elite Russell Group Universities. We are particularly pleased that the boys achieved such excellent results alongside being involved in a wide variety of other activities: many of our most committed sportsmen and musicians, for example, achieved outstanding grades. This is the hallmark of Monmouth School – the boys certainly work extremely hard in their academic studies, and achieve outstanding results, but they also make highly valued contributions to a wide range of other activities in school. At GCSE level, 43% of all grades were A* this year. Eleven boys gained at least eight A*s, and two pupils, Oli Jones and Richard Lambert, were awarded 11 A*s. An impressive 68.6% of all grades were A* to A, 20 boys gained all A*s and As, and three candidates achieved a clean sweep of A*s.

For more information, visit habs-monmouth.org, call 01600 710 433 for Monmouth School or 01600 711104 for HMSG

St John’s College, Cardiff

A leading independent day school for boys & girls aged 3–18 Choir School to Cardiff Metropolitan Cathedral

The Best A Level Record in Wales over 17 Years

A Level Results 2016 A*/A - 81.9% - A*/A/B - 96.6% - Pass Rate - 100% Nursery & Infants

Juniors

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Please contact Admissions to arrange a visit:

02920 778936

www.stjohnscollegecardiff.com

Charity No. 701294

Stockists of: 360 Cashmere Alpha Studio Beck Söndergaard AG Jeans Custommade Twist and Tango Mother Denim Rabens Saloner Essentiel Stella Nova Intropia James Jeans Pomandère Sacks Sita Murt YAYA Hod Poppy london Reiko IDA denim Helen Moore Emma Go Rixo London Baum und Pferdgarten Hultquist Copenhagen Penny Black ....and much more

WINNER! Best Hair Salon - Cardiff Life Awards 2016

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• all organic hair products and colour • Creative Director, Greg James, formerly of Kamigata • late nights Wednesday and Thursdays • Goji Junior for children, open on Sundays • Olaplex and Nanokeratin treatments offered • Great Lengths hair extensions specialist • secluded, relaxing environment in the heart of Pontcanna

We look forward to welcoming you to Goji! No6 Pontcanna Mews, Kings Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9DH. Telephone: 02921 321211 / Email: info@gojihair.com Twitter: @gojihair / Facebook: goji hair / www.gojihair.com Unit 1, Pontcanna Mews, 200 Kings Road, Cardiff CF11 9DF Tel: 02920 225 522 | kiticymru.com | info@kiticymru.com Facebook- Kiti | Instagram- Kiticymru | Twitter- kiticymru

BLING IT ON The future looks bright and shiny for contemporary jewellery boutique and gallery ANNE MORGAN in Penarth, as it gears up to celebrate its first birthday By K AT I E K I SSO ON Photo s by Gabr ie l l a Jac kson

‘‘I

’ve been making jewellery for the last 20 years, after graduating in jewellery design,” says shop owner and contemporary jeweller Anne Morgan. “I’ve travelled the country selling through many selected craft fairs over the years, so wanted to take what I do into a more permanent and public realm. Penarth has been my home for 12 years now, and I knew this would be the place to open Anne Morgan Jewellery.” Chosen as one of 100 national businesses in this year’s Small Business Saturday, a noncommercial, grassroots campaign that highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’, Anne makes and stocks unique, modern handmade British jewellery in her shop. “I love the retail aspect of my business as well as the making side, so this gives me an opportunity to do both,” she says. “I also wanted to help other small businesses to sell their jewellery, so my shelves and cases are stocked with over 30 independent jewellery designers and makers, all varying in technique and material. We want to show really good 52 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

jewellery, made with interesting materials, and using innovative processes, as well as more contemporary fine pieces. “Sarah Packington’s colourful acrylic jewellery – she’s one of our permanent makers – is very popular. I’m also very excited that Helen Noakes will be exhibiting in October – she makes beautiful and humorous work in resin and silver, incorporating everything from penguins to circus performers. If you’re looking for an investment piece, Louise O’Neill’s work is made from high-carat golds with precious and semi-precious stones, and a carefully considered colour palette, including champagne diamonds and amazing green tourmalines, all with fantastic craftsmanship. And Rosita Bonita creates tactile, printed leather statement jewellery, which is at once nostalgic and novel.” Although the shop has been open almost a year now, to Anne everything still feels new. “There’s still so much to be done – ‘playing shop’ is never-ending and never boring!” she exclaims. “There’s always something new to display, and new challenges and interesting commissions to work on.”

You’ll find not only gorgeous contemporary jewellery of all hues, but various exhibitions and workshops, too; (Above left, and opposite page, top right) Anne Morgan at her busy workbench inside the shop

SPECIAL SHOPS

SHOPPING

I CREATE UNIQUE,

TACTILE

JEWELLERY – SOMETHING TO STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD

Alongside running the boutique, she is understandably keen to keep progressing her own work. “I aim to create unique, tactile jewellery – something to stand out from the crowd,” she beams. “And I want to share my love of jewellery with everyone. The gallery has a wide range of styles, and I’m keen to help customers understand what contemporary jewellery is all about, and that we can tweak designs or make something from scratch. We can even melt down old jewellery to make new contemporary pieces, and we also offer a commissioning service to create one-of-a-kind pieces to suit you and your budget.” To that end, Anne’s wedding ring workshops are proving popular, too. “We’ve run four this year, with more booked,” she says. “It’s a great way of making a wedding band even more special, and is a lovely way for a couple to spend time together, having a breather before the big day to forget the stress and just do something as one.” And the future? Well, it looks brighter than one of Anne’s shiny rings. “Our exhibition programme is being planned and jewellerymaking parties are also being discussed,” she reveals. “My main priority is to keep making my own jewellery and promoting the other pieces here. There’s a lot still to tweak and finalise, but I’m more than happy with the direction things are going in.”

Anne Morgan Jewellery, 10 Glebe Street, Penarth CF64 1ED; Tel: 02920 711036, annemorgan.co.uk

Yasmin Rose bridal couture

Morfa Lane, Wenvoe, Cardiff, CF5 6AE. 02920 679 688 info@yasminrosebridal.com | www.yasminrosebridal.com

Contemporary Jewellery Gallery Tues - Sat 10am - 5pm 10 Glebe Street, Penarth, CF64 1ED | 029 2071 1036

www.annemorganjewellery.com

Run by our 30 stall holders, Happy Days is full to the brim with an eclectic, ever changing collection of:* vintage & retro furniture *curios *hand-crafted goods * ladies & gents clothing *vintage jewellery *LP’s & record players *collectable toys *garden salvage & plants

Happy Days a must-visit destination in the delightful town of Cowbridge, only 10 miles from Cardiff. End your visit with a visit to our Vintage tearoom.

Exclusive Designer Wear AUTUMN / WINTER 2016-2017 19 - 21 Morgan Arcade, The Hayes, Cardiff, CF10 1AF

Telephone: 02920 233 411

Behind The Duke of Wellington Pub, Church Street, Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan, CF71 7BB

Open 7 days - Tel: 01446 771191

Escada ● Marina Rinaldi ● Luisa Cerano ● Basler MaxMara ● Bleu Blanc Rouge ● MarcCain ● Hauber Annette Gortz ● Hawick ● Gloria Estelles & many more

● ●

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

AUTUMN LUXE The great British summer is officially over and autumn is here – hello, wind and rain! But every cloud has a silver lining – it’s time to indulge in luxe jackets, shearlings and accessories at St David’s Cardiff

uterwear is our first line of defence against the wild and bitter winds, the staple items you need to complete your autumn wardrobe. This season’s must-have is the fauxshearling jacket: highly versatile, it can be used in so many ways, with instant throw-on appeal. Reiss’ Dree shearling/leather jacket is a perfect example – cosy and stylish, it can be paired with practically any outfit; a stroke of shearling brilliance! With the change of season comes a change of evening dress code, too, and this autumn a new look is stealing the limelight after dark. Many of the major designers have gone big on long, textured and beautifully detailed evening dresses in their AW16 collections, including Vivienne Westwood. Exuding class and elegance, you can’t go far wrong with their beautifully-cut statement Silk Cartie’ dress (see opposite) – just the thing if you’re planning to impress on a night out. Of course, no formal look is complete without a few accessories, and every luxurious evening gown needs a bit of showstopping jewellery to finish it off. This season, good things come in pairs with statement earrings featuring heavily on the catwalk. Mikimoto’s white gold pearl and diamond drop earrings from Parkhouse are chic and eye-catching. Paired with TAG Heuer’s cool Aquaracer ladies watch (also from Parkhouse), you have a dazzlingly elegant ensemble, perfect for any soirée. All items available at St David’s Dewi Sant in Cardiff at the time of writing. To keep up to date with the latest news and offers, see St David’s on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@StDavidsCardiff), or at stdavidscardiff.com 56 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Meyer faux fur gilet, £250; Eli skirt, £130; Ariana shoes, £150; Lovello clutch bag, £140; Brook knit, £170; all available from Reiss

FA S H I O N

SHOPPING

10 8

1. Dree shearling and leather jacket, £495, Reiss 2. Ladies Aquaracer watch by TAG Heuer, £2,700, Parkhouse Jewellers 3. Guilia dress by L.K. Bennett, £350, John Lewis 4. Silk Cartie’ dress, £1,255, Vivienne Westwood 5. J Brand Iselin corduroy zip skinny jeans, £225, John Lewis 6. Pocket stud t-shirt, £75, Karen Millen 7. Sienna ankle strap stiletto heeled sandals, £155, Michael Kors 8. De Beauvoir large zip-top tote bag, £199, Radley 9. Mikimoto white gold pearl and diamond drop earrings, £4,600, Parkhouse 10. Aphrodite Beast sandals, £450, Vivienne Westwood www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 57

We are one of Cardiff’s leading suppliers in Silent Gliss poles and tracks, we specialize in working with bay windows providing a vast choice of styles and finishes to suit all types of interiors and window shapes. We have expert measuring and fitting services available, call into our showroom to explore the range.

