cardiff Life – issue 178

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @CardiffLifeMag

ON BED ALERT

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

ISSUE 178 / WINTER 2017 / HOME IS WHERE THE HEARTH RUG IS

THE LATEST MUST-HAVES FOR HOUSE AND HOME

THE NEXT CHAPTER

CAFFI SIO, REVIEWED

LETTHEITTAKESHINE THAT MUSICAL IS COMING!

ISSUE 178 / WINTER 2017 / £3

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

PRESENTS & CORRECT

SELF-GIFTING GOODIES

editor’s letter / Issue 178 / WINTER 2017

22

HUE GOT IT Our pick of the most desirable, stylish and inspiring interiors bits and pieces around. Credit cards at the ready...

House call As you’ll have already noticed, we’re on another interiors tip. And why not? With the sheer scope of stylish, must-have goodies available locally for house and home, we’re feeling inspired – which is why we’ve crammed as much of it as we can into this interiors special. We hope it inspires you, too – turn to page 22 and start planning that makeover...

Also this issue, we talk to Take That’s Gary, Howard, Mark and Robbie – yes, really! – ahead of a new musical featuring their songs; I Loves The ’Diff’s Christian Amodeo gives his verdict on Chapter’s sunny new eaterie, Caffi Sïo; and, as always, there are lots of Snapped party pics to have a nose at.

Don’t forget, too, that nominations are now open for our Cardiff Life Awards, celebrating the best of local business. It’s quicker and easier to nominate your own business than ever – see cardifflifeawards. co.uk for more info. Come the big Awards night on 15 March, you could be a winner...

Enjoy the mag – happy holidays, all!

Cartref clyd Fe welwch o glawr y rhifyn hwn ein bod ni â’n bryd ar ddiweddaru ein cartrefi. A pham lai?

Rydym wedi cael ein hysbrydoli gan yr holl nwyddau chwaethus a deniadol sydd ar gael yn lleol ar gyfer y cartref – a dyna pam rydym wedi cynnwys cynifer ohonynt ag sy’n bosibl yn y rhifyn arbennig hwn. Rydym yn gobeithio y byddwch chithau’n cael eich ysbrydoli hefyd – trowch i dudalen 22 a dechreuwch gynllunio ar gyfer eich prosiect addurno nesaf...

Yn y rhifyn hwn hefyd rydym yn siarad â Gary, Howard, Mark a Robbie o Take That – wir i chi! – cyn y sioe gerdd newydd sy’n cynnwys eu caneuon; mae Christian Amodeo o I Loves The ’Diff yn rhoi ei farn am fwyty newydd braf y Chapter, Caffi Sio; ac, fel arfer, mae gennym ddigon o luniau o bartïon i chi bori drwyddynt.

Cofiwch hefyd bod modd erbyn hyn i chi anfon enwebiadau ar gyfer Gwobrau Cardiff Life sy’n clodfori ein busnesau lleol gorau. Mae’n haws nag erioed o’r blaen i chi enwebu eich busnes – ewch i cardifflifeawards.co.uk i gael rhagor o wybodaeth a dewch i’r seremoni wobrwyo grand ar 15 Mawrth. Gallech fod yn un o’r enillwyr...

Mwynhewch y darllen – a’r gwyliau!

Velimir Ilic Editor vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @CardiffLifeMag

CONTENTS / ISSUE 178 / WINTER 2017 M EET T H E T EAM

MAIN FEATURE

Editor Velimir Ilic vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk

22 Interior Motives From the coolest rugs to the best wallpaper ever – our latest musthaves for house and home

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Christian Amodeo, Hugo Ball, Vicky Edwards, Katie Kissoon, Megan Price, Blaine Scully

OPINION 17 A Man’s World Introducing our brand new columnist – drum roll, please – Cardiff Blues ace and American international, Blaine Scully

Advertising manager Mark George mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Kate Butterfield kate.butterfield@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Lorena Cussens lorena.cussens@mediaclash.co.uk

THE ARTS

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

35 Arts Intro An intriguing, dreamlike landscape

by Minyoung Choi at Chapter

36 What’s On Gird your loins, arts-lover – it’s busy out there!

36

42 Take That We chat to Gary, Howard, Mark and Robbie – eek! – ahead of a new musical featuring some of TT’s most memorable tunes

SHOPPING 51 Shopping Intro Retro chic at Princes & Paupers, Cardiff’s go-to vintage outfitters

52 Editor’s Choice You’ve bought Christmas pressies for everyone else – now it’s time for some self-gifting...

56 Fashion A few trusty wardrobe staples to see you through winter

FOOD 62 Restaurant Christian Amodeo lunches at Caffi Sïo, Chapter’s new ‘culture café’

BUSINESS

DEPARTMENTS

87 Business Insider

8 Spotlight

Dinosaurs on the loose, Sir Bryn Terfel and the latest Cardiff Life Awards update

Review of the year, Sherman Theatre preview, BBC National Orchestra of Wales celebrates its 90th birthday, and more

93 Wealth Management Sage investment advice from our local experts

PROPERT Y

70 Snapped!

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Cardiff Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW; 01225 475800, 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

Eight pages of glam parties, launches, events and celebrations – my, but you’re a handsome lot

98 Property Showcase

106 Cardiff Lives

Katie Kissoon nips over to soughtafter Cyncoed for a nose around an ultra-modern, detached sixbedroom abode

Former Boo Radleys guitarist Martin Carr is in the hot seat

On the cover It doesn’t get much more luxe than a Savoir bed – turn to page 22 for this and other goodies from our latest interiors lust list

MICROSUCTION EARWAX REMOVAL CLINIC & INDEPENDENT FAMILY RUN HEARING CENTRE ESTABLISHED SINCE 1988

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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

THE YEAR IN FOCUS

WELL, THAT WAS 2017...

Our unashamedly subjective review of another packed year, as reflected in the pages of this very mag 2017 was another full-on, white knuckle ride, with Cardiff buzzing and evolving at a rate of knots, as more great shops, bars, restaurants and businesses opened, and all manner of big events, exhibitions, festivals and prestige sporting fixtures took place.

It was a big year for us: 2017 marked our tenth birthday – not sure where those years have gone; it only seems like yesterday that our first issue came out, with David Tennant peeking out from the cover. And our fourth Cardiff Life Awards, hosted by international rugby ref and national treasure, Nigel 8 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Owens, celebrated the city’s best businesses with another prestigious ceremony at City Hall in March.

In the mag, we interviewed the likes of garrulous Irish songstress Camille O’Sullivan, Will Young and Sherman Theatre’s visionary artistic director, Rachel O’Riordan, ahead of the venue’s highly acclaimed adaptation of Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard.

And we hung out with local writer and historian Peter Finch, Penarth-based fashion designer Nathan Palmer, rising electronic

musician Ani Glass and MasterChef finalist Imran Nathoo. Good times!

We also profiled Turner Prize-nominated abstract artist Gillian Ayres, marking a major exhibition of her work at National Museum Cardiff. With the arrival of summer, our snapshot of the 50 best things about Cardiff spanned independent businesses, culture, food and sport. There was the Champions League Final, too, played at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium in June to much pomp and ceremony, as Whitchurch boy Gareth Bale’s Real Madrid trounced Juventus 4-1.

SPOTLIGHT

And Spanish restaurant Asador 44 and Pontcanna bistro Milkwood both opened to rave reviews, not least from us.

What else? Well, later in the year, we featured some of Cardiff’s coolest artisan makers, ahead of big contemporary craft fair Made By Hand at City Hall. I Loves The ’Diff head honcho Christian Amodeo guestedited our autumn issue (fine job, sir!). And at the time of writing, Cardiff City currently sit second in the Championship table after a barnstorming first half of the season under Neil Warnock – let’s hope automatic promotion beckons.

And 2018? Well, we go again, of course – we’re already looking forward to writing about all the exciting Cardiff events and unexpected twists and turns (Six Nations, Festival of Voice etc) that next year will bring.

Onwards and upwards, eh?

For more: @CardiffLifeMag, mediaclash.co.uk/magazines

SPOTLIGHT

(Top to bottom) Coming up at Sherman Theatre in 2018: Gruff Rhys Jones; Dublin Carol; the Sherman’s artistic director, Rachel O’Riordan; The Motherf**cker With The Hat; Tremor

ARTS

AHEAD OF THE GAME Another great year in prospect for Sherman Theatre, with the announcement of their 2018 programme As ever, there’s a bit of something for everyone. The first Sherman production of the season is Dublin Carol (1-17 February), a raw and unflinching but quietly beautiful account of a life wasted, as an alcoholic undertaker is confronted by the ghosts of his past. New York-set comedy, The Motherf**ker With The Hat (21 – 31 March), looks good, too – ex-con Jackie is trying to go straight but he’s struggling with addiction; can he keep it together or is he on a path to selfdestruction?

Next up is Tremor (12 April-5 May) – written by 2016 Pinter Commission recipient, Brad Birch, it’s a hard-hitting play about how people see things and live their lives in a world riven with tension, anxiety and division. And making his directorial debut for Sherman, Associate Director David Mercatali takes on a new play by acclaimed writer Katherine

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

Chandler in NEW: 2018, part of Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama’s New Writing festival (20-22 March).

“The Sherman’s spring season is exciting and vibrant, with a selection of outstanding plays,” said the theatre’s Artistic Director, Rachel O’Riordan. “I am so proud of our work – these are plays that speak to our humanity and our soul.”

Alongside Sherman’s own productions, there will also be work from National Dance Company of Wales, touring drama – check out Torch Theatre Company’s Grav (22-23 February) about Welsh rugby hero, Ray Gravell – and a trio of comedy heavyweights: Mark Thomas (21 February), presenting his new show, Showtime From The Frontline; Griff Rhys Jones (14 March); and Bridget Christie (24 May).

For more: shermantheatre.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT

(Clockwise from left) BBC NOW at Hoddinott Hall (pic: BBC/Kirsten McTernan); The BBC Welsh Orchestra (as it was previously known) in 1964; Principal Guest Conductor, Xian Zhang

MUSIC

90 UP! Celebrating 90 years of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales To mark BBC NOW’s 90th birthday, the orchestra is inviting people to share their stories and experiences – these could include seeing or performing with the orchestra, meeting a musician or taking part in a workshop. The stories gathered will form part of the birthday celebrations in April 2018.

The orchestra gave its first performance on Thursday 12 April, 1928, in the Assembly Rooms at Cardiff’s City Hall, and over 90 years, has helped to inspire the next generation of musicians, composers and conductors; since 2005, of course, it has also provided the music for telly’s Doctor Who.

“We’re really looking forward to celebrating next year with the orchestra’s entire musical family – our audiences, musicians and friends alike,” said Michael Garvey, director of BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales.

“We are inviting people to help us look back at some of the wonderful moments from across the years to tell the rich story of Wales’ national orchestra.”

Share a story with BBC NOW on Facebook, on Twitter: @BBCNOW or @BBCNOWCymraeg, or via email: now@bbc.co.uk. For more information, see bbc.co.uk/orchestras

35

CELEBRATING

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SPOTLIGHT

(Left) Dame Esther Rantzen and Norman Sayers launch the NSPCC charity partnership; (Below) Another colourful New Year’s Eve beckons at Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland

LEISURE

DOING IT FOR THE KIDS Dame Esther Rantzen launches charity partnership between NSPCC Cymru and Cardiff’s festive attraction, Winter Wonderland The well-known journalist, TV presenter and Childline founder recently visited NSPCC projects in Wales and met with Winter Wonderland operator, Norman Sayers, to discuss fundraising and NSPCC events at the rink. “Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland is going to be raising money for the NSPCC and Childline, which I think is a wonderful idea at Christmas when people are thinking of children,” said Dame Esther.

“We hope that every child is happy and loved, but we know that not every child is.”

“We always partner with a local charity to ensure that there are wider benefits to the community at this time of year,” said Norman Sayers. “It was an honour to meet Dame Esther, and we hope to raise significant funds to help the invaluable work of the NSPCC and Childline.”

Once again, Winter Wonderland will also be the focal point for Cardiff’s New Year’s Eve celebrations this year, with free live music and a spectacular midnight firework display alongside the ever-popular ice rink.

“The festive atmosphere at Winter Wonderland is second-to-none this year and this first-class attraction is proving hugely popular with visitors,” said Cllr Peter Bradbury, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure. “New Year’s Eve will be no exception, with plenty on offer for all the family. Come and see in 2018 with live music, skating, fireworks and much more – all in the very heart of the city.”

For more: cardiffswinterwonderland.com, nspcc.org.uk/wales

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A MAN’S WORLD

BLAINE SCULLY

HOME FROM HOME Introducing our brand new columnist – Cardiff Blues ace and USA international, BLAINE SCULLY

A

s December rolls over the UK, with a frosty windshield and a cold run out to a wet and windy training session, it sometimes feels like I am a very long way

from California.

