The affluent suburb of Houghton boasts some of the oldest and most beautiful homes in Johannesburg.
Historically a home to grand mansions, Houghton now offers luxury townhouses and apartments. Interior designer Natalie Webb and her family have lived in Lower Houghton for two years and they love the convenience of having everything within a 5km radius.
“Lower Houghton is an older established suburb with some homes built in the 1930s. Some of these still retain their original state, while the space and green appeals to me,” says Natalie.
She says that being part of the Lower Houghton Residents Association means she has a sense of extended family and community despite the dividing high walls. “I’m enjoying being part of the association dedicated to the beautification of Houghton and seeing residents who really care about their space and environment – some in their 80s – who make a difference.”
PR executive Melanie Millin-Moore has lived in Houghton with her sister for six years. “What I enjoy most about Houghton is the peace and calm, the green trees, the Jacaranda lined streets and the people.”
Residents love the wide variety of eateries in the area. KCC - La Vie en Rose, which has an outdoor seating area, is popular with locals. Melanie says Tortellino d'Oro at Oaklands Shopping Centre, with its reasonable prices, is a must for lovers of Italian cuisine.
At the weekend, Melanie likes to visit Norwood Mall for some shopping and to stock up on plants for her home. For the most part, she is happy to stay at home on weekends to enjoy the beautiful gardens and the tranquillity of the suburb.
Living in Houghton, I’ve witnessed the most amazing generosity of individuals who fund initiatives privately to ensure our suburb keeps looking good
-Natalie Webb, resident.
Best attractions:
- Check out the Jacarandas in full bloom in October
- Houghton Golf Club
- Munro Drive for spectacular city views
- The Wilds for nature walks
- Virgin Active Old Eds Gym
- Spot resident Spotted Thick-Knees (Dikkop) on 5th Street patrolling the edges of the Killarney country Club
Best in shopping:
- Killarney Mall
- Melrose Arch
- Norwood Mall
- Oaklands Shopping Centre
- Rosebank Mall
Top schools:
- Houghton School
- King Edwards V11 School
- Norwood Primary School
- Rosebank Primary School
- Roedean School
- Sacred Heart College
- St John’s College
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
Take a tour through the Rosebank area in this video:
