The Lands by Capella is set to open in the first quarter of 2026 and will be located within the historic Department of Lands building near Circular Quay in Sydney’s CBD.
The property is promising a “new destination for exceptional events, world-class hospitality and immersive experiences”.
The Lands by Capella site will feature 10,000 square metres of experiential space, with rooftop dining, premium retail and light-filled venues tailored for events ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale galas.
The new project from Pontiac Land Group will offer a suite of elegant new venues on level two of The Lands by Capella, underpinned by hospitality and services of 192-room counterpart hotel Capella Sydney.
Together, the properties will form The Sandstone Precinct – with The Lands by Capella to have a cultural and events focus – catering to multi-day conferences, business events and weddings.
“The Lands by Capella is an expansion of our commitment to crafting unforgettable experiences,” says Marc von Arnim, general manager, Capella Sydney.
“We are proud to bring this extraordinary building back to life as a beacon for modern luxury, community connection and cultural storytelling in Sydney’s vibrant CBD.
“It is a brilliant evolution of our hotel and event offering at Capella Sydney.”
Design of The Sandstone Precinct is led by architecture firm Hassell in collaboration with heritage architects Purcell, with event spaces tailored to suit the building’s original room configurations to maintain its heritage appeal.
The building’s original elements – including arched windows, black-and-white marble corridors, and timber doors and windows – have been restored and complemented by contemporary insertions.
“We’ve taken a long-underutilised site and reawakened its original grandeur – honouring the exceptional heritage fabric while sensitively layering in contemporary design that sets it up for another century of life,” says Liz Westgarth, managing director, Hassell.
On level two of The Lands by Capella, the five versatile venues will be highlighted by The Capella Ballroom with its high ceilings, arched cedar windows and capacity for up to 250 guests.
The Liberty Ballroom can accommodate up to 120 guests for premium corporate or private events, while the Meeting Suites offer smaller spaces for events – The Explorers Suite accommodates up to 80 guests, and The Botanist Suite and The Surveyors Suite each accommodate 40 guests.
“The Lands by Capella offers event organisers a rare combination of heritage elegance paired with cutting-edge facilities, all set within one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in the country,” says Lyn Lewis-Smith, CEO, Business Events Sydney.
“It will be an unparalleled venue for Sydney’s global events future.”
