Houghton Estate at a glance

As one of Johannesburg's most wealthy and storied suburbs, Houghton Estate (or Houghton) does not just boast incredible luxury properties, it also features some of the most historically and culturally important buildings in the city.

Once the home to the former president, Nelson Mandela, Houghton Estate is no stranger to the wealthy and famous of South Africa. The suburb is divided into two sections, namely Upper Houghton and Lower Houghton and both are surrounded by other wealthy and upper-class suburbs.

Upper Houghton was declared a National Heritage Area, and it comes as no surprise as the area contains good examples of art deco buildings (particularly some of the flats), and many of the large houses in the 1930s are good examples of the Modern style inspired by the work of Le Corbusier (Chipkin 1993), including Stern House (1935) designed by Rex Distin Martienssen and partners.

The suburb, particularly Lower Houghton, is currently experiencing rapid redevelopment. Although many plots had already been subdivided in two, there is now a trend towards the development of cluster homes. This redevelopment is sanctioned by the City of Johannesburg's Regional Spatial Development Framework.

Houghton Estate is also home to some of the most prestigious schools in Johannesburg, including the King Edwards VII School for Boys which is located just off of Munro Drive. This exquisite school boasts a long cultural and historical heritage and is over 100 years old!

Houghton Estate boasts plenty of lavish upper-class homes and a few tall residential buildings. It is a quiet suburb where people enjoy their idyllic surroundings.

Amenities are easily reached and the suburb also boasts a spectacular golf course boasting large, undulating, and green hills as well as lush foliage.