The Residence

The Residence Overview

You know what caught me off guard about The Residence? I was expecting just another upscale place in Houghton, but this five-star spot actually feels like someone’s incredibly sophisticated home rather than a hotel. Walking up to the property on 4th Avenue, you’re immediately struck by how it sits so quietly among the leafy streets – I mean, Houghton has always been one of Johannesburg’s most elegant suburbs, but this place takes that understated luxury thing to another level.

The moment you step inside, there’s this immediate sense of calm that’s honestly hard to find in Joburg. The staff remembers your name from day one (not in that forced, overly rehearsed way), and the whole place has this wonderful lived-in elegance – think Persian rugs that have stories, art that actually means something, and furniture you’d want in your own home if you had infinite taste and budget. What really impressed me was how they’ve managed to create spaces that feel both grand and intimate. The common areas have these perfect little nooks where you can actually have a conversation without feeling like you’re performing for other guests, and honestly, the attention to detail is pretty remarkable – from the way they fold the newspapers in the morning to how the rooms are serviced (never rushed, never intrusive).

Here’s the thing about staying here – you’re perfectly positioned to explore some of Johannesburg’s best kept secrets without dealing with the chaos of the city center. Houghton itself is this gorgeous tree-lined area where you can actually walk around safely, which, let’s be real, isn’t something you can say about everywhere in Joburg. The nearby Rosebank area is just a short drive away when you want proper shopping or dining, but honestly, you might find yourself just wanting to hang around the hotel more than usual. I spent way more time than I planned just enjoying their gardens and that incredibly peaceful atmosphere. The rooms themselves are spacious in a way that modern hotels rarely manage – actual closets, windows that open properly, and bathrooms where you don’t bump your elbows on everything. And here’s something practical nobody mentions enough: the parking situation is completely sorted, which anyone who’s driven in Johannesburg will tell you is worth its weight in gold.

The Residence Accommodations

Reviews of The Residence

• A must in Joburg – Erika from Italy – August 23, 2025 (10/10)

  Our second time here and the Residence never disappoint us. we love the elegant style of the hotel and the rooms are big and well appointed. The staff is Kind and professional. The food is amazing we appreciate our dinner with the pianist , so special !

• A perfect stay – Rebecca from United Kingdom – August 18, 2025 (10/10)

  Everything was absolutely perfect – the staff were really helpful, food was great, the room was one of the best we stayed in during our trip to South Africa and the hotel has a great vibe.

• Exceptional – Chetty from United Arab Emirates – July 24, 2025 (10/10)

  Breakfast was great. Our pool villa was amazing. Standalone and very private with fireplace, ideal for winter. Staff is very friendly. When we arrived we were met at our vehicle and escorted straight to our room. No wait time at check in.

• Beautiful place, friendly service & most COMFORTABLE bed…fireplace bonus ! – Hettie from South Africa – June 28, 2025 (10/10)

  friendly staff. beautiful stay, delicious breakfast. Most of all – the bed was so comfortable, best nights sleep we've had in a long time !
  
  What could be improved: something small. we have a guesthouse, know the problem with make up on linen. our fitted sheet had some mascara marks on. The towels should either be kept same "time used" and not mixed. white often shows different stages when linen was rotated to replace.

• Great stay, 10/10. – Ian from Kenya – June 21, 2025 (10/10)

  Lovely property. Located in very good and safe area. The property looks amazing, if you love photos this is your place. Nice warm pool villa, we visited during winter but the villa had very good heating, this really helped. Great food and Very friendly staff as well.
  
  What could be improved: We loved everything about the property.

• Good could be great if they fix above – Joshua from South Africa – June 16, 2025 (10/10)

  Quality furniture only issue is the advert says you can use iPod/speakers in the room but you cannot
  
  What could be improved: only issue is the advert says you can use iPod/speakers in the room but you cannot. WiFi in rooms is poor, not all TVs can connect

• Absolutely amazing hidden gem – Natasha from United States – May 22, 2025 (10/10)

  The staff are EXCELLENT! Food was delicious!
  
  What could be improved: Everything was perfect!

• Exceptional – Rae from United States – April 19, 2025 (10/10)

  This is one of the most underrated stays in Johannesburg. Saying the facilities are beautiful is an understatement. The staff are friendly and kind. I wish I stayed longer, I would come back just for an extended stay here.

• A welcoming sanctuary in Johannesburg – super comfortable accommodation, fantastic dinner and wonderful staff! – Emma from Australia – April 13, 2025 (9/10)

  Fantastic, welcoming and comfortable property – old world charm with modern amenities. Staff were very engaging and we felt very relaxed. Unfortunately we were only there one night – but we enjoyed everything from airport pick-up, check in, delicious dinner and great breakfast selection to the transfer back to the airport. A special mention for the fire pit – a lovely place to sit and relax. Also beautiful big tub in the bathroom, and super comfy beds.
  Thanks to The Residence for a great experience, definitely keen to come back for a longer stay.
  
  What could be improved: Nil

• Classy and stylish. Ample luxury in room and around property, food disapponted – Frederick from South Africa – April 8, 2025 (8/10)

  Very stylish, suite very large and a wonderful outside jacuzzi in a large and lush garden. Luxury for sure. Waiting staff and food comes up short. Temperature wrong, repeatedly sending food back. Insanely and unnecessarily expensive (even when spending in USD). Boma round fire at night is a nice touch.

Surroundings

Facilities