Manners Mansions, Johannesburg

Manners Mansions, constructed between 1937 and 1939, was designed by the architectural firm Emley and Williamson on behalf of the African City Property Trust. It is prominently located at the intersection of Jeppe and Joubert Streets in Johannesburg. This architectural gem, named after Sir George Espec John Manners, boasts 14 stories and is characterized by its distinct design, featuring sweeping curved corners that elegantly embrace the plot's corner. The ground floor was designated for retail and commercial spaces, while the upper floors offered upscale residential apartments. Its design bears resemblance to several buildings constructed in New York City during the same era.

Notably, Manners Mansions shares architectural similarities with the Ansteys Building, as both were crafted by the same architectural firm. The ground floor of Manners Mansions gained recognition for housing high-end shops, adorned with exquisite curved art deco bronze and glass storefronts. Additionally, it features a rounded corner house that served as a popular gathering spot for cigarette and pipe enthusiasts over the years.

Inside, the building boasts a stylish, horseshoe-shaped staircase with intricate mosaic detailing, which was featured in a fashion shoot in 1989. The glazing of the building was carried out by Furman Glass Company, using British glass.