Call us on 029 2061 4966 or visit us online at

www.curtain-raisers.co.uk

Scarlett Waltz & Lilac Infusion Acrylic on Canvas Paresh Nrshinga

Calch Lime Acrylic on paper & On the Edge Mixed media on paper Andrew McCutcheon

2 Kelston Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 2AJ

DREAMS ON THE EDGE

PARESH NRSHINGA & ANDREW MCCUTCHEON

Catch this colourful show now until 15th October! The Old Probate Registry, Cardiff Rd, Llandaff, Cardiff CF5 2DQ. T : 029 20554469 E : art@galleryoffthewall.com. Open Tuesday–Friday 9.30-5.30 Sat 10.00-4.00 www.galleryoffthewall.com

Reach the best in the west Aﬄuent, active and inﬂuential and just a call away

Andy Baker 01225 475800

Music/theatre/film/more

SEND IN THE CLOWNS

Love ’em or hate ’em, clowns are ingrained throughout modern culture. With their big red noses, garishly painted faces and baggy trousers, they’re instantly funny to some and infinitely scary to others. But a new show from award-winning theatre company Pickled Image could be about to bridge the gap. Entitled Coulrophobia – meaning ‘fear of clowns’ – it’s a dark and typically offbeat tale featuring Dik and Adam, two hapless clowns trapped in a surreal cardboard world. But why are they there? And what are they supposed to be doing? We soon find out: through a series of farcical sketches – involving much audience participation, be warned – the pair discover that they are being ‘controlled’ by another terrifying clown called Poco. The only way to escape is to dupe two members of said audience into taking their places. Join them – go on, we dare you – on what promises to be a “ridiculous, anarchic, hysterical and sometimes terrifying quest for freedom”, with slapstick and laughs by the bucketload. Coulrophobia is at Wales Millennium Centre from 14-15 October. For more info, see wmc.org.uk or pickledimage.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 63

16 September – 16 October

Acting royalty Michael Sheen adds narration to A Celebration Of Roald Dahl; popular stand-up Romesh Ranganathan; Cardiff-based singer Georgia Ruth

Plays/Shows/ Performance

Kiss Me, Kate (29 September – 2 October), full of wit, dance and hit songs. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

U N TI L 2 4 S E P T E M BE R

THE GOOD EARTH Facing pressure from the local council to move down the road when a new development is proposed, a group of passionate villagers decides to fight back in this explosive new play. Chapter; chapter.org U N TI L 2 O C TO B E R

WELSH NATIONAL OPERA WNO return with their thrillingly intense adaptation of Macbeth (24 September), André Tchaikowsky’s emotionallycharged The Merchant Of Venice (30 September), receiving its UK premiere, and Cole Porter’s

3 0 SE PTE MBE R

THE HITCHHIKER’S GUIDE TO THE FAMILY Join writer/performer and UK poetry slam champion Ben Norris as he battles the country’s most notorious service stations and the perils of lower-league football in search of the man who became his father. Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk 4 - 5 OCTOBE R

ALVIN AILEY DANCE THEATER Exhilarating mixed bill of contemporary dance, including

64 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

the UK premiere of the uplifting Exodus, by acclaimed hip-hop choreographer Rennie Harris, and the crowd-pleasing Revelations, the most widely-seen modern dance work in the world. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 7-22 O C TO BER

THE WEIR Set in a remote bar in rural Ireland, four friends have disquieting stories to tell – and a stranger to impress. Directed by Rachel O’Riordan, Conor McPherson’s chilling, contemporary classic brims with heartfelt humour as the drinks flow and deepest fears are confessed in the dead of night. Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk

11-15 O C T O B ER

DEAD SHEEP Tragedy and comedy clash head-on in Jonathan Maitland’s dramatic inside story of Margaret Thatcher’s downfall, starring Steve ‘Spitting Image’ Nallon in the lead role. New Theatre; newtheatrecardiff.co.uk 14-15 O C T O B ER

COULROPHOBIA See arts intro, page 63. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 11 O C TO B ER – 1 3 NO V EM B ER

MAMMA MIA! Enchanting feelgood tale of family and friendship unfolding on a Greek island paradise. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

W H AT ’ S O N

Comedy 2 5 S E PTE M B E R

THE NOISE NEXT DOOR The off-the-cuff japesters turn up the volume for their third national tour. Glee Club; glee.co.uk 2 OCTOBER

GARY DELANEY Razor-sharp one-liners from the Solihull-born comic, regarded as one of the most quotable on the comedy circuit. Glee Club; glee.co.uk

ARTS

frenetic blues and punk-style fusion of rockabilly, flamenco, spaghetti western scores and jazz rhythms. The Moon Club; themoonclub.net 2 7 SE PTE MBER

BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES Principal guest conductor Xian Zhang oversees her inaugural concert at Hoddinott Hall, exploring the work of Russian romantic composer, Tchaikovsky. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

1 5 O C TO B E R

ROMESH RANGANATHAN The popular stand-up explores the rationality of his world view – and why everyone else’s opinion is wrong. St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

4 OCTOBE R

Film

JEAN-MICHEL JARRE On tour for the first time in six years, the seminal French electronic music maestro promises a highly immersive and visual experience, stacked with new and classic material. Motorpoint Arena; livenation.co.uk

UNTI L 2 1 S E P T EMBE R

6 OCTOBE R

JULIETA Spanish auteur Pedro Almodóvar’s latest, based on three short stories by Alice Munro. A chance encounter causes a woman to reflect on the tragic circumstances surrounding the disappearance of her daughter. Chapter; chapter.org UNTI L 2 5 S E P T EMBE R

ROALD DAHL ON FILM Celluloid celebration of the great storyteller’s dark tales for adults, including cuts from classic telly series Tales Of The Unexpected (20 September) and murder/mystery anthology Alfred Hitchcock Presents (27 September). Chapter; chapter.org 3 0 S E PTE M B E R – 6 OCTOBE R

COSMOS Noir-ish, typically eccentric thriller from Polish director Andrzej Zulawski, as two friends staying at a countryside guesthouse discover mysterious and frightening happenings. Chapter; chapter.org

Music 2 3 S E PTE M B E R

GUADALUPE PLATA Spanish psych outfit, with a

KATE RUSBY The Yorkshire folk singer performs a selection of classics and tracks from her new album, due out in October. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 7 OCTOBE R

MOODYMANN Enigmatic Detroit musician, producer and DJ, channelling techno, house, funk, soul and blues into his ever-creative electronic palette. Tramshed; tramshedcardiff.com 8 OCTOBE R

THE DIVINE COMEDY More catchy tunes and baroquestyle pop from Neil Hannon, as new album Foreverland so fabulously attests. Tramshed; tramshedcardiff.com

Eccentric, noir-ish thriller Cosmos is showing at Chapter

Exhibitions O NG O ING

MARVEL SUPERHEROES Limited edition artworks featuring iconic Marvel comic book covers – The Amazing Spider-Man, The Incredible Hulk etc – hand-signed by industry legend Stan Lee. Castle Fine Art; castlegalleries.com

MR SCRUFF The supreme selector, no less. Clwb Ifor Bach; clwb.net

CLIVE HICKS-JENKINS Paintings and drawings based on the theme of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, the poetry classic vividly translated for a contemporary audience by Simon Armitage. Martin Tinney Gallery; artwales.com UNTIL 1 O CT O B ER

DOES THAT INCLUDE US? Intergenerational programme of spoken word, theatre, music and visual art. g39; g39.org

PHOSPHOROUS Painting, sculpture, installation and multi-media work from recent BA Fine Art graduates at Cardiff School Of Art & Design. Cardiff MADE; @CardiffMADE

UNTIL 30 SEP TEMBER

UNTIL 8 O CT O B ER

UNTIL 24 SEP TEMBER 1 4 OCTOBE R

UNTIL 1 O CT O B ER

1 5 OCTOBE R

GEORGIA RUTH The Cardiff-based singer launches her new album Fossil Scale, signalling a switch from her favoured harp to a more expansive and layered sound. Chapter; chapter.org

AUGUSTUS JOHN IN FOCUS Leading Welsh artist. National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk

ELFYN LEWIS Distinctive abstract paintings from the North Walian artist. gallery/ten; gallery-ten.co.uk w

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

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

UNTI L 2 0 N O V E MBE R

QUENTIN BLAKE: INSIDE STORIES Co-curated by Blake himself, a magical insight into one of the world’s most important illustrators, best known for his work on the books of Roald Dahl. National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk 1 -2 9 O C TO B E R

MODELS & MATERIALITIES Exploring how contemporary painters approach still life through model-making and materiality. BayArt; bayart.org.uk

Other 2 9 SE PTE MBER

WELSH SHOWCASE EVENING Leading contemporary Welsh writers – including Owen Sheers, Thomas Morris, Kate Hamer, Rhian Edwards and others – read from and discuss their work. Waterstones Cardiff; waterstones.com

Book Now 2 1 OCTOBE R

Family

CONCERT OF THE UNEXPECTED: A CELEBRATION OF ROALD DAHL Featuring Mr Dahl, an orchestral suite written by Welsh composer Bernard Kane, with live narration from acting royalty Michael Sheen. St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

ONGOING

2 3 N OV E MBER

1 5 O C TO B E R – 3 D E CE MBE R

DAVID BARNES: IN SOLUTION Photographs capturing some of the particularities and peculiarities of South Wales life. Ffotogallery; ffotogallery.org

DOCTOR WHO EXPERIENCE Experience mind-blowing special effects, fly the TARDIS through time and space, and face the Doctor’s scariest foes in 3D. Porth Teigr, Cardiff Bay; doctorwhoexperience.com UNTI L 1 4 JANUARY

THE WONDERCRUMP WORLD OF ROALD DAHL A magical, interactive experience inspired by the extraordinary life and boundless imagination of the Llandaff-born storyteller, aimed at all ages from 7 to 107. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

RICH HALL Plain-speaking master of absurdist irony and rapid-fire wit. Glee Club; glee.co.uk 7 D E CE MBE R

THE PIXIES Black Francis is back. ’Nuff said. Motorpoint Arena; livenation.co.uk 1 7 D E CE MBER

SUPER FURRY ANIMALS Gruff Rhys and chums perform luminescent debut album Fuzzy Logic and its follow-up, Radiator. Motorpoint Arena; livenation.co.uk

66 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

(Clockwise, from top left) Steve Nallon as Margaret Thatcher in the tragi-comic Dead Sheep; Marvel superheroes at Castle Fine Art; Alvin Ailey Dance Theater

ARTS

T H E AT R E

GET A ROOM Cardiff’s contemporary pub theatre company THE OTHER ROOM has just announced its autumn/winter season. Reason to get excited... By HUGO BALL

ou wouldn’t usually expect to see worldclass drama in the confines of a pub, but that’s exactly what pub theatre company The Other Room does. Founded in 2014, and based in an intimate, purposebuilt space at Porter’s lively bar in Cardiff, it consistently punches above its weight. Having produced contemporary plays and new work by Welsh and Wales-based artists, it has quickly established a reputation for daring and visionary theatre, winning a stack of awards along the way, including Fringe Theatre Of The Year at the 2016 Stage Awards. Its recently-announced autumn/winter season (see box-out, right), curated to show off the depth and breadth of work being made in Wales and the rest of the UK, promises more of the same, including a Christmas production by resident company difficult|stage, alongside exciting and original work from new and established theatre companies across the UK. We catch up with TOR co-founder and artistic director Kate Wasserberg to find out more…

in society and the possibility of salvation through empathy and kindness. There’s a decent mix of new work and new productions of great plays from recent years.