A little context for you... I was born and raised in Sacramento, the capital of a state better known for San Francisco, Los Angeles and the famous coastal drive of Highway 1. With a population of over 39 million, California also happens to be the sixth largest economy in the world. To put it in context geographically, California is slightly bigger than Japan. Not a small place.

By comparison, the greater Sacramento area has just over a million people and sits in a valley, surrounded by rural countryside.

Even though it serves as the capital, the city has a small-town feel, and is very community-centred. Sacramento residents are proud of where they’re from, with strong support for local businesses, coffee shops and sports teams, which keeps the city’s heartbeat strong. I like to think it’s this sense of community that keeps us grounded and humble.

Living in Cardiff, I have that same familiar feeling – a capital city that feels more like a small town because of its strong community vibe. It’s personal and intimate in a way that a place like London can never be. The centre is always bustling and the different shopping arcades provide unique character to each journey.

CARDIFF IS PERSONAL AND INTIMATE IN A WAY THAT LONDON CAN NEVER BE Cardiff Castle is a personal favourite.

Where I grew up, Disneyland is probably our closest castle. (Turns out it isn’t actually a real castle at all, which was disappointing to find out as a young kid.) So, with that being said, each and every time I pass by the castle in the heart of Cardiff, I can’t help but stop in wonder. Pretty incredible. And it makes a great postcard to send to my family back in California.

But in Cardiff, my wife and I have found a

home away from home. We love our spot in Pontcanna, the vibrant little pocket on the edge of the city centre. Here, we can pick up meat from the butcher, fresh veggies from The Fruit Bowl, a warm loaf of bread from Brød Danish Bakery and a cup of coffee from Lufkin. Brunch at Canna Deli or a quick drive to Penylan Pantry is a regular Sunday morning favourite. A walk through Llandaff Fields highlights the stroll home.

And we love a browse at Pontcanna Market, which showcases local vendors and is always well-supported.

To be a professional athlete is a privilege and as a professional rugby player, I feel very fortunate to play in a great rugby city like Cardiff – Cardiff Arms Park is one of rugby’s historic grounds, a true cathedral of the game. Wales, of course, is a proud rugby country and Cardiff is at the epicentre.

The Blues supporters are a special group who have been unbelievably welcoming, occasionally with a “USA!” chant that makes me feel like I’m back playing with the Red, White and Blue. All in all, here in Cardiff, home doesn’t feel so far away.

Follow Blaine on Twitter: @BlaineScully1.

For more: cardiffblues.com

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INTERIORS

PATTERNISTA’S VIBRANT RUGS COLOUR US VERY HAPPY

INDEED

The HOT LIST

The coolest rugs, artisan furniture, bespoke beds and the best wallpaper ever – complete inspiration for house and home

By K AT I E K I SSOON

F

or many of us, interior design isn’t about following trends.

When it comes to kitting out our own homes, we’re more likely to embrace our favourite colours, buy what we love and be a bit impulsive. And anyway, with such a panoply of contemporary colours, patterns, designs and furniture out there, where’s the fun in being prescriptive? Here are some of the current looks and pieces we’re coveting for house and home, all available from local suppliers. Prepare to pick and choose, mix and match, and be inspired...

DO THE BRIGHT THING

With a passion for strong colours and eyepopping motifs, Patternistas co-founders Chris and Suzanne Carpenter’s ready-made patterns can be printed on most interior and exterior surfaces, from fabrics and wallpaper to ceramic tiles, vinyl and even rugs.

The Penylan-based husband and wife team’s new collection of luxurious statement geometric rugs for Rug Couture (rugcouture.com) are typically exuberant. Shortlisted for various industry awards, they’re custom-made from handknotted New Zealand wool and each comes in five sizes (bespoke colours, materials and designs available, too) – a vibrant focal point, whatever your style of room. There are eight designs in all, but their Petra Parker rug (pictured left, prices from £1,550) colours us very happy indeed.

For more: patternistas.co.uk

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INTERIORS

THE SEAT IS ON

Velvet continues to be big news, particularly in furniture, and is one of the easiest ways to add a luxury feel to your lounge or reception space. If you’re thinking upholstery, consider deep jewel or berry colours for ultimate impact, combined and contrasted with other textures for added depth and interest.

These fetching and inviting Cloud Chairs from Oliver Bonas (£645, made to order) fit the bill perfectly – chunky but elegant, beautifully designed, and available in five different hues, they’re just aching to be flopped into.

For more: oliverbonas.com

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

INTERIORS

CROWNING GLORY

Unashamedly diverse, Elitis are considered one of the world’s leading contemporary wallpaper and fabric designers. Part of the Mille Millions collection (available at Taylors Etc – contact them for prices), their ‘Les Doudous Peace & Love’ paper, magnificent warriors in ceremonial dress against a coloured metallic background, is about as big and dramatic an interiors statement as you can make, rather like walking into an Orthodox church. Incense optional.

For more: taylorsetc.co.uk

SEE THE LIGHT

With ten super-efficient LED lights, each contained within an elegant aluminium flute, finished in dark brushed copper – a softer alternative to polished copper – Där’s trombone copper pendant (£479, order from Haus Contemporary Furnishings in Rhiwbina) is a striking, installation-like centrepiece. Spacers are also included, to spread the lamps in whichever way suits your space, and there are matching wall lights, should you want the full complement. Well, who wouldn’t?

For more: haus-cardiff.co.uk

ON THE WHITE TRACK

Working with a range of über-cool European brands (Fenicia, Colombini, Fama and many more), Cardiff-based online furniture company Trendy Products offers a wide range of luxury furniture and home accessories, but this modern two-door matt white artisan sideboard (usual RRP £2,246.99, currently on sale at £1,797.59) by Italian designer Tonin Casa really stands out.

Available in a choice of colours/finishes, it’s a stunning fusion of wood, mirrored surface and metal base.

Trendy are also opening their new digital concept luxury showroom in Cardiff Bay on 27 December, promising over 10,000 products to view online (available to browse at the showroom) and a state-of-the-art customer experience. Get ready to plug in...

For more: trendy-products.co.uk w

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INTERIORS

TAKE THE FLOOR

Flooring has got seriously stylish – get it right and it can completely transform your home. Adventurous types might want to check out Alternative Flooring’s Quirky B range of patterned/coloured carpets and bespoke, madeto-measure rugs.

Available to order from Jewels Canley in Penarth – contact them for further information and prices – they range from Liberty fabrics and out-there floral and chainmail designs to textile design icon Margo Selby’s wonderfully angular Fair Isle collection (pictured). Go on, be brave...

For more: jewelscanley.co.uk

BED ALERT

Handcrafted in Cardiff and London, there’s nothing quite like a bespoke, luxurious Savoir bed, made individually for each client by a single craftsman.

They’ve supplied some of London’s swishest hotels, including The Savoy, so if you buy one of these you’ll be in esteemed company – luminaries such as Winston Churchill and Marilyn Monroe have slept in them. There are plenty of palatial designs to choose from, but the Harlech 12 - this month’s cover star, priced at a cool £18,892 – really caught our eye.

They truly are the ultimate comfort – one night’s sleep on a Savoir bed and you’ll never go back. Sweet dreams are most definitely made of this.

For more: savoirbeds.co.uk

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

BOXING CLEVER

With its geometric shapes and contrasting transparent panels, this futuristic Labirinto table is proof that good, visionary design never goes out of style. Created exclusively for Natuzzi by big-shot Italian architect and designer Claudio Bellini, the range is designed to introduce dramatic colour into your home.

Made from tough ‘float’ glass, with open storage – perfect as bookshelves – and hidden swivel castors that allow for easy movement, they’re super-cool. So cool, in fact, that we’re tempted to curate an entire room around them.

They’re available to order in a variety of finishes (yellow and black number pictured) from Natuzzi in Cardiff Bay, with prices starting at around £870. Consider it an investment...

For more: cardiff.natuzzi.co.uk

GOING THE EXTRA TILE

Distressed tiles have been a bit of an interiors keeper in recent years, and the trend shows little sing of abating.

Emulating antique tin tiles, Mandarin Stone’s very stylish Demelza Tin Oxide Decor vintage range (from £38.40 per m2) works beautifully on splashbacks or bathroom/feature walls. The tiles go brilliantly well with Mandarin Stone’s Skandi Black Porcelain flooring (from £47.97 per m2) – stylish gnarled wood with a reclaimed, painted effect – for an arresting look.

For more: mandarinstone.com w

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INTERIORS

CHALK OF THE TOWN

Paint and colour expert Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint has become something of a global phenomenon, but this year also saw the launch of her new Wall Paint. Yes, Chalk Paint can be used on walls, but its chalky nature means it’s not so good for areas of high traffic or steamy bathrooms and kitchens. Which is where the Wall Paint comes in...

Available in 16 colours (£39.95 for 2.5 litres, from Beti Biggs in Roath or Pontcanna), it goes on like a dream and has great coverage. Deeper colours are proving popular, says Beti Biggs owner, Jan Williams, particularly rich Aubusson Blue (as per this pic) and Amsterdam Green, a perfect backdrop for mirrors, pictures, lamps etc.

Beti Biggs also does an Annie Sloan starter package for £65 – just buy a litre of Chalk Paint (you choose the colour) and a tin of Soft Wax, plus bristle and waxing brushes; Jan throws in a colour chart and stirring stick and invites you to an evening demo and Q&A at one of the shops.

There’s wine, too. A thoughtful gift for a creative chum, perhaps?

For more: betibiggs.com

DIRECTORY

Add these local interior designers, suppliers and stockists to your contacts book Baked Tile Company/ Taylors Etc The Design Quarter, 143 Colchester Avenue, Penylan; Tel: 02920 358400 taylorsetc.co.uk Beti Biggs 1 Romilly Crescent & 90 Albany Road; Tel: 02920 372111 betibiggs.com Chalkhouse Interiors 3 Bessemer Close, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 233308 chalkhouseinteriors.co.uk Chameleon Interiors 73 Pontcanna Street, Pontcanna; Tel: 02920 371277 chameleoninteriors.co.uk Curtain Raisers 2 Kelston Road, Whitchurch; Tel: 02920 614966 curtain-raisers.co.uk

Deborah Drew 18 Penlline Road, Whitchurch; Tel: 02920 520828 dddesigns.co.uk Extravagauza The Maltings, East Tyndall Street, Cardiff; Tel: 02921 660210 extravagauza.co.uk Floored Genius The Innovation Quarter, The Waterfront, Barry; Tel: 01446 746555 flooredgenius.com Haus Contemporary Furnishings 6c Heol-y-Deri, Rhiwbina; Tel: 02920 611372 haus-cardiff.co.uk Home By Kirsty 64A Glenroy St, Roath; homebykirsty.com

Interiors etc 4 Sovereign Quay, Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay; Tel: 02920 448080 interiors-etc.co.uk Jacob’s Market West Canal Wharf, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 390939 jacobsmarket.co.uk Jewels Canley 2 Glebe Street, Penarth; Tel: 02920 692255 jewelscanley.co.uk Mandarin Stone The Design Quarter, Colchester Avenue, Penylan; mandarinstone.com Momentum 31 Charles Street, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 236266 momentumcardiff.com

Natuzzi Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay; Tel: 02920 488698 natuzzigroup.co.uk Oliver Bonas 37 The Hayes, Cardiff; oliverbonas.com Patternistas Tel: 07970 820337 patternistas.co.uk Peastyle peastyle.co.uk

Space Fitting The Design Quarter, 4 Colchester Avenue, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 455778 spacefittingfurniture. co.uk Topstak Vale Business Park, Cowbridge; Tel: 01446 771567 topstak.co.uk Trendy Products Tel: 0345 299 4211 trendy-products.co.uk

Project One Tel: 02921 406283 projectone.design Savoir Beds savoirbeds.co.uk Sigma 3 The Design Quarter, 4 Colchester Avenue, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 485888 sigma3.co.uk

Wood/Grey woodgrey.com Your Space Living 3A Commercial Street, Llantwit Major; Tel: 01446 796731 yourspaceliving.com

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a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e i n t e r i o r s

RANGE – Ashbourne Light Grey and Graphite Make the kitchen island your focal point by using a darker shade

Rustic Charm Tailored to meet the needs of their whole family, homeowners Nicola and John use every inch of the room to create a space that is just right for them

W

hen Nicola and John Dunlop started their home renovation project, they wanted to transform their kitchen into the heart of the home. The brief was to create a room that was family-friendly, sociable and above all else a layout where they could keep an eye on their ever-energetic children.

Make the most out of your kitchen by adding a beautiful corner larder – it brings a grown-up and sophisticated feel to this impressive family home

“Storage was also high on my agenda,” says Nicola. “I’ve discovered you can never have too many cupboards when your family is growing.”

The couple found their inspiration through searching on Instagram and Pinterest and. says Nicola, they adored the “calming hues of grey, with elements of wood and splashes of colour. Our designer helped us decide on the ratios of light and dark grey on the kitchen cabinets and I think it’s spot-on.”

