Ten minutes with Aura
We chat to Stephanie Govier about creating the Aura bar and brasserie as part of the renovation of the historic Coal Exchange Hotel in Cardiff.
Aura is a new destination dining experience nestled inside Cardiff's Coal Exchange. Leading the challenge to create a contemporary space inside this Grade II* listed building was Stephanie Govier.
'Since taking on the Coal Exchange, our priority has been getting the hotel back in operation,' explains Stephanie, 'and we wanted to start our restoration journey with the restaurant. We felt it important not only for hotel guests but for the people of Wales and beyond to have somewhere new and exciting to socialise in the heart of Cardiff Bay.'
'Since taking on the Coal Exchange, our priority has been getting the hotel back in operation,' explains Stephanie, 'and we wanted to start our restoration journey with the restaurant. We felt it important not only for hotel guests but for the people of Wales and beyond to have somewhere new and exciting to socialise in the heart of Cardiff Bay.'
In keeping with that ambition for broad appeal, and despite its prestigious setting, Aura feels welcoming and inclusive.
'I wanted the space to feel warm and inviting,' Stephanie confirms. 'I was looking to create intimate spaces within the large room that could serve multiple purposes. We were blessed with the original stone walls, exposed industrial features and large sash windows which gave us a rich backdrop to work with.
'I wanted the space to feel warm and inviting,' Stephanie confirms. 'I was looking to create intimate spaces within the large room that could serve multiple purposes. We were blessed with the original stone walls, exposed industrial features and large sash windows which gave us a rich backdrop to work with.
'I am very passionate about the building and its heritage,' she reiterates. 'Our goal is to sympathetically restore it as much as possible.
'Striking the balance between heritage and contemporary design was crucial to my vision for Aura. The building deserves a respectful approach to its restoration, with its original features taking centre stage while adding in modern luxuries and aesthetics.'
Architectural details were crucial in realising this approach. 'For me, detail is everything. The sockets and hardware not only provide functionality and safety, but they enhance the look and guest experience within our space.
'Corston is the only manufacturer I considered using for Aura. The premium sockets and hardware fit perfectly within both period and modern spaces.
'Striking the balance between heritage and contemporary design was crucial to my vision for Aura. The building deserves a respectful approach to its restoration, with its original features taking centre stage while adding in modern luxuries and aesthetics.'
Architectural details were crucial in realising this approach. 'For me, detail is everything. The sockets and hardware not only provide functionality and safety, but they enhance the look and guest experience within our space.
'Corston is the only manufacturer I considered using for Aura. The premium sockets and hardware fit perfectly within both period and modern spaces.
'Having used Corston products throughout my own home I know they are both long-lasting and aesthetically timeless. Corston offers a variety of finishes and minimal designs, which enables their details to sit seamlessly within the grandeur of historic architecture.
'Adorning our expansive space with the deep brown matt bronze hardware against our rich merlot hues and deep cherry tones has not only enhanced the historic charm of the space but added modern luxury.'
'Adorning our expansive space with the deep brown matt bronze hardware against our rich merlot hues and deep cherry tones has not only enhanced the historic charm of the space but added modern luxury.'
Published on 12th March 2025