The Other Room has a reputation for quality, daring work. As a pub theatre company, what defines you? We try and create or curate work at the darker edge of things – to give our audiences a contained, punchy evening of something beautiful and intense. We think of ourselves as a playhouse, so the work tends to be writer-led, and we work hard to transform our tiny space so that every visit is a trip to somewhere totally new.

Which of the productions are you looking forward to seeing the most? That’s like asking me to choose between my children! I’m excited about them all, but as a devotee of British playwrights, I’m really looking forward to Blackbird by David Harrower and Blink by Phil Porter. I can’t wait to catch Some People Talk About Violence, and I’m delighted our resident company difficult|stage are coming back with another glorious, silly, fierce and fearless Christmas production. I’ll be there for every show, beaming with pride that we get to host all these brilliant companies. It’s an incredible privilege.

How did you go about curating your new season of plays? Did you have themes or parameters in mind? The work shares a preoccupation with how we live now, with the violent undercurrents at work 70 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

There are seven theatre companies presenting their work at TOR this season – what was the thinking behind including them all? We especially want to support young companies – we never hire our space, but always invite companies in and work with them, removing a lot of financial barriers for companies starting out. We want to offer a really exciting mix of work; if we find a project we love or a company we believe in, we work hard to include them. TOR’s ‘theatre’ at Porter’s is an intimate, purpose-built, 47-seat space – how does it heighten the experience for audiences? The space is at the heart of everything we do. That immediacy and closeness drives our relationship with the audience. It demands total commitment from actors, and suits urgent work that has something to say. In practical terms, we tend to keep work relatively short and ticket prices down to make the space accessible to everyone. It’s an informal but charged space, and we love it.

For more: otherroomtheatre.com

(Opposite page, clockwise from top left) TOR founder Kate Wasserberg; Lemons Lemons etc; Alix In Wundergarten, difficult|stage’s prequel to Looking Through Glass; Some People Talk About Violence; A Sunny Disposition, an earlier production

THE OTHER ROOM That autumn/winter season, in a nutshell… THE MOUNTAINTOP 4-15 October Written by Katori Hall, a fictional depiction of Reverend Martin Luther King’s last night, before his assassination in April 1968 LEMONS LEMONS LEMONS LEMONS LEMONS 17-22 October Walrus Theatre present Sam Steiner’s taut two-hander, examining how we express ourselves personally and politically BLACKBIRD 24 October – 5 November David Harrower’s award-winning and controversial story of betrayal, abandonment and lust BLINK 7-19 November Critical Ambition do Phil Porter’s neurotic comedy about love – think stalking and awkward erections, rather than red roses... SOME PEOPLE TALK ABOUT VIOLENCE 21-25 November Powerful enactment of depression and alienation from award-winning young company Barrel Organ LOOKING THROUGH GLASS 6-23 December Set in a radio studio, difficult|stage’s dangerous, anarchic, hilarious and typically bonkers follow-up to their acclaimed Alix In Wundergarten

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THE VERDICT

ARTS

ABSURDIST NOTIONS So, after all the hype and excitement, thespian royalty Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen finally arrive in Cardiff to do Pinter’s absurdist play No Man’s Land at the New Theatre. But was it any good? Oh, you bet – and then some… By ELISABETH M AHONEY

here are hot tickets, and then there are incandescent ones. Tickets for No Man’s Land, Harold Pinter’s absurdist play starring Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart at the New Theatre – first staged on Broadway and on a short UK tour en route to London – were emphatically in the latter category. The queue for returns on the opening night snaked out of the venue, and some of the unlucky ones at the back were already planning to return the following day. Social media was abuzz with people desperate for tickets, and frustrated to have missed out. So, a real coup to bring this to Cardiff, but would it live up to the hype? Pinter’s 1974 play is an intense, savagely funny and sometimes bewilderingly strange meditation on loneliness, ageing and memory, poetry, life and cricket (the four characters are named after Edwardian cricketers; Pinter loved cricket). And it uses drink – McKellen and Stewart have to appear to get very, very drunk together, very quickly, after their characters meet on Hampstead Heath – to create a grippingly weird territory in which truths spill out, lies are told and existential

Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart: “Gobsmacking performances from actors at the top of their game”

Wot, no Klingons?

questions hang like daggers in the air. Acting drunk is one of those litmus tests for actors: done badly, it’s unwatchable. Pinter’s economy of language, reliance on controlled pauses for laughs and fierce attention to how power dynamics play out is challenging stuff, even for seasoned actors; again, done badly, it makes you want to hide under your chair. This production, though, directed by Sean Mathias, was breathtakingly good. We clapped, during the full house standing ovation, for longer than any staged political party conference clapping for the leader’s speech. Watching McKellen and Stewart on stage feels ludicrously indulgent and comforting, even as they deliver Pinter’s peculiar stabs of lines. McKellen plays Spooner, a failed poet, who ends up at a rich and successful poet’s house, played by Stewart. In the first act, McKellen does most of the talking and you just realise you are in the presence of greatness: I made notes about how McKellen’s shoulders are acting. Yes, his shoulders – they could win an Olivier award on their own. He won’t put his coat down, and carries it about the room, hiding drinks under it, while Stewart, as Hirst, sits imperiously in his chair, and nobody quite knows why anyone is here. The set is fantastically sparse and static, apart from the bar area, which gets

a lot of attention: it’s like an expansive, empty battlefield (hence the play’s name, referencing the First World War) where none of the usual rules apply. There are two other characters – Foster (Damien Molony) and Briggs (Owen Teale), Hirst’s secretary and minder – both superbly played to give the right sense that they don’t really know how they’ve ended up here. In the second act, set on the following morning with hair of the dog a-plenty, Stewart’s character takes centre stage as he unravels, with cruel revelations and the most brilliantly contained menace. At this juncture, it’s hard to tell who is the saddest figure of the four, and that’s precisely the point: Stewart ends up coiled over the bar, explaining to McKellen’s character that they are both in “no man’s land which never moves, which never changes, which never grows older, but which remains forever, icy and silent.” It is claustrophobic and yet you can’t look away. The exquisite, gobsmacking performances from actors at the top of their game, taut direction, and Pinter’s mix of hilarious, bleak and mystifying lines make this one of those landmark theatre experiences. Icy and silent, yes, but profound and funny too, and acted to make it look so easy, which it isn’t at all. For more: nomanslandtheplay.com

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T H E A L B A N Y G A L L E RY

CERI AUCKLAND DAVIES 15th September - 8th October Stunning paintings of Gower and Pembrokeshire in egg tempera View the exhibition on our website

www.albanygallery.com

74b Albany Road, Cardiff, CF24 3RS | T: 029 2048 7158 | E: info@albanygallery.com Gallery open: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays 11am-4pm

HOBBIES - COLLECTABLES

ANTIQUES – INTERIORS

Penarth Road, Cardiff CF11 8TT. Open 7 Days a Week 9.30am – 5.30pm. Including Bank Holidays • Free car parking

Tel: 02920 221085

www.thepumpingstation-cardiff.co.uk

THE VERDICT

ARTS

THE GREEN PARTY Lashings of rain and one of the best line-ups to date – for one happy camper, this year’s Green Man festival is like embracing an old friend By SAR AH MOOLLA

See the light: Green Man just gets better with age

’d always been a committed Glastonbury-goer, but the year of flash floods and knee-deep mud drove me away – and into the fields of Green Man. That was in 2008; I instantly fell in love, and have returned into the arms of the beautiful Brecon Beacons every year since. The festival, which has been running for 14 years, has never let me down. It just seems to get better with age, always evolving and improving on its eclectic, energising and inspiring line-up. The site is compact and well-laid out enough to allow for a ‘changeyour-mind, take in a Goan fish curry and maybe even a misty hillside hot tub’ stroll, or a slow amble to see trembly and dreamy Mercury Prize winner James Blake, folkie favourite Laura Marling and chamber-pop classicists Tindersticks. Over at the Far Out Stage, we took it up a notch or two after dark. Krautrock and Neu! legend Michael Rother made it a synth super-Saturday, along with Stereolab offshoot Cavern Of Anti-Matter, Geoff

Barrow’s Beak> and math-rockers Battles. And Charlotte Church’s Late Night Pop Dungeon, with a brilliant R Kelly mash-up, totally smashed it out of the Walled Garden on Friday night. The ‘so good, I want to marry them’ acts this year were Songhoy Blues. The partyOur Charl in ‘Pop Dungeon’ mode

starting, charismatic young men from Mali beamed their West African bluesy funk into the heavy clouds and soon had the slightly soggy but delighted crowd dancing like chickens (yes, I did), followed closely by the slightly terrifying but brilliant punk/ psych/disco of Fat White Family. Belle and Sebastian’s full-on and frolicsome stage invasion by hundreds of shiny happy people was fun, too. And there was a distinct carnival vibe going on this year, with fairy wings, Ziggy Stardust face painting (um, yes I did), hidden secret discos and clandestine cocktail bars. The first question everyone always asks you when you get home is “Did it rain?”. Yes, of course it did. It’s the Brecon Beacons – it always rains. But Green Man-ers (as we’re not known) don’t mind the inclement weather conditions – it washes away the lightweights, brings out the rainbows and leaves us to get on with having a truly wonderful time. For more: greenman.net

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Bosphorus Cardiff Modern turkish & Mediterranean restaurant • Established 10 years • Extensive new lunch and dinner menus • 2 Course Pre Theatre Menu plus a drink 17:30 - 19:00 – £13.50 Mermaid quay cardiff CF10 5BZ 02920 487477 www.bosphorus.co.uk open monday - friday bosphoruslunch

BOOK NOW! For further information please contact the Business & Events Department on 01443 224204 or email: conference@miskin-manor.co.uk For a full list of Christmas events at Miskin Manor please see the ‘What’s On’ section of the website; www.miskin-manor.co.uk/whats-on

With an array of party nights on offer, there’s something for everyone and what better place to celebrate than in the exquisite setting of Miskin Manor Set in 25 acres of award winning grounds, just off Junction 34 of the M4, Miskin Manor takes on a different kind of appeal each season with Winter being no exception. Dating back to the tenth century, the Manor is bursting with an abundance of lure and history making it a truly magical place to celebrate the festive season with your friends and family. Arrive at 7pm for arrival drinks and marvel at the charm and character of the Manor house. You’ll then be seated to a scrumptious three course dinner, carefully crafted by our dedicated chefs using only the finest, local ingredients. After dinner, let your hair down and dance the night away with our resident DJ or live singer, not forgetting to make the most of the complimentary photo booth, ensuring you capture the festive cheer beautifully.

