The death of the high street was bemoaned long before the pandemic hit, and it’s only gone further downhill since then. But Sparks is showing this doesn’t have to be the end, just the end as we once knew it. ‘The department store with a difference’ has reimagined what high street shops can and should be.
Taking over the former M&S building in Broadmead in May 2023, Sparks has thrived as a store and space for the Bristol community. Step inside and on the ground floor, you’ll find a huge range of shops for the ethically-minded and money-conscious public, as it blends art, education, and sustainable shopping.
Just some of the things you’ll find include vintage clothing, upcycled furniture, art prints, handmade stationery, authentic African apparel, houseplants, and a whole range of gifts from local makers. There’s even a vegan bakery serving cakes, bakes and coffee.
But one of our favourite elements of Sparks is the weekly (every Sunday) drop-in Repair Cafe at The Reparium. Here, you’ll find all the tools and materials you need to fix clothes, furniture, electricals, bicycles, pottery, toys, alongside expert advice from volunteers – Sparks has a habit of breathing new life into old things, it seems.
What else is Sparks known for?
Sparks isn’t just about shopping. From free fortnightly bike check-ups to learning the traditional Japanese clothes mending technique of sashiko, or even making your own tropical terrarium, there are countless events always happening at Sparks. You can even stop by and learn how to reduce your energy bill with a quick chat at the Department of Energy!
On the upper floors, ‘the department store with a difference’ celebrates Bristol’s creative community with a range of spaces for hire. Meanwhile, Sparks also hosts The Community Champions, a network of diverse Black and Minority Ethnic individuals, community organisations and groups, delivering services across Bristol. And all of this barely even scratches the surface of what’s available at Sparks – there’s even a peaceful little garden!
When is Sparks open?
The ground floor is open Wednesday to Saturday, 11am to 6pm, and Sunday, 11am-5pm. The upper floors, however, are only open for pre-booked events and exhibitions, or those with studios and desk spaces. You can find Sparks at 78 Broadmead, Bristol, BS1 3DS.
Like all great things, the best way to understand Sparks is to head down yourself, but to learn more in the meantime, head here.