One of the easiest decisions for Nicola was the cooker. “I was desperately missing the Rangemaster we had at our old house,” she says, “but our new one has it all, along with a stand-out design.”

To get the all-important open-plan living the Dunlops were searching for, the kitchen island needed to be a space where friends and family could gather to socialise.

This was achieved by creating a large island with casual breakfast bar seating and open shelving to showcase Nicola’s impressive range of cookbooks.

Whilst reflecting, Nicola added that their beautiful new kitchen was definitely worth the home renovation, as she’s now left with a unique and eye-catching design that perfectly

Add personality to your kitchen using patterned tiles as a splashback – perfect for seamlessly mixing and matching traditional and modern features

aligns with her family’s busy life.

Start your kitchen journey with Sigma 3 today by visiting sigma3.co.uk or popping into one of our Cardiff showrooms.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 33

Music/theatre/film/more

DREAM STATE

Dominated by her memories, Seoul-born Minyoung Choi’s paintings are beguiling, dreamlike landscapes, inclined towards the surreal or a symbolism of sorts, featuring images of objects or scenes culled from her imagination, from history or from the everyday. Her immersive Lunchtime In Winter piece (oil on linen, pictured above) is currently on show – alongside more of her work – as part of Chapter’s regular Art In The Bar series.

For more: chapter.org

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

22 December – 22 January

Sean ‘8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown’ Lock; epic musical Miss Saigon; Joanna Lumley is heading out on her first-ever tour – book early!

Plays/Shows/ Performance

her furry adventure in Raymond Briggs’ much-loved story.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

U N TI L 3 0 D E C E M BE R

U N TI L 6 JA N UAR Y

THE MAGIC PORRIDGE POT New version of the Brothers Grimm tale, featuring the pot that just can’t stop making porridge! With songs, music and fun for all the family.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk U N TI L 3 0 D E C E M BE R

THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS Based on Kenneth Grahame’s classic book – join Mole, Rat, Badger and Toad on the adventure of a lifetime.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk U N TI L 3 1 D E C E M BE R

THE BEAR Ever wondered what it would be like to sit on a polar bear’s lap? Or ride on its back? Follow Tilly on

MISS SAIGON Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed new production of the epic musical, the tragic tale of a young bar girl, orphaned by war, who falls in love with an American GI – but their lives are soon torn apart by the fall of Saigon.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk U N TI L 1 4 JA N UAR Y

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES Glittering family panto, starring Samantha Womack, Gareth Thomas and Mike Doyle.

New Theatre; newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

Ballet, the greatest romantic ballet of all time is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting, unforgettable score.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 9-20 J ANUAR Y

THE BAND The fastest-selling musical theatre tour of all time, no less, featuring the music of Take That.

(See arts feature, page 42.)

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

Comedy 29 DEC EMBER

LIVE COMEDY SPECIAL Mike Bubbins, Jonnie Price, Tom Lucy and Mark Olver star.

Glee Club; glee.co.uk 31 DEC EMBER

2 7 - 3 1 D E CE MB ER

SWAN LAKE Performed by the Russian State

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

NEW YEAR’S EVE STAND-UP Featuring Scott Gibson, Jarred

Christmas, Mike Bubbins and Mark Olver.

Glee Club; glee.co.uk 18 J ANUARY

THURSDAY NIGHT PIEFACE COMEDY Abigoliah Schamaun, Alistair Barrie and Andrew Ryan tickle your funny bones.

Glee Club; glee.co.uk 21 J ANUARY

SEAN LOCK More circuitous monologues and skewed wit from the 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown man.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

Music 9 J ANUARY

A NIGHT IN VIENNA The Welsh National Opera Orchestra presents its annual concert, featuring work by Mozart, Weber and Johann

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

Strauss II. Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; rwcmd.ac.uk 1 3 J ANUARY

THE SMYTHS Probably the best Smiths tribute act on the circuit, natch.

The Globe; globecardiffmusic.com 1 4 J ANUARY

WNO ORCHESTRA Those WNO guys again, with key pieces by Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Dvorák.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 1 6 J ANUARY

MARTYN JOSEPH The “Welsh national treasure” (Mojo), with shades of Springsteen, John Mayer, Bruce Cockburn and Dave Matthews.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 1 9 J ANUARY

BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES Conductor Xian Zhang oversees Beethoven’s mighty and daring Symphony No. 9.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 2 0 J ANUARY

BACK TO BACHARACH Celebrating the music of Burt Bacharach, one of the 20th century’s most accomplished and popular composers.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

Art

Henry Walsh’s Moment X, part of Albany Gallery’s Winter Exhibition

from a whole host of exciting contemporary makers.

Craft In The Bay; makersguildinwales.org.uk WINTER EXHIBITION Changing exhibition of paintings, sculpture, ceramics and jewellery.

Albany Gallery; albanygallery.com

HOLLY DAVEY: THE CONVERSATION A buff foolscap folder containing a lifetime’s fragments – photographs, scraps of paper, postcards etc – is the starting point for Davey’s solo show, which forms an imagined reality; an archive of a life.

G39; g39.org

U N TI L 1 4 JA NUAR Y

UNTIL 11 MAR C H

U N TI L 1 3 JA NUAR Y

AFFORDABLE ART Annual art wall, showcasing over 40 local artists and handmade goods, from jewellery to textiles.

Cardiff MADE; Twitter: @CardiffMADE U N TI L 1 4 JA NUAR Y

MAKER IN FOCUS: ALYS WALL A new body of work from the Penarth-based leather artist.

Craft In The Bay; makersguildinwales.org.uk

IN THE FUTURE THEY ATE FROM THE FINEST PORCELAIN Major touring exhibition by interdisciplinary Palestinian artist, Larissa Sansour.

Chapter; chapter.org

UNTI L 7 J ANUARY

U N TI L 3 1 JA NUAR Y

UNTI L 7 J ANUARY

MAKER IN FOCUS: CHRISTIAN RYAN Glass artist, inspired by painting, graphics, craft and architecture.

Craft In The Bay; makersguildinwales.org.uk UNTI L 7 J ANUARY

CHRISTMAS WITH A TWIST Quirky and colourful crafts

UNTIL 3 F EBR UAR Y

BACON TO DOIG: MODERN MASTERPIECES FROM A PRIVATE COLLECTION Prominent 20th-century British artists and sculptors, including Francis Bacon, David Hockney, Grayson Perry, Barbara Hepworth, and more.

National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk

SWAPS Work by leading 20th and 21st century photographers Henri Cartier-Bresson, Eve Arnold, Bill Brandt and others, from the collection of documentary photographer, David Hurn.

National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk 10-27 J ANUAR Y

CLIVE HICKS-JENKINS Featuring the artist’s Sir Gawain And The Green Knight work, based on the titular mystical medieval poem.

Martin Tinney Gallery; artwales.com

Book Now 3-7 AP RI L 2 0 1 8

CINDERELLA Matthew Bourne’s magical take on the classic fairytale, set in London during World War II. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 12 AP R I L- 5 M AY 2 0 1 8

TREMOR Sophie and Tom’s relationship fell apart in the aftermath of a catastrophe. Four years on, as they come face-to-face once again, the aftershocks of that fateful day can still be felt. The world premiere of Brad Birch’s new play, directed by Rachel O’Riordan, promises yet another thrilling and intense evening.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk 4 MAY 2 0 1 8

TEARS FOR FEARS Return of the influential 80s duo. Support comes from former Yazoo powerhouse, Alison Moyet.

Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

20 J ANUAR Y-16 F EBR UAR Y

JOHN SELWAY Typically flamboyant and inventive oil paintings, watercolours and digital drawings by the British artist, who recently passed away.

BayArt; bayart.org.uk

20 O C T O B ER 2 0 1 8

JOANNA LUMLEY First-ever tour from the activist, actress and national treasure, sharing entertaining stories from her 40-year career.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk w www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 37

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

80s dudes Tears For Fears are coming to the Motorpoint Arena

Sport TUE S DAY 2 6 D E CE MBE R

CARDIFF CITY v FULHAM Sky Bet Championship, KO 3pm.

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk TUE S DAY 2 6 D E CE MBE R

CARDIFF DEVILS v COVENTRY BLAZE League, face-off 6pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

F RI DAY 2 9 D E C E MBE R

CARDIFF CITY v PRESTON NORTH END Sky Bet Championship, KO 7.45pm.

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk S AT URDAY 3 0 DE CE MBE R

CARDIFF DEVILS v MK LIGHTNING League, face-off 7pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

SATU RDAY 6 J ANUAR Y

CARDIFF CITY v MANSFIELD TOWN Emirates FA Cup, KO TBC. Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk SU N DAY 7 JANUAR Y

CARDIFF DEVILS v NOTTINGHAM PANTHERS League, face-off 6pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com WE D N E SDAY 10 J ANUAR Y

CARDIFF DEVILS v GUILDFORD FLAMES Challenge Cup, face-off 7.30pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com SATU RDAY 1 3 J ANUAR Y

CARDIFF CITY v SUNDERLAND Sky Bet Championship, KO 3pm.

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk SU N DAY 1 4 JANUAR Y

CARDIFF DEVILS v GUILDFORD FLAMES League, face-off 6pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

S UN DAY 3 1 D E CE MBE R

CARDIFF BLUES v SCARLETS Guinness Pro 14, KO 3.15pm.

BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park; cardiffblues.com

SU N DAY 2 1 JANUAR Y

CARDIFF DEVILS v FIFE FLYERS League, face-off 6pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.coms

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

WANT MORE? Sign up now for the Cardiff Life newsletter...

As editor of this fine mag, there’s nothing I enjoy more than drawing your attention to this buzzing city’s best events and happenings.

To keep readers fully updated about what’s going on in Cardiff, we email out a free newsletter every Friday, packed with news, our essential ‘see and do’ picks of the week, tips and special offers.

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T H E A L B A N Y G A L L E RY EXHIBITION OF POSTERS in association with Goldmark Gallery January 18th - February 10th 2018 Artists’ posters are a great way to own affordable works and some of the leading 20th century artists are represented in this exhibition. Artists include Picasso, Chagall, Hockney, Warhol, Miro, Braque and Matisse.

View the exhibition on our website

www.albanygallery.co.uk 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

15% off

almost all of our collections.

From 9th Jan 9th Feb 2018

Jewels Canley Interiors is a family run business that started out in 1983. Most of our client base comes from word of mouth or recommendations from previous clients that have used us for either, Curtains, Upholstery or Interior Design.

We also make bespoke furniture pieces which are ideal for some of the new developments, as we have Cardiff Pointe & Penarth Heights near to us. Some of the rooms in these properties can be fairly snug for larger pieces, so made to measure is a great option.

We hold plenty of choice with having over 300 books including fabric and wallpaper.

Pop in to the shop to make an appointment for one of us to call out or send us an image of any project you are considering having done, and we will send you a quotation.

2 Glebe Street, Penarth CF64 1EB Tel: 02920 707779 | Email: info@jewelscanley.co.uk Keep up to date with our latest projects, ideas and inspiration www.facebook.com/jewelscanley

ARTS

M U S I C A L T H E AT R E

BAND of BROTHERS

Pop heroes Take That – yep, really: Gary, Howard, Mark and Robbie – talk about THE BAND, the new musical featuring some of their most infectious and memorable tunes

L

By V IC K Y E DWA R DS

aughingly describing the occasion as a ceremony to “hand over the leather waistcoats,” Take That’s Howard Donald is shooting video footage of bandmates Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Robbie Williams while they wait for Five To Five – winners of the BBC’s primetime Saturday night talent show, Let It Shine, to find a boy band to star in new musical, The Band – to experience the first of what will no doubt be many photo shoots. It’s familiar territory for the supergroup who, having hit the charts in the 90s as a boy band, have since grown up and evolved, and continue to delight an evergrowing fan base.

But today is about singing in theatres rather than arenas, and the four elder statesmen are in a West London venue, hanging out with the five new kids on the block who are about to sing their songs as the soundtrack of a brand new musical. So, how long has an idea for a musical based on Take That songs been in the offing?

Young bucks Five “Seven years ago, the To Five strut their stuff in The Band first seedling of an idea of a musical that could incorporate our music came about – but not necessarily about us,” says Mark, pausing and then adding: “In fact, anything but about us. We’d find that a bit dull; we wanted to make it more interesting!”

The result of that now fully-grown seedling is The Band. Written by Tim Firth – who also collaborated with Gary Barlow on The Girls, a musical based on the film, Calendar Girls – and set against a musical backdrop of singalong Take That songs (including Never Forget, Back For Good, A Million Love Songs, Greatest Day, The Flood, Relight My Fire, and more), the story focuses on five 16 year-old friends in 1992, for whom ‘the band’ is everything. 25 years on, the group of friends, now 40-something women, try once more to fulfil their dream of meeting their heroes.

