Brought to you by Venue Thirteen

Rooftops offer views, views, and more views. So if you’re not getting magnificent glimpses of dramatic city skylines and a breathtaking sunset view, you’re not getting your money’s worth. Ideally, you’re looking for wraparound glass, or better yet, an open-air space. Whether you’re looking for a spot for your dream urban wedding, or a corporate year-end function, a rooftop venue with sweeping city views can’t be beaten. So, how to choose the perfect location? Bear in mind the following criteria:

• • Consider whether the rooftop venue caters for all weather conditions. If it has no cover, that leaves you vulnerable to the elements like rain and harsh sunshine. A rooftop space with a Bedouin tent or other removable cover is ideal.

The use of the Bedoin tent at Venue Thirteen. Photo supplied.

• • Remember that once you’ve booked the venue, you’ll need to arrange sound, lighting, food, drinks, décor, DJs and more! If the venue has a list of preferred suppliers, that’s a real win, as you can be assured everything will run smoothly thanks to a team that knows the ropes.

• • Think about practical necessities: is there a full kitchen facility for the catering? Are there guest toilets? Is there an elevator to the rooftop for guests who may be less mobile?

The perfect rooftop is difficult to find but so worth it. Photo supplied.

• • Also think about parking. Although many guests may choose to use Uber or other taxi services, it’s best if you’re able to offer a safe, conveniently located parking area for those who will be arriving in their own vehicles.

• • Consider the area that the venue is in. If you want a hip, edgy, urban feel, it’s best to find a venue located in a precinct that matches the ambience you’re going for.

Venue Thirteen’s spacious interiors allow for maximum creativity. Photo supplied.

• • Staffing is also a factor. If your hire fee includes a security guard, cleaning staff and a venue manager, it will save you lots of hassle.

• • Consider the hours you’ll have access to the venue. If the venue has noise restrictions and your party is going to be forced to leave by 11pm, that’s really no party at all. Opt for a venue that has a 2am shut-off time so you can have the option of extending the party into the early hours.

But does such a place exist? It does! Venue Thirteen ticks all the boxes – and more. It’s Joburg’s answer to chic, urban events, and it occupies a vast 385m2 space over two floors (the top floor of 73 Juta Street and the open-air rooftop space). It’s also able to host a cocktail party for up to 300 people. With beautiful wooden flooring and a long bar counter, the versatile indoor space can be transformed to suit any theme.

The view from Venue Thirteen. Photo supplied.

And those breathtaking views are definitely included, featuring the Nelson Mandela bridge and other Jozi landmarks, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glass walls. Up above, an expansive Bedouin tent can be extended over the rooftop, or taken down to gaze at the clear night sky. You’ll get to admire twinkling stars above as well as the twinkling lights of the city below.

Great planning makes for an unforgettable rooftop party. Photo supplied.

What’s more, the venue hire includes the use of a simple, portable sound system and a full kitchen on site. Also included is a venue manager, an experienced bar services company and great barmen. Situated in the heart of the city’s inspirational, aspirational and downright hip Juta Street precinct, Venue Thirteen is the ideal venue for parties, product launches, weddings, corporate functions and any other event you can think of.

For more information, or to make a booking, contact Mandy on bookings@thirteen.joburg or call 0824015117. Also go to their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.