Cardiff Life - Issue 247 by MediaClash

TAKE ME

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

DJ HUW STEPHENS ON A ROCKING GOOD TIME

ISSUE 247 / CHRISTMAS 2021 / £3

STYLE IT OUT

70S-INSPIRED SASSY FASHION

DAZZLING DESIGNS FOR 2022

FACE THE MUSIC

@CardiffLifeMag

THAI’D UP

ZING AND ZEST AT BUSABA

JEWELS AND GEMS

CAN YOU HANDLE THE SPARKLE?

ISSUE 247 / CHRISTMAS 2021 / IN GOOD SPIRITS

THAT’S THE

SPIRIT PARTY SEASON INDULGENCE IN THE CITY

EDITOR’S LETTER

The Flash Gordon cocktail from The Alchemist on St Mary’s Street. Find more concoctions on page 34

e’re in full party mode here at Cardiff Life right now. This lively December issue brings you the last of the jolly Christmas goodness along with a glittering, celebratory, social-fuelled New Year’s Eve vibe. Ready for some fun? Head straight to page 33 if you’re still looking for any eleventh-hour Yuletide gifts; nip over to page 34 for special-occasion tipples; pop to page 29 if you’re in the mood for all that glitters; or skip to page 53 for our huge Scene section, in which we’ve been photographing some of the city’s most popular events. We also have superstar DJ Huw Stephens talking about his new Christmas coffee collab as well as the local indie music landscape, on page 22; there’s fresh interior design for the new year on page 44; and on page 66 is our chat with West End star Lee Mead who’s on his way to the New Theatre soon. Next time, we’ll be delivering healthy January virtuousness, so enjoy the revelry while you can before we set you on the straight and narrow once more. #CardiffTogether, always

ydym yn barod am yr holl bartïon yma yn Cardiff Life. Mae ein rhifyn ar gyfer mis Rhagfyr yn llawn bwrlwm ac yn cynnwys y tameidiau olaf o rialtwch y Nadolig yn ogystal â blas ar y miri, y dathlu a’r cymdeithasu a fydd yn digwydd ar Nos Galan. Ewch yn syth i dudalen 33 os ydych yn dal i chwilio am unrhyw anrhegion Nadolig munud olaf; ewch draw i dudalen 34 i gael syniadau am ddiodydd ar gyfer achlysuron arbennig; trowch i dudalen 29 os ydych yn yr hwyl i fwynhau pethau disglair a sgleiniog; neu ewch i dudalen 53 i weld ein hadran ‘Scene’ helaeth sy’n cynnwys lluniau o rai o ddigwyddiadau poblogaidd y ddinas. Rydym hefyd yn cael cwmni’r DJ a’r cyflwynydd Huw Stephens ar dudalen 22, sy’n sôn am ei brosiect cydweithredol gyda bagiau coffi dros yr ŵyl ac yn sôn am gerddoriaeth indi yn lleol; mae syniadau newydd ar gyfer addurno ystafelloedd y tŷ yn 2022 i’w gweld ar dudalen 44; ac ar dudalen 66 rydym yn sgwrsio â Lee Mead, un o sêr y West End, a fydd yn troedio llwyfan y New Theatre yn fuan. Ym mis Ionawr byddwn yn canolbwyntio ar rinweddau byw’n iach, felly mwynhewch y gloddesta tra gallwch chi, cyn ein bod yn eich rhoi’n ôl unwaith eto ar y llwybr cul. #CaerdyddYnghyd, bob amser

LISA EVANS Follow us on Twitter @CardiffLifeMag Instagram @cardifflifemag

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A bravely wallpapered Graham & Brown kitchen

Issue 247 / Christmas 2021 COVER Pineapple daiquiri from The Alchemist on St Mary’s Street, Cardiff. For more party-season cocktails, turn to page 34

FEATURES

11 KITCHEN SYNC Time for a cabinet reshuffle? 22 ONE TO ONE DJ Huw Stephens rocks out 48 LONDON LUXURY Our review of Bankside Hotel 50 SHUT UP AND DRIVE We test out Audi’s new

sustainable electric model

ARTS AND EVENTS

19 A YEAR IN PICTURES Carl Bevan Art’s 2022 calendar 20 WHAT’S ON Arts, shows and events, it’s all going on 53 AND SCENE Five of the latest local hip happenings

SHOPPING

27 SASS AND STYLE The Soul Sisters’ new collection 29 ALL THAT GLITTERS Party-season sparkle 33 PRESENT AND CORRECT Our all-local Christmas

gifting guide for last-minuters

FOOD & DRINK

34 HIGH SPIRITS Jane Cook talks cocktails 36 RESTAURANT REVIEW We visit Thai hotspot Busaba 38 RECIPES Try The Coconut Tree’s treats at home

HOME AND PROPERTY

43 PROPERTY NEWS Our pick of stories on the scene 44 OFF THE WALL Wallcoverings to wow

BUSINESS

62 CARDIFF WORKS News and views and brilliant

businessesin the city

63 CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS Getting ready for another

huge celebration

Theatre in a glass at The Alchemist Cardiff

REGULARS

9 INSTA-CITY Readers’ snaps 25 WYBURN AND WAYNE Our columnists have

been out and about again

65 EDUCATION All about open days 66 CARDIFF LIVES West End star Lee Mead Human Conditions of Clay is at Chapter Arts. Pictured: Shawanda Corbett’s Now Go Around the Corner and Get Your Brother

Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Nathan Wyburn, Wayne Courtney, Jane Cook Advertising manager Mark George mark.george@mediaclash. co.uk Account manager Claire Hawkins claire.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk Production/Distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Cardiff Life MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash. We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter. 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

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

SPOTLIGHT

ALL OF THE LIGHTS

Festive snapshots in the city that have caught our eye on Instagram this month…

@clodessolicitors

@ashleyds89

@xmasatbutepark

@forcardiff

@grandsnap

@ashleyds89

@peteoconnell72

@grandsnap

@peteoconnell72

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KITCHEN SYNC

KITCHENS

Time for a cabinet reshuﬄe? Here we ask local interior experts what fresh looks are coming up in the world of kitchens for 2022 By Lisa Evans

The kitchen at Greys Victorian Home (@greys_victorian_home) in Pontcanna, transformed by Sigma 3 Kitchens in Cardiff

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KITCHENS

lenty of us can agree that throughout the pandemic we discovered a new level of gratitude for our homes – especially for our kitchens, where many a lockdown loaf was baked. As we approach the new year, and as the desire for change comes creeping in, we asked eight kitchen specialists to share their 2022 style predictions for the hub of the home.

MINIMAL IS MORE

Clutter be gone; clean lines and tidy surfaces are in, and hidden-away storage is key. “People are looking for more functionality and storage,” says Stephen Forbes-Simpson, director of Vale Venetian in Barry. “We’ve spent so much time in our homes over the last two years, clutter is finding a new home in the form of tall cupboards and freestanding units. Some people are looking to soften their units and islands by having curved edges covered in liquid coatings such as microcement or tadelakt.” “Rich minimalism is in,” adds Glen Thomas, at Glen Thomas Architecture in Penylan. “Simple, elegant, hidden appliances behind pocket doors, low plinths with worktops running down the sides of island worktops, mixer and boiling water in one elegant minimal fitting – they all do the trick.” “Storage potential has been increased by up to 30 per cent with our new cabinet design,” says Cassie Jones, brand manager at Sigma 3 Kitchens in Cardiff East and West. “Customers benefit from more storage capacity within the very same cabinet dimensions that a competitor would supply.”

MATERIAL WORLD

The use of tactile and realistic-looking textures and finishes within kitchen designs are on the rise. Cassie Jones at Sigma 3 Kitchens says, “Natural finishes bring character into a room but allow people to keep to a neutral theme. Earth tones, such as dark browns, warm neutrals, greens and blues, create an alluring backdrop.” Charlotte Campbell, a kitchen designer at Harvey Jones in Morgan Arcade, agrees that texture is becoming a more understood and used element, especially for worktops and splashbacks, as well as handle finishes which are moving away from highly polished to satin finishes, and reeded glass creating a more layered aesthetic. Glen at Glen Thomas Architecture says sustainable, from-nature materials are on the rise as far as he’s concerned, too – mainly with a monochromatic or contrasting look, from dark timbers and concrete to marble and matte black.

A Chalkhouse Kitchens design

Sigma 3 Kitchens is responsible for this sleek makeover

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“I’ve worked on kitchens for Robbie Williams, John Cleese and David and Iman Bowie”

WHAT’S THE MOST MEMORABLE KITCHEN YOU’VE EVER DESIGNED?

“An entire wall as a fish tank for Robbie Williams’ kitchen room divider, or David and Iman Bowie’s concrete kitchen. I also worked on John Cleese’s kitchen when I started out in London some 20 years ago.” Glen Thomas at Glen Thomas Architecture in Penylan

inset top: The kitchen

at Greys Victorian Home (@greys_victorian_ home) in Pontcanna, by Sigma 3 Kitchens inset bottom: Clean lines from Sigma 3 main image: Calming colourways from Chalkhouse Kitchens

KITCHENS THROW SHADE

Darker colours – off-black, midnight blue and racing green – are the ones to watch for 2022, says Ceri Hill, design director at Chalkhouse Kitchens in Bessemer Close. “They add a sense of drama and real impact to the kitchen and, topped off with a crisp white marble worktop, they have the wow factor too.” Charlotte Campbell at Harvey Jones says deep reds are in, and bold, deep hues are following through in worktop and splashback choices, with more people opting for heavy-veined, marble-look tops, rather than the more discreet looks seen in the past.

TILE IT OUT

Updating a tiled splashback or adding a tiled feature wall is something a homeowner could tackle as a DIY project if they’re after a more purse-friendly approach. Justine Bullock, director at The Tap End in Pontyclun, says this approach is more than doable with the right guidance. “Porcelain or ceramic tiles are an excellent choice for kitchens as they are durable, easy to clean and long lasting,” she says. “You just need to be mindful that if you opt for a natural stone or an encaustic tile, they will need sealing. Always seek advice from the tile retailer when it comes to whether or not a tile needs sealing. “Ways to be creative with tiles would be to consider a contrast grout, an usual tile layout, or a metal finish tile trim for a bit of glamour.”

Wallpaper in the kitchen is a bold move, by Graham & Brown

WHAT UNUSUAL KITCHEN ELEMENTS ARE IN DEMAND RIGHT NOW?