Chatting to the cast and producers, it is clear that this is neither a conventional ‘jazz hands’ musical or a token ‘jukebox’ show. The word ‘unique’ is freely used; under the direction of Kim Gavin and Jack Ryder, and with a technical team that include specialists who work on Take That’s big arena shows, there are going to be ‘wow’ factors a-plenty.

Watching Five To Five – aka ‘The Band’ of the title – rehearse, it becomes clear that AJ, Nick, Curtis, Yazdan and Sario look as handsome, sound as good and dance as well as their mentors.

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

The Take That boys are clearly impressed, not just by Five To Five’s talent, but also by how solid their protégés are as a group.

“Ever since they got together as Five To Five, they’ve had this unity and gelled,” says Howard.

“But now they’ve got to learn the show and the art of going on eight times a week,” Gary chips in.

Robbie nods his agreement. “The discipline, the actual physical and mental discipline of being able to do that, is nothing you can expect until you’ve done it. Treading the boards for eight shows a week? It’s not something I’m desperate to do,” he jokes.

With the tour already underway, and with an advance box office having already topped a record-breaking £10 million, it’s fair to say that it looks as if this is a show with broad appeal. But as well as The Band, Five To Five are also working on their pop career. Do the Take That chaps reckon they have a chance of making it?

“Can they make an album?

They are ambitious, so I hope so,” says Gary, clearly optimistic about their scope for success. “They are a proper band, these guys.”

“It’s amazing how ready they are to do this,” affirms Robbie. “It’s unusual – they were better than us straight away,” he adds, pointing out that the eighteen months Take That had before they were really in the spotlight was a huge advantage. “We had time before we got any real notoriety, and it was good that no-one was watching because early doors there were kinks.

But these guys seem to have that chemistry right away, straight out of the box. They’re incredibly professional.”

But the four of them know only too well how hard Five To Five will have to work to get started. “It’s going to be intense,” cautions Robbie, “although not as intense as ours [early career], which back in the day was incredible!”

Looking from the established boy band to the young lads who have it all in front of them, you can sense the beginnings of another long, glittery career in the making. Talking to camera, Howard has the last word. “Tickets are on sale!” he blurts out. “Go and get them.

They’re hot!”

The Band is at Wales Millennium Centre from 9-20 January. For more info and tickets, see wmc.org.uk

M U S I C A L T H E AT R E

ARTS

THE BAND PROMISES ‘WOW’ FACTORS A-PLENTY

Fab four: Take That’s Howard, Gary, Mark and Robbie

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

ANTIQUES – INTERIORS

HOBBIES - COLLECTABLES

THE

PUMPING STATION A N T I Q U E S

&

I N T E R I O R S

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

FILM

ARTS

(Clockwise from left) Unrest, Jane and Manifesto

GIRLS ON FILM Chapter continues to celebrate the strength of women on screen with its WONDER WOMEN strand

O

By M EGA N PR IC E

FILM OF THE MONTH

STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI (12A) The latest eagerlyawaited instalment of the world’s greatest sci-fi saga Set immediately after the events of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Rey (Daisy Ridley), still developing her newly-discovered powers, joins Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), Leia (the muchmissed Carrie Fisher), Finn (John Boyega) and Poe (Oscar Isaac) on a blockbusting adventure that unlocks the mysteries of the force – and shocking revelations from the past.

Showing at Chapter until 4 January – see chapter.org for more details

ur ongoing Wonder Women screenings have proved incredibly popular, and this month there are more great films that show off the work and lives of women at the top of their respective games.

First up is Manifesto (cert 15, 5-11 January), German artist and filmmaker Julian Rosefeldt’s stunning tour de force.

Weaving together history’s most impassioned artistic statements in a call to action, it stars a chameleonic Cate Blanchett as 13 distinct characters – among them a school teacher, factory worker, choreographer, punk, newsreader, scientist, puppeteer, widow and a homeless man – in vignettes that incorporate timeless manifestos: a true testament to the in-demand Australian actor’s skill and versatility.

Unrest, meanwhile (cert 12A, 9-11 January), an award-winning documentary by Jennifer Brea, documents the Harvard PhD student’s struggle with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), a mysterious illness that remains largely misunderstood. Struck down by a fever that leaves her bedridden, her wonderfully

honest portrayal of CFS asks us to rethink the stigma around a growing illness that affects millions of people worldwide.

Next, renowned primatologist Jane Goodall’s early explorations and groundbreaking fieldwork are the subject of Jane (cert PG, 12-18 January), which uses unseen archive National Geographic footage to offer an unprecedented, intimate portrait of a woman whose chimpanzee research challenged maledominated scientific consensus, and revolutionised our understanding of the natural world.

And finally, Molly’s Game (cert 15, 12-18 January) is a fast-paced and classy crime drama about Molly Bloom (played by Jessica Chastain), a young, Olympic-class skier who ran the world’s most exclusive high stakes underground poker empire for Hollywood celebs, athletes, business tycoons and the Russian mob, before being arrested by the FBI. Chapter currently uses the ‘F-rating’ to allow audiences to easily identify films which are directed and/or written by women, and in 2018, this will be extended to encompass performance and visual arts, too – keep an eye on Chapter’s website and social media channels for more details.

For more: chapter.org

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 45

Caci Facials, Hair Removal and Skin Rejuvenation now available!

Medical Grade Lynton Q-Switch Tri wave length laser treats ALL colours to fade for fresh ink or remove completely. Our professional, qualified laser technicians will carry out treatment to remove the ink at the optimum levels whilst leaving your skin unmarked.

Have you wondered what if feels like?

Call us to book for a free test patch with no commitment to continue with treatment!

Vale Laser Clinic, 1A The Square, St Athan Village, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 4PF | 01446 750 880 | valelaserclinic.co.uk

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

Elevate your living space Based in the Vale of Glamorgan, Vale Orangeries specialise in designing and building bespoke living spaces, tailor-made to their clients’ specifications

W

hat is home to you?

Somewhere to relax, indulge in comforts and spend quality time with family and friends? At Vale Orangeries, husband and wife team Dean and Leanne Edmonds are committed to helping you get the most out of your home. They specialise in designing and building bespoke extensions that create the space you’ve always longed for.

“An orangery or glazed extension 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, underfloor heating, home entertainment solutions and an interior design service for those all-important finishing touches."

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

“If you’re not exactly sure what you want, we can help," adds Dean. "We offer a free design consultation service, and have numerous orangery show-homes throughout South Wales 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 we provide. 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 Vale Orangeries can work for the way you live.

Vale Orangeries founders, Dean and Leanne Edmonds

Gifts/fashion/stores/more

FINE & DANDY Dapper dude Al Edge (pictured right) looks very pleased with himself, as well he might – the owner of very cool Cardiff vintage outfitters, Princes & Paupers, he currently has all manner of style slaves and hipsters beating a path to his door.

Walking into Al’s meticulously arranged and curated shop really does feel like stepping back in time; he hand-picks the best quality vintage threads from all over the world (for both men and women), with styles ranging from workwear to formalwear and countrywear – “Some days I dress like I work on the railway, some days I dress like I own it,” he laughs – plus everyday pieces and a fantastic array of accessories, from the 1890s right through to the 1990s.

Princes & Paupers also has its own tailormade denim brand, Work Ethic, plus various reworked collections, and even a styling service, helping you to create a new, bespoke vintage look from head to toe – celebrating individuality through style, as they say.

For more: Princes & Paupers, 31 Castle Arcade, Cardiff; princesandpaupers.uk

Suited and booted: rocking the vintage look at Princes & Paupers

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 51

1

3

2

ME, ME, ME YOU’VE BOUGHT ALL THE CHRISTMAS PRESSIES FOR EVERYONE ELSE – NOW IT’S TIME FOR A SPOT OF SELF-GIFTING...

5

4

1. HISS AND THAT

2. IN THE BLACK

3. GET AHEAD

4. BACK TO NATURE

5. JUST LOOKING

Mercer Snakeskin Crossbody snakeskin crossbody bag, £360 The queen of bags, no less – available in mulberry or black From Michael Kors, 19 The Hayes, St David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff; michaelkors.co.uk

Iris teething necklace, £21.95 Designed in Cardiff by Black & Beech, this stylish little accessory will appeal to mums – perfect for catching the attention of easily distracted babies! – and non-mums alike From Home By Kirsty, 64A Glenroy Street, Roath; homebykirsty.com

Metallic pom-pom hat, £22 A touch of effortless glam to keep your bonce warm From Oliver Bonas, 37 The Hayes, Cardiff; oliverbonas.com

Marimekko Veljekset side plate, £20 Wild Finland, on a plate; your dinner party, sorted From John Lewis, St David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff; johnlewis.com

Infinity Virtual Reality headset, £35 Just open the hatch, slot in your smartphone, load your chosen piece of virtual 3D content and iimmerse yourself...

From Oliver Bonas, 37 The Hayes, Cardiff; oliverbonas.com

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

ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

6

7

9 8

10

6. WOWIE, IT’S BOWIE!

7. RED ALERT

8. ON THE FACE OF IT

9. PERFECT SKIN

10. ART OF THE MATTER

David Bowie A New Career In A New Town box set, £99.99 (CD), £199.99 (vinyl) 11 CDs or 13 records, featuring material officially released by rock’s ultimate chameleon between 1977 and 1982 From Spillers Records, 27 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; spillersrecords.co.uk

Splottify t-shirt, £18 (inc P&P) Quite possibly the coolest I Loves The ’Diff t-shirt yet, in our humble opinion From I Loves The ‘Diff, ilovesthediff.com

Connected Modular 45 smartwatch by TAG Heuer, £1,450 Luxury Swiss watchmaking and 21st century tech – the perfect combo From Laing Jewellers, 27 The Hayes, Cardiff; laingthejeweller.com

REN Perfect Canvas, £50 (30ml) This priming serum lifts and tightens, and is a quick and easy way to create a flawless base – an instant handbag essential From Central Pharmacy, 63-67 Wellfield Road, Roath; escentual.com

The Art Museum, £39.95 Featuring around 1,600 artworks, this beautiful, weighty tome includes everything from Palaeolithic cave paintings to modern-day work From Waterstones, 2A The Hayes, Cardiff; waterstones.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk II CLIFTON CARDIFF LIFE LIFE II 53 www.mediaclash.co.uk 69

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

BACK to BASICS Each season, trends come and go, but you’ll always need those trusty wardrobe staples.

Whether you’re looking for a complete overhaul or just want to update a few key items, we’ve got your back

A

good pair of jeans never go out of style. Dress them up with a crisp, white shirt and some heels (à la Meghan Markle) for a dinner date, or throw on with a loose jumper for a casual look. We love a relaxed, high-waist fit for the most flattering, leglengthening shape, like this pair (opposite) from Vivienne Westwood.

Living in Cardiff means investing in a decent coat is a must, and if there’s one piece of outerwear that sums up a wardrobe staple, it’s the trench; Oliver Bonas’ timeless longline relaxed mac, with its lovely sleeve details, is just the thing, whatever your shape.

Another favourite staple is the biker jacket, which will go with everything you wear. We adore the chocolate Mella shearling number from Reiss – whether it’s chucked on over a jumper and jeans, with a cute bobble hat for a cosy look, or draped over a pretty dress, you will never fail to look effortlessly cool.

When it comes to footwear, every wardrobe needs a pair of trusty flats, and these slip-on loafers from Kurt Geiger are versatile enough to be paired with any outfit. And what would a wardrobe be without a pair of classic heels?

The pointed toe court shoes from Whistles (at John Lewis) are great for all occasions, with an ankle strap for a bit of added edge.

Last but not least, no wardrobe would be complete without a few essential accessories.

We are totally in love with the star-studded tote bag from Michael Kors, the ultimate allrounder, whether you’re nipping to the shops or going for a big night out.

All items available at St David’s Dewi Sant in Cardiff at the time of writing. To keep up to date with the latest trends, news and offers, see St David’s on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter (@StDavidsCardiff) or at stdavidscardiff.com 56 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Mella longline shearling biker jacket, £895, Reiss

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3 5

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1. Amnesia dress, £775, Vivienne Westwood 2. Limit wool wrap dress, £75, Oliver Bonas 3. Slim-fit faux leather trousers, £119, Hugo Boss 4. Lace-up sleeve wool jumper (grey marl) by Whistles, £129, John Lewis 5. Mercer leather star-studded tote bag, £270, Michael Kors 6. Skytte jeans (mid-wash blue denim), £175, Vivienne Westwood 7. Longline relaxed mac, £130, Oliver Bonas 8. Piano shirt, £225, Vivienne Westwood 9. Caroline loafers, £150, Michael Kors 10. Compton pointed toe court shoes by Whistles, £159, John Lewis www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 57

Welsh Independent Secondary School of the Year (The Sunday Times).

