In the heart of Johannesburg’s exclusive Steyn City estate, a new chapter in South African luxury has begun with the opening of Steyn City Hotel by Saxon. This exceptional partnership between Steyn City Properties and the renowned Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa represents a fresh era of opulence, sophistication, and homegrown pride, providing guests with an experience that celebrates South Africa’s rich heritage.
“We set out to create an environment that reflects the elegance and warmth of South African hospitality, infused with modern luxury,” says George Cohen, managing director of Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa. “This partnership embodies a shared vision of what hospitality should be – a memorable, personalised experience that highlights our country’s culture and style.” YourLuxury Africa is proud to be the first South African title to exclusively shoot at Steyn City Hotel by Saxon.
After opening in 2015, it quickly earned a place among the world’s top 10 lifestyle estates, according to New World Wealth. Known for its outstanding amenities, Steyn City has multiple dining options, a 45-kilometre floodlit promenade, a 50-metre mountain bike trail, resort-style pools, a lagoon precinct, an equestrian centre, an indoor aquatic centre, fitness facilities, outdoor workout stations, and play nodes for children. There’s also the 18-hole Nicklaus Championship golf course. Combine this with Sandhurst’s Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa –so openly loved by Nelson Mandela, Jay-Z rapped about it in his some Mood 4 Eva with Beyonce, saying ‘At the Saxon, Madiba Suite, like Mandela’ – it has been an innovator in redefining African luxury for 24 years.
An Iconic Partnership
Steyn City Hotel by Saxon, situated in Steyn City’s City Centre, brings together the best of both worlds. The hotel offers 50 elegantly designed apartments, including one- and two-bedroom suites, a three-bedroom penthouse, and a luxurious four-bedroom Presidential Suite. Guests are welcomed by a stylish cocktail bar and reception area on the ground floor, while an exclusive rooftop pool and bar provide an elevated experience. Guests can enjoy all of Steyn City’s amenities, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and recreation.
The hotel itself is a marvel, seamlessly blending contemporary architecture with the natural beauty of Steyn City’s surrounds. The interiors, crafted by Amanda Elliott, co-owner of Design Collective and the hotel’s interior designer, are an inviting fusion of elegance and comfort. “We get our inspiration from our surroundings. The city has got a lot of greenery and plants. Everything’s indigenous and lush, so it grows really well, and it’s evergreen,” she explains, citing nature as the inspiration for the hotel’s green hues.
Amanda’s design approach centres around creating spaces that offer both a retreat from the world and a connection to the South African landscape. “We brought the greens into our design, wallpaper, and artwork selections so it follows a thread through from the outdoors into the indoors, creating a seamless storyline offering guests a sense of home away from home.”
The team behind Steyn City Hotel by Saxon is equally impressive, and each member brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to this new venture. Steven Louw, CEO of Steyn City Properties, is thrilled to see the vision come to life. “This project is more than just a hotel; it’s a testament to our dedication to creating a world-class lifestyle estate,” he explains. “Steyn City is built on the belief that luxury living should be accessible and integrated into nature. This hotel is a seamless extension of that vision, offering guests an experience that’s as enriching as it is exclusive.”
At the operational helm is David Roux, the hotel manager, who has worked for South African luxury train, Rovos Rail, and whose dedication to exceptional service ensures that each guest’s stay is both memorable and seamless. “Whether you’re here for leisure, with access to golf, the beautiful lagoon, or the spa we’ll be opening in April 2025, we cater to everyone,” he says. The hotel’s cohesive and inviting atmosphere is evident to everyone. “Amanda did an outstanding job,” Roux adds. “There’s a sense of harmony throughout the spaces, with a common thread that ties it all together.”
Amanda highlights the thoughtfulness behind each design choice. “We incorporated sculptural elements throughout, like the screens with intricate patterns that create different reflections in the glass, and chandeliers crafted from broken glass that’s softened and then wired together. These accessories bring texture and depth to the space.” She also explains that the design plays with light in dynamic ways. “We wanted elements that transform with the time of day – how they look in the afternoon shifts as evening falls, and when light hits them differently, the patterns change direction. That’s the kind of depth we aim for in our designs; something that goes beyond the initial look.”
Steyn City Hotel by Saxon is more than just a hotel; it’s a celebration of South African culture, artistry, and legacy. “Every part of this project, from manufacturing to fabrics, has been sourced and made locally. We’re committed to creating as small a carbon footprint as possible, and we’re fortunate to have some truly amazing designers and suppliers right here in South Africa,” says Amanda.
Launched in the same year as the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democracy, this collaboration serves as a fitting tribute to the country’s journey and growth. “We’re incredibly proud to be part of this landmark moment,” reflects MD, George. “Our goal is to create a space that mirrors South Africa’s spirit and beauty, a place where guests can experience the best of what our country has to offer.”
From the thoughtfully designed rooms to the carefully curated culinary experiences, Steyn City Hotel by Saxon embodies a perfect blend of luxury and legacy. It’s not merely a place to stay – it’s a destination that reflects the best of South African hospitality and the shared vision of Steyn City and Saxon to bring that to life.
Shoot credits
Photographer: Shaun Mallett
Assistant: Lethabo Machele
Stylist: Kay Kay Ribane
Assistant: Tebogo Ribane
Hair and make-up: Nikkita Naidoo
Models: Margot and Jonathan, Ice Models
Words: Lerato Tshabalala and Ingrid Wood
