Victoria Yards:
Art, Sustainability, Community
Nestled in the heart of Johannesburg’s Lorentzville neighbourhood, Victoria Yards is a blend of creativity, sustainability, and community spirit. This former industrial complex is now a dynamic urban precinct where artists, business owners, and locals unite to share ideas, create, and grow.
Victoria Yards combines history, culture, and new ideas while positively impacting the community. What makes it unique is how it has turned old, abandoned factory buildings into a vibrant space full of creativity and connection. The buildings still show their original raw brick facades and high ceilings, retaining a rugged charm that reminds you of their industrial past. The open spaces between them, now filled with greenery and urban gardens, create a refreshing and welcoming ambience. It’s a place where history and the present meet, where the gritty aesthetic of Johannesburg’s manufacturing history is softened by thoughtful design and a sense of hope. It is hard not to feel inspired by the creativity that seems to spill out of every corner.
Sustainability is at the heart of everything here. The urban gardens aren’t just pretty spaces; they’re working farms that produce fresh vegetables, herbs, and fruits. Local vendors use these and also serve as a teaching tool, showing people how to grow their own food in the city. Rainwater harvesting systems and recycling initiatives are part of everyday life, exemplifying how urban spaces can be functional and environmentally responsible. One initiative that stands out is The People’s Pantry, which provides meals and food supplies to those in need. It’s a simple reminder that sustainability is as much about people as it is about the planet.
Victoria Yards transforms into a bustling hub with the First Sunday Market every first Sunday of the month. The atmosphere is filled with energy and excitement as people from all over come to browse the stalls, enjoy live music, shop for handmade crafts and artisanal goods, and try delicious food and drinks. The sense of community at Victoria Yards is truly special—it’s a place where everyone feels they belong, and every visit adds to something meaningful. It’s the perfect spot to relax on a Sunday, explore one-of-a-kind finds, and meet the people who bring them to life.
The vendors at Victoria Yards are as diverse and creative as the city itself, each bringing their unique talents and stories to the mix. You might stop by the Cheese Capital for some of the best pizzas around or visit Foakes Coffee Roastery for rich, aromatic coffee. Treat yourself to a freshly baked artisanal baguette while you’re there. At Primal Spirits Distillery, they craft ultra-premium gin using sustainably grown hard red wheat that reflects rich, local flavours. If fashion is your passion, peek into Mantsho by Palesa Mokubung, the first African to collaborate with H&M. Her bold designs have earned her a cult following and are crafted with care and precision.
Art is everywhere at Victoria Yards. You might find yourself drawn to the studio of James Delaney, whose work captures the essence of nature and urban spaces, or marvel at the bold oil paintings by Calixte, who captures the world around her in her workshop. Flood House, a bespoke silk screen printing studio, showcases some of the artistry and entrepreneurial innovation that define this space. And if you’re curious about the creative process, many of the artists are happy to chat about their work and share their stories. It’s this openness and accessibility that make Victoria Yards feel less like a commercial space and more like a community.
But what really sets Victoria Yards apart is its commitment to the people of Lorentzville. The WeCare Wellness Community Clinic offers free essential healthcare services, while the Changemaker’s Center provides a safe and inspiring place for children to learn and play. Nonprofit organisations like the Makers Valley Partnership work tirelessly to support skills development and job creation, ensuring that the benefits of this thriving precinct extend far beyond its borders. It’s a place where creativity and commerce meet compassion, where every success story is a shared one.
Visiting Victoria Yards is an unforgettable experience. There’s something amazing about exploring the studios, meeting the people who make it unique, and seeing how art and sustainability can change lives. Whether you’re shopping at the market, enjoying some food, or just soaking in the vibe, it feels like a place where anything is possible. Victoria Yards shows the power of people working together with a shared vision, and it’s a place you don’t want to miss. If you’re ever in Johannesburg, be sure to visit Victoria Yards—you’ll leave with great memories and fresh inspiration.
FAST FACTS & TIPS:
- Victoria Yards hosts daily tours for visitors. Look out for the Discovery tour from 10.00 am – 10:30 am; and the Artisan tour from 10.30 am – 11.00 am. Explore the gardens, meet the artisans and learn the history of the Yards.
- First Sunday Market is on every first Sunday of every month except January. Here, local artisans and food enthusiasts gather to sell their wares.
- In 2024, Victoria Yards was awarded the Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards for 2024 which honours businesses that consistently receive good reviews.
- Victoria Yards also offers its services as a bespoke events venue for weddings, concerts and corporate events.
CONTACT DETAILS:
Call: +27 725207432
Email: [email protected]