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

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Caffi Sïo Chapter’s new ‘culture café’ outpost in Cardiff Bay is already proving to be something of a hit

By C H R I ST I A N A MODEO

I

was in for a welcome surprise when I visited Caffi Sïo. Located in the pointy end of The Flourish – the prettily named, dynamic edifice – this is Chapter’s six-month-old artisan café in Cardiff Bay. Many of you will of course know this Grade II listed building as home to the Craft In The Bay gallery. The Sïo end, all glass and steel, is reminiscent perhaps of a modern public transport hub (one day Cardiff Bay may have such a delight!) but might be more familiar to most as the former home of Kemi’s café, and more recently, Pure.

Now boasting a smart yellow and grey colour scheme and salvaged wood-topped tables, Caffi Sïo (Welsh for ‘buzzing like a bee’, apparently – it suits the place) is bright and modern. The airy first floor provides a pleasant space from which you can watch the traffic shoot through the Bay, while the adjacent fountains add to the sense of kinetic energy.

But Sïo isn’t exactly Chapteron-sea – there are no screaming kids, for a start! Neither is there a gallery or performance space, though the possibility of small gigs is mentioned on its website.

The biggest nod to Chapter is a fun mural by Laura Sorvala that celebrates the many highlights of Chapter’s history. More importantly, all profits support Chapter’s arts programme.

The better ‘alf and I visited for a long and lazy lunch break on a Friday, which in spite of the cold weather, was enjoying sunshine as warm as the welcome we received from barista Jacob, who served us.

Despite having visited previously for meetings, I didn’t realise that Sïo does ‘proper food’. From brunch offerings (available all day) of Spanish baked eggs, French toast and chorizo hash, to lunch dishes of sea bass and Asian-style fried chicken, this is certainly not your typical coffee shop fare. So our visit was a bit of an eye-opener, in spite of the dazzling low sun streaming through the windows.

We choose refreshing iced juices, lamb tagine and the Welsh croque-madame, which comprises three cheeses and leek topped with Welsh rarebit and a fried egg.

THE WELSH CROQUEMADAME IS A

TRIUMPH

OF A TOASTIE – A WONDERFUL

WINTER

WARMER

Helena adds the ham for a quid, too, and it’s a case of love at first bite. “The leeks are yum,” she says. That’s not the only thing. Award-winning baker Alex Gooch makes the bread on this triumph of a toastie, a wonderful winter warmer. I snaffle as many mouthfuls as I can get away with before getting slapped. I recommend you head over there in the cold weather and try it. If you’re not completely satisfied, I’ll refund you.

The accompanying side salad – Sïo’s veg comes from Riverside Market, by the way – is nice and light, if a bit oily. Quality, organic ingredients do actually make everything taste better.

My tagine was tidy. The toasted almonds, cinnamon powder (ooh, Christmassy), a ribbon of coriander, and a fair bit of garlic (if later complaints about my breath are anything to go by) create beautiful flavours. And the couscous is perfect.

For me, though, the fact that the (generous amount of ) lamb is shredded is a bit of a disappointment, simply because I miss the satisfaction of biting into chunks of meat. The chickpea-less sauce is also very tomatoey. I still demolish the lot.

By way of dessert, we’re cheeky and request a small taste of four cakes, two of which are vegan and from Simply Steve’s Patisserie on Clifton Street: a brilliant chocolate and beetroot cake, and a lemon and lime cake, which is a bit dry. A gorgeous gluten-free chocolate and coffee brownie (choose this one unless you’re vegan!) and a perfectly turned out Bakewell tart are made by chef Matt in-house – an indulgent end to a lovely lunch.

Whether Sïo remains a solitary outpost or is the start of a mini-chain remains to be seen. Although already popular with nearby office workers, I can imagine any business on what is effectively a large traffic island needs all the help it can get to encourage visitors to cross the triangulation of busy roads. Given the power of the Chapter brand, I wonder whether its logo used somewhere on the outside of the building might not lure in more punters.

But what do I know? Its new afternoon tea offering is already a hit, says Jacob, as are the boozy versions with unlimited Prosecco or three-gin cocktails. Based on our experience and the welcome enthusiasm of Jacob and chef Kate Parsons, Caffi Sïo deserves to be buzzing. When you’re next in the Bay, make a beeline for it.

DINING DETAILS Caffi Sïo, The Flourish, Lloyd George Avenue, Cardiff CF10 4QH; Tel 02921 321090, sïo.wales Opening hours Tues–Thurs & Sun 9am–5:30pm, Fri & Sat 9am–8pm, closed Mon Prices Brunch from £5.95, lunch from £7.95, quick lunch salad £5 Vegetarian choice Options across the menu, plus vegan and glutenfree desserts. Chapter membership card-holders receive 20% discount Service/atmosphere Relaxed vibe, friendly service, ideal for a catch-up over coffee, a meeting, brunch/lunch with friends, or a treat after a Cardiff Barrage ramble

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

New 2018 ranges available from SMC Kitchens Call into our showroom in Pontyclun

STONEART grey slate reproduction with accent colour Sanremo oak.

More adventures in party-going

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

HOUZZ CALL High-end interiors store Natuzzi hosted the first ever Houzz event in Cardiff, at its Cardiff Gate venue. Interior industry professionals were invited for an evening of drinks, canapĂŠs and networking, hosted by Liz Mynett and the Cardiff Natuzzi team.

Photos by Owen Mathias (owenmathias.com) For more: cardiff.natuzzi.co.uk

Steve Price (Oriel Architects), with Ceri Hill and Graham Screen (Chalkhouse Interiors)

The Natuzzi Cardiff team

Rob Mynett, Russell Jones and Roger Mynett (Natuzzi Cardiff)

Hayley Perkins (Jewels Canley), Parez Kareem and Adrian Vitler (Mandarin Stone), and Julie Perkins (Jewels Canley)

Karen Jones (CK Build Group), Beth John, Stephanie Harris (both ATC) and Gemma Thompson (CK Build Group) 70 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Wojciech Perz (Greenpoint Garden Design), Lynda Rees, Justine Bullock (both The Tap End) and Adam Seddon (Narduzzo)

SOCIETY

HAVING A BALL Cancer Research Wales rolled out the red carpet at their Hollywood-themed Christmas ball, held at SSE SWALEC Stadium and hosted by longstanding CRW supporter, TV presenter Ruth Wignall.

For more: cancerresearchwales.co.uk

The team from Jelf Insurance, sponsors of the CRW Ball

Alex Thomas, Robert Mitchell and Sarah Stokes

Jamie Chambers, Liz Andrews and Chris Harvey

Hayley Ernest and Daniella Evans

Tracey Marsh, Suzanne Cullen, Anne Mainwaring and Kirstin Jenkin

Tom Kennedy, Kath Kennedy, Jennifer Chan, Ray Chan, Colette Hulot, Lewis Coates, Lydia Whitfield and Mike Lambert

Josie Robinson, Kim Coombes and Louise Case

Richard Outrim, Debbie Shepherd, Marlene Outrim and Murray Shepherd Paige Wayman, Mark Sekimuli, Meg Lydon and Bradley Wayman

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SOCIETY

Lisa Davies, Stephanie Evans (InspireMe), Peggy Jackson (Archdeacon of Llandaff) and Amanda Morgan Thomas (Milkwood Coaching)

LEADING LADIES Set up by Cardiff-based lawyer Bethan Darwin, women’s networking group Superwoman held its 13th annual event at Yr Hen Lyfrgell in Cardiff, raising £2,400 for family bereavement charity, 2 Wish Upon A Star.

Photos by Camera Sioned (camerasioned.com) For more: superwoman.org.uk

Alex Roberts (National Theatre Wales), Anna Denton-Jones (Refreshing Law Ltd) and Farishna Chohan-Solanki (PodMed Podiatry)

Karen Phillips (Coleg y Cymoedd), Rhianydd Darwin and Anna Davitt (Vodafone) Amanda Morgan Thomas (Milkwood Coaching) and Rhian Edwards (Tenovus Cancer Care)

Jemma Maclean and Pip Gwynn (both Insight HRC Ltd)

Lowri Kenny (Smart Energy GB) and Sarah Thomas (Mela Cymru)

Sarah Williams (Grant Thornton) and Caryl Howell (Cooke & Arkwright)

Rhian Burke (2 Wish Upon a Star), Aileen Richards (Welsh Rugby Union), Auriol Miller (Institute of Welsh Affairs), Bethan Darwin (Thompson Darwin) 72 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

WRITE ON TIME Organised by Literature Wales and hosted by BBC Radio Wales’ Eleri Siôn, the Wales Book Of The Year ceremony was held recently at Tramshed in Cardiff. Alys Conran received the main award for her novel, Pigeon, a story about wishful thinking and the power of language, based on the uneasy, halfforgotten memories of childhood.

For more: literaturewales.org

Catrin Beard, Eirian James (both judges), Caryl Lewis (Welsh Fiction winner), Idris Reynolds (Welsh main award winner), Aneirin Karadog (Welsh Poetry Winner), Mari George (judge)

Helgard Krause (Chief Exec, Welsh Books Council), Phil George (chair, Arts Council Wales) and Lleucu Siencyn (CEO, Literature Wales)

Sarah Vining (marketing consultant) and Eleri Siôn (presenter)

Writer Shelagh Weeks and partner

Lleucu Siencyn, Alys Conran (Wales Book of the Year winner), Dafydd Elis-Thomas AM (Minister for Culture, Tourism and Sport) Owain Schiavone (Golwg360) and Meinir Edwards (Y Lolfa)

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Special Offer £10 off cut services £20 off colour services for new clients 3rd Jan - 23rd March 2018 Please quote BOU1 when booking.

*T&C’s apply. Offer only valid between Tuesdays and Fridays and is subject to availability. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

Bouvardia Hair Co, 20-24 Castle Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1BW | Tel: 029 20398957 | www.bouvardia.salon

SOCIETY

STUDIO TIME

Nathan Jones (Liboco DJ)

Über-cool co-working/creative hub The Sustainable Studio held a party for members, friends, family and invited guests to celebrate the opening of its second floor, featuring pods designed by students from the University of South Wales and a kitchen/dining space called ‘The Canteen’. Attendees were treated to a creole feast by Herman Valentin and music from Liboco DJs. Photos by Ben Blyth (benblythphoto.co.uk) For more: thesustainablestudio.com Herman Valentin Laura Cornish and Liam Ross

Jenny Løvlie, Eja Pimmelaar and Rebecca Burt

Ainsley Bowen, Bal Cummins, Emyr Cummins

Grace Cushion and Siân Rowlands

Sarah Valentin, Emina Redzepovic, Julia Harris and Lydia Meehan

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

our mouthwatering weekday offers include…

Grey Restaurant.

Relaxed dining all day.

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Call us on 029 2064 6400 | Email us at Grey@hilton.com Facebook @greycardiff | Instagram @greycardiff | www.greyrestaurant.co.uk

SOCIETY

IT’S SNOW JOKE The five-star Celtic Manor Resort in the Usk Valley hosted a star-studded launch event to mark the opening of its festive experience, Christmas Kingdom. Celebs in attendance included Jayne Torvill, David Seaman and wife Frankie, and X Factor winner, Shayne Ward.

Photos by Steve Pope/FotoWales (fotowales.photoshelter.com) For more: celtic-manor.com

The Samual family

Nick and Lauren Young with their children, Bailey and Adelee

Sam Attwater and Vicky Ogden Frankie and David Seaman

Lucy Baulch, Scarlett Bowman and Morgan Baulch Matt Lissack, Shayne Ward, Jamie Baulch and Polly James

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

SOCIETY

PUTTIN’ ON THE GLITZ Hilton Cardiff recently held its annual charity gala ball, raising more than £23,000 for children’s charity, DM Thomas Foundation, and the Cardiff City FC Foundation. The event saw charitable donors from Cardiff and beyond come together to enjoy an evening of glitz and glamour, with catering provided by the hotel’s award-winning executive chef, Mark Freeman.

For more: hilton.co.uk/cardiff Bronnie Griffiths, Rhys Jones, Benjamin Wickfield, Chey Flowers, Gavin Hawkey, Kerry Hawkey, Geraint Wadley and Kate Morgan

James Candy, Lee Treadwell, Bethan Potts and Maria Waldron

Martina Nedyalkova and Tani Hasa

Jane Cook, Hannah Dixon, Liz Griffiths, Lizzy Roberts, Caroline Hodges, Amanda Bunn, Emma Stephens, Katie Dowling, Emily Gardner and Jodie Phillips Thea Hughes, Ed Kean, Melanie Hamer and Darryl Brookes

Satsuko Suzuki, Harriet Bullet, Hannah Trick and Jessica Hodder Jackie Williams, Guy Clarke and Andrea Price-Hopkins

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

SOCIETY

Kyle Stiens-Magill, Veronika Wislocka, Richard Baldwin and Sophie Lauren Evans (icreate)

YOU GOT THE LUXE Private residential developer, Westacres, unveiled its new development – Priory Gardens, Ewenny – at an exclusive launch in the Vale Resort. As well as being shown an exclusive preview of the homes using the latest virtual technology, guests also enjoyed an insightful and humorous Q&A session with Phil Bennett OBE, in the lead-up to the Wales v New Zealand rugby match.

