Gate Art Center, Cardiff

The Gate Arts Centre, commonly known as The Gate, is a vibrant arts and community hub in the Roath area of Cardiff. Located on Keppoch Street and overlooking Plasnewydd Square, the center occupies a striking Grade II listed building that was once the Plasnewydd Presbyterian Church. This historic building, which combines the original school hall built in 1886 and the church constructed in 1901, showcases the architectural brilliance of W. Beddoe Rees and J. H. James. Its Gothic design features a unique polygonal bell tower, classical columns, and galleries supported by iron columns.

Officially opened in September 2004 after an extensive four-year renovation led by architect Rob Cruwys, The Gate has successfully repurposed the ecclesiastical structure into a modern arts venue while preserving its historical essence. The BBC program "Songs of Praise" even broadcast an episode from here in May 2006, highlighting its cultural significance.

The Grand Theatre, an adaptation of the upper section of the church, seats up to 350 people using the original wooden pews and a raked gallery floor. This space is one of several within the center designed for performances and plays, regularly hosting the Saturday morning theatre group, Performers, among others.

Additionally, The Gate offers two exhibition galleries—one at the original front entrance and another along the corridor next to the building's southern stone wall. Both spaces are creatively integrated into the structure's original architectural elements, like the curved pew and glazed screen in the front gallery.

A café bar has been creatively installed in the former schoolroom, the oldest part of the building, enhancing the community feel of the center. Other available spaces include an auditorium and a dance studio, which notably incorporates the original carved pulpit and ornate columns.

The center is not just a venue for performances but a bustling hub for community engagement, offering a wide range of courses and workshops throughout the week. These include everything from dance to creative writing, providing a cultural and educational resource for the community.