Miskin Manor Hotel | Groesfaen, Pendoylan Road, Nr Cardiﬀ, CF72 8ND | 01443 224204

70s/80s Christmas Party Night Friday 2nd December | 7.00pm – 12.00am £45.00pp

Masquerade Christmas Party Night Friday 9th December | 7.00pm – 12.00am £45.00pp Flappers & Dappers Christmas Party Night

Sat 10th December | 7.00pm – 12.00am £45.00pp

Rock ‘n’ Roll Party Night Friday 16th December | 7.00pm – 12.00am £45.00pp

F O O D ad v er t i s i n g feat u re

Meet the CHEF Three of Cardiff’s top restaurant chefs reveal all about their culinary inspirations and cooking styles

Ryan Mitchell

Chapel 1877; 02920 222020 chapel1877.com How did you first get into cooking? As a child, I enjoyed watching my dad bake. I would always get stuck in and help him out. In my teens, I got a Saturday job washing dishes and doing small prep jobs in a kitchen – it was working in a kitchen environment that really motivated me to take my passion further. How would you describe your cooking style? Classic French with a twist. I enjoy trying out new cooking methods and pushing boundaries. I also enjoy trying new and different ingredients. So why should we eat at Chapel 1877? You will be warmly welcomed when you wine and dine with us at Chapel 1877. We pride ourselves on using the finest local ingredients, and our menus change seasonally so there is always something new to sample. Our autumn menu launches this month – I’ve worked hard to create a few new dishes that will get your tastebuds tingling! We also have our new sevencourse tasting menu for your culinary delight!

Stephen Gomes

Moksh, Cardiff; 02920 498120 moksh.co.uk chefstephengomes.co.uk So, tell us about your culinary background? Originally born in Mumbai, I moved to Cardiff 16 years ago. I am a fourth generation chef, following in the footsteps of my father, grandfather and great-grandfather. After training and working at a variety of five star hotels across Asia, and studying molecular gastronomy at Westminster College, I knew I always wanted to utilise my heritage, experience and travels to create unique and modern Indian fusion cuisine with elements of molecular cooking. This, subsequently, led to the opening of Moksh in 2007. What’s your favourite dish on the menu? I am well-known as the ‘Willy Wonka of Indian cuisine’, and both this and a favourite childhood book was my inspiration to create one of my favourite dishes: Willy Wonka and the Spice Factory. I loved the idea of taking diners on a culinary journey into their imagination, where there were surprises at every turn to trick and tempt the tastebuds. The starter comprises of Galawati lamb cheesecake with strawberry chilli jam, Goan-style prawns in aquatic sea bubbles and blue lemon caviar, Kolkata-

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

style chicken hakka noodles with mango jelly, and chocolate and orange chicken tikka with chilli Nutella powder. What first inspired your love of cooking? Growing up in kitchens and being around chefs all my life, I guess I have always been drawn to the hustle and bustle. The atmosphere during a busy service certainly fuels the adrenaline junkie in me, and keeps me on my toes. I have always enjoyed cooking and experimenting with food from a young age, when I helped out at home, and this has continued throughout my 22 years as a chef. It has almost become an addiction, and I love to have fun both whilst in the kitchen and when speaking to diners. It’s great to see customers come back to Moksh time and time again to experience our new dishes. Finally, what’s the next step in your career? It’s all go, as ever! I have a number of overseas projects that are currently ongoing, and I hope to expand and open a restaurant in Singapore and London. There is always something new and exciting going on at Moksh, too, and I’ll be working on the latest menus in the next few weeks, so watch this space!

Justin Llewellyn

Park Plaza Hotel; 02920 111111 parkplazacardiff.com lagunakitchenandbar.com How did you first get into cooking? My parents own a hotel, so I’ve always been in hospitality. I was cooking breakfast at my parents’ hotel from the age of eleven, and went on to study at a catering college for four years. It’s not many people who have got jobs they enjoy doing, but it’s something I’ve always wanted to do from a young age. It’s hard work, but it’s also very rewarding. What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received? I’ve cooked for the Queen (she said the Welsh lamb was very nice!) and Prince Charles, as well as a few A-list celebrities. Robbie Williams came into the kitchen a few years ago and thanked me personally. He had lobster thermidor, and loved it. How would you describe your cooking style? My style is Modern British, seasonal and ingredientsled. I always look at the ingredients first, and then write all the menus around that. It’s all about using high quality seasonal ingredients in the best way to ensure the most flavour. The finishing touch is the presentation.

F O O D advertising feat u re

Mr Villa’s – A restaurant for lovers of good food Dishing up everything from fish and chips to Sunday roasts, new restaurant MR VILLA’S in Barry promises the finest and freshest local produce, simply cooked

reat ingredients, simply cooked – that’s the food philosophy which has kept Christine and Beppe Villa at the top of the culinary league in South Wales for a long time. Now they’ve applied that philosophy to their newest venture, Mr Villa’s fish and chip restaurant and oyster bar. “We buy our fish (always fresh!) from Ashtons and Snowdens in Cardiff, and our meat from Vic Hopkins and Marshalls of Barry,” says Beppe. “We believe in using the finest fresh local produce we can lay our hands on.”

80 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Dishes include scallops roasted in their shells, Dover sole, hake in a beurre blanc sauce, mussels and vongole, king prawns in garlic butter, roasted mixed shellfish and the perennially popular cod and chips – with smashed fresh peas – which patrons travel for miles to eat. Christine and Beppe love to visit Langland Bay on Gower to gather laverbread for their cockles, bacon and homemade laverbread, too. There are always at least four meat dishes on the menu. A gorgeous Sunday roast, or pan-fried free range chicken in lemon and rosemary, steaks, homemade beef burgers or Mrs Villa’s famous steak and kidney pie.

Wines are from the Oxford Wine company and Fine Wines Direct of Cardiff. And children are also well looked after, with freshly-made fish lollipops, spaghetti, sausages and mash, mini beefburgers and chips on offer. The restaurant is in a delightful parade of small shops and cafés, within a stone’s throw of the beach and the boating lake at The Knap in Barry. It’s just a mile from the famous beach and funfair, but its peaceful setting could be a world away. For Christine, it’s a welcome return home to Barry, the town she left for Brighton, in order to pursue her passion for cooking.

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E F O O D

WIN

A MEAL FOR FOUR

“Beppe and I were both working in restaurants in Brighton, after I’d finished my catering studies, and Beppe had come to England from his home near Milan to improve his English,” recalls Christine. “He was living in a flat in the same block as me, but had lost his key, so knocked on my door for help. For me, it was love at first sight!” The couple worked in London and Cornwall before coming home to Wales.

Beppe manged the New Continental in Cardiff, before opening their first restaurant, Colhugh Villa in Llantwit Major. Many will remember their fish restaurant, Mulligans, which was on the A48 near Cowbridge, with a beautifully appointed branch in Bristol. They also ran Quaintways and Italian Joe’s in Llantwit Major, before concentrating on their outside catering business, the Really Fresh Food Company, which caters for all sorts of special occasions. “The outside catering business is still as busy as ever,” says Christine. “The Really Fresh Food Company is the preferred caterer at Fonmon Castle, the wedding and events venue near Cardiff Airport. The company also caters for marquees and private homes.” So why the move back into the restaurant business? “We just love it!” laughs Christine. “The site came up and we thought, ‘What a fantastic place for a fish restaurant!’” The couple chose a nautically themed, blue and white striped décor with an open kitchen, so diners can watch their food being cooked – all dishes are cooked to order. Christine is also responsible for the homemade puds, amongst them lemon tart, chocolate brownies, hazelnut meringue, caramelised oranges, and her very popular ‘proper’ rice pudding.

Just want a snack and a drink? No problem – you can choose from Mr Villa’s snacks and light meal menu. How about a round of fresh crab or egg mayonnaise sandwiches, onion tart, smoked salmon or a salmon fishcake with salad? Or a cake or pud with coffee? “It really is all about the dishes here,” says Christine. “Mr Villa’s is a restaurant for lovers of good food, and that’s it – pure and simple.”

DAILY SPECIALS MENU 2 courses for £10.50, 3 courses for £12.95. Call us to make a reservation!

Mr Villa’s, 3-4 Bron-Y-Mor, The Knap, Barry, CF62 6SW is open from 12 noon to 10pm, with last food orders at 9pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Reservations on 01446 730662 Email: enquiries@mrvillasbarry. Facebook: mrvillasbarry Twitter: Mr_Villas_Barry

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82 I cARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Chapel 1877 A seven-course tasting menu at Cardiff’s beautifully restored Victorian chapel promises an indulgent experience – but does it deliver? By E L I SA BE T H M A HON E Y

here are few Cardiff restaurants to rival Chapel 1877 in the looks department. The opulently restored Victorian chapel – built in, well, you can probably work that one out – is a jaw-dropper, a stunner, a supermodel. You could happily just sit here with a glass of something and gawp at it, experiencing the terrible thing that is chandelier envy. But we are here to eat, and have come hungry to sample a seven-course tasting menu. We’re seated in one of the plush velvet booths which is perfect for the drama and special occasion feel of a tasting menu. I would say the romance of it, too, but I’m here with my friend Amy as the husband’s off dog-sitting (this is not a euphemism) and so we talk food, gossip and more food – we both run food businesses – and take selfies with the slightly incongruous ceramic fish on the shelf behind us. The menu, which changes seasonally, looks to be good value, and we’ve added in paired wines, which includes a glass of prosecco on arrival. We toast the fish, which we’ve named Cedric, and enjoy an amuse bouche: a dainty teacup of über-creamy, decadently rich leek and potato soup, topped with little slivers of Welsh rarebit. It’s the perfect amuse, awakens the tastebuds and leaves you wanting more. The starter is one of those dishes that lets the produce do the talking: heritage tomatoes, avocado, buffalo mozzarella and basil. Now, I like all those things and it is paired with the most glorious Chablis, but it looks like something I might knock up for a quick dinner at home. Or would have ordered in an Italian restaurant in the 1980s. I’m not sure it’s special enough to start a tasting menu, and the dressing needs to be sharper to lift everything. It’s all good quality produce but doesn’t exactly set the heather alight.