For more: westacres.co.uk

Nick Soady, Claire Cooke, Gareth Reading and Dave Haskell

Kara Morgan, Nicole Kalmuczak and Taylor Morgan (Westacres)

Pat and Phil Bennett OBE with Tonia and Ian Morgan (Westacres)

Rob Davies (Wyndcliff), Jamie Turbervill (Cooke and Arkwright) and Matthew Evans (ARUP)

PEDAL POWER

David Stealey, Jon Phillips, Peter Palmer, Daf Lloyd and Jack Shore

David Stealey, cyclist Geraint Thomas and Carten committee members present cheques to Wales Air Ambulance and Afasic Cymru

Not-for-profit venture, CARTEN 100, which holds an annual fundraising cycle ride from Cardiff to Tenby, celebrated this year’s record-breaking event with a gathering of sponsors and friends at Jolyons No. 10 in Pontcanna.

For more: carten100.com

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

WE’RE CELEBRATING We’re excited to offer you an exclusive deal of 50% off various treatments to celebrate the launch of our new premises in Morgan Arcade* *T&C’s Apply

02920 529 552 beautyadvance@googlemail.com www.beautyadvance.com

a d v er t i s i n g feat u re FA M I LY L AW

AFFORDABLE EXCELLENCE A relationship breakdown is always upsetting but with Rebecca oakley family law solicitors it need not cost the earth as well.

R

ebecca Oakley Family Law Solicitors, Penarth, are delighted to welcome on board Belinda Moseley, who is a specialist Resolution: First For Family Law accredited solicitor with over 13 years experience. Rebecca Oakley is a Law Society Advanced Family Law Panel accredited solicitor. Rebecca and Belinda both believe clients’ relationship breakdowns should be dealt with as sensitively and cost-effectively as possible, and both have extensive experience in all aspects of family law.

From the start of your matter you are guaranteed a bespoke service delivered by

qualified, experienced solicitors (not trainees or paralegals) who will know your case and be sensitive to your financial situation without you having to compromise on the quality of the advice and representation you receive. We firmly believe the costs of instructing your solicitor should not add to the emotional strain of the relationship breakdown for you. We also offer advice with regards to Elderly Client Matters, Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Probate.

Whatever your Family Law needs, we have the expertise and experience to deliver with sensitivity and confidence. For suitable cases fixed fee packages are available. For more complex cases

we offer flexible fee structures so you get the best value for your money.

Contact us on 02920 532888 or email: family@oakleyfamilylaw.com Check us out at www.oakleyfamilylaw.com

L AW ad v ertisi n g feat u re

Meet the Family Lawyer Cardiff has hundreds of law firms, all offering conflicting statements and slightly different services – our handy guide helps you to find the right one for your family’s legal needs...

Alun Jones

Katie Mccolgan

Gerard Griffiths

Which aspect of family law do you specialise in?

My legal expertise lies in negotiating financial settlements on divorce and separation. As a Family Mediator I help separating couples develop workable and meaningful outcomes for themselves and their children.

Which aspect of family law do you specialise in?

The firm can assist you with almost anything family-related although I personally specialise in resolving complex financial and children issues following separation.

What is collaborative law?

It’s a way of resolving family problems outside of the court system.

Alun Jones Family Law 02920 023 222 www.ajonesfamilylaw.com

As a law company, what sets you apart?

Our mission is to #keepitoutofcourt.

The process of separation really should help the couple to move forward to a positive future. We work in a sensitive way, considering our clients’ (and their children’s) needs and requirements in order to develop a practical strategy for the very best outcome.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Being able to make a real difference in people’s lives! I’m passionate about Family Mediation. My aim is to raise its profile to get more couples to give it a try.

Proudest professional moment so far?

Being told by my mediation trainers that I have a warm and empathic approach putting clients at ease. Training as a Mediator and successfully building up this part of my practice is a great achievement for me.

Tell us a secret about yourself...

My Punk name was “Alun McLaren!”

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

Berry Smith Lawyers 029 2034 5511 www.berrysmith.com

What do you enjoy most about your job?

There are many satisfying moments to my job, but the thing I enjoy most is enabling people to work through what is a pretty awful period of their lives, and come through the other side. It’s a good feeling to provide hope and safety in a practical way, and there is nothing quite like enabling a parent to re-establish contact with their child again after this has collapsed following relationship breakdown.

Proudest professional moment so far?

Becoming the first Solicitor Family Arbitrator in Wales in 2015. This was a daunting process, as I sat alongside senior judiciary and QCs and felt I had to work doubly hard to prove myself. My qualification was a moment of immense satisfaction.

I have been excited to be involved in influencing law at a creative level, representing the Interfaith Council for Wales on the Local Government and Public Services Portfolio with Cabinet Secretary Alun Davies, as part of the Third Sector Partnership.

Huttons Solicitors 02920 378621 gerard.griffiths@huttons-solicitors.co.uk

How does it work?

Each person appoints their own collaboratively-trained lawyer, then the four of you meet up and try and solve financial problems or arrangements for children around a table rather than in a courtroom.

Who takes the first step?

The couple need to decide that they prefer to deal with things in this way; then they appoint their collaborative lawyers. The lawyers will speak to each other and arrange the first meeting.

At that meeting, the couple commit to dealing with their problems outside the court process and sign an agreement reflecting that commitment. They then discuss their objectives and agree an agenda for the next meeting.

Are there any drawbacks?

It’s difficult to think of any. If problems can’t be resolved, the court system is there as a last resort.

How would you sum up the advantages?

The process is far less stressful than court proceedings – there isn’t the pressure of court-imposed deadlines, and overall it produces a more harmonious environment which, if children are involved, is a crucial factor for their well-being. Everyone wins.

ad v er t i s i n g feat u re L AW

Richard Scott Howells Solicitors 02920 404020 www.howellslegal.com

Gaynor dickens

Geldards LLP 029 2038 6524 www.geldards.com

Chris Barber

Which aspect of family law do you specialise in?

High net worth divorce and financial settlements. Dealing with family businesses, property portfolios, complex foreign property issues and pensions.

Which aspect of family law do you specialise in?

I am an accredited specialist in financial issues on divorce and separation for married and unmarried couples. I regularly deal with cases involving business, inherited assets, pensions, farms and family-owned or controlled assets or trusts.

I offer advice on pre- or post- nuptial agreements, and co-habitation and separation agreements, which can protect assets before relationships develop.

I am also an accredited specialist in dealing with children’s issues.

Which aspects of family law do you specialise in?

I’m a family law solicitor, specialising in matrimonial, co-habitation and children matters. No matter how complicated the issues, I’ll work to bring the situation to the best possible resolution.

As a law company, what sets you apart?

Our approach. We aim to be conciliatory and to find cost-effective solutions at a stressful time. Client care is paramount to us. We operate from six offices across South Wales and have a very proactive and flexible approach to fees, offering an initial free 30-minute consultation, aiming to build good working relationships with each of our clients.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I really enjoy finding creative resolutions that work best for my clients and their families. Steering the client through this complex legal environment and giving them the best possible advice is very rewarding, as is receiving regular complimentary feedback.

What is your proudest professional moment so far?

We recently had a very successful outcome, which resulted in my client receiving a multi-million pound settlement. It was a complicated, high net worth case involving a larger company and an ex-husband who lives overseas. There were several issues to overcome, including jurisdictional and international elements. However, we received an enforcement order from the high court and successfully pursued the financial settlement. The client was delighted.

As a law company, what sets you apart?

Our pragmatic and holistic approach, where client care comes first. Unlike many family practices, I have instant access to our extensive team of partnership, company, commercial, tax and insolvency lawyers, enabling me to provide innovative solutions to complex problems.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Helping people get their lives back on track.

What is your proudest professional moment so far?

Two things stick in my mind – a card from a client thanking me not just for sorting out her financials but in doing so, giving her the confidence to get on with her life. Secondly, a photo from another client playing with his two children. He said that without my help, he would not have seen them at all.

Robertsons Solicitors 029 2023 7777 robsols.co.uk

As a law company, what sets you apart?

Expertise, service and community.

These are our values and they really do set us apart. Each one relates to an important aspect of the firm, from our depth and range of expertise, to our high service standards and the importance of having a community focus within the firm.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I should say justice, shouldn’t I? But the truth is I like being able to achieve calmness and order in my clients’ lives. It doesn’t matter if I’m laying the foundations for something they’re about to start, or whether I’m bringing a conflict to resolution – what I’m actually doing is providing a foundation for them to move on and live a more peaceful life.

Proudest professional achievement?

Although it sounds like a cliché, I always feel a proud sense of achievement when a case has finished and my clients give me a genuine ‘thank you’.This area of work is highly emotive and stressful for clients, but when I’ve worked hard to get them a fair and just outcome, there is nothing better than a client being pleased with the way I’ve handled the case and supported them throughout.

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

Shake-ups/launches/successes/promotions

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

(Right, from top) Playing peeka-boo at National Museum Cardiff; Dino claws at Big Pit: National Coal Museum

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

THE BIG STORY

CLAWS FOR EFFECT

“IN TERMS OF GENERATING THAT ‘REAL WORLD’ CREDIBILITY THAT BUSINESSES NEED, IT’S MASSIVE...”

National Museum Wales has won Silver in the Best Exhibition Campaign category – for its ‘dinos on the loose’ marketing campaign – at the prestigious International Design and Communications Awards, recently held in Los Angeles As part of Visit Wales’ 2017 Year of Legends, the ‘dinos on the loose’ campaign – which also won a Gold Award for Best Use of Social Media at the recent CIPR Cymru Wales’ PRide Awards – was created in-house and designed to promote the Dinosaur Babies exhibition at National Museum Cardiff.

The campaign saw giant claws appearing on top of the National Museum, before a statue was broken and shop windows smashed by the dinosaur culprit.

Ooh, what could it be?

Find out over the page...

A dinosaur tail, footprints and eye were then spotted at St Fagans National Museum of History, Big Pit: National Coal Museum and the National Slate Museum in Llanberis as the dinosaur ‘roamed’ free around Wales over the summer months.

By the end of August, the Dinosaur Babies exhibition had attracted 35,945 visitors, exceeding the target to date, and all four museums involved in the campaign exceeded their August targets.

“It’s excellent news that this partnership work was a success and has received such recognition from industry professionals,” said Culture and Tourism Minister, Dafydd Elis Thomas.

“During the Year of Legends, it’s been more important than ever to connect people to Wales’ rich heritage and culture through exciting and innovative experiences such as this.”

For more: museum.wales

£750,000 THE BIG NUMBER

That’s how much Cardiff City Council is set to save in energy costs per year, with the installation of more than 14,000 connected energy-efficient LED street lights from Philips Lighting – the next major step on the road for Cardiff to become a smart city and reduce its carbon footprint.

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 87

BUSINESS INSIDER

Sir Bryn Terfel: president and correct

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC LEND US A TENOR Robert Rossiter: “Being a family business, we can be quite direct with each other!”

THE BIZ Q&A

CARDIFF BAY OFFICE FURNITURE Design/client manager ROBERT ROSSITER tells us what sets the family-owned office interior specialists apart Can you tell us a bit about what CBOF does?

As office interior specialists, we design and create modern, flexible and efficient workplaces to improve our clients’ businesses. Working alongside clients, we guide their office refurbishments/relocations by designing and building environments that increase their productivity.

As a family company, what sets you apart?

Our passion for the business and dedication to customer service. Since we’re family, we are able to act on things quicker and make decisions faster, as we communicate so often and trust each other’s judgement and work. Being a family business, we don’t have to go through the usual channels of business language and communication – we can be quite direct with each other!

How’s business at the moment?

We’ve just had two record years and this year we’ve picked up some really interesting projects. We’re also getting quite a bit of work from referrals, which is great for us while we look to keep expanding and have the capacity for more work.

What’s the best thing about being part of a family business?

The help and support you get from your family members. We also have a great team around us who buy into our company ethos.

And the worst?

Inevitably, we end up talking about work outside 88 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

of work! Evenings together can easily turn into discussions about the business.

As a business, what advantages does Cardiff offer you?

It’s a good-sized capital city which has plenty more room for growth. There’s a variety of businesses from multi-nationals to start-ups, plus continuous investment in the area such as Central Square and the SA Brain & Co brewery site. Having three universities in the city also means there’s a huge amount of talented people coming through, many of whom stay and create new businesses or add to existing ones.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Being able to explore design ideas and specify new products in the industry is really enjoyable – no two projects are the same.

How important is social media to your work?

It’s the main platform to quickly showcase your capabilities as a company to a wide audience. In terms of generating that ‘real world’ credibility that businesses need, it’s massive.

