The Judges Awards

07.3 Johannesburg

South Africa's commercial capital has bloomed and boomed since the end of apartheid. The townships show there is a long way to go, but Johannesburg pushes on, shaping itself into a world-class city. Its arts scene is a major draw, led by galleries such as Momo, Goodman and Circa on Jellicoe, the last designed by StudioMAS. South African architects GAPP, MMA and Mashabane Rose Associates have created the landmark Freedom Park, near Pretoria, and in the heart of Jo'burg, the converted warehouse complex Arts on Main is a shining example of urban preservation done well. A true creative hub, its tenants include Bailey Seippel Gallery, publisher David Krut and eaterie Canteen.

New architecture:Soccer City Stadium; Freedom Park

Galleries: Circa on Jellicoe; Goodman Gallery; Gallery Momo

Cultural draws: Braamfontein forms the core of a city centre 'art trail' passing from Newtown to Constitution Hill

Urban developments: Gautrain rail link; Rea Vaya bus system; renovated former industrial complexes in Newtown, such as the Workers' Museum, by Henry Paine + Barry Gould, and Turbine Hall Square

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