“The huge increase in dog ownership has led to a lot of people needing an area for their pooch, which is leading to designers and carpenters coming up with clever ideas to incorporate dog beds into kitchen plans.” Stephen Forbes-Simpson, director of Vale Venetian in Barry

WALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

The Tap End is a tile haven

Vale Venetian specialises in unusual surface designs, from liquid metal embedded with jewels, to broken travertine with copper inlays

Experimentation is always encouraged when it comes to interior projects; you’ll be cheered on by designers if you’re a bit daring with your choices, and wallpaper in the kitchen is pretty courageous, don’t you think? “Adding colour and pattern transforms sterile spaces into warming and inviting havens,” says Abby Hesketh – a colour expert at Graham & Brown, designs from which are available at W J Gardner in Cardiff. “Trends such as cottage core and farmhouse have sparked the resurgence of homely wallpaper in the kitchen. If you prefer a more modern look though, striking geometrics are also a great choice for the year ahead.”

FINISHING TOUCHES

A renovation can be a huge project that requires a serious amount of time and money; opting for a simple refresh can be far easier to budget for and can still deliver beautiful results, making the kitchen feel like an entirely new space. “Small changes, such as renewing the taps, or fitting new worktops, or repainting, can really uplift a space,” says Rhian Williams, a kitchen designer at Harvey Jones in Morgan Arcade. “The first thing people always notice in a kitchen are cheap handles,” adds Ceri Hill at Chalkhouse Kitchens. “They are a real no-no if you want to impress, so spending a few extra pounds on new ones in lustrous polished nickel or aged brass, with its worn patina, will bring your kitchen bang up to date in minutes.” Abby Hesketh at Graham & Brown is adamant that the kitchen is one of the easiest rooms to revamp, “Upcycling your cabinets is cheap and effective,” she says. “Take the doors off their hinges and sand them down to create a base, then evenly coat them with primer and undercoat. Once dry, the painting can begin. I like a bold colour scheme; it’s a creative space, so it deserves to be treated that way.” n

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A midnight-hued design by Harvey Jones

A zingy collaboration between Sigma 3 and Glen Thomas Architecture

“The kitchen is a creative space, so it deserves to be treated that way.”

RE U H C TE O SI R B EB R U RW O U W O E N VI O

www.chalkhousekitchens.co.uk

NEW TO 2022 Easy touch Anti ﬁnger print Mineral Green supper matt

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

THE CARDIFF CALENDAR

With all-new paintings of local landmarks, pubs, and scenes, the Carl Bevan Art 2022 calendar, in association with cult brand I Loves The ’Diff, captures and evokes the emotion many of us feel about our beloved Cardiff. Carl, a former drummer with Newport rockers 60Ft Dolls, blends impressionism and psychedelia in his artworks and is currently hosting a pop-up gallery at Morgan Arcade, Cardiff, which runs until 19 December. Most of the original paintings in the calendar will be available there, as well as work from other Welsh artists. The calendar itself is wonderfully big, showing off the artworks – from the Pierhead Building and Roath Park, to Womanby Street and the Arcades – in the best way possible, and I Loves The ’Diff has written about each location, bringing you a few fun facts and some dubious trivia. The calendar can be purchased at Carl’s pop-up gallery at Morgan Arcade until 19 December, or from www.ilovesthediff.com

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Bigger and better than ever before, Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland runs until 2 January

WHAT’S ON From 11 December onwards

PLAYS / SHOWS / PERFORMANCES Continuing Until 30 December

Always check Covid-19 restrictions and instructions with venues before your visit

carpets, a wish-granting genie, an evil sorcerer and a lamp-full of laughs. New Theatre; www.newtheatrecardiﬀ.co.uk

XXXMAS CAROL The cream of Cardiﬀ’s drag, burlesque and circus artists join forces to stage XXXmas Carol, a raucous anti-panto. It’ll be joyous and outrageous but with a compassionate look at how diﬀerent people feel about the festive season. The cast includes drag artist Polly Amorous, belly dancer Rahim El Habachi, burlesque performer Foo Foo LaBelle and circus aerialists Bunmi Odumosu and Eric McGill. Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

Continuing until 15 January 2022

Continuing until 2 January 2022

15 December – 12 January 2022

PANTOMIME, ALADDIN This Christmas, Paul Chuckle, Gareth Gates, Gareth Thomas and Mike Doyle head to the New Theatre for a magical season. Follow Aladdin, his brother Wishee Washee, and of course his mother Widow Twankey, on a spectacular adventure. Expect ﬂying

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

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST THE MUSICAL Disney proudly invites you to the most enchanted musical of all time. Spectacularly reimagined using the latest theatrical innovations, this beloved ‘tale as old as time’ will be brought to life on stage like never before. Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

BILL BAILEY How did we get here? How do we ﬁnd our way through this? And exactly who are we again? In this new show, comedian Bill ponders these and other questions. Motorpoint Arena; www.motorpointarenacardiﬀ.co.uk

15 December – 15 January

LEXICON Circus Company No Fit State presents Lexicon, a world inhabited by quiet misﬁts and furious poetry, a place that sparkles with magic, laughter and lightness. Sophia Gardens; www.noﬁtstate.org

20 – 24 December

THE NUTCRACKER The most famous of fantasy ballets for all the family, one showing of which begins as night falls on Christmas Eve. St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiﬀ.co.uk

18 – 22 January 2022

THE LION THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE Direct from London, the smash-hit production of C.S. Lewis’ classic, voted the nation’s favourite book in 2019, is coming to Cardiﬀ. Step through the wardrobe into the enchanted kingdom of Narnia and join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they wave goodbye to wartime

Britain and embark on the most magical of adventures in a frozen, faraway land. Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk

4 March 2022

WALK LIKE A MAN West End Jersey Boys star Michael Watson has been announced as the new lead of Walk Like a Man, the multi award-winning fan favourite featuring music from the Four Seasons. Tramshed Cardiﬀ; www.tramshedcardiﬀ.com; www.walklikeamanshow.co.uk

ART/ PHOTOGRAPHY/ EXHIBITIONS Continuing until 18 December

WINTER / GAEAF This annual winter exhibition – the gallery’s 12th – features still-life painting from Annie Morgan Suganami, ceramics by Sophie Southgate, and abstract work by Elfyn Lewis. Ten Gallery; www.gallery-ten.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

NYE PARTIES

Just a handful of celebrations happening on 31 December HOLD THE TEA It’s afternoon tea, but hold the tea and bring on the Bolly. Glory Stores; www.glory-stores.com BLACK & WHITE BALL Five-star dining and all-night entertainment. St David’s Hotel, www.stdavids.vocohotels.com THE COCONUT TREE A Sri Lankan street food and cocktail experience until 1am. The Coconut Tree; www.thecoconut-tree.com LE MONDE An à la carte menu and a three-piece band to see in the new year. Le Monde; www.le-monde-restaurant.co.uk

11 December

top:

Work by Lindsey Mendick at the Human Conditions of Clay exhibition in Chapter Arts; Plenty of New Year’s Eve parties are on their way to Cardiff

above:

Continuing until 8 January 2022

WINTER EXHIBITION An exhibition of over 50 artists. The gallery will also be featuring a collection from Cardiff-based artist Adrian Green with his humorous and captivating illustrations of immediately recognisable city scenes such as Cardiff Bay, Roath Park, Penarth and Cowbridge. The Albany Gallery; www.albanygallery.com

Continuing until January 2022

THE FUTURE HAS A PAST This multidisciplinary exhibition has been co-curated with Amgueddfa Cymru Producers and artist Henry Alles, and explores the past as a means of discovering the future. St Fagans National Museum of History; www.museum.wales

Continuing until 13 February 2022

HUMAN CONDITIONS OF CLAY This exhibition explores how humanity is expressed through the material use of

clay artworks that carry a human trace and presence. Chapter Arts; www.chapter.org

Ongoing

HEAR WE ARE This project will focus on further developing a culture within Wales that encompasses the voices of deaf artists, their work, performances and productions. It’s a two-year Waleswide project with Chapter as lead venue partner, with a number of arts venue partners supporting it. It will be led by Jonny Cotsen, deaf actor/artist. Chapter Arts; www.chapter.org

CHRISTMAS TREATS Continuing until 23 December

CARDIFF CHRISTMAS MARKET The traditional wooden market stalls are centrally located near Cardiff Castle and the main shopping streets, and they are complemented with a variety of seasonal food and drink. Central Cardiff; www.visitcardiff.com

Continuing until 31 December

CHRISTMAS AT BUTE PARK The new Christmas experience will take visitors on a breath-taking tour of festive delights through the biggest Christmas lights trail Wales has ever seen. The park will be taken over by laser shows, an enchanting fairy tree avenue, flickering fire sculptures, spectacular mirror ball displays, illuminated trees and much more. Bute Park; www.visitcardiff.com

Continuing until 2 January 2022

WINTER WONDERLAND Bigger and better than ever before, Winter Wonderland now occupies two huge sites. The Ice Rink and Ice Walk are in the grounds of Cardiff Castle, and over at City Hall lawn is the usual funfair and festive food and drink stalls. The two-story Sur la Piste ski-lodge is back, alongside a brand-new Ice Bar – the coolest spot in town. Cardiff Castle and City Hall; www.visitcardiff.com

THE BONE YARD CHRISTMAS MARKET A big bonanza of a Christmas Market, with loads of hand crafted loveliness, stocking fillers, unique and unusual gifts and all the Christmas feels! Let’s support local this Christmas. The Bone Yard; www.shippingcontainerstudios.co.uk

Various dates

SANTA CLAUS IN CARDIFF He’ll be at the likes of Cardiff Castle, The Royal Mint, Queen Street, St David’s Centre and Future Inn. Various locations in Cardiff; www.visitcardiff.com

31 March 2022

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS We cannot wait to invite hundreds of you back to our extra-glam red-carpet extravaganza. Nominations (which are free to submit!) are open now on our website, and there are sponsorship opportunities ready to be snapped up. To find out more about sponsorships, contact mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk or annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk. For more, see page 63. City Hall; www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk

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Huw has collaborated with Cardiff’s Hard Lines roastery on a Christmas coffee that comes with a fesive DJ mix

IT’S ALL ABOUT HUW Superstar DJ Huw Stephens on his adoration of Cardiff, its incredible indies and its thriving music scene By Lisa Evans 22 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

e was our host for this year’s Cardiff Life Awards, and is one of our all-time favourite – Bafta-winning – presenters; with his dulcet Welsh tones and love of all things Cardiff, Huw Stephens is, in short, an absolute delight to be in the presence of. Radio is what he’s known best for, and rightly so as he was on Radio 1 for two decades; now you’ll find him on the likes of BBC Radio 6Music, and BBC Radio Cymru. He’s graced the screen plenty of times too – Glastonbury on BBC2, a music series for Channel 4, plus Bandit and the Anorac film for S4C. He started the Sŵn Festival in Cardiff which is still going strong, run by Clwb Ifor Bach, and he also founded the Welsh Music Prize which is a celebration of albums from Wales every year. Here we chat with the champion of the local music scene…

Take us back to the start of your career…

I’ve been lucky to work in music since an early age, especially when you consider I can’t play an instrument myself ! I heard DJs presenting on the radio when I was young and thought, ‘that sounds like fun’, so I went to volunteer at Rookwood Hospital which had (and still does have) a great radio station. I reviewed music

ONE TO ONE for local publications and radio shows, and met Bethan Elfyn who was looking for a co-host for a new project radio in 1999. The Session in Wales was born and we championed music from Wales, then I continued presenting new music shows for Radio 1, and got to host a weekend afternoon show. I was all over Radio 1 for a while, on the Breakfast Show, standing in for Scott Mills and Greg James. I even presented the Chart Show once when they were really stuck.

station, all about the music. Their DJ roster is immense, with Gilles Peterson, Lauren Laverne and Mary Anne Hobbs.