What’s your favourite place for a business lunch or dinner in Cardiff?

Octavo’s Book Cafe & Wine Bar in the Bay is great for quiet one-to-one meetings.

For more: cbof.co.uk

Sir Bryn Terfel, Rebecca Evans and Sir Brian McMaster, along with Maestro Carlo Rizzi and David Pountney, will form a Circle of Presidents for the new David Seligman Opera School at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, ensuring that Wales continues to produce some of the world’s leading artistic operatic talent. They will join Hodge International Chair and renowned opera coach John Fisher, of New York’s Metropolitan Opera. rwcmd.ac.uk

TRAINING BOOST

Employee engagement company, 10Eighty Cymru, which launched in September, has taken on its first new member of staff. David Tee comes on board as an associate, a role which will see him work with MD Toby Townrow to offer clients training and help them provide demonstrable improvements in organisational and people performance.

10eighty.co.uk

SWELL, KEL!

Kel Ross, a senior engineer at Cardiff-based Arup – an independent firm of designers, planners, engineers, consultants and technical specialists, working across every aspect of today’s built environment – was named the Rising Star of the South West and South Wales at the second annual British Council for Offices (BCO) NextGen Awards recently. Kel has led in the design and delivery of a number of challenging projects in Cardiff, including the new £60 million Admiral Insurance Group HQ. arup.com

AWARDS DEADLINE

LOOK SHARP! CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS NOMS CLOSE 26 JAN Don’t miss out – nominate your company for a Cardiff Life Award today!

Companies will have to act swiftly if they want to nominate themselves for a Cardiff Life Award, as the deadline of Friday 26 January approaches.

Ticket sales are well on track to sell out in advance of the glittering event as the Awards welcomes a new sponsor. Lexus Cardiff is supporting the Business Services category, and joins a growing line-up of local businesses benefitting from an extensive marketing campaign surrounding the Awards.

Those hoping to scoop a trophy at the glittering event at City Hall on 15 March should consider their entries as soon as possible, as many companies leave it until the last moment and risk selling their achievements short.

Any company – big or small, start-up or well-established institution – can enter the Cardiff Life Awards. Nominations are made via the Awards site, it’s free to enter, and companies can enter multiple categories.

The categories are: Arts, Bar, Business Services, Café/Coffee Shop, Charity, Creative, Education, Event, Gastropub, Hair & Beauty, Health & Well-being, Homes & Interiors,

Nominations are flowing in for the Cardiff Life Awards as the deadline approaches – and a new sponsor joins the roster

Legal & Financial, Leisure & Tourism, New Business, Property, Restaurant and Retailer. A Platinum Award will also be awarded on the night to celebrate the best of the Winners.

This year, a new question has been added to the nomination form, asking companies to share what they’ve done for local charities or civically for their city.

“So many businesses in Cardiff make it a wonderful place to live and work, and it’s right that they should be proud of all they do,” said Steph Dodd, events manager of Cardiff Life’s publisher, MediaClash. “And of course, it’s not just business owners doing good – it’s often employees and even customers who inspire business leaders to contribute to good causes and local projects. This new question will show an extra side to many businesses.”

The finalists will be unveiled by email, on the Awards site and on Twitter on the Grand Reveal Day of 30 January. With increased demand meaning sales are tracking ahead of this time last year, please do secure your tickets early if you intend to go to the überglam evening.

Businesses can also get involved with the

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS: KEY DATES 26 JANUARY 2018:

Nominations close 30 JANUARY 2018:

Finalists announced 21 FEBRUARY 2018:

Exclusive reception for finalists and sponsors 15 MARCH 2018:

Cardiff Life Awards – the big night!

APRIL 2018 (EXACT DATE TBC):

Winners’ dinner

Awards through sponsorship. This year’s impressive sponsor roster is led by headline sponsor Cardiff Airport, along with Savills, Cardiff BID, WSET, Genero, Chapel 1877, Capital FM, Cardiff Blues, Robertsons Solicitors and now Lexus Cardiff. For more details, contact Mark George (mark.george@ mediaclash.co.uk).

For more: cardifflifeawards.co.uk, Twitter: @CardiffLifeAwds

JUST REWARDS

The winners of MotoNovo Finance’s £20,000 internal rewards programme, CREOVATE – ooh, wonder what they’ll spend the money on?

Fast-growing, Cardiff-based financial services business MotoNovo Finance has awarded seven of its employees a staggering £20,000 as part of its latest initiative, CREOVATE, the company’s internal rewards programme, which gathers innovative ideas from staff to allow the business to work more effectively and efficiently.

The winning team’s idea suggested implementing key enhancements to the MotoNovo app, MyMotoNovo, creating a dynamic, better-functioning

tool that allowed consumers to use it daily, while providing easy access to a number of MotoNovo services, including findandfundmycar.com.

“As a business, we are one of the most innovative in the motor industry,” said Group CEO, Mark Standish.

“CREOVATE allows us to further propel this ‘driving forward through innovation and change’ with even the smallest sustainable difference.”

For more: motonovofinance.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 89

FINANCIAL

WEALTH of EXPERIENCE Need sage advice on what to invest in? Or what to do with your hardearned cash? We have local wealth management experts on hand...

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rimarily a catch-all term for highlevel professional services, wealth management might include financial and investment advice, accounting and tax services, retirement planning and legal or estate planning, and can be useful for everyone, from us ordinary joes right through to high net worth individuals. It’s really not as daunting as it sounds – these friendly faces will sort you out...

PHILIP PAYNE Director, Mulberry Wealth Management As a wealth management company, what sets you apart?

We are independent financial advisers focused on managing all types of pension and investment arrangements for our clients. As holistic advisers, we also advise on mortgage and life assurance as part of the service. Rather than a predetermined in-house or single ‘one size fits all’ investment solution, we work with a wide range of insurance and investment companies to build a proposition totally suited to what our clients want.

Which aspects of wealth management do you specialise in?

We tailor investments specific to the target risk an individual is looking to take, and as an independent firm we have the whole market to choose from. As investments should be viewed over the medium to long term for 2018, it is more important to ensure you are using all the allowances to their optimum. The amount you can invest into a pension is being squeezed for many higher earners, and with a lifetime allowance it is critical proper impartial advice is taken.

What’s your best investment tip for 2018?

Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) continue to be attractive and are one of the most tax-efficient and flexible investments available. mulberrywealth.co.uk

MARLENE OUTRIM Founder/MD, UNIQ Family Wealth As a wealth management company, what sets you apart?

We in-source our own investment managers, who put together tailored portfolios for our clients, based on our criteria, which cater for our clients’ different risk profiles.

Despite having this expertise and resources available to us, we are able to keep costs competitive.

Do you specialise in particular aspects of wealth management?

We base all our recommendations – including wealth management – on our clients’ needs and objectives.

Our job is to help clients clearly articulate what they want from their lives and help them achieve these, making the best use of their assets. We use cashflow modelling, to ensure clients have a track to run on and can deal with unforeseen circumstances.

Best investment tip for 2018?

We don’t believe in flavours of the month or year. We take a long-term view with portfolios, based on asset allocation and a client’s risk profile and capacity for loss.

On that basis, we don’t jump in and out of the market, or try and pick the best performing stocks. A well-balanced portfolio put together in this way, and rebalanced on a regular basis, ensures our clients can sleep at night. uniqfamilywealth.co.uk

CRAIG PALFREY Certified Financial Planner, Penguin Wealth As a wealth management company, what sets you apart?

We offer an investment proposition known as the Advanced Investment Strategy (AIS), which only a couple of firms in the UK have access to. It has a 22-year track record and works for all investment situations, so it’s adaptable to clients’ circumstances, whatever their stage of life.

Which aspects of wealth management do you specialise in?

Skilled planning. Many firms and advisers focus on products (for example, pensions), but long-term, the thing that helps people change their lives for the better is planning. If you get that right, then everything else falls into place.

Best things to invest in for 2018?

We don’t really subscribe to the idea that anyone really knows what is coming next and our investment approach is based on this principle.

The Advanced Investment Strategy respects the fact that no-one has a crystal ball and that over time, classic investment methods will produce the best risk/reward outcomes. penguinwealth.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 93

F I N A N C I A L a d ve r tisi n g feat u r e

Just 3 ways to maximize your tax efficiency When it comes to investing, it is vital to make use of the tax allowances available for your savings.

A

lthough there are a number of ways in which you can shelter money from the taxman, the three most popular options include ISAs, pensions and immediate tax reducers such as Venture Capital Trust (VCT) or Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS). These higher-risk structures offer some of the biggest tax savings, but be warned they for the more adventurous investor.

Individual savings accounts (ISA) An ISA is a tax-efficient way of holding cash, shares and collective funds, such as unit trusts.

ISAs lock money away from the taxman while allowing you to gain access to it. From April 2017, the ISA allowance increased to £20,000 and can be used for cash and investment – or in a combination of the two. This means you can hold some of your money in a cash ISA held with a bank or building society, and some in a stocksand-shares ISA with an investment provider. Over

the longer term, you are likely to earn better returns by investing your allowance in a stocks and shares ISA. You do not have to declare income from an ISA on a tax return.

Pensions Pensions are a very tax efficient way to invest for retirement, although there is no need to retire, you just have to be age 55 to take the benefits.

There are different types of schemes, including workplace schemes (where contributions are taken direct from your salary), your personal and stakeholder pensions run by insurers, and selfinvested personal pensions.

Money invested in a pension grows free from income tax or capital gains tax. In the current tax year you can invest up to £40,000 into a pension scheme (depending on your income), tax relief at your marginal rate of income is available. When planning for your retirement, it is advisable to mix income from both pensions and stocks and

shares ISA’s. Pension tax relief can be a huge boost to your fund and since 2015 they are particularly exible when used alongside ISAs. Venture capital trusts (VCTs) VCTs are stock market traded funds that invest money into a collection of small companies.

They are often high risk, but the Government offers generous tax breaks to encourage as many people as possible to back such rms.

You can invest up to £200,000 each tax year giving an immediate 30% income tax relief.

That’s a £60,000 reduction on the money you invest, provided you have paid at least as much in tax as you invest.

Any gains or dividends are free from income tax and there is no capital gains tax when investment is sold – as long as the shares have been held for five years. Crucially, you should only consider VCTs if you have a broad investment portfolio in place and understand the risks involved.

a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e f i n a n c i a l

Happy Financial New Year!

If you are pondering your financial future, PENGUIN WEALTH is here to help...

A

s we approach the end of another year and start looking forward to what 2018 may have in store, it may be an apt time to re-evaluate finances and make a few New Year money resolutions.

Before giving you a few tips, there is one fundamental question we would always encourage any individual to ask themselves, and that is 'What is going to make a real difference to me?'

The answer will help focus the financial planning decisions you need to take. For example, many people will focus on where to invest their money or which pension fund to use for their retirement.

The funds you use in your investments and the savings account you choose are not going to change your life. Nor is switching from one credit card to another to save a bit of interest, or chopping off some expenditure on your home or car insurance. Each of these examples are important things to do and to make sure you keep your finances tight and well-managed, but they are not going to change your life. What will change your life is a critical illness or suffering an injury which means you are off work for many years.

Your family life would be shattered if you suffered an untimely death. On a happier note, starting a business and making this a huge success, could change your life. So could doubling your income, because that would mean you could save much more towards your retirement, take more holidays, buy that new dream house. Working out a financial plan to achieve financial freedom in the next ten years could change your life, too.

Questioning – and answering – what makes a real difference to your life is not a bad way of starting a review of your finances. So, for your New Year financial resolutions here are some tips to help you move towards making some life-changing decisions – and take appropriate actions.

The first tip is to make sure you have all the really big risks properly covered. To make sure that if you suffer an untimely death, your family is seriously protected (not just protected so they can survive, but that they can thrive). To ensure that if you suffer a critical illness, you are financially secure, and likewise, if you lose your income because of health reasons, it gets replaced.

The second is to explore your financial freedom date. When do you think you will have enough

money in place that you can say for sure that your money will outlive you? Regrettably, most people are at serious risk of outliving their money. This is one of the specialisms of lifestyle financial planning – to help you assess your future pathway to get to this 'financial freedom' point as quickly as possible.

The third is to evaluate your major life goals, to see if these are being met or whether you are on target to meet them in future. Perhaps you don’t even want to list your true wishes and goals because you think they can’t be met? Well, we are here to help you get to where you want to be.

Each of these tips are intended to help you focus on big differentiators, those things that can be life-changing – which, let's face it, would not be a bad way to start 2018...

