The city of Durban, situated on the Indian Ocean coast of South Africa, is one of the country's largest cities and main ports. A popular tourist destinations thanks to its subtropical climate, Durban might also soon become home to Africa's tallest skyscraper. Indeed, a private developer registered as the Durban Tower Development Company is planning to build a 370-metre tower in the vicinity of the architecturally notable Moses Mabhida Stadium, steps away from Durban's Golden Mile of beachfront.

The Durban Iconic Tower, image via Metropole Architects

The $390 million project, known as the Durban Iconic Tower, will consist of a mixed-use 88-storey building including retail, commercial space, parking, hotels, and residential facilities. Designed by Durban-based Metropole Architects, the edifice will boast what appear to be three curved white strips forming a crown above the tower's last floors. The tower will be anchored by a large V-shaped podium at its base and front along three of the area's main arterial roads.

The Durban Iconic Tower at night, image via Metropole Architects

Currently in the early stages of the planning process, a series of consultations related to the future landmark will be held in the upcoming weeks and months to further engage with the surrounding communities and potential investors, although it was reported that the project is highly supported by local councillors for the economic benefits it might foster in the region. Indeed, the project is expected to create 7,600 jobs, 5,000 of which would be permanent, while bringing several hundred thousand dollars to the city in property taxes. If approved, Africa's future tallest will be constructed within four years, starting sometime in 2017, for a completion date currently scheduled for 2021.

The Durban Iconic Tower and the Durban skyline, image via Metropole Architects

In the meantime, additional images and information about the project can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.