First published on: 11/10/25

Cardiff, in my view, has some of the most striking architecture of any UK city. When you walk through the centre and actually look up, it’s impossible not to notice the mix of grand old stone buildings that give the city a character that feels completely its own, but from what I’m seeing, I’m unsure if we are actually able to notice these intricacies in a city which might become gradually more fragmented as time goes on. There’s a uniqueness that could easily rival some of the architecture you see in larger European cities. But recently, with so much chatter surrounding the exciting new developments being brought to the city, from the 50-floor skyscraper, to Cardiff Bay’s new indoor arena, I am wondering if we are focusing enough of our attention to what’s being lost, as well as the thing that makes Cardiff, Cardiff.

What exactly is that thing? For me, it’s always been an open, yet strong sense of community. It’s fun, and there's a freedom to be exactly who you are. Reflecting the strong values of Welsh pride, yet still always open to new change.

But has it got to the point where planners are saying yes to new things without allowing space to think about if there could have been a better way to do it differently? On a small scale, on St Mary’s Street, your eyes might be more likely to be fixed on one of the many restaurants near the castle, or the crowds outside O’Neill’s or the latest vibrant bar chain to join the high street. It's also incredibly easy to miss the interesting details above the shops of Queen Street.

Because of the hustle and bustle, I hardly ever see people stopping to notice the old details on the outside of different buildings which sit right above different businesses. That in itself isn't necessarily a bad thing, but while Cardiff isn't perceived as a stereotypical "pretty city", I wonder if that's because of what's actually here, or just people's attitudes towards it.

What sometimes frustrates me is that there doesn’t always seem to be the same value placed on maintaining Cardiff’s character as there is in other cities with old buildings.

Places like Bath, York or even parts of Manchester make a point of celebrating their past. London is obviously positioned slightly differently, but often shines through when it comes to creating residential and working communities which flow even in a concrete jungle.

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