A DAINTY TEACUP OF

RICH LEEK AND POTATO SOUP, TOPPED WITH SLIVERS OF WELSH RAREBIT, IS THE PERFECT AMUSE BOUCHE

More interesting is five-spiced duck breast, a pretty dish served on a noodle salad. Our quite brilliant waitress – she makes the evening a real treat, and gives us just the right amount of detail about what we are eating and drinking – explains that what might look like a quick Asian dish involves overnight preparation. I would’ve liked a bit more sour and heat in the flavour spectrum, but it’s an attractive dish. It’s paired with a very fine Pinot Noir served at exactly the right temperature, and this is a genius match. Whoever selects the wines here knows their stuff. The fish course brings me scallops with a spicy carrot puree and a ras-el-hanout couscous dumpling. It’s served on slate, with shaved coconut, and the scallops are perfectly cooked. Again, I could do with more flavour in the carrot and the dumpling, and more seasoning. Amy doesn’t do scallops, so we’ve asked for a substitution and she gets one of the best dishes of the night: cured salmon served with rye crispbreads. The dressing is a holy trinity of sharp, sour and sweet, and despite a little too much dill in the mix, it’s delicious. The rye crispbreads could break teeth – they were like nuclear rye crispbreads – and not absorbent enough. Some really good rye bread would have been a better option, but we both devour the salmon, while Cedric looks on, mournfully. The next course is a decently cooked tenderloin of pork wrapped in sage and pancetta with swirls of garlic mash, broad beans and a cider jus. But it’s a main course. It’s huge, and alarmingly plated so that it looks like night vision goggles made of pork. There is no way we can eat even half of it, and we are total gluttons. The last thing you want on a tasting menu is to dread the remaining courses because you are so full. I honestly thought about putting a tenderloin in my handbag. Less would be so much more at this juncture. A sorbet palate-cleanser helps, but I struggle with the vanilla parfait with strawberries and basil: it’s too sweet and I’m too full. I think the venue may be erring on the side of giving value for money but the menu definitely needs an edit – at this price, the food just needs to be the star of the show, and there’s a bit of work to be done. Still, service is absolutely superb, the place is gorgeous, and the stunning paired wines are a bargain.

DINING DETAILS Chapel 1877, Churchill Way, Cardiff CF10 2WF; Tel: 02920 222020; chapel1877.com Opening hours Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-2am; Sun 11am-8pm; tasting menu served Mon-Sat, 5.30pm-8pm, booking essential Prices Seven-course menu, £59 per person; paired wines, £19 per person Vegetarian choice Inform when booking for alternatives Drinks Paired wines are incredible value Service/atmosphere Amazing service in a beautiful venue

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Remember â&#x20AC;&#x201C; running is meant to be fun. Enjoy it!

H E A LT H & BEAUTY

KEEP ON RUNNING Want to get the most out of your running time and stay injury-free? It’s all about listening to your body, says ESPEN HOLTH, resident sports chiropractor at Agile Therapy sports/healthcare clinic in Cardiff

Physiotherapy can help if you’ve been affected by sports injuries or shin splints – a common running ailment

MIX

THINGS UP – DOING THE

SAME CIRCUIT EVERY TIME WILL SOON BECOME BORING

ith Cardiff’s annual half marathon right around the corner (it takes place on 2 October – see cardiffhalfmarathon. co.uk for more info), thousands of runners are hitting the pavement every day to reserve the eternal bragging rights that come with finishing such a race. Unfortunately, with training, there’s always the risk of injury. So, what can you do to give yourself the best chance of success, avoid injuries and accomplish your goal? Here are a few quick tips to help you stay injury-free… It sounds obvious, but first and foremost, you must actually begin to train! Sitting inside and complaining about the British weather is not going to accomplish anything but keeping you dry. New runners are more likely to come across training injuries; the only difference between you and a more experienced runner is that their bodies are used to training. Keep in mind one of the golden rules of training – as you start to ramp up mileage, increase it by no more than 10 percent per week. As Greek fabulist Aesop said in The Tortoise And The Hare: “Slow and steady wins the race.”

Next, mix things up. Doing the same circuit every time will soon get boring, and you’ll plateau quicker than you think. Challenge yourself by trying other ways to train: run up a hill, do a few sprints, even add in a weightlifting session. You will become stronger, fitter and more powerful, with the added bonus of reduced injury risk. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from people who have more experience than you – if you’re lucky, you may even gain a new training partner. Your body doesn’t stop working after you get home from a run – it continues the process of rebuilding and preparing for your next training session. So, make sure you give it the best possible chance of doing just that. People with poor diet habits are actually at a higher risk of injury, and they also tend to heal slower when injured. That said, allow yourself the occasional treat – you’ve earned it! Lastly, when the body feels too bruised and battered to go through another long training session, don’t be afraid to have a rest day. Your rest days shouldn’t be spent in bed with a bag of crisps, however! Instead, try resting with a twist – go to a yoga class, walk the dog, or even spend time doing household chores. Not only do you stay active, but you will also feel more at ease – and worthy – because you’ve ticked a few boxes off the to-do list. To sum it all up, make sure you go out and hit the pavement, push yourself, but listen to your body. Remember, running is supposed to be fun, and treating yourself with a rest day or a bit of chocolate now and again isn’t necessarily a bad thing. So, go out and enjoy your run, and if you have any questions or want to learn more about staying injury-free, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified healthcare practitioner.

Agile Therapy are at 84 Pen-y-lan Road, Cardiff CF23 5HX. For prices and more information on treatments, call 02920 099400 or see agiletherapy.com

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GIRL ABOUT TOWN

ANDREA BYRNE News a nchor

SPORTING GESTURES

CLEARLY, I WAS IN THE SPORTING

MINDSET BY NOW

From meeting Olympic medallists to paddleboarding on the River Wye and taking part in charity walks – Andrea’s been on a bit of a sporty mission

ith many of us feeling a gaping hole had been left in our lives, after a glorious Rio Olympics fortnight wrapped up and our athletes touched down back home, it was a pleasure to try to fill the void with a special ITV Cymru Wales At Six guest: Hannah Mills. Hannah popped into the studios for a chat about becoming an Olympic champion in the 470class with her sailing partner Saskia Clark. Fact of the day? Well, the gold medals weigh one kilo each!

She also let us in on how the seating arrangements were decided on the winners’ flight back from Rio. Essentially, the better the colour of your medal, the better the seat. All’s fair in the Olympics! I just hope they remembered to charge the golden athletes for the excess baggage on those hefty medals. Speaking of sporting challenges, I also completed one of my own. Regular readers will know I’ve been in training to complete a stand-up paddleboarding challenge on the River Wye, all in aid of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and the charity’s Diamond Challenge campaign for its 60th anniversary. Well, with the help of the Water Skills Academy and Cardiff International White Andrea with Olympic medallist Hannah Mills

Water, me and a small team did our challenge last month. We managed to pick a weekend during which the weather was inclement, to say the least, including predictions of 40mph winds. Unfortunately, this hampered the paddling on day two, so we had to take the decision to carry on paddling until it was dark at about 10pm on the first day, in order to complete all the mileage. Finally arriving at our final stop, with our river path lit by head torches, was tiring but awesome all at the same time. Nothing like a last-minute change of plan to get you in the expedition spirit! Huge thanks to all those of you who sponsored me and, of course, to Taffy the DofE Diamond Challenge bear, who kept me company. Clearly, I was in the sporting mindset by now; so, I thought, why turn down the activity levels? I duly swapped my wetsuit booties for walking shoes and joined AnnaLouise Bates and supporters from her organ donation charity, Believe, for a hike around Cardiff Bay. Anna-Louise tragically lost her husband and son last year when they were struck by a car, and she is now on a concerted mission to educate people about the value of organ donation. Having met her a few months ago, while filming my current affairs series Wales This Week, it was great to hear about how fast her charity is expanding. The Believe walk, which fell on the first day of National Organ Donation Week, was all part of her challenge to walk 500 miles in a month, culminating in the Cardiff Half Marathon. I really appreciate Anna having ITV along, and answering all our questions. Phew, I’m all out of breath! After all that exercise, I think I might need a long lie down – until next time, folks... Follow Andrea on Twitter: @andreabyrnetv, or at andreabyrne.tv

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Our design service is tailor made to suit our clients requirements. We can also offer an Interior Design consultancy service. Please contact us by email: info@mariposadesign.co.uk Or call us on 02920 890808 to discuss your requirements by appointment only.

Mariposa INTE RIOR Design Mariposa Interior Design is a new Interior Design company based in Cardiff. We like to work closely with our clients to produce innovative design solutions. We can offer a custom made curtain making and bespoke soft furnishing service. We can also supply designer upholstery, furniture, designer fabrics, wallcoverings, accessories and lighting to complement our design schemes. A range of unique original artwork and photographic prints are also available on request.

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

THE CARDIFF CLINIC Bringing together a group of experienced specialists in all areas of non-invasive cosmetic treatments, dermatology and plastic surgery

verseen by consultant plastic surgeon Mr Richard Karoo FRCS(Plast) and clinic director Hayley Redway, The Cardiff Clinic is the most exclusive clinic of this type in the city, bridging the gap between cosmetic surgery, non-surgical cosmetics and beauty skin therapies. What gave you the idea of creating The Cardiff Clinic? Over many years of practice, we had seen the number of patients requesting non-surgical treatments increasing, wanting their treatment to be undertaken with a qualified plastic surgeon. Over time, it was felt that to create a luxury boutique setting – as one would expect in London – was long overdue in Cardiff. Cathedral Road in Pontcanna felt like the perfect setting. The setting, in your Victorian town house, is indeed lovely, but what about the treatments on offer? When it comes to our treatments, we aim for a natural, refreshed look, delivered by the

Above: Hayley Redway Right: Richard Karoo

appropriate highly trained members of the team. Our philosophy is simple – to provide patients with honest and safe advice. From the initial consultation, treatment, and through to your aftercare, we aim for the highest standards of care and quality possible, giving you a positive experience. Treatments can range from anti-wrinkle injections, fillers for mid-face, nasal and lip enhancement, chemical peels and semipermanent make-up, all the way to the awardwinning Exilis Elite body contouring machine and advice on cosmetic surgery procedures. So I guess this broad spectrum of knowledge is your USP? Absolutely! The fact that we can direct the patient to a sensible solution to their cosmetic needs with the help of a plastic surgeon means that no-one coming to the clinic is offered a limited treatment range. Armed with sound advice, it is then for the patient to decide how they wish to proceed. Hayley, have you had any treatments yourself, or are there particular ones you would recommend? Personally, the only treatment I’ve had is with the Exilis Elite body contouring/skin tightening device – this worked really well on my thighs and arms. We are the only clinic in Wales with this machine, and patients from Bristol and the South West have travelled to us for this treatment. For body contouring, the hand-piece is placed on the skin, reducing fatty deposits and tightening areas of mild skin laxity, with no downtime. Of course, if large pockets of fat or excessive skin laxity are present, surgery is the only sensible solution.

