Ponte City, Africa’s first cylindrical skyscraper, is being sold by Broll Auctions and Sales by private tender.
A focal point of Johannesburg’s skyline for the past 50 years, the 173m tower was Africa’s tallest residential apartment building for 48 years with a storied history from its days as an address for the wealthy.
Designed by architects Mannie Feldman, Manfred Hermer, and Rodney Grosskopff, it is one of South Africa’s most recognisable and photographed buildings that has featured in several movies including District 9 and Resident Evil: The Final Chapter, a Drake music video, art exhibitions, books, and a TV series.
The building is located on the edge of Hillbrow with its unique design and hollow interior having resulted from regulations that stipulated that both kitchens and bathrooms required light and ventilation at a time when City authorities favoured taller, slimmer buildings which allowed sunlight and occupied less space.
“This legendary high-rise building, topped with South Africa’s most desirable outdoor advertising space, has ridden the highs and lows of the property market over the decades as Berea’s fortunes changed, and remains a one-of-a-kind, and once-in-a-lifetime asset which is an integral part of Johannesburg’s skyline,” says Norman Raad, CEO of Broll Auctions and Sales. “Ponte City is the epitome of true urban grit, having weathered the highs and lows of South Africa’s evolving urban and economic landscape.”
Ponte City’s fortune changed in the early 2000s when it was purchased by a property group who refurbished its more than 480 apartments over 54 storeys including a 5-star rated Airbnb penthouse.
“Today the rental-only property, which includes a penthouse, bachelor, studio, one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, has an +80% tenancy and home to people from across the continent who enjoy living safely within its confines,” he says.
The property has 570 secure parking bays and it is zoned ‘Business 1’ with retail stores on the bottom floor offering convenience for tenants and passing traffic.
“This historic building, which has been home to people from all walks of life, is now awaiting an investment group or developer to take it into its next chapter.”
The private tender closes on the 10th of April 2025. For more information, contact Jayson-Lee Collins on 072 112 8186.
