Hassell celebrates Capella milestone
Published
The Lands by Capella has had its official naming ceremony, marking the next chapter in the transformation of one of Sydney’s most revered heritage buildings.
International design studio Hassell has celebrated the official naming of The Lands by Capella at a recent naming ceremony hosted by developer, Pontiac Land Group. The event was attended by government representatives and key stakeholders, establishing the building as a cornerstone of Sydney’s visionary new Sandstone Precinct.
Designed by Hassell – in collaboration with Heritage Architects Purcell, who provided heritage conservation guidance on the interiors – The Lands by Capella reimagines the former Department of Lands building as a vibrant, contemporary destination. The project aims at a seamless blend of heritage architecture and forward-thinking design. Together with the neighbouring Department of Education building, it will complete the vision for Capella Sydney, uniting luxury hospitality with dynamic public life and commercial energy.
Related: Capella Sydney by Make Architects
“We’ve taken a long-underutilised site and reawakened its grandeur – honouring the original architecture while sensitively layering in contemporary design that sets it up for another century of life,” says Hassell Managing Director, Liz Westgarth.
Hassell’s adaptive reuse design preserves the historic fabric of the site while unlocking nearly 10,000 square metres of vibrant new amenity – from luxury experiential retail and elevated food and beverage offerings to rooftop dining and expansive event spaces. The result, according to the designers, is set to be a remarkable, dynamic destination and central gathering place for Sydneysiders and visitors alike.
The Lands by Capella is expected to open to the public in early 2026.
Hassell
hassellstudio.com
Related Articles
Events
One city, four precincts: Saturday Indesign 2026 is almost here
With more than 35 showroom locations, 40-plus exhibitors and a city-wide program of talks, installations, workshops and launches, Saturday Indesign returns to Sydney in September with participation firmly at the centre of the day.
Events
Getting hands-on with Savage Design’s Ministry of Metals
Ahead of Saturday Indesign, Savage Design put its new Ministry of Metals experience through a test run, turning material education into something tactile, practical and genuinely interactive.
Events
A rollicking good story with Richards Stanisich and Royal Oak Floors
Jonathan Richards and Kirsten Stanisich discussed practice, design process and the business of running a studio at a live audience event hosted by Royal Oak Floors in Sydney.
Events
Indesign x Wilkhahn: Melbourne, where are you working?
Our latest collaboration saw a range of designers come together at Wilkhahn’s Melbourne showroom for a discussion on the workplace dynamics specific to the Victorian capital.