As one of the largest spherical structures in the world, the Northgate Dome is the premier entertainment location in Johannesburg. It functions as a space for music concerts, expos, conventions sports events and is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Johannesburg.
The architectural design pushes the boundaries of structural engineering. Sixty reinforced concrete buttresses provide support for the steel structure of the dome, constructed ring by ring from the buttress columns toward the central apex using a leapfrog system. The large amount of granite rock underneath the site, as well as a diabase dyke in the granite, is used creatively as a natural water feature. The design is flexible in order to cater to the needs of different events.