If you would like to find out more about pursuing life-changing decisions and altering your financial map using proven methods, our book, The Wealth Secret, is available for readers of Cardiff Life for free – access it at www.penguinwealth.com/cardifflife

Parc Castell Y Mynach Creigiau A large well designed five bedroom detached double fronted family house, occupying a fine position fronting a quiet select close well away from passing traffic. Built in 1971 and substantially extended in 2003 by the present owners this truly spacious property also benefits extensive improvements in recent years including a stunning open plan fitted kitchen and breakfast room (21 FT x 15’8 FT) equipped with granite work surfaces and integrated appliances and boasting a high atrium style ceiling inset with velux double glazed windows, French doors and full height patio doors. This fabulous open plan living space would prove ideal for a family opening onto and overlooking the delightful rear gardens with both lawns and decked sun terrace. In addition there is a downstairs cloak room with a modern white suite and a separate utility room. The living space also includes two separate reception rooms: a main lounge (21’3 FT x 11’10) inset with a contemporary stone fireplace and impressive oak floors, and equipped with white PVC French doors which open onto the sun terrace. Both the entrance hall and the kitchen/breakfast room are finished with Travertine tiled floors for easy low maintenance, and an integral former garage (16’4 x 7’9) is approached from the utility room currently used as a gym! The first floor living space comprises five bedrooms, four good doubles and a single. The master bedroom suite is a generous (15’8 x 13’8), designed with a high atrium style ceiling with numerous velux double glazed windows, together with three further windows which enjoy pleasing views across the rear gardens. There are extensive built in wardrobes and a large stylish and contemporary Ensuite bathroom (12’6 x 5’9) comprising a large open walk-in shower and a full size panel bath. This delightful family sized home also includes gas heating with panel radiators and a modern combi boiler (2003), white PVC double glazed windows and outer doors, two further modern white bathrooms each independently approached from the first floor landing, a private 2/3 car front entrance drive, and within the rear gardens neatly concealed is a most useful and versatile detached work shop/storage shed (16 FT x 10 FT) equipped with electric power and light, windows and its own distribution unit. The property is located with Creigiau, a highly sought after Village located on the outskirts of North West of Cardiff. The village has a strong Welsh-speaking community, and along with Pentyrch with excellent local primary and high schools including a bilingual primary school, which teaches through the medium of both Welsh and English, and Radyr High School, with local children collected by bus. Within the Village there is also a local golf club, a small Tesco Express shop - which is also the Post Office, a Recreation Ground managed by village residents (home of local archery, cricket, football, and tennis clubs), a GP surgery, and local pub called ‘The Creigiau Inn’. Cardiff Road links with Cardiff and within easy driving distance is an exit onto the M4, allowing fast travel to Cardiff, Newport, Swansea and Bristol.

For sale with PA Black Whitchurch Branch 02920 612328

£435,000

Kendal House Cowbridge Kendal House is a unique and distinctive private country residence, occupying a charming position within just less than four acres of manicured gardens and grounds, approached via high ornate decorative wrought iron arched electric gates which lead to a long paved private drive, with extensive parking and a substantial detached double garage. Built circa 1972 to an individual design this well-constructed family home enjoys an idyllic location with the quiet but well served village of Penllyn, situated just on the outskirts of the market town of Cowbridge within the Vale, with the highly sought after school catchment of Cowbridge and it easy access to both the A48 and the M4. Designed with four large bedrooms each with ensuites this capacious country home also includes an attached leisure complex with full size heated swimming pool, hot tub, shower rooms and sauna. The property benefits from all main services including mains electricity, mains water and drainage The property benefits Oil fired central heating and calor gas fires. A private long side drive leads to the detached two storey two bedroom cottage, and a charming detached double glazed summer house/games room is adjacent. A unique feature is a full size industrial barn powered and heated with hard concrete floors, watertight and offering a versatile range of outdoor uses, with attached stables and a paddock ideal for equestrian needs, or perfect for car enthusiasts. The property benefits both hardwood double glazed windows and white PVC double glazed windows, a sophisticated intruder alarm and CCTV surveillance cameras.

The capacious living space within the main house also includes a magnificent entrance reception hall with winding staircase, a large formal dining room, a 35 ft principal lounge with French doors and ornate fireplace, an imposing sitting room with audio surround sound and projector cinema, a large well fitted kitchen with solid granite work surfaces including a centre granite topped island unit and breakfast bar, integrated Neff appliances including a range cooker, an integral utility/ laundry room with access to the substantial double garage which includes electronic up and over doors and numerous useful storage areas. Within the sitting room is a stylish Chesney log burner. Neatly concealed beneath the front sun terrace is a wine cellar, and an outside wash room/W.C. A single storey pitched roof building which adjoins the main house and is also accessible entirely across the rear courtyard. A wealth of windows on three sides give good levels of natural light and patio doors give access to the front terrace and the rear courtyard. The central feature is the heated indoor swimming pool about 30 ft x 15 ft with mosaic tiling. To the front of the building is an area which can be used as a gym or sitting area and features a spa bath/hot tub. At the other end of the building is a built-in Teilo sauna, a wet room which is fully tiled and fitted with multi headed shower and W.C. and a changing room and a boiler room.

For sale with PA Black Cowbridge Branch 01446 775148

ÂŁ1,450,000

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

DO THE WHITE THING

98 112I I CARDIFF CLIFTONLIFE LIFE I I www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

An ultra-modern, high-spec, six-bedroom detached abode on Westminster Crescent, in affluent Cyncoed

By K AT I E K I SSOON

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 99

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

T

his contemporary home has so much going on (including a swimming pool, natch) that it’s difficult to know where to start, so we’ll just um, dive in... Approached via a blockpaved driveway, you’re met by an imposing, beautifully designed, white rendered facade with green aluminium windows (much more pleasing to the eye than they sound!). Once inside the entrance hallway, with its vaulted, double-height ceiling and lots of glass, you’re bathed in lots of lovely natural light.

There’s plenty of downstairs space to call your own – a sitting room, family room, games room and study – but it’s the spacious, open-plan luxury designer kitchen/ breakfast room that forms the real hub of this sleek home, with integrated appliances (including a Neff coffee machine, microwave, two ovens, induction hob with extractor, wine cooler and full-height fridge), plenty of storage space and magnificent bi-fold doors that open out onto the rear garden. There’s a handy utility room, too, with space and plumbing for a washing machine and tumble dryer.

A walnut and glass floating staircase leads to the first floor landing, with more of that glorious natural light flooding in. There are four decent-sized bedrooms up here, including the luxurious master bedroom, with walnut floor, a fitted walk-in-wardrobe, modern en-suite wet-room and bi-fold doors leading to a balcony that overlooks the rear garden. And there’s also a high-spec family bathroom/wet-room, with a jacuzzi bath and separate rainwater shower. Further up, another landing provides access to the second floor, with its own TV/ games area, attic storage space and two more very spacious bedrooms.

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

Lots of lovely natural light floods into this spacious and very modern family abode

HOUSE NUMBERS 8 Westminster Crescent, Cyncoed

6

bedrooms

5

reception rooms

1

swimming pool

1

open-plan kitchen

£1.5M guide price

Back outside, the private, fully enclosed, lowmaintenance rear garden is tiered with a combination of artificial lawn, decking and shrub borders, providing a host of options for entertaining (including that outdoor swimming pool we mentioned earlier) and al fresco dining. And your guests – they’ll be beating a path to your door – will love the home automation system that allows you to control lights and sound throughout the property.

So... will you be the one to get the party started?

For more info, contact Savills, 5th Floor, 2 Kingsway, Cardiff CF10 3FD Tel: 02920 368900, savills.co.uk

Savills 2 Kingsway, Cardiff CF10 3FD

02920 368 930 cardiff@savills.com

advertising feature P R O P E R T Y

New executive homes in the Vale Experience a virtual reality walk-through of our luxury homes.

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estacres recently unveiled its latest development – Priory Gardens – at an exclusive launch in the Vale Resort. Sited close to the original Priory in Abbey Road, Ewenny, the development consists of five impressive detached properties, each with a substantial garden of approximately a third of an acre.

All are designed to offer a unique opportunity to own a contemporary new build home within the traditional, sought-after setting of the Vale of Glamorgan. A choice of two individual house styles is available.

The Southerndown A delightful five-bedroom house with a combination of classic and modern design. This home is full of character with an open-plan kitchen, plus dining and family rooms providing a practical layout that makes an impressive statement.

The Ogmore A four-bedroom home featuring an impressive and spacious open-plan layout, perfect for entertaining. Dual aspect bi-fold doors to the generous garden allow for a sense of flow, creating a relaxing and inspiring living space designed for modern family life.

As private residential developers, the company is passionate about providing luxurious bespoke homes. Each property is unique but the level of care and attention to detail always remains the same.

Your home is also covered by a ten-year NHBC Buildmark warranty, meaning your new home has been built to the highest technical requirements for design, materials and craftsmanship.

Invitation to a virtual visit of your new home To offer further individuality to each home, visitors are invited to take a virtual tour enabling them to get the look and feel of their potential purchase.

Using the latest VR headsets the visitor is able to ‘walk’ around the property using impressive CGI images of the exterior and interior. Every

attention has been given to the detail of the tour, from an impression of the size and space of the property to the finish of the work tops in the kitchen. The unique experience is truly realistic – you can almost smell the coffee!

Following the tour each buyer then has the opportunity to discuss any desired upgrades with the experienced staff and to add their own personal style to their finished home.

To book your personalised visit, contact us via tel 0800 091 1809, email info@westacres.co.uk, or see www.westacres.co.uk How to find us: Priory Gardens, Abbey Road, Ewenny, CF35 5BN Westacres is a related company of Morganstone Ltd

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 103

CARDIFF LIVES

Q&A

F

ormerly chief songwriter and guitarist with indie band The Boo Radleys – their summery hit, Wake Up Boo!, was the sound of 1995 – Martin Carr has since recorded albums under the bravecaptain moniker and under his own name, most notably Ye Gods (And Little Fishes) and The Breaks. His latest album, New Shapes Of Life, arguably his strongest songs in years, is out now.

Where’s home in Cardiff, and what makes it special?

I live in Canton. It’s a ten-minute walk into town but relatively peaceful. Cowbridge Road East has started to pick up and only vaguely resembles the medieval towpath it was ten years ago.

Your new album, New Shapes Of Life, has a real swagger about it – what inspired it?

I was focused more on rhythm and sound than on my [previous] albums. I rediscovered my interest in production, and a sound that complements the songs.

MARTIN CARR The former Boo Radleys guitarist on new directions, eclectic influences and favourite local pubs

You’ve said it’s the first album that “truly sounds like me” – why is that?

I think because I recorded it on my own at home, without time or budgetary constraints. I was free to explore and experiment at my own pace – I don’t like to be rushed.

Most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you?

I was talking to another musician about Bob Dylan a couple of years ago, and mentioned that a book I’d read about him was deathly dull, not realising that it was her husband who wrote it.

Musically, you’ve always drawn on an eclectic range of influences – what are you listening to at the moment?

This year, I’ve loved albums by Kendrick Lamar, Sleaford Mods, Four Tet and Kavadar. I still listen to Bob Dylan’s Highway 61 Revisited every now and then. It’s the greatest album ever made.

If you could get up on your soapbox about a particular issue, what would it be?

Brexit. Grrr...

Which piece of music always sends a shiver down your spine?

Song-wise, Desolation Row by Dylan. Otherwise, I find anything by Jon Hopkins riveting.

Dream dinner party guests?

Craig Cash, David Quantick, Pete Wylie, Caitlin Moran – anyone who makes me laugh.

When did you last cry?

It must be over a year now, I think – I used to cry all the time.

What’s on your bookshelf at the moment?

Black And British by David Olusoga; Epic Space

by Ian Martin; Alternative War by J.J. Patrick; and Fall Out by Tim Shipman.

Must-watch television programme?

[American animated series] Adventure Time.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Great hair.

Best thing about Cardiff?

School is a three-minute run.

Favourite shop(s) in Cardiff?

The Lansdowne beer shop.

If push came to shove, what would be your final meal of choice?

Carrots and jalapeño houmous from Asda.

Cardiff Life is ten this year – where were you and what were you doing ten years ago?

Sitting here on the same couch, staring at a different screen. I recorded my Ye Gods (And Little Fishes) album that year, too.

Most famous person you follow on Twitter?

Not sure. David Attenborough, maybe.

How would your nearest and dearest describe you?

Dad. Bernard. Old fat man.

Locally, where do you like to eat and drink?

Drinks: The Lansdowne, Tiny Rebel. Food: Calabrisella, The Italian Way, Happy Gathering.

How do you relax?

I don’t.

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Jimmy Stewart.

Secret or favourite Cardiff spot?

I love Victoria Park.

Proudest moment so far?

Probably the first time John Peel played one of our records.

Guiltiest pleasure?

No such thing.

Surprise us with a little-known fact...

I was born in Scotland to English parents whose parents were Irish, but I still can’t get picked for an international football team.

Karaoke choice?

I’ve never done it but I’d probably have a crack at Eternal Flame by The Bangles.

What’s the most important lesson life has taught you?

Acceptance can be as important as change.

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

For more: Twitter: @martin_carr

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