What recent projects have you enjoyed?

If you had a free night from the kids and work, where in Cardiff would you head for a gig?

I loved making The Story of Welsh Art for BBC 2 Wales and BBC 4 recently. It was an ambitious three-part documentary that looked at art in Wales from 5000bc to the present day. It got a wonderful reaction and surprised a lot of people. It’s hard to know what’s on your doorstep sometimes, and Wales has such a proliferation of talent in so many creative fields. It was a real honour to present it, and to discover so much about the abundance of beautiful art we have in Wales.

Tell us about some of your biggest and best music moments…

The best thing ever is when someone says, ‘I heard this on your show and loved it’. And then sometimes you get plaudits like the Bafta Cymru Awards for the Anorac film. This was a documentary following me travelling Wales meeting new and old music makers from the Welsh language music scene. It won four Baftas, including one for Best Presenter. It’s still on the mantlepiece in my mam’s house. And I love presenting on 6 Music, it’s an amazing The loveliest person you could ever meet

And what about epic personal moments?

Being a dad is such a privilege. We have Cai and Llew now who are keeping us busy – never a dull moment. Friends ask if we’ve seen anything good on TV, but currently all I watch is Thomas the Tank Engine and homemade fan videos on YouTube.

I have to say Clwb Ifor Bach. It’s been a constant for me throughout my life; I’d sneak into gigs there from school, then later saw The Strokes and Coldplay’s early gigs there. The

“I did magic shows under the name Huw-Dini” club nights, with DJs like Andy Smith playing the Hustler nights, and Popscene, were my musical education. Then I met my wife, Sara, there, and of course Clwb was a vital part of the Sŵn Festival we started in 2007. The fact that Clwb runs the festival is perfect really, and they continue to put on amazing gigs from local and touring bands constantly. Any favourite local acts?

There are so many to choose from. The new grime from Cardiff is really exciting; emcees like Mace the Great and Juice Menace are incredible and well worth checking out. Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard are brilliant, as are Breichiau Hir, Sybs, Panic Shack and Alice Low. Cardiff independent record labels like Bubblewrap do great things too. Do you think the city’s music scene is on point, or does it need to up its game?

There’s always a lot of exciting things going on in Cardiff. Festivals like Sŵn really help things in getting out there to fans and the industry. What are some of your other loves and interests?

I tend to be all consumed by music to be honest. Of course I’ll watch Wales in the football and the rugby, might watch the odd film, read a book, but really it doesn’t come close to my love for music. How do you spend your days off?

My days off now revolve around what to do with the boys. I love living in Whitchurch, and my family live nearby. We live not far from the Taff Trail, the canal and Fforest Ffarm, and round there is normally where we go for walks. We sometimes make it to Penarth or Rest Bay

CHRISTMAS COLLAB

Huw has collaborated with Hard Lines, a Cardiff-based coffee roastery, on their Christmas Coffee, Mexico Flores Magón. “Hard Lines knew I collected Christmas records; they asked me to make a DJ mix for them, and you get the code for it with their Christmas coffee. Hard Lines really make an effort to source special beans, and 10 per cent of sales go to the Cardiff Food Bank.” www.hard-lines.co.uk

too. A bike and Bute Park are good partners as well, and so are Roath Park and swans. Have you always lived in Cardiff?

I was born in Cardiff at the Heath, and lived in Whitchurch until I was 18. Then I lived above the old Goat Major in town opposite the Castle. Then Riverside, then London for 10 years – but I had to move home to Whitchurch, the Eglwys Newydd pull was too strong! Take us on a Caerdydd nostalgia trip…

I went to Glantaf High School, a brilliant school. Nights out were around the City Arms and Clwb, with the odd visit to Loop or Zeus if we were feeling adventurous. Our sixth form party was in the now demolished Hippo Club, a legendary club near where Jacobs Market is now. I’m surprised Jacobs Market hasn’t been turned into flats actually. What are some of your favourite independent businesses in the city?

I like my coffee, and Hard Lines is brilliant. Their stall in Cardiff Market is great because you’re then surrounded by good things: Welsh cakes, Kellys Records, Ffwrnes Pizza. Everyone knows the best day out in Cardiff though involves Spillers and Pillars – records and proper food! I love my pizza, Pizzeria Villaggio in Whitchurch is my local and is lovely; Dusty’s and Dough Thrower are amazing too. What have you asked Santa for this year?

I need a new turntable for my records. I’ve been loving my visits to Cardiff Record Exchange on Whitchurch Road. Alex Gooch and Waterloo Tea have opened there now, and there’s Pop’n’Hops who sell me my nonalcoholic booze. Any plans for 2022?

It’s Dydd Miwsig Cymru on 4 February, a day to hear some new Welsh Language music. I’m restarting my live music night in London in the new year too, at the legendary 100 Club, and I’ll be inviting Welsh bands to play there. Surprise us…

I used to be into magic and I did magic shows under the name Huw-Dini. n Follow Huw on Instagram: @huwstephensdj, and on Twitter: @huwstephens

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THE ALB ANY GALLERY

WINTER SHOW featuring work by more than 40 artists including Cardiff-based artist Adrian Green

Now showing until 8 January 2022 74b Albany Road, Cardiff, CF24 3RS | T: 029 2048 7158 | E: info@albanygallery.com Gallery open: Tuesday - Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm | www.albanygallery.com

WYBURN & WAYNE Move over Ant & Dec. Make way Edina & Patsy. Stand aside Batman & Robin. Our dynamic duo are in town and they’re here to give us the low down on the Cardiff high life eating lady at the launch event, what more could you ask for? Founded in London, this is their debut venue in Wales, and it offers delectable Thai food, which we think Cardiff needs more of. Give it a try. An amazing gala dinner and awards ceremony was held by Prostate Cymru at The Coal Exchange recently. We attended and bumped into the likes of Sir Gareth Edwards and Steve Spiers who were special guests for the evening. It’s an incredible charity which we plan on working with more going forward, and remember, guys, to just go to the doctor if you’re concerned about anything in that department. There’s no room for your pride; it could save your life. Santa’s Grotto is every Saturday throughout December at St Andrew’s URC

“Only Men Aloud are holding their prestigious Christmas show with us”

Let us introduce our two student apprentices, Ivan and Sam

his time of year is all about the crisp mornings and the smell of gorgeous festive cooking in the air. Speaking of, LovingWelshFood.Uk is an amazing unique Cardiff food tour experience which we had the pleasure of being invited along to. It’s full of exquisite delicacies from around the world and here in Wales, topped off with plenty of walking, sightseeing and facts from the wonderfully knowledgeable tour guides. We highly recommend it; they do gift vouchers and alternative gifts too. New venue Busaba opened its doors at the Brewery Quarter in November; with some fabulous foodie samples and even a fire-

Us at Busaba’s launch, with Kelly Reardon-Brown and Jay Page

On a different note, for those of you that don’t know, let us introduce our two student apprentices. Ivan and Sam are both studying and have a huge interest in media, they’re also part of Kinetic School of Performing Arts, of which we are patrons. They volunteer for us at our charity venture St Andrew’s Coffee Court to help keep the community building open, and they will also be attending theatre reviews that we cannot be there for. We’ve also had them join in our show on Radio Cardiff too. We’re keen to, and honoured to, be in the position where we can offer these experiences to these young adults at the start of their journey. They’re greats lads, and we know their parents well. As a reward for their hard work to date, we treated them to a trip to The Royal Variety Performance 2021 at London’s

Royal Albert Hall. Keep up the great work, boys! Lastly, we have a huge line-up of events coming to St Andrew’s URC in Roath, including Only Men Aloud who have decided to hold their prestigious Christmas show with us on 18 December! Don’t miss A Musical Christmas with Leighton Rafferty either; and we’re also delighted to host Santa’s Grotto every Saturday throughout December too. Check out social media for all our events! About our columnists: Nathan Wyburn is a pop culture artist who uses nontraditional mediums such as Marmite, beans, soil and fake tan; and Wayne Courtney is a healthcare support worker at University Hospital of Wales. They are also Radio Cardiff DJs with their own show, and they run St Andrew’s Coffee Court. Follow them on social: @wyburnandwayne / @wyburnwayne

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SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

TIME-CAPSULE WARDROBE Cardiff-based fashion brand Soul Sisters is celebrating its first year in business with a new glamorous collection named after the epitome of sass from the 70s, Charlie’s Angels. Angels. Luna and Wenda launched Soul Sisters during lockdown in 2020 and have an obession for all things fashion. With Wenda a stylist and body confidence guru and Luna an established fashion and accessory designer, the duo is focused on helping women to dress to reflect their personality and to express their individuality through their clothes. “We are really excited to introduce further styles to our collection,” says Luna. “We wanted to carry on the concept of the cheetah and lips as these have been some of our most popular designs. This is the start of a bigger clothing line for us.” Wenda adds, “Versatility is key for us and we wanted to bring out a range that allowed women to dress up a key wardrobe staple, such as a sweatshirt or blouse. We are delighted with the end result and hope women will feel absolutely fabulous when they wear our designs.” Sustainability is at the core of the brand’s values and Soul Sisters have teamed up with Future Moda, a leading Indian initiative which help create environmentally friendly, ethical, safe and guilt-free product ranges. www.wearesoulsisters.com

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Discover how working with Plas Pilates classes can benefit your body in everyday life and help you achieve your fitness goals. Whether you are new to the Pilates method or are an advanced practitioner, we are able to tailor a programme to meet your personal needs. Get in touch with our highly experienced and friendly team...

