Introducing The Forum Hyde Park: Johannesburg’s Newest Premier Luxury Events Venue

The Forum

The Forum proudly announces the opening of The Forum Hyde Park, an elegant new events venue that combines sophistication with versatility in the heart of Hyde Park, Johannesburg. Perched on the seventh floor with sweeping city views, this stylish venue accommodates up to 400 guests, catering to high-end corporate events, luxury private gatherings, exclusive dinners, and grand banquets.

Chosen for its prime location in Hyde Park—a hub known for high-end shopping and convenient parking—the venue’s design is inspired by the lush surrounding trees. The space integrates wood, green accents, and ample natural light to enhance Johannesburg’s scenic views. “We selected a soft, warm, neutral palette with green marble accents to add visual interest without overpowering,” says Philippe van der Merwe, Co-Founder of Tonic Design.

“Our vision was to create a dynamic, indoor-outdoor space that feels intimate but luxurious,” says Glynis Hyslop, Managing Director of The Forum. Her favourite features include the stack-back doors that seamlessly integrate the inside and outside spaces, creating a fluid environment ideal for any occasion. And the beautiful green marble bars on the two levels.

The main area boast intricate plasterwork, a homage to artist Cecil Skotnes, who originally designed a mural for Hyde Park. Crafted by Tonic Design and brought to life by artisan’s Dudley & Sons, this distinctive feature brings a touch of South African artistry to the venue. The space is further enriched by two magnificent pieces by Karel Nel, curator at the Norval Foundation, and sculptures by acclaimed artist Walter Oltman.

Tonic Design was chosen for their clean, modern aesthetic and their ability to capture the venue’s architectural essence. Signature elements include the expansive nine-meter ceiling, large windows, and a beautifully landscaped garden surrounding the reception area, where stack-back windows and doors reveal breath-taking views.

“Our goal was to create an elegant ballroom space with design details that serve as a subtle backdrop for countless future events. The ceiling and frieze design in the main space are focal points we carefully refined. As you move through the venue, volumes open up, and the ceiling details come together to reveal the design story,” adds van der Merwe. “Because of its prominent, elevated position, the ceiling’s design even draws attention from passing motorists.”

This project was one of collaboration and a great team that included contractors Zabicon who pulled off a few miracles in a very tight deadline, Dudley & Son were responsible for taking the ceiling and frieze design and making it even better than imagined, Paul Pamboukian lighting for their lighting design and Tim Steyn was responsible for the  landscaping.

The Forum Hyde Park is set to becoThe Forumme the premier choice for those seeking a sophisticated, versatile venue for unforgettable events in Johannesburg.

www.theforum.co.za