Just south of the northern shopping mall and business districts, this is generally acknowledged as the best small boutique-hotel in town, and apart from its limited, yet trendsetting, footprint, this property is on par with most of the big boys. It is known for its busy restaurant and individually designed suites: Both standouts result in a lot of return guests.
The entrance is far from welcoming, with its residential gate opened by intercom and gravel self-parking lot inside. The hotel and grounds are a different story, thankfully, with manicured grass lawns, young yet slick personnel, an inviting heated pool with waterfall, and the requisite rectangular koi pond. The design is unabashedly angular and modern, with squared
edges and converging rectangles throughout. Fortunately, some strategically placed local sculptures and woodcarvings keep the place from looking like a Los Angeles house from the 1950s.
The award-winning restaurant is far from stuffy, but its 4,500 wines stored in the temperature-controlled, glass-fronted room perched over the grounds could make even the most knowledgeable oenophile dizzy. A revamped menu is the result of a new culinary team setting up in the kitchen preparing light salads, local game and fresh seafood. An adjoining bar contains plenty of light wood, chrome and brushed steel. Breakfast spreads are part of the deal for all guests. Two meeting rooms host 10 and 16 attendees, with ample outdoor space and the dining 
room available for functions.
The 10 suites are the stars here, and most are a strikingly warm departure from the public areas. Each was conceived by a different designer, resulting in 10 suites with 10 very different personalities. In all cases, guests can expect fine fabrics and furniture, quality artwork, local woodwork and a unique sense of style. Think minimalism at its finest with simple artwork adorning the walls in solitude, crisp down bedding surrounded by modern lighting, and plush seating in monotone colors and plain fabrics. Each has a full living room area with guest toilet and fireplace, a spacious bedroom, and a terrace or balcony to enjoy a view of the grounds. Ample windows and skylights bring in natural light. All are equipped with a complimentary minibar, fresh fruit, bottled water, high-speed Internet, TV and CD sound system. The baths feature polished stone floors, separate shower stalls and tubs, upscale toiletries and double vanities.
Extras such as individually wrapped coals for the fireplace (to keep things neat), evening snacks delivered to the rooms and complimentary laundry service are a plus for busy travelers. Considering the spacious suites on offer here, this is a good value for Johannesburg. However, the out-of-the-way location can make transfers within the region rather expensive.