“ABSOLUTELY STUNNING BESPOKE JEWELLERY FROM A TALENTED YOUNG WELSH DESIGNER. WE LOVE HER GORGEOUS ITEMS AND ARE SURE YOU WILL TOO” - WYBURN & WAYNE WWW.ROSEDROPJEWELLERY.COM

Gileston Chapel, Gileston Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9JS T: 07525 071177 hello@plaspilates.com www.plaspilates.com

NEW STUDIO, NOW OPEN!

HELLO, PRECIOUS © PHOTO BY L AURENTINA MIKSYS

JEWELLERY

It’s the festive season and it’s time to sparkle! And even once the party is over, there’s no reason to stop glittering; here are some of our favourite jewellery pieces from local makers, designers and traders to keep you shining all year long...

DWYLO NECKLACE, £400 This 18-carat gold vermeil pendant, modelled beautifully by @opprah_ruexo, is an alluring piece of anatomical wearable art. From Duxford Studios, Llandaﬀ; www.duxfordstudios.com

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DAFFODIL PEARL STUDS, FROM £69 These delicate, handcrafted beauties are perfect for daﬀ-loving Welsh folk. From Emma-Kate Jewellery, Cardiﬀ; www.emmakatefrancis.com

DIAMOND SOLITAIRE RING, £POA Founded by Ali Joseph, Alicat Jewellery sources and handpicks antique pieces from all over the world. From Alicat, based just outside Cowbridge; www.alicatjewellery.com

DEVANA EARRINGS, £886 These 18ct gold Barbora Rybarova earrings are detailed with dendritic agate and champagne diamonds. From Anne Morgan Jewellery, Glebe Street, Penarth; www.annemorganjewellery.com

EMERALD BIRTHSTONE EARRINGS, £127 Made with 100 per cent recycled silver, premium gold vermeil plating and ethically sourced gemstones, you’ve never seen a more sustainable luxury. From Claire Hill Designs, Castle Street, Cardiﬀ; www.clairehilldesigns.co.uk

POINSETTIA JEWELLERY, FROM £36 Lightweight statement designs with engraved and inlaid pearl, marble and mirror perspex. From Fizz Goes Pop, Roath; www.ﬁzzgoespop.com

TEAL SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND RING, £1,750 An 18-carat yellow and white gold piece in an unusual octagon cut. From Brooklinde Designer Goldsmiths, Royal Arcade; www.brooklinde.co.uk

GREEN TOURMALINE EDEN RING, £255 A crystal clear beauty from local maker Rebecca Burt, who forms abstractions of the natural world she sees around her. From Rebecca Burt Jewellery, Red Door Studios, Cardiﬀ; www.rebeccaburtjewellery.com

RECYCLED NUGGET PENDANT, £475 Maker Lydia Niziblian says her autism has led her to include sensory aspects to her jewellery. From Lydia Niziblian, Bishops Road, Cardiﬀ; www.niziblian.com

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MOONSTONE TEARDROP NECKLACE, £38 Carefully chosen for its clarity, the rainbow moonstone has tiny facets to beautifully catch the light, so you shine wherever you go. From Honeydew Club, based near Cowbridge; www.honeydewclub.com

JEWELLERY ALPHABET CHARM LETTER RING, £55 Create your own bespoke message or initials with these alphabet charm adjustable rings. From Kiti, Pontcanna Mews; www.kiticymru.com

WHALE TAIL NECKLACE, £65 Katie Morgan creates her jewellery using sea glass she collects from local beaches in the Vale of Glamorgan, as well as semi-precious stones. From Searose Jewellery, Sully; www.searosejewellery.com

BRACELETS, FROM £25 This leather horse shoe bracelet and lava and tiger’s eye bracelet have a masculine edginess. From Sharon McKinley Designs, Charles Street Market; www. sharonmckinleydesigns.co.uk

DAGGER NECKLACE, £50 Jodie Davies’s jewellery designs draw on inspiration from the Art Deco movement, geometric shapes and vintage Tuareg styles. Crane Jewellery, The Bone Yard, Canton; www.cranejewellery.co.uk

GOLD FACES EARRINGS, £14 Expect inclusive, fun, bold jewellery handmade with love by LGBTQ+ couple Kelly and Zoey. From KelZo Jewellery, Meanwhile House, Cardiﬀ; www.kelzojewellery.com

CHOPARD CUFFLINKS, £407 A graceful set featuring the classic cursive C emblem on each cuﬄink, crafted from stainless steel, black palladium and glossy glass. From Laings, St David’s, Cardiﬀ; www.laingsuk.com

FLOWER PINS, FROM £55 Add flare to the most basic of outfits with these hand-forged sterling silver or brass floral adornments. From Buddug, Warwick Studios, Cardiff; www.buddug.com

CRUSHED CLUSTER RING, FROM £90 This amethyst and pyrite ring design was inspired by a process of material exploration and experimentation. From Rebecca Oldﬁeld, Creative Coach House, Birchgrove; www.rebeccaoldﬁeld.co.uk

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EDITOR’S CHOICE

THINK BIG, SHOP SMALL

CHILDREN’S KNITWEAR, VARIOUS PRICES From Mabli, Newport Road; www.mabli.co.uk

We love indie businesses, so we never need an excuse to be their cheerleaders; in this issue, though, let us present this gorgeous product round-up as a Christmas gift guide for all you last-minuters out there. But, really, buy from these amazing makers and traders all year round, yeah?

HAIRBAND, £15 From Box Edit Boutique, Goodsheds, Barry; www.boxeditboutique.co.uk

MABEL SHEPPARD GOLD HAPPY CLUTCH BAG, £65 From Kiti, Pontcanna; www.kiticymru.com

SET OF 4 FISH SPOONS, BY HANNAH TURNER CERAMICS, £33 From Cooper’s, Beulah Road, Cardiﬀ; www.hannahturner.co.uk

SET OF THREE CHEESE ECO TWIST BOWLS, FROM £5.45 KNIVES, £22 From Tabitha Eve, Pontypridd; From Lisa Valentine www.tabithaeve.co.uk Home, Penylan; www.lisavalentinehome.co.uk

FILLED CHOCOLATE TREES, WREATHS AND BAUBLES, FROM £8.50 From Cocoa Therapy, High Street, Barry; www.cocoatherapy.co.uk

RAD DAD T SHIRT, £25 From Black and Beech, Heath; www.blackandbeech.com

DRINKS COASTERS, FROM £4.50 From Sprinkle Club, Ely Bridge; www.sprinkleclub.com

GAS STATION TOY, £49 From Eco Toy, Riverside, Cardiﬀ; www.ecotoyco.com

SEND ME COFFEE GIFT BOX, £20.50 From Sadler Jones, Barry; www.sadlerjones.com

GEODE BATH BOMB DISCOVERY SET, £18 From Miss Patisserie, The Maltings, Cardiﬀ; www.miss-patisserie.com

CONFIDENT? PARTY BOARD GAME, THE WALES EDITION, £19.99 Confident Games, in pop-ups at Queens Arcade and John Lewis, Cardiff, throughout December; www.confidentgame.com

VEGAN LEATHER DUFFLE BAG, £75 From Illustrate, Morgan Arcade, Cardiﬀ; www.illustrate.co.uk

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TOP TIP-PLE

clockwise from top left: Pear-ple Rain at The Alchemist;

Depot at Christmas; Hit Me Up Mezcal at The Coconut Tree; Lab 22’s Point Nemo; The Luna at Vermut

On 12 December, the Depot Christmas Market returns, and will be packed to the rafters with independent Welsh producers offering their wares. Grab yourself a bottle of Silver Circle Distillery’s three-star Great Taste Award-winning Damson Negroni (above) – made in small batches with damsons foraged in the Wye Valley, it’s far too good to gift to anyone else!

THAT’S THE SPIRIT

Our columnist, good food fanatic, local blogger and indie foodie PR consultant JANE COOK has her finger on the pulse when it comes to what’s new and tasty in the city…

here’s something about the festive season that just makes me crave a really good cocktail or two. No, not those sugary jugs of fluorescent liquid that seemed ubiquitous at happy hours up and down the country until a few years ago. I’m after those strong, short, medicinal drops – the ones that can put hairs on your chest and fire in your throat. In Cardiff, some of the best cocktails in the city can be found on the drink menus at our indie restaurants – from Bar 44’s delicious Crema Catalana old fashioned, to Pasture’s raspberry and pistachio Espresso Martini, and Uisce’s Sazerac Sour with cognac, bourbon, lemon, egg white. The good news is that you can now get two of those (or any cocktail from Uisce) for £12, from 5.30 – 7pm. If it’s cosy, almost clandestine cocktail drinking which floats your boat, head to Vermut; I love sipping on The Luna – a cocktail of lemon, sugar

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

syrup, vermouth, brandy, and egg white (or aquafaba to make it vegan), it’s a delicious combo of sweet and sour. If it’s more of a party vibe you’re after, The Coconut Tree’s recently revamped cocktail menu is perfect for a big night out; the Hit Me Up Mezcal is a heady mix of Casamigo mezcal, shaken with cointreau and finished with Sri Lankan treacle. By far one of the best spots for top-notch, sometimes experimental, cocktails has to be Lab 22, who were recently – and rightly – shortlisted for Best Cocktail Menu by the World’s 50 Best Bars, no small feat! I’m a big fan, especially after they kept me going during last year’s lockdown with their pre-mixed batch cocktails – give @lab_bottling_co a follow over on Instagram to see this year’s offerings. For more: www.janechicomendes.co.uk | @janechicomendes | www.hungrycityhippy.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

CARDIFF LIFE LOVES...

Cocktails at The Alchemist on St Mary’s Street are orchestrated to add a devilish dash of theatre. This colour-changing libation is a magic show in a glass.