Why do you think cosmetic treatments have grown in popularity in recent years? We all like to take some pride in our appearance, be it the way we apply makeup, style our hair, work out in the gym or by the clothes we wear, but when undertaken well, cosmetic surgery and non-surgical cosmetic treatments, can also be a truly positive experience to make you feel good about yourself. Whether socially or at work, one’s selfconfidence can dramatically change – posttreatment, many of our patients find a real spring in their step. Seeing positive results and receiving thanks from all those we’ve helped is what makes this field such a pleasurable one to specialise in. So, what’s next for The Cardiff Clinic? We have just launched our beauty rooms. Our beauty therapist Lisa has a range of treatments from massages to facials using Jan Marini products. Lisa offers free skin consultations, and – especially at this time of year – she gives advice on protecting the skin from UV damage. Overall, we will continue to focus on high quality aesthetic treatments for all of our patients and, as always, provide sound, honest advice.

116 Cathedral Road, Pontcanna; Consultations and treatments: Booking: 02920 256498 www.thecardiffclinic.co.uk

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Do something lifechanging in 2016

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More adventures in party-going

Megan Lewis and Rhodri Morgan

SNAPPED! AC ROS S CA R D I FF, O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

Sian Williams and Vicky Gunstone

FEAST DAYS Street Food Circusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pop-up feast of artisan street food traders, vintage trailers, chefs and mixologists recently rolled into Cardiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sophia Gardens for a six-week run. Set in a colourful food village, it features a night market, circus big top for communal dining, and various themed bars selling local craft ales and beers, and goes on until 25 September. For more: streetfoodcircus.co.uk Photos by Gabriella Jackson (gabriellajackson.com)

Lorraine Jones and Rob Hawes

The team from Stills: John Jones, Tom Garland, Richard Dukes, Andrew Cadywould and Ceri Lovett

Matt The Hat and Laura Barussi

Laura Trigg, Michaela Melia and Sascha Morgan-Evans

Daisy Souto, Jodie Souto and Denise Moriarty

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SOCIETY

Escape Reality manager Curtis Wade (second from right) and team

PLAY THE GAME Escape Reality, a new escape room offering a completely immersive and interactive gaming experience, recently opened its doors in Cardiff. The official launch saw invited guests take on a series of challenges and mysteries in order to escape the rooms in just 60 minutes. For more: escapereality.com

Kally Davies, Paul Robinson, Neil Sloan and Casey Stander (Capital FM) with actress Elin Haf Davies (centre)

Chloe Normansell, Shannon Trott, Martyn Driscoll, Jack Withers and Gatlin Walker (Cardiff Cruises) Team ITV: Dave Clarke, Marieclare Carey Jones, Sian Amber-Pond and Jonathan Watkins

Jessica Bloom, Matt HayesLissack, Owain Warlow, Danny Hayes-Lissack, Polly James and Dan Symonds (Capital FM)

Kate Derrick, Rob Smyth, Miriam Gibbs and Jamie Gibbs (Geeks in Wales)

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WEB | www.garagedoors-direct.co.uk

SOCIETY

IT’S THE LAW! Hek Jones Solicitors in Cardiff threw a big party at 29 Park Place in Cardiff to celebrate the firm’s 10th birthday. Guests were treated to fizz, a gourmet barbecue and close-up magic from the award-winning Jasper Blakeney.

Ruth Martin and Heidi Morse (Hek Jones)

For more: hekjones.com

Stuart D’Ivry (Imperial Wealth Management) and Jodie Beck (RBS) Darren Hek, Mike Freebury and Rhian Bryant

Lindsey Doyle, Ashleigh Pamplin and Carla Paxford

John McQuade, Annie Roberts and Andrew Jones

Francesca Schubert and partner, Ruth Martin, Lauren Marie Pace and Heidi Morse

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SOCIETY

BUILD IT UP South Wales-based company Hale Construction recently held a fire and ice-themed themed fundraising ball to mark its 20th anniversary. A grand total of ÂŁ8,663 was raised for charity on the night, thanks to the support of over 200 key clients and suppliers who attended from across Cardiff and Swansea. For more: haleconstruction.co.uk

Sian John, April Kelly, Charlotte Hale and Joanna Culleton (all Hale Construction)

Ceri Brown, Emma Williams and partners

Guests from Asbri Planning and Huw Griffiths Architects

Steve Griffiths and family

A spectacular end to the eveningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entertainment

Jonathan and Julie Hale and family

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YOUR BUSINESS IN SAFE HANDS

Specialists in commercial property and commercial litigation TEL 02920 349 820 | WEB WWW.HEKJONES.COM

Voted best small chain in UK Cefn Coed Road, Cyncoed

£1,100,000

A unique opportunity to offer this detached property located on one of the most sought after roads in Cardiff and within walking distance to Roath Park. Built in 1910 this attractive five bedroom property appropriately named “Twin Gables” has stunning features which really gives this property it’s striking individual appeal. This charming property has plenty of character and with the original features and abundance of space this package makes a stunning home. The property is set on a generous well maintained private plot, perfectly suited for the growing family and even allowing potential to extend further on its original footprint. To the front there is a long sweeping driveway adding extra privacy with hard standing to rear for several cars and garage. No Chain. Cyncoed: 02920 761999 • Detached five bedroom house • Substantial plot • Character & original features • Garage • Driveway/No Chain • EPC Rating - F

Winchester Avenue, Penylan

£475,000

Rarely offered to the market is this spacious four bedroom semi detached property. Situated on one of Penylan’s most sought after streets, this charming home is perfect for those looking to upsize in this desirable area and benefits from the many local shops and amenities of this area. The accommodation offers: entrance porch, wc, a spacious entrance hall, sitting room, living room, dining room, modern kitchen and inner lobby on the ground floor and there are four bedrooms and a modern bathroom on the first floor. The well maintained rear garden offers a private enclosed area to enjoy, together with a brick built workshop with power supply. The elevated front garden provides an excellent feeling of privacy in this superb Penylan home. Roath 02920 484898

• Spacious family home • Four bedrooms • Three reception rooms • Sought after tree lined street • Excellent school catchments • EPC Rating - E

Romilly Crescent, Pontcanna

£475,000

A rare opportunity to purchase a true piece of Cardiff History. A well proportioned, Victorian, Georgian style villa, situated in the heart of old Pontcanna. The property was built between 1870-1881, and retains a host of original character features and charm. The generous accommodation is split over three levels and comprises: entrance hall giving access to good size cellar, living room, sitting room and good size kitchen/breakfast room on the ground floor, there are three good sized double bedrooms, shower room and bathroom on the first floor and an originally built, large versatile space on the second floor, currently being used as studio. The property benefits from original features but sympathetically modernised to incorporate gas central heating and double glazed sash windows. Rarely available in the area is a large approx. 100ft South facing rear garden. Close to the popular recreational facilities of Pontcanna with bars, restaurants and deli’s, The Chapter Arts Centre and Victoria park. Pontcanna: 02920 344434 • Victorian, Georgian style villa • Exceptionally spacious throughout • Approx. 100ft rear garden • Many original features • EPC Rating - E

www.moginiejames.co.uk

Please contact us for more information or to register your interest: cardiffnewhomes@savills.com 02920 368 940

Coming Soon from Savills Cardiff

Cardiff Pointe Empire Way CF11 0JS

W2, Wellington Street, Canton CF11 9BE

- New style Barque houses just released. - 4 bedroom with balcony and roof garden - Views overlooking Penarth Marina

- 1 and 2 bedroom high specification apartments - Smart-app technology - Private access and concierge service

Asking price from £699,950 with a range of incentives to suit your lifestyle and budget

Asking price £114,000 - £160,000 Leasehold 125 years

Bayscape, Cardiff Marina

Porth Teigr, Roath Basin, Cardiff Bay

- 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments - Cardiff’s only marina address - Register your interest now.

- A sustainable residential development to provide a range of waterside living options - 2, 3 and 4 bedroom houses along with 2 and 3 bedroom apartments

Merchant Place, Cardiff Bay

Ash Grove, St. Florence, Tenby

- A sympathetic restoration and conversion of iconic Cardiff Bay Grade II listed buildings - Newly built modern residences - Well located for city centre and Cardiff Bay business and leisure.

- A bespoke collection of new build homes and refurbished character properties - Desirable village location

Shake-ups/launches/successes/promotions

CA R D I FF G E T S S ER I O US

Jade Tambini (chair, CIM Wales)

The Canmol 2015 winners

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“I ONCE PRESENTED THE AWARDS AT THE BRITS…”

THE BIG STORY

WINNING CAMPAIGNS Final call for new-look Welsh marketing awards entries Wales’ prestigious annual marketing awards, formerly known as Canmol, have returned this year with a new look that will put the country’s very best marketers on a UK stage. Taking place on 23 November at Portland House in Cardiff, The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) Wales/Cymru Marketing Awards will feature 12 categories – ranging from advertising to PR and digital to data – with four of Wales’ winners automatically going through to the professional marketing body’s UK-wide Marketing Excellence Awards in London. Cardiff-based creative comms agency, Equinox, which won the award for best overall marketing

campaign at last year’s event, went on to gain UK recognition and believes that the new format will help to further showcase the wealth of marketing talent in Wales. “Going on to win the Innovation in Public Sector category at the UK-wide CIM Marketing Excellence Awards is a great achievement and important to us both internally and externally,” said director Zara Cottle. “It demonstrates to clients that agencies outside London can be at the forefront of creative thinking and marketing excellence.” Chair of CIM in Wales, Jade Tambini, said: “Since launching Wales’ first dedicated marketing awards back in 2008, the event has grown in both size and prestige,

and we’ve celebrated countless groundbreaking campaigns and outstanding marketing professionals. “Each year, Welsh marketers demonstrate that Wales is a country at the cutting edge of the marketing industry, bursting with creativity and talent, and we look forward to celebrating our community’s achievements at the CIM Wales Cymru 2016 Marketing Awards.” Entries must be submitted by 30 September 2016. The shortlist will be revealed on 17 October, and winners announced at the lavish awards ceremony at Portland House. For more: cim.co.uk/walesawards, @ciminfo_wales

Wowee, who’s the big shot? Find out on page 116…

THE BIG NUMBER

That’s the number of hours a local fundraising challenge is asking its participants to cycle for. Sheesh! Turn over to page 117 to find out more...

