High levels of crime and poor urban management has resulted in a dire shortcoming of high quality public spaces in Johannesburg. This project explores the capacity of good management and a well designed versatile space to meet the diverse demands of neighborhood inhabitants. A semi-public ‘front garden’ serves the high rise housing block allowing residents a public forecourt. This forecourt is supported by a thick programmed building lobby that comprises a library, clinic and communal kitchen. A raised garden and event space makes for a deep lobby and first floor retail opportunities.