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BUSABA

Busaba, an established and contemporary collection of Thai restaurants across the UK, has made its debut in Wales’s capital By Lisa Evans

ithout naming names, I had lunch down the Bay earlier this year and tried the limpest, soggiest, blandest calamari I’ve ever come across – which, unfortunately for me, I’d ordered double of so I could have it as a main, and I said to my husband ‘if that was my first time trying it, I’d be put off for life’. The reason I’m telling you my little cephalopod sob story is because, when I filled my boots at one of Cardiff’s newest Thai restaurants, Busaba, I said to him, ‘if that was my first time trying calamari, I’d be hooked’. I often judge eateries based on their squid alone, and this Asian emporium of delights, with its crisp ginger and peppercorn infused seafood starter, would be classed as ink-redible (sorry). Squid games aside, all of the other modern Bangkok

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

dishes impressed me too. The smoky, soya-marinated salmon fillet, with sesame rice and pak choi, was layered with umami, and its glug of liquorice-dark sauce walloped me with serious, savoury intent. Better still was the fall-off-the-bone, texturally sensual Massaman lamb shank, with its subtle and soothing sauciness, on a bed of crushed potato – ‘the best thing I’ve ever tasted’ according to hubby. The sweet, bright, fragrant fishcakes, laced with prawns and red curry paste, provided gentle waves of heat and ethereal wafts of classically fresh Thai scents. And the tender Sikhrong pork riblets bathed their charred, cooked-until-spoonable selves in a shimmering chilli-flecked barbeque sauce, delivering a fair kick of capsaicin. The menu isn’t huge, but has plenty of categories, from aromatic curries and wok-tossed pleasures, to rice bowls, pad Thai and off-the-grill options, and there’s a

RESTAURANT CHARITABLE CHOW

In November, not yet one month into trading, Busaba in Cardiff donated 50 per cent of their profits to Ty Hafan, a leading paediatric palliative care charity in the city which offers free care and support to children with life-limiting conditions.

separate vegan menu too with a surprising number of tasty alternatives. The restaurant, which opened in October in the Brewery Quarter, their debut in Wales and the tenth in the portfolio, doesn’t just pride itself on its labouredover food, though. It describes itself as passionate about sharing happiness and harmony, which is at the core of its Buddhist roots. Its ethos is ‘Sookjai’, which is based on traditional Buddhist values of calming the mind and avoiding the everyday distractions that unsettle life. Literally, its meaning is ‘to enjoy’ and ‘happy heart’, otherwise described as ‘taste-Buddhism’ – a happiness-meetsharmony uplifting experience, with Thai food included. It originally opened 20 years ago in Soho, and ushered in a taste of exciting Thai style that London hadn’t seen before. It was radical and bold, with inspiring food and modern design. Queues down the street quickly became the norm, and there are high hopes for similar in Cardiff. “We specifically chose Cardiff for our first new opening since the pandemic began as we see it as not only a fantastic, lively, and fast-growing city, but also a place brimming with discerning diners,” says Terry Harrison, managing director. There are tastes to lose yourself in; they would make you bend at the knees if you weren’t already sitting, and would inspire When Harry Met Sally-style murmurings if you weren’t in a public space, and the surroundings are serene and spa like. Ready to fill hearts and bellies, we predict Busaba will be a restaurant-scene favourite in no time, especially if the city is rife with calamari fans. n

“It provided gentle waves of heat and ethereal wafts of classically fresh Thai scents”

DINING DETAILS Busaba, Brewery Quarter, Caroline Street, Cardiff, CF10 1FG; 029 2015 0220; www.busaba.com The look Vast, open and bright The vibeThere’s spirituality within their walls; it’s a calm, serene environment The food Modern Bangkok eating The drinks A petite wine list plus cocktails and signature specials. Try their Bangkok mojito, guava bellini, and the ‘city’s first’ mango Aperol The price Starters: £6.50 – £8.50; mains: £5.50 – £18.50

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WINTER WARMERS

raveen Thangiah is known as the Big Chef at The Coconut Tree, which specialises in Sri Lankan food and has a restaurant on Mill Lane in Cardiff. He says, “My mum used to run a catering company back in Sri Lanka so I grew up in an environment around cooking and food, though I had only ever been a home cook until The Coconut Tree. “Sri Lankan cuisine is vibrant and full of flavour, which really does offer something for everyone; some of the dishes are spicy, some are really mild and comforting and whether you’re vegan, veggie, love meat or fish, there’s plenty of choice.” Here he selects two of his favourite winter dishes....

VEGGIE KOTTHU Makes 2 servings

“Our veggie Kotthu is a classic example of Sri Lankan street food – a real crowd pleaser, and a perfect side dish for friends and family to share with our other small plates. It perfectly represents Sri Lankan hybrid food and is served all over the country as luxury street food. It’s made with ﬁnely chopped roti, cooked with egg, vegetables, and of course meat can be added if so wished.”

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

Ingredients Coconut oil Finely sliced red onion Pinch of salt Mixed chilli ﬂakes Ground black pepper 2 free range eggs 150g sliced roti 25g thinly sliced carrot 25g thinly sliced leek

Method 1 Heat a wok until hot. Add the coconut oil and swirl the wok until it covers the base. 2 Add the onion, salt, chillies, black pepper, and eggs. 3 Toss and cook until the egg has slightly scrambled, then add the roti, carrot and leeks. 4 Toss the pan rapidly on high heat for several minutes, until the vegetables are cooked but still crisp. 5 Remove from the heat and serve immediately.

RECIPES FAT SISTER PUMPKIN CURRY Makes 6 servings

“The ‘fat sister’ pumpkin curry, which is pumpkin cooked in coconut cream, with curry leaves and mustard seeds, is completely vegan which means everyone can enjoy it. It’s the perfect warming dish for this time of year.” Ingredients 2 tbsp coconut oil 2 medium red onions, ﬁnely sliced 2 sprigs curry leaves 4 garlic cloves, ﬁnely sliced 3 long green chillies, sliced ½ tsp black mustard seeds, ground ½ tsp fenugreek seeds 1 kg pumpkin, cut into cubes, skin left on

1 tsp ground turmeric 500 ml coconut milk 2 tbsp short grain rice 100g fresh coconut Method 1 Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat and add the onion, curry leaves, garlic and green chilli. Fry for 5 minutes, until the onions are golden brown, then add the mustard and fenugreek seeds and continue frying for another 5 minutes. 2 Toss the pumpkin in a bowl with the seeded mustard and ground spices and season with salt. Add to the pan along with the coconut

milk and bring to the boil. Turn down to a simmer and cover. 3 Meanwhile, heat a small frying pan over a medium heat and dry fry the rice and coconut until brown and fragrant (about 10 minutes). Grind to a powder in a mortar or blender. 4 Add the ground rice and coconut powder to the curry. 5 Season the curry with salt and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pumpkin is cooked – soft but still holding its shape. Serve with rice or ﬂatbread. For more: www.thecoconut-tree.com

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PROPERTY P L A C E S T O L I V E , W O R K A N D P L AY

Cardiff’s very first sustainable, modular homes have landed

CORP MARKET For over half a decade, historic Canton pub The Corporation has remained closed, but at the end of November the building, which dates back to 1889, was transformed into a shopper’s paradise. Now called Corp Market, the space is a brand-new hub for independent traders in the city – from a wine specialist and a barber shop, to a zero-waste eco store, a radical bookshop and an art gallery – with a bar and coffee shop at the centre. The venture will build on the success of street food market The Corporation Yard, and the new venue will have doors that open onto the yard itself which will continue to feature a rotation of independent traders and food vendors. For more, see page 54. www.corpmarket.co.uk

A huge welcome to the Corp Market and its indie traders

AN ECO FIRST At the end of November, Wates Residential and Cardiff Council began to install Cardiff’s very first sustainable, modular homes at a brownfield site on Crofts Street, Plasnewydd. This development came as the Council increased its provision of affordable homes for local residents on housing waiting lists and those most in need. The nine two-bedroom properties, which were built offsite using modern methods of construction, will be lowered, by cranes, onto their final positions with all the groundworks and external hard and soft landscaping completed. This is the first time this method of offsite construction has been used by Cardiff Council to deliver permanent homes for families living in the city. The method not only enables the units to be built and installed in record time, but will also use the latest technology and construction materials to create net-zero carbon buildings that are 90

per cent more energy efficient and better insulated than standard homes built to current building regulations. The houses have solar panels on their roofs and MEV Heat Recovery with electric heating elements, so that they will not be required to connect to the mains gas service and will emit significantly less CO2 than other homes. “It is incredible to see this unused plot of land transformed into affordable homes,” says Edward Rees, Wates Residential regional director, Cardiff. “We care about the communities in which we operate and aim to design and build homes that put local people first. And, we’re not only able to deliver these units just five weeks from now, but we are also creating homes that will support Cardiff and its residents in reducing their energy consumption, contributing to a more sustainable future.” For more: www.wates.co.uk

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OFF THE WALL

Interior spaces can be transformed with a single panel of lively, wild and bold wallpaper. Here’s why the trend is hotter than ever… By Lisa Evans

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

Milk and Honey wallcovering, £1,449 per panel, by Arte

INTERIORS

alls aren’t just structures that hold our houses up, they are canvases waiting for creativity, they are our own personal built-in art galleries – especially considering the amount of time we’ve spent cooped up within them recently. We can hang artworks on them, or they can be the artwork themselves, through the use of wallpaper or murals. An extension of your personality, wallcoverings can evoke a sense of calm, or bring forth escapism, or indulge your wild side, or just be something that makes you smile every time you see them. “I believe 2021 has seen people really reassess how they want to live,” says Philippe Desart, managing director at Arte which has just released its winter wallcoverings collection, available at Interiors Etc Designs in Cardiff, featuring everything from painterly patterns to maximalist depictions. “They have considered and invested in their surroundings, transforming spaces, creating new areas at home, perhaps to work or work out, and we see this appreciation for our personal environments continuing into 2022. “People will continue to inject more personality into their homes, incorporating larger scale and bolder designs. Wallpaper is one of the simplest ways to refresh a home, yet it can create the biggest change in a space. Spaces can be completely transformed with a full room or a single panel of a lively and eye-catching wallcovering. As well as seeing to make a change and add personality, consumers want to be inspired; many have been unable to travel physically to far flung destinations, so people are incorporating scenic designs that transport them to somewhere other-worldly within their home, as well as in commercial spaces such as restaurants and bars where we see designers inspired by the beauty of global travel. “The new-found confidence in interiors is also giving rise to people combining wallpapers, bold feature walls, or mural designs with other patterns and colourful or plain textural designs to great effect.” ■ Arte wallcoverings (www.arte-international.com) are available at Interiors Etc Designs in St Nicholas, Cardiff; www.interiors-etc.co.uk

“Our walls are personal built-in art galleries”

Tigris wallcovering, £185 per linear meter, by Arte

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

Cardiff Life team 01225 475800

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT US ONLINE AT: WWW.VALEVETCENTRE.CO.UK Cardiff: 233 Cathedral Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9PP. E-mail: cardiff@valevetcentre.co.uk Phone: 02920 004007

Barry: 7/8 Ty Verlon Ind Est, Cardiff Rd, Vale of Glamorgan, CF63 2BE E-mail: info@valevetcentre.co.uk Phone: 01446 739739

Newport: Unit 1 & 2 East Market Street, Newport, NP20 2AY E-mail: newport@valevetcentre.co.uk Phone: 01633 927927

SPONSORED CONTENT

NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT Help TŶ HAFAN to make sure that every Christmas is a gift

very Christmas spent together is a gift, especially for families of a child with a life-limiting condition. Tŷ Hafan children’s hospice has provided care and support for more than 1,000 children with lifelimiting conditions and their families across Wales since it opened in 1999.

