Johannesburg, South Africa

The 5 best design-forward things to see and do in Johannesburg

Southern Africa • See & do • The 5 best design-forward things to see and do in Johannesburg

Johannesburg’s most exciting design-forward things to see and do

Johannesburg’s design scene is as dynamic as the city itself – raw, unapologetic and always pushing boundaries. This is where architecture meets reinvention, art tells untold stories and historical spaces get a new lease on life. Johannesburg has some iconic design-forward spots and in this article, we will take you on a journey of the places we love. Ready to explore these intriguing spots? Let’s dive into Johannesburg’s most exciting design-forward things to see and do.

Ponte Tower

Ponte Tower is a spot not to be missed. Standing 54 stories tall in the middle of Hillbrow, it’s hard to ignore its imposing Brutalist design. This cylindrical giant has seen it all: from luxury apartments in the 70s to becoming an infamous vertical slum during the city’s turbulent years. Fast forward to today, Ponte Tower is a phoenix rising, its 51st-floor view showcasing a sprawling Johannesburg while its hollow core – literally an empty cylinder in the middle – offers a strange, eerie beauty. We highly recommend taking a guided tour here, the local tour guides share poignant stories about the tower’s dramatic evolution, making the visit about more than just architecture.

Ponte Tower
1 Lily Avenue
Berea
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Architect Russell

Soweto Towers

The Soweto Towers are where adventure and culture collide. These repurposed cooling towers, once part of an old power station, now define the skyline of Soweto. Their exteriors are splashed with vibrant murals that celebrate South African culture, making them an amazing backdrop for Instagram shots. But the real action? It’s what happens between them. You can bungee jump, free-fall or zipline for the ultimate thrill. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, the towers are surrounded by vendors selling local food and crafts – grab a bite and enjoy the towers that act as a canvas for local art, telling stories of Soweto’s history.

Soweto Towers
Chris Hani Rd
Klipspruit
Johannesburg
South Africa

Gallery Momo

Gallery Momo is one of Johannesburg’s hidden gems and we’ve always found something exhilarating about it. Located in the heart of Parktown North, this contemporary art space was founded in 2002 by Monna Mokoena, South Africa’s first Black-owned contemporary art gallery. We’re drawn to Gallery Momo’s impressive artist roster, including names like Mary Sibande, whose powerful work explores the intersection of race, class and identity and Ayana V. Jackson, whose photography offers a nuanced exploration of African and diasporic histories.

Gallery Momo
52 7th Ave
Parktown North
Randburg
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Gallery Momo

Maboneng

If you want to experience Johannesburg’s creative side, Maboneng is the place to be. This once-industrial neighbourhood has been transformed into one of Johannesburg’s coolest creative hubs and it’s easy to see why. We loved exploring its graffiti-covered streets, filled with pop-up galleries, rooftop bars and cosy cafés. The buildings here are a mix of old and new, with repurposed warehouses standing side by side with modern architectural gems. It’s not just about the visuals, though. Maboneng buzzes with energy, around every corner there’s some action – we particularly liked the street markets and the live performances scattered around this unique neighbourhood.

Maboneng
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Maboneng Precinct

The Rand Club

The Rand Club, situated in Johannesburg CBD once hosted the city’s elite. Once an exclusive haunt for mining magnates, this historic building now opens its doors to anyone curious enough to peek inside. Its grand interiors – polished wood, gleaming chandeliers and vintage leather armchairs – are a nod to its colonial past, but today, the space is all about inclusivity. But there’s more to The Rand Club than just aesthetics. They host fantastic events, art exhibits and live performances – if you happen to be in town during one of these events, it’s an opportunity to not be missed!