Got a business news story for us? Email vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk

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BUSINESS INSIDER

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS WINNER’S PROFILE

GOJI HAIR Vicky Griffin, partner and business manager at Goji, winner of the Hair category at the Cardiff Life Awards earlier this year, on what makes the business tick

FORWARD THINKING IT’S ALL YOU, YOU, YOU

Can you remember how it felt to win a Cardiff Life Award? It was all a bit of a blur! We’d been open less than a year, so we were just happy to be finalists. Greg [James, Goji’s creative director] and I didn’t really think we had a chance of winning as we were up against some pretty stiff competition. We genuinely hadn’t prepared a speech, so goodness knows what we said! What was it about your year/nomination that clinched it, do you think? Probably how fast we’ve grown in a short space of time, along with our customer reviews. It’s not enough to have great stylists – we know that we have to do everything we can to keep our clients happy. Luckily, our formula seems to work. What did you enjoy most about the Awards night itself? Everything! City Hall was a wonderful venue, the food was great and the event organisation was faultless. Being able to talk to other Cardiff business owners was a great bonus as we all experience the same challenges, irrespective of the sector that we’re in. Where is your Award now? In pride of place on reception in the salon. As a salon, what makes Goji stand out? I think our emphasis on organic haircare is a cornerstone of the business and this, combined with the quality of our stylists, our location in Pontcanna and our customer care, keeps clients coming back. What have you found to be the best tools for growth in your business? Word of mouth! Social media plays its part but the best recommendation is always a personal one and that’s the way we’ve grown our business. How’s business at the moment? Fantastic! We’re in the very fortunate position of being consistently booked up. The only problem is fitting in clients within a reasonable amount of time. We’re looking at expanding in the near future – watch this space! 116 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Goji’s Vicky Griffin with creative director Greg James at this year’s Cardiff Life Awards

What do you enjoy most about your job? I do everything that doesn’t involve going near a pair of scissors, which I leave to the experts! I love the variety, particularly the customer service, but I also like looking after the marketing and finances. What’s new at Goji? We’ve recently starting offering the Olaplex treatment which is fantastic at protecting hair – particularly when it’s being lightened. It’s not expensive either, and really works. We also now run a dedicated children’s salon on Sundays called Goji Junior, complete with iPads and booster seats. What’s exciting you most about the hairdressing industry at the moment? Curls are very on-trend and it’s great to be able to encourage clients to use their natural curl rather than feeling they have to be straight and sleek. But our philosophy is all about listening to our clients and understanding what they want, irrespective of what the latest trends are. You’re based in Pontcanna – why is it such a great area to work? Pontcanna has such a great diversity of independent businesses – you don’t need to go anywhere else. The people are also lovely and the other businesses are very supportive – it’s a real community. Which other local businesses do you admire? There are so many exciting new businesses in Cardiff. I think The Depot is brilliant – a great new use for an old space. Finally, tell us a secret or little-known fact about yourself… I once presented the awards at The Brits. It was great fun, despite the constant worry about tripping up on live TV! For more: gojihair.com

Be honest and authentic and you’ll attract like-minded clients, says team-building guru ANDREA CALLANAN, founder of inspireMe Never underestimate the power of your ‘substance’ and how this impacts your brand. Your authenticity, trustworthiness, honesty and fair play will always shine through. What is it that sets you apart from your competitors? Why would your clients be attracted to you, rather than someone else? The answer always lies with how you make people feel. That leads to people resonating with you (or not!), which ultimately leads to them maintaining their relationship with you. The theme here is ‘you’ - not your service or your product. There’s another way of looking at it: people who believe the same things as you will align with you. So, if you want customers who are honest, authentic, worthwhile, trustworthy, interesting, competent and professional, you need to be all those things, too. This isn’t a hard and fast rule, but it’s a good one to be mindful of. There is definitely some truth in mirroring. Therefore, your substance, personal values and how you behave are key in your business success. This also includes your personal ethics, morals and views, so bear this in mind in today’s internet age where your opinions and behaviour are often decipherable through your online profiles. Your ‘substance’ reflects (or should reflect) your brand content and identity. Put some proper thought into this and see how aligned you are – revel in your authenticity, buckle up and enjoy the ride! inspireMe are a Cardiff-based engagement company that offers UK-wide creative team building and training. For more info, see andinspireme.com

BUSINESS INSIDER BREAKING NEWS

TRIPLE WHAMMY

Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing and important local business stories happening right now…

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS: NEW SPONSORS! New sponsors have signed up for the Cardiff Life Awards, as planning ramps up ahead of the big night on 16 March 2017. Latest to sign are Martyn Prowel Solicitors for the Charity category, and Park Plaza as hosts for the finalists’ reception and after-show party. They join a roster of sponsors led by headline sponsor Cardiff Airport, and also including Cardiff Blues, Parkhouse, Chapel 1877, Stills and Capital FM. Various sponsorships are still available: the Platinum Award for the crème de la crème winner on the night; finalists’ reception; winners’ dinner; and for feature elements on the night. “We’re delighted to welcome Martyn Prowel

Andrea Byrne and Capital FM breakfast show

and Park Plaza as sponsors,” presenters Geraint Hardy, Matt Lissack and said event manager Steph Polly James present the Watering Hole award to The Old Swan Inn at the 2016 Cardiff Life Dodd. “And both are adding Awards – it could be you! value to the Awards. Park Plaza will have complimentary drinks at the reception and Martyn Prowel will reached a record attendance. For sponsorship designate the Charity category winner as its own enquiries, please contact Andy Baker (andy. preferred charity of the year, which is great – baker@mediaclash.co.uk). We are also keen to even more reason for local charities to enter this hear from companies and organisations who year’s Awards!” have services or products to showcase via the Nominations open on 10 November, and a Awards – please contact Steph Dodd (stephanie. limited number of Early Bird tickets are on sale dodd@mediaclash.co.uk). from 17 November. Last year, these were all For more: cardifflifeawards.co.uk, @CardiffLifeAwds quickly snapped up, and the Awards night itself

Seeing eye to eye: Steve Sulley (Stills) and Zoe Westerman (The Wallich)

ON YER BIKE

COOKING ON GAS Family-owned kitchen manufacturing company, Sigma 3, has been recognised for excellence at the prestigious BKU Awards 2016, recently held in London, for its kitchen brand, Masterclass Kitchens, a collection of over 400 classic, shaker and modern styled kitchens. The Llantrisant-based company, which celebrated its 40th anniversary last year, received the Best Overall Kitchen Brand award at the ceremony, hosted by comedian Paul Sinha.

“We’re absolutely delighted to have been presented with this prestigious award,” said Gerald Jones, Sigma 3 MD. “To have been recognised, not just for elements of our Masterclass kitchens but for the overall brand, is a fantastic achievement, and a testament to the hard work that our team puts into the development, manufacturing and promotion of all our kitchens.” For more: sigma3.co.uk

Paul Sinha, Cassie Evans and Jason Williams (both Sigma 3) and Mark Edwards (House of Harrogate)

Hot on the ‘wheels’ of Team GB’s amazing achievements in Rio, Welsh homelessness charity, The Wallich, is calling for businessmen and women across Wales to join Cyclone 24, an epic 24-hour track relay fundraising challenge which will take riders on a journey totalling 10,000 miles. A joint event between strategic branding agency Stills and The Wallich, the challenge will take place at Newport’s International Velodrome on 16 October. “Partnering with The Wallich on Cyclone 24 was an easy decision for me,” said Stills MD Steve Sulley. “They change the lives of vulnerable homeless people – they don’t just provide a cup of tea on a cold morning, their support systems provide a path to a whole new way of living. “That ethos is the reason that we adopted The Wallich as our nominated charity. They are also our neighbours, and we love cycling, so this is the perfect partnership.” For more: cyclone24.co.uk

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PROPERTY

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PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

et in a quiet location on a private estate, with stylish, state-of-the-art living areas, an indoor swimming pool, and more – in overseeing the design and build of their spectacular new house on Bryn View Avenue in Ystrad Mynach, owners Nichola and Gareth have pretty much created the contemporary home of their dreams. “We were living a mile down the road when we bought this land 10 years ago,” Nichola recalls. “We had been thinking for some time about building our own home and this plot was ideal – all you can hear is the sound of the birds singing in the trees.” With its cutting edge design, this ultra-modern abode has been built to a very high standard. Inside, you’re greeted by a beautiful, bespoke staircase that sweeps up to a galleried landing, and, with light flooding in from all directions, it feels indulgently spacious throughout. The open-plan kitchen, breakfast room and living area are very much at the heart of things. The bespoke kitchen itself features Italian units, Corian work surfaces – there’s plenty of space for food prep – and various high-spec appliances, plus bi-fold doors onto the garden. On the other side of the house, meanwhile, is a hydro swimming pool – the living here is most definitely easy. “The bi-folding doors onto the pool can be pulled right back in the summer,” says Nichola. “When the sun streams in, it’s just like being outside.” It’s an adaptable space: spiral stairs from the pool area go up to a first floor area, currently used as an additional sitting room, but which could easily become another bedroom. Doors from here provide access to a large roof terrace, where Nichola and Gareth currently have a barbecue area and hot tub; there’s another kitchen, too, with integrated fridge/freezer. Also upstairs, the five large, elegant bedrooms – two with their own dressing rooms – offer plenty of space for 124 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Cutting edge, luxury living beckons at this bespoke, ultramodern home

HOUSE NUMBERS Bryn View Avenue, Ystrad Mynach

bedrooms

reception rooms

bathrooms

open-plan kitchen/ living area

£565,000 price

family and guests. The master suite has French doors that open onto a lovely balcony, plus a sunken double bath and an en-suite bathroom with walk-in double shower. Outside, the rear garden is decked, with wooden sleeper steps leading to a large lawned area, and there is also a generous driveway and double garage. “This has been a lovely place to welcome friends and family,” says Nichola. “The house is so large and flows so well that it can accommodate lots of people. When we were married, we had 200 guests and a marquee in the garden, which was wonderful.” All this, and you’re just a short walk from the centre of the village and train station, with easy access to Cardiff city centre, the historic town of Caerphilly and the bucolic splendour of the Brecon Beacons. Sold yet?