Alice enjoying a Christmas Concert

Currently caring for around 300 children with life-limiting conditions, Tŷ Hafan provides respite care at its Sully hospice and outreach support across our community. Christmas is a very special time for all Tŷ Hafan families, including the Hicks family from Cardiff, because they don’t know how many more they will have together. Mum of three Hannah explains, “Like you, myself, my daughter Alice, and the rest of our family are very much looking forward to Christmas this year. Unlike most of you though, my husband Ian and I, and Alice’s sister Sophia and brother Jack, all live with the reality that every day could be Alice’s last day – and every Christmas could be her last. “Even before Alice was born we were told that she had hydranencephaly. This means that parts of my daughter’s brain aren’t working properly, while many simply didn’t develop in the first place. “Alice was born on 27 August 2013 and went straight into intensive care. There she started having seizures and at two weeks old we were sent to Tŷ Hafan for end-of-life care. “I was so scared but they did loads to make us feel at home. People could even visit. I think that was when we first fell in love with the place. “And then, a miracle. Two weeks later, when

Alice was just a month old, we went home. Our baby hadn’t died. “Back in 2013, we had been told that Alice would not make it to her first birthday – and yet here we are, she is now eight, and we are looking forward to another Christmas all together again. “It is a very precious time for us, because we don’t know how many more Christmases we will have with Alice. “So this Christmas please give to Tŷ Hafan because it gives families like ours so much support in so many different ways.” Every donation, no matter the size, really does make a difference. ■

To donate call 02920 532255, email supportercare@tyhafan.org or go to www.tyhafan.org/christmas www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 47

With a champagne-and-jewels vending machine, truckloads of art, a cocktail bar, and a spa-like bathroom, there was no way Lisa Evans was leaving Bankside Hotel to venture further into London… 48 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

STAYING POWER

GREAT ESCAPES

above: A spa-like en suite complete with an extra-deep bath and a rainfall shower; middle: The building is part of the One Blackfriars development from award-winning architect Ian Simpson; top: The biggest suite; opposite page, top: Bankside’s Art Yard restaurant, where many a proposal has taken place; bottom: Modernised versions of classic paintings are hung on every wall

e all know there are a million things to do in London, but, when I go for a night away, what I care about the most is my hotel – will I get a good night’s sleep? Will it be clean? Will it be spacious? Will there be noisy neighbours? (don’t get me started about the time I had ravers in the next room to me at 3am when I was eight months pregnant and cranky). Back in the younger, carefree days, hotels were just somewhere to sleep after incredible days and wild nights – I would barely notice my surroundings when I came back to crash. But that attitude was set back on its heels when, a few years ago, I chose the cheapest accommodation New York had to offer. ‘How bad could it be?’ I thought. It was bad. Bodysized blood stains on the carpet, sludge spitting out of the taps, bugs in the bed, screams in the hallway kind of bad. Cecil Hotel vibes. After that three-dayer, which coincided with Trump’s election that had spread a worrying tension across the whole city, I decided that, from then on, only safe and respectable hotels would do. Which brings me to tell you about London’s Bankside Hotel on the south bank of the River Thames. Did I leave the room at all? Well, I was upgraded to their biggest suite complete with a free-standing extra-extra deep bath; and then, post-soaked and 400-thread-count-robed, there was a plush sofa to lounge on in front a giant TV; there was also a bird’s-eye view onto one of the Capital’s most creative and dynamic neighbourhoods; and, when tired of people-watching, there were remote-controlled blackout blinds to hand, so, no, I didn’t leave. Can you blame me? I tell a lie, actually; I did take a slipper-footed venture into the hallway library to seek out a novel to read in my second bath of the day. And on my way there, I stumbled across the

high-tech touch-screen vending machine – the ‘Bankside Boutique’ – a pioneering approach to a minibar concept. It wasn’t offering miniature Sprites and spirits, though; instead, it featured bottles of champagne, Patrón, Tom Ford sunglasses, tights, facemasks and, most surprisingly, an adjustable engagement ring – which I was told a few guests had actually bought and then spontaneously proposed with in the downstairs restaurant. Sadly, no one popped the question to me, but I did indulge at said eatery, Art Yard, in the evening to partake in the luxury menu and the frozen bellinis, and that was good enough for me. I also sauntered around the hotel to admire its art-gallery quantity of quirky masterpieces, my favourites being the multi-coloured Mona Lisa and the bejewelled underwear. The midcentury modern interior itself is a work of art too, having been envisioned by former film set designer Dayna Lee, and the building is part of the One Blackfriars development from awardwinning architect Ian Simpson.

“The hotel vending machine featured an engagement ring, which guests spontaneously proposed with” The next day, my anxiety wouldn’t let me stay lazy any longer, so I hauled myself into the excitement and bustle of London. I was based in the heart of the city’s next-generation area, where performing arts, retail, restaurants and bars converge. I made like a tourist and headed to Tate Modern where I immersed myself in Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms, then I made my way to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre for a history hit, and then on to Borough Market for some nibbles. Appetite enlivened, lunch was at Chinese dim sum restaurant Ping Pong, where handcrafted parcels of joy – AKA fluffy steamed dumplings filled with Asian delights – awaited me, as well as vibrant cocktails, because, why not? And then it was onto the West End for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, followed by more tipples in the energetic streets of Soho. It’s proof that London doesn’t have to be a fast-paced, high-octane trip, it can be as leisurely and chilled as you like; you could even spend the entire break in a bathtub, that’s your choice and don’t ever let anyone judge you for it. Bankside Hotel is part of the Autograph Collection, Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NY; www.banksidehotel.com

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THE NEW NORMAL

Combining understated luxury with remarkable range, Audi’s new Q4 sees the electric car come of age Words and pictures by Matt Bielby

A chunky, handsome, well-equipped family-size SUV

MOTORING

ny new tech can feel not-quite-ready-forprime-time in its earliest incarnations, and that’s certainly been the case with electric cars. But they’ve been developing at an astonishing pace – and the new Audi Q4 e-Tron makes perhaps the most convincing case yet for why we all need one in our lives. This slick iteration of the VW Group’s MEB electric platform poses an intriguing question. Not ‘why should I buy it?’ but ‘why should I buy anything else?’ A chunky, handsome, well-equipped familysize SUV with a solid infotainment system and impressive real world range, the Q4 isn’t exactly cheap – realistically think around £50k – but it’s probably all the car you’ll ever need. Since it does so much so well it’s hard to know where to start, but let’s begin with the fact that it’s a doddle to drive – indeed, I’ve found few recent cars as easy to park without relying on cameras or warning pings. It’s quiet, smooth and well-balanced, and though the mid-range 40 model we tried quotes a sluggishsounding 0-62mph of 8.5 seconds, it actually feels much pokier, surging forward the moment you put your foot down. No need to turn on the engine or mess around with handbrakes, by the way: just unlock, get in, foot on the brake, slip the lever into Drive and you’re away. Physically, the Q4 takes up little more room than the Q3 – Audi’s entry level SUV – but has interior space to rival the larger Q5; in fact, the overall feel is notably spacious and uncluttered, with all the top-notch fit and quality surfaces

This is not a flashy car, instead giving off a vibe of restrained, relaxed practicality

Audi is known for. The doors open nice and wide, the floor is flat, and there are plenty of storage bins. There’s good headroom too, and a 520-litre boot, making it a genuine proposition for five people and their kit, as long as they’re not the most prolific of packers. Seats are comfortable and the tech intuitive, much of it revolving around an impressive 10.1 inch touch screen. A head-up display projects essential info onto the windscreen itself (a novelty that soon starts to feel nearessential), but in general this is not a flashy car, instead giving off a vibe of restrained, relaxed practicality. (It does, however, have its eccentricities, not least a bizarre squared-

“Not ‘why should I buy it?’ but ‘why should I buy anything else?’” off steering wheel, oddly reminiscent of the much-mocked ‘quartic’ wheel of early Austin Allegros – if much more pleasant to use.) Most relaxing of all, of course, is that this is the rare electric car where you won’t be fretting about your range the entire time. I wasn’t able to check the claimed 316 mile maximum, but driving around all day only knocked 10 miles or so off the computer’s projected range. A handy fast-charging capability (under 40 minutes to get back up to 80 per cent) cuts most of the planning and paranoia out of

