It's hip, it's smack-bang central in Gauteng's jazzy Melrose Arch, and it's where our urban trendsetters blend their work and play. This is the super-chic #1 Melrose Boulevard.

 The Melrose Arch precinct is a contemporary urban fusion-point for business space, residential pads and doorstep-recreation. The 30 000 square metre Melrose Arch development centres around a lively piazza of eateries, entertainments and select shopping spots, where leisure-living and business proceed seamlessly in a vibey, largely outdoor, atmosphere. Johannesburg, of course, generally has great weather for this.

 #1 Melrose Boulevard occupies the third level of a trendy complex just opposite the piazza.  With carefully restricted and monitored access, it feels absolutely secure.  And very private.

  The one- and two-bedroomed apartments are huge and enticing, with all the mod cons you could possibly wish for. Amply-equipped kitchens, super-comfy lounges with 42-inch plasma-screen television and couches you can really lounge on, along with wonderfully roomy bathrooms create an ultra-comfy living space and home-away-from-home. Cupboard space in the bedrooms is incredibly generous and definitely exceeds the usual. Furnished outdoor patios come with superb barbeque facilities, offering the added benefit of in-apartment entertaining. The penthouse is the cherry on the top, with its own swimming pool and dazzling views of the city.

 In short, one could happily reside in any of these apartments almost indefinitely. They are fully serviced by staff who are extremely helpful and obliging.

 So when you're next up in Gauteng, whether it's for work, a little bit of highlife, or both, book a stay in one of these chic urban sanctuaries. Eat in - doing your own thing - or out, at any number of restaurants just across the street. Moyo is one of the current favourites, luring diners to its large menu, authentic live African instrumentals and it's lively outdoor terrace.