For more info, contact Chewton Rose, 14 St Andrews Crescent, Cardiff CF10 3DD; Tel: 02920 226129, chewtonrose.co.uk

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King George V Drive, Heath - £550,000

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A detached 3 bedroom bungalow of considerable character in a most sought after location in the Heath.

Unique house with annexe set in a 1/4 of an acre of gardens in the heart of Whitchurch village.

A 4 bedroom detached house of generous proportions situated in a private close of just three houses.

A traditional bay fronted 3 bedroom semi detached family home in a quiet residential location.

Old Mill Drive, Rhydlafar OIEO £370,000

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Spacious 4 bedroom detached house in a modern development on the outskirts of St. Fagans.

Traditional 3 bedroom red brick bay fronted house oﬀering versatile family living.

Extended and improved 4 bedroom semi detached house in a popular residential location.

A beautifully appointed 3 bedroom bay fronted semi detached home in close proximity to Whitchurch village.

Cardiﬀ Road, Taﬀs Well £325,000

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Old Church Road, Whitchurch - £222,500

Gelligaer Street, Cathays - £219,995

Truly unique 4 bedroom end terrace cottage complete with a self contained 1 bedroom apartment backing on to the River Taﬀ. A must view!

Sold after a successful open house. Similar properties required.

Sympathetically refurbished end terrace cottage in the heart of Whitchurch village.

Traditional 3 bedroom red brick bay fronted house situated conveniently for amenities on Whitchurch Road and access in to the city centre.

35 Merthyr Road, Whitchurch, Cardiﬀ CF14 1DB T: 029 20522106 F: 029 20522660 E: info@chambersestateagents.co.uk www.chambersestateagents.co.uk

2-3 Station Approach, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan CF64 3EE 029 20 702 622 www.davidbaker.co.uk info@davidbaker.co.uk

7 Dros-y-Mor, Penarth ÂŁ1,050,000 How often do you find a house that allows you to sit in your lounge and look out over the Bristol Channel? The answer; not often. This modern four bedroom detached property, located in the Dros-y-Mor development off Marine Parade in Penarth, allows you to do just that. With its prime position above the Esplanade, views are available from all main rooms on the ground and first floor and stretch from the Severn bridges in the East passed the Bristol Channel islands to the West and encompass everything in between, including Penarth Pier.

bathrooms, both fitted to a good standard. In terms of outside space, the master bedroom has a well sized balcony, perfect for morning coffee, while there is a stone patio leading from the main lounge, which leads onto a large paved area running the width of the house and onto further entertaining space. There is also a lawned garden, and mature hedging that can be kept to a level that suits the owner either to maximize the view, or privacy. To the front of the house is a spacious two car driveway that leads to the integral garage.

This low maintenance property, set amongst some of the most desirable addresses in Wales, offers an awful lot to couples and families of all ages. The ground floor comprises a spacious hall, lounge, dining room, kitchen with dining space, study, utility room, WC and integral double garage. The high spec kitchen, dining room and lounge all overlook the garden and Channel and would have the flexibility to be used and reconfigured in a number of ways. The first floor houses four double bedrooms, and a family bathroom. The master and second bedrooms have en-suite

The property is located in a cul-de-sac of a eleven similar properties. The adjoining Marine Parade is certainly not all style over substance, being in catchment for some very popular schools and close to the Esplanade, Cliff Walk and town centre. There are plenty of amenities on the door step while access to Cardiff and the M4 is also convenient.

All in all this property has an awful lot going for it, and is once here, any owner would find it very hard to leave!

Port Road East Vale of Glamorgan Occupying a delightfully secluded position within a small and select private close, comprising just five properties, this spacious modern detached property, is situated at the end of a long driveway, with a southerly rear aspect over ample private gardens. A spacious modern detached house, built in 2007, by the present owners, substantially built with cavity elevations finished in textured white render, inset with relief panels of treated timber work, under a curved mono pitched continuous standing seam zinc roof. The property is of ultra-modern design and will appeal particularly to those who appreciate something a little different. The family sized accommodation is laid out largely on two floors, with a mezzanine entrance level, making it a short distance only to the upper floor living rooms and the lower floor bedrooms and bathrooms. The property is well served by a high efficiency air source heat pump air to water heating system with UNDER FLOOR wet system, solid engineered oak floors and solid stone travertine tiled floors, contemporary beech wood internal doors and architraveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with stylish chrome handles, and stylish aluminium double glazed windows, french doors and bi-folding doors throughout. The property is located within a quiet residential close, set back off Port Road, with elevated views across a private garden and onto breath-taking open countryside and rolling green fields across The Vale.

For sale with PA Black Cowbridge Branch 01446 775148

ÂŁ695,000

The Paddock Hensol Occupying an idyllic position, set back within a private select hamlet comprising just four distinctive houses of character. This charming detached stone built Barn conversion has been extensively renovated and modernised to a very high specification and commands a truly picturesque position fronting its own paddock, approximately 2/3 of an acre, with lawned surrounding gardens and a secluded courtyard with stone walls and a private sun terrace. The property consists of two barns, both having been sympathetically converted. There are a total of six bedrooms with four in the main barn and two in what is currently used as a leisure complex but could equally be used as a “granny annex” or additional guest accommodation as it also includes a separate shower room/WC. The location would be ideal for those looking for tranquillity yet with a range of available leisure facilities as the property lies adjacent to the 4 star Vale Resort and golf complex where you can find a full leisure complex, two golf courses including the “Wales National” championship course as well as a variety of restaurants/bars and other facilities. The property is only 7 minutes from J34 of the M4 providing easy access to Cardiff and the rest of South Wales.

For sale with PA Black Cowbridge Branch 01446 775148

£1,125,000

CARDIFF LIVES

Q&A

ark James has fingers in many creative pies. The artist and graphic designer’s work includes art, photography, illustration, product design, sculpture, film and print, amongst other things, and he’s designed album sleeves for the likes of Super Furry Animals, Underworld’s Karl Hyde and others. He’s currently directing and producing various music videos and is putting together an art installation for the upcoming Cardiff Contemporary festival of contemporary visual culture. Like we said, many pies... So – where’s home in Cardiff? Dinas Powys. With our second child on the way, we relocated to Wales from West London in 2012. My wife grew up in Dinas, and her family are there, so it made sense. It’s beautiful, but a bit too quiet for me – I like a busy city. You’re an artist and graphic designer – in a nutshell, tell us more about what you do… Creative direction, visual communication, branding and graphic design. And I also make films and direct music videos. Loosely speaking, how would you describe your artistic style/approach? Gruff Rhys recently referred to me as an ‘ace auteur’, which is a great compliment. Main influences and inspirations? The people who first got me interested in art and design were Barney Bubbles, Jamie Reid and Malcolm Garrett. And there are a lot of Japanese fashion designers and brands that I find inspiring: Undercover, Fragment, Visvim, and Mountain Research. If you could get up on your soapbox about a particular issue, what would it be? The EU referendum. I find it hard to say the word Brexit – it’s pathetic. How could so many people be so ignorant and selfish? It was a referendum to gauge public opinion. But it’s been taken by the Tories and manipulated as a vote to leave the EU. And the instigators walked away within hours of the decision. How can that be allowed to happen after all the lies they told? Most famous person you follow on Twitter? Kanye West. How do you relax? I’m not good at relaxing, I can’t sit still. But I enjoy cooking – I find it very calming – and walking with the family on the beach. Proudest life moment so far? The birth of my two daughters.

130 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

MARK JAMES The Cardiff-born artist and graphic designer just can’t sit still... Dream dinner party guests? David Bowie, Vivienne Westwood, Malcolm McLaren, Jarvis Cocker, Jehnny Beth, Stewart Lee, Jason Pierce, Stanley Kubrick, Shane Meadows, Ben Wheatley, Morrissey, and David Chang to cook, of course. I’d like to get David Cameron, Boris Johnson, George Osborne and Nigel Farage around a table. They’d never leave. If push came to shove, what would be your final meal of choice? Well, I’m coeliac, so I’d get all the things I’ve had to cut from my diet: dim sum, ramen, burgers, hot dogs, fried chicken and lots of cake. Who would play you in a film about your life? Dave Gorman or Ricky Wilson – I’ve been mistaken for both on many occasions. Not so much Ricky any more, now he’s had work done. What’s your guiltiest pleasure? Foie gras. What’s the most important lesson life has taught you? Enjoy yourself, it’s later than you think. What’s on your bookshelf at the moment? Undercover by Jun Takahashi; Reasons To Be Cheerful: The Life and Work of Barney Bubbles; Public Art by Scott King; The Wurst of Lucky Peach; Monocle; and Intelligence magazine. Which piece of music always sends a shiver down your spine? I listened to Strangeways, Here We Come [by The Smiths] the other day – it’s just full of emotion, Morrissey and Marr at their best. The opening bars of Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me are so powerful.

Karaoke choice? Money Changes Everything by The Smiths. Must-watch television programme(s)? I don’t really watch a lot of TV – whenever I turn it on, there’s someone like Gregg Wallace shouting at me. But I’ve really enjoyed Stranger Things, one of the best things I’ve seen recently. Chef’s Table is a great documentary series, too. If you had a superpower, what would it be? Selfishly, to be able to clone myself, so I could achieve everything I’d like to do. Best thing about Cardiff? It’s a capital city, but small enough to get around easily. I grew up in Cardiff, but it takes an outsider to show you how good it is and help you enjoy all the things you take for granted. Living so close to beautiful countryside and the coast is a bonus. Favourite shop(s) in Cardiff? Spillers for music, Wally’s for food/ingredients. Locally, where do you like to eat and drink? Bar 44 is a sort of regular, and James Sommerin in Penarth is incredible. Dead Canary is good for cocktails, if you can get in. And Street Food Circus, when it’s on. Secret or favourite Cardiff spot? Penarth Pavilion Cinema. Surprise us with a little-known fact... I’m a partner in a design-led clothing store in Oslo called Hunting Lodge.

For more: markjamesworks.com

www.icebodysculpting.co.uk - info@icebodysculpting.co.uk 02921 202 190. 122 Cowbridge Road West, Cardiff, CF5 5BT