AT A GLANCE Audi Q4 e-Tron Prices From just over £40,000 to around £65,000; ours was right in the middle. Under the floor Assorted electric motors, from the 35 model with its 52kWh battery and single, rear-mounted 168bhp motor to the mid-range 40 variant (77kWh battery/201bhp) and the 50 quattro, with its extra motor at the front and 295bhp. Equipment specs Trim levels rise from Sport through S line and Edition 1 to the very fancy Vorsprung, but even the cheapest Sport 35 gets 19-inch alloys, a 10.1-inch touchscreen and that Virtual Cockpit display. Performance These aren’t rocketships (the cheapest model reaches 62mph in nine seconds and has a 99mph max speed), but the Q4 40 certainly feels more lively than the stats suggest. In a nutshell Immensely practical and typically well screwed together premium family SUV, its immense range the icing on the cake. Model tested Audi Q4 e-Tron 40 Dealer Cardiff Audi, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Pontprennau More info www.audi.co.uk

lengthy trips, and if you’re almost there (but not quite) you can add an extra 80 miles in about 10 minutes. Stick the gear lever in B rather than D, by the way, and you’ll effectively be driving using only one pedal 90 per cent of the time – the moment you take your foot off the gas, the car immediately begins to brake, automatically recuperating electricity as it does so. What’s wrong with the Q4? Very little, I’d say, though, getting your head around which power set-up to go for is a bit of a melontwister. With its smaller batteries, the entry level 35 is slower and lacks range, but would be a great commuter car. The 50 quattro is fastest, but prohibitively expensive. Which leaves the mid range 40 as, like Baby Bear’s porridge, just right, more than quick enough and with the most impressive range of the three. Oddly enough, the 35 and 40 are both rear wheel drive cars – a common layout for BMWs, but unheard of on recent Audis – and even boast a form of drum brakes at the rear, necessary for that regenerative braking. Strange how this most futuristic of cars can also seem unexpectedly old-fashioned – at least on paper – in the details. This is not your daddy’s electric car, then – it’s far, far better. Earlier efforts have often shown off with eerie silence and neck-snapping acceleration while remaining hopelessly impractical for everyday living, but the Q4 spearheads a generation in which the technology has come of age, prioritising range over muscle, charging speed over top speed, and the extra interior space that electric allows over flashy design. Cars like this will soon stop feeling like the niche choice and start to become the new normal. Motoring is in safe hands – even if there’s no traditional motor at all. n

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SCENE

AC ROSS C A R D I FF, O N E SH I N D I G AT A T I M E

Saoirse O'Connor and Andrea Pallarés Renaud

Mikey Rowe and Eimear Cronin Sheri Hall and Jane Cook

Lisa Grace and Gemma Cerasale (@thelittlecardiffblog) Cassie Robson, Joseph Poole and Gwenda Matthews

NQ64 LAUNCH

Arcade bar NQ64 opened its doors on St Mary Street for the first time in November, making its much-anticipated debut in Wales following five other launches across the UK. Combining neon graffiti-splattered artwork and retro arcade games with local brews and game-themed cocktails, the bar transported its launch-day guests back to the early days of video gaming. Get reacquainted with Time Crisis, Donkey Kong, Guitar Hero, Pac-Man, or enjoy some pinball, console classics or the dance machines. www.nq64.co.uk Photos by Adam Capper

Take your pick from classic consoles

Matthew Creed, Kyle Abraham and Tom Kavanagh

Booths to chill in after hitting the dance machines hard www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 53

OPEN MARKET

A historic Cardiff pub has reopened after six years in an exciting new format. Formerly known as The Corporation, the establishment in Canton has been transformed into a brand-new hub for independent traders. The newly established Corp Market will provide a home for some of Cardiff’s favourite independent businesses, with a bar and coffee shop at the centre of the indoor space. The venture, which has been developed with the community and sustainability in mind, will build on the success of The Corporation Yard which has become hugely popular over the past year. The new venue will have doors that open onto the yard itself which will continue to feature a rotation of independent traders and street food vendors.

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Inside the space – designed to boast a contemporary, industrial feel warmed with suspended greenery and neon lighting, brought to life by Tim Rice – the indies include: Wine Fiend, Little Green Stores, The Barber Room Cardiff, Khione Deli, Twin Made, Sean Kerr Jewellery, The Sho, Frankincense & Purr, Heads Above The Waves and Shelflife Bookshop. “Cardiff has an extremely diverse scene of independent traders and it’s clear that our communities have reconnected with shopping local through these difficult times,” says Jahan Abedi, owner of Corp Market which is part of The Chameleon Group (Mocka Lounge, The Potted Pig and Hoffi Coffi). www.corpmarket.co.uk Photos by Sin Photography

SOCIETY

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Adam Philpott and Natasha Mackerras (plantbasednatasha)

Sarah Roberts, Linda Harries and Lindsay Doyle Guests enjoyed food, drink and entertainment

Nathan Wyburn Alice Evans and Katie Carlisle

BUSABA LAUNCH

Thai restaurant Busaba opened at the end of October in the Brewery Quarter. It’s the restaurant’s ﬁrst venture in Wales after launching 20 years ago in Soho. Its Cardiﬀ opening saw Thai dancers entertaining the crowd while tasty Bangkok-style treats were dished out. For more, see page 36. www.busaba.com Photos by Kat Volkova

Lina Hung, Charlotte Mather, Louise Mather

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Launch night was packed

Aisha Bailey and Kimberly Long

SOCIETY

David Rees Evans, Tracy Evans and Selina Harris

A seat near the open kitchen is always a good bet Jessica Bloom and Geoff Hill

Desy Thai

No shortage of vino

Hayley Lewis and Wayne Kamans Smiles all round

Nibbles and cocktails, yes please

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Guests enjoyed a threecourse lunch in the iconic Cardiff hotel

Lorna Bolton, Lisa Evans, Carys Rees and Kim Pedlar Tina Trotman and friends

Kayed Mason, Natalie James and Danny Hayes-Lissack Jenny Weeks

BEAUJOLAIS AT THE ANGEL HOTEL The Angel Hotel in the city centre hosted their annual Beaujolais luncheon in aid of Velindre Cancer Centre. Guests enjoyed a drinks reception, a classic French menu, a silent auction, a raﬄe and entertainment. The event raised over £1,000 for Velindre, the hotel’s charity partner. www.angelhotelcardiﬀcity.co.uk Photos by Aaron Jones

Jeris Spencer

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Everyone was in high spirits after missing the 2020 events

Plenty of Beaujolais for sipping

SOCIETY

DJ O’Neil Mcdowell

A little boogie Sam Slattery

BUTTERFLY BRUNCH

There's no skimping on decorations here

Butterfly Brunch’s Brunch for Beaujolais was the biggest event of its kind in Wales. Held at VSA Warehouse on Penarth Road, the social gathering had a Forbidden Forest theme, with bespoke décor, concert-level production, threecourse dining and eight hours of entertainment. “We aim to bring like-minded individuals together for the ultimate dining experiences at some of the most prestigious venues across Cardiff, says the Butterfly Brunch team. “Expect individual themed events, bespoke branding and production, headline acts, fine dining and a spectacular atmosphere unique to us.” www.butterflybrunch.co.uk Photos by Club Cam UK

These groups could easily be in the running to become the UK's next big girl bands

The event had a Forbidden Forest theme

It was the biggest event of its kind in Wales

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WISHING OUR CLIENTS PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE

a Merry Christmas

Start your next chapter with Hern & Crabtree W: www.hern-crabtree.co.uk E: info@hern-crabtree.co.uk | @hernandcrabtree

It’s the city’s business

CARDIFFWORKS MAKE A BOLT FOR IT

Ceri at his pop-up shop in John Lewis Cardiff

FEELING CONFIDENT? A Wales edition of the globally popular family trivia game Confident?! has been launched. Co-founder Ceri Price, who’s from Llanelli, says he always wanted to create a Wales-themed version. “After we launched in the US and Germany, Wales was the next version in my sights,” he says. “It’s bilingual in Welsh and English, and includes questions about Wales – 10 per cent of which were written by pupils from schools across Wales. We had contributions from Rob Brydon, Huw Edwards and Katherine Jenkins to name a few, too. Questions include ‘What’s the average price of a pint in Cardiff?’, ‘What’s the longest flight you can get from Cardiff airport?’ and is a really fun family Christmas game. We also plant a tree with every game. “My partner and I knew nothing about the game industry, but we invented and launched a bestselling board game that has sold in six editions and five languages across the world!” Find Confident?! at the John Lewis and Queens Arcade pop-ups in Cardiff throughout December. For more: www.confidentgame.com

The UK’s second biggest ride-hailing app, Bolt, has launched in Cardiff as it expands into Wales for the first time. As the fastest growing mobility platform in the world, with 75 million users globally, Bolt’s arrival will help the people of Cardiff to travel around the city sustainably and affordably. The launch aims to aid Cardiff Council in the city’s One Planet eco strategy, the goal of which is to achieve carbon neutral status in the city by 2030. As Bolt rides in Europe are 100 per cent carbon neutral, it seemed a great match. Offering services from ride-hailing and scooter and bike rentals to food and grocery delivery, Bolt’s vision is to build a future where people are not reliant on private cars but use on-demand transport. “Council bosses are calling for a monumental effort across Cardiff to hit the ambitious carbon neutral target,” says Sam Raciti, Bolt’s UK general manager. “We’re hugely excited to be launching in the city to support reducing emissions by offering Cardiff’s residents a sustainable option to private car ownership.” For more: www.bolt.eu

GIVE IT SOME ART Following an invitation to young people to create an artwork for the front of the Chapter Arts Centre in Canton, the winner has been announced as 13-yearold Anna Hughes. Chapter is celebrating its 50th birthday and to mark it they launched an open competition for local children, Postcards from the Future, asking them to pretend to send themselves a postcard from 50 years in the future. Chapter received 1,200 submissions from 17 diﬀerent schools and worked with a panel of judges to select the top three from each age group. The ﬁnal nine artworks are on display in Chapter’s café bar, and a public vote selected Anna to come out on top. Her artwork is now displayed on the giant glass lightbox at the front of the arts centre, where it’ll stay for six months, enjoyed by 300,000 people. “I wanted to create a bright, fun and

BUSINESS CLUB

Bolt, which has 75 million users, has just screeched into Cardiff

happy image of a Wales without Covid,” says Anna. “I had the idea of a screen being brought down over our world now and wiping out the virus. My mother

works for the NHS and so I drew her in her scrubs pulling down the screen. I thought that if people were to see the image it would give them a sense of hope as we’ve all had a tough year. “When I was little, my grandfather lived on Market Road and used to take me to Chapter for cake. I never thought my artwork would be displayed there one day. It’s unbelievable!” All 1,200 of the submitted works can be seen on the website: www.postcardsfromthefuture.org.uk. For more: www.chapter.org

Chapter’s competition winner, 13-year-old Anna Hughes (inset), will have her artwork (above) displayed for six months

Virtual one hour sessions, all free to attend Search Cardiff Life on LinkedIn for upcoming dates and registration If you would like to get involved, please email events@mediaclash.co.uk

CARDIFFWORKS Your seat awaits for the 2022 Cardiff Life Awards. First step: nominate yourselves!

NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN! The categories to apply for are: • ARTS • BAR • BUSINESS SERVICES • CAFÉ • CHARITY • CIVIC • CREATIVE • EDUCATION • EVENT • HAIR & BEAUTY • HEALTH & WELLBEING • HOMES & INTERIORS

• LEGAL & FINANCIAL • LEISURE & TOURISM • NEW BUSINESS • PROPERTY • RESTAURANT • RETAILER • SUSTAINABILITY • TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION • WELSH LANGUAGE • PLATINUM AWARD

Nominate yourselves now, ready for the Cardiff Life Awards on 31 March 2022 at City Hall

What a feeling to win

The Cardiff Life Awards celebrates the best of Cardiff’s businesses, from professional services to cafés, retail to charity

TESTIMONIAL

“I’ve been absolutely blown away from all the support, even if it is a bit surreal to see yourself and family members on the front cover of a magazine, but more than anything it has brought back such lush memories of a fabulous evening at the Cardiff Life Awards; we had a blast. Thank you to Cardiff Life for making this possible, you have made this crazy plant lady so very happy.” Rhona Duncan, Blasus Succulent Emporium – Cardiff Life Award winner 2021

Now announcing…

t feels like we’ve only just wrapped up this year’s Cardiff Life Awards – which took place at City Hall at the end of September – but we’re already gleefully and excitedly planning the next uber-glam red carpet ceremony, which is set for 31 March 2022. And, more good news, the 2022 nominations have now officially opened! Seeing the submissions come in is one of our favourite parts, and it makes us so proud to be in Cardiff among incredible businesses and people doing great things. It’s free to nominate yourselves, so get involved! Fingers crossed you’ll be shortlisted or even win. Along with our 21 regular categories,

BECOME A SPONSOR The Awards are a great opportunity to get glammed up and have fun, but they also provide invaluable networking for businesses from all the diverse sectors of the city. To find out more about sponsorships contact mark.george@mediaclash.

we have a new award this year: Sustainability, which we will present to the greenest, most eco-friendly business on the block. TOP TIPS

A few pointers for writing a nomination that stands out •Please – we beg you – don’t leave your nomination until the deadline looms. You’ve got ages, so use that time well. Start making a list of all of the successful moments of your year. Ask yourself: what have you achieved? What makes you stand out? Think on it a while. • Everyone says ‘we’ve had a great year’, the judges want much more than that – they want to know precisely why it’s been great. Paint a detailed picture of your excellence. This

co.uk or annie.kelly@ mediaclash.co.uk. Sponsors on board for 2022 so far are: 13 Fields, Cardiff Life, Lexus Cardiff, Genero, Park Plaza and Regus. When it comes to sponsorship, business is done from, at and around the Awards. Countless conversations are triggered

is not the time for modesty. • Consider the experience of the Cardiff Life Awards judge: you’re faced with literally thousands of pages of information about local businesses and projects. Everything starts to blur into one. Make it easy for them. Get to the point. And say something extra memorable. • Gathering testimonials is a great way to persuade judges of your greatness • Have fun with it. Seriously. It’s all too rare that we make the time to sit and reflect about everything that’s gone well in the last year. Take this as an opportunity to give yourself a hearty pat on the back. For more: www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk

by deep association with the city’s leading business marketing activity. It’s efficient, too, as one deal reaches thousands of people. We support your business promotion through our magazines, social media, email, networking events, our website, the programme, the review, and, of course, on the night itself.

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SCHOOL GUIDE VICTORIA BOND

Pick and choose How do you choose a school when open days are limited or even cancelled?

hoosing a school for your child is one of the most important decisions of family life. I’ve spoken to thousands of parents on the brink of submitting a school application and the most frequently asked question is, ‘How do you know it’s The One?’ After weighing up all the exam data and Ofsted information (head), it usually comes down to a feeling (heart). The lightbulb moment often comes when you visit the school. But how do you get to seal the deal on your ﬁrst choice when you can’t visit the school in person? While the majority of school open days have returned this academic year, you may have missed an important one due to having to

TIMETABLES

Primary school application deadline on 15 January 2022 for September 2022 admissions. Secondary school applications for state schools closed on 31 October 2021 for September 2022 admissions. Private school applications close mid-November and entrance exams are usually scheduled for January.

self-isolate or find yourself diverted to an online open day if restrictions tighten again this winter. Can you pick and (not) mix? The good news is that it is very doable. In some ways, schlepping around open days can be the equivalent of tidying your bedroom when you should be revising for an exam. Yes, you are busy popping in and out of classrooms but, ultimately, you are being spoon-fed one version of the school and a more wide-angle lens approach will be better. An online open day is a good place to start. School marketing budgets vary wildly, so don’t be swayed by the 360-degree walk-through video – or put off if one doesn’t exist. Not all schools are able to prioritise fancyschmancy tech. All schools have a website, however, and it’s surprising how much a collection of pixels can convey emotion and give you a sense of the everyday mood of the school. Look at the images they have selected to represent the pupils: are they mud-splattered at Forest School or doing something serious with a Bunsen burner? Does it look corporate with an accountancy firm colour palette or are the pages light and bright with an effusive use of

exclamation marks? Certain styles will instinctively appeal: you should feel at home on the homepage. Next, visit the ‘ordinary’ pages of the website. The head’s welcome and the vision and values section are important but also check out the canteen menu and the extracurricular activities calendar. See what achievements they celebrate on their blog. Download their latest newsletter as this oﬀers a brilliant window into the pupils’ working world.

pushes every class, might not suit your learner. The best school may not be the right school. Catchment is also critical. Look online for maps that show the latest admission trends and reveal your likelihood of getting in. Then take a deep dive into local authority ‘last distanced offered’ tables; these are an important reminder than catchment areas can, and do, change every year. Finally, once you are armed with a shortlist of schools, use hyperlocal parenting sites to read about the first-hand experiences of current mums and dads. There can be a lot of five-star and one-star reviews – without much in the middle – but it’s helpful to see what the cheerleaders are championing and learn about potential areas of weakness. Jot down words that stand out to create a little word cloud, and it will give you a sense of being at the school gates – without actually leaving your house. So, go forth, friends. Do your homework with an open mind and make notes with a pencil not a Sharpie. It’s a journey; and as a parent who knows your child better than anyone else, one you are perfectly placed to ace.

“It’s surprising how much a collection of pixels can give a sense of the everyday mood of the school” In terms of the head teacher, try to get to know them by ﬁnding interviews and articles in local magazines. Their attitude and aspirations will trickle down into every area of school life. You don’t have to like them – as in want to go to the pub with them for a pint – but you need to feel you can trust them and they speak your language. Digging out oﬃcial performance data is key but make sure you look beyond the big hitters. Checking out the progress scores, for example, will tell you how far a school moves a pupil on from point A to B, and can reveal a lot more about the teaching than pure As and Bs. Likewise with Ofsted, an ‘outstanding’ school that

Victoria Bond is founder of School Guide, a website that has helped 10 million parents ﬁnd the best school for their child. For more: www.schoolguide.co.uk

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JUST VISITING

“I had the best two years living in Cardiff Bay when I was filming Casualty” go for a meal at Giovanni’s opposite the theatre. We became friends when I visited his restaurant when I was doing my panto run in Cardiff. Brilliant atmosphere and great food. Tell us about Fat Friends…

LEE MEAD

West End star, solo artist, and Any Dream Will Do series winner Lee Mead is heading to Cardiff for Fat Friends, The Musical tour Known for his roles in BBC’s Casualty and Holby City, Lee Mead shot to prominence after winning the BBC’s Any Dream Will Do series to take the role of Joseph in the West End in 2007. After that, he returned to the West End for the likes of Legally Blonde, Wicked and Cinderella, and he pursued his solo singing career, taking his show, An Evening with Lee Mead, all around the UK. He’s duetted with popular artists, including Josh Groban, Susan Boyle and Donny Osmond, and he’s just released his newest studio album. He’s now gearing up for Fat Friends, The Musical, coming up at the New Theatre Cardiff in January, which he’ll star in alongside Corrie’s Les Dennis and Sherrie Hewson.

Hi Lee, you’re coming back to Cardiff, where you lived for years, are you looking forward to it?

I love Cardiff. I had the best two years living in Cardiff Bay when I was filming Casualty. I still have a lot of friends that live down there too and I make sure I take a trip at least once a year. What are your thoughts on New Theatre, where you’ll be performing Fat Friends?

It’s beautiful. I’ve toured with a few musicals there over the years and had a great panto run for a few weeks playing the Prince in Cinderella. I always look forward to going back. What else are you excited to do when you’re in the city?

Spending some time down on the Bay. The city is great, too – lots of nice bars and restaurants and independent shops. I’ll definitely

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It’s a musical based on the TV series that ran on ITV for over five years. Set in Leeds, it tells the story of the lives of slimming club members, in particular Kelly and her journey after feeling she needs to lose weight for her wedding day. What drew you to it?

I’ve always wanted to do some comedy, so to work with one of the best TV and stage comedy writers in the country is very exciting. The music by Nick Lloyd Webber is brilliant and really complements the brilliant Kay Mellor script. Tell us about your role…

I was initially offered the role of Paul the vicar, but a few weeks later was asked by Kay and the producer, Josh Andrews, how I’d feel about playing Kelly’s fiancé, Kevin. I think they felt it would be a better fit as Kevin also gets to sing a lovely duet with Kelly called Stuck on You, and his own solo The Only Fool Is Me. You have tons of stage and screen experience, but what’s your best moment?

Any Dream Will Do was obviously a big one as it was always my dream role as a young boy; the programme gave me the opportunity to show millions of people what I could do and brought me lots of incredible experiences. Aside from playing Joseph and other leading roles in the West End and TV parts, I’ve also been lucky enough to make

my own albums and tour my own shows. Bringing my show to the London Palladium for the first time in June 2021 was a massive highlight for me. I used to watch Sunday Night at The Palladium as a kid and all the Royal Variety shows on the telly with the family, and when I think of all the greats that have performed in the theatre, like Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and hundreds more, it feels lovely that I got to make my mark too. What is your all-time favourite show tune?

Anthem from Chess. It’s such a patriotic song.

What do you always take on tour with you?

Photographs of my family; I put them on the mirror of each dressing room when I am on tour. Your best confidence tip?

Be completely who you are. What quote resonates with you?

Kindness costs nothing.

Congratulations on the release of your new album, Lee Mead in Concert…

Thank you, it’s my first ever live album from my show at the London Palladium. Surprise us…

I take an exceptionally long time in the bathroom to get ready in the mornings. To the point of being ridiculous. It infuriates my partner. If I could sit in the bath for over an hour every day, I would. n Lee Mead stars in Fat Friends at New Theatre Cardiff from 18 – 22 January 2022; New Theatre Cardiff; www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

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