A Dazzling Luminary in the Southern Hemisphere: Gilded Past, Golden Present, Radiant Future.
Capella Sydney, the first outpost of the Capella Hotel Group in Sydney, was ushering under the spotlight of luxury hotel unveiling in 2023. After a meticulous seven-year restoration and expansion, coupled with a $225 million investment, Capella Sydney emerged as a new luminary in the world of luxury hotels, instantly standing out from its peers. It has been honored as the No. 3 best city hotel in Australia and New Zealand.
Andre Fu, whom I hold in the highest regard within the realms of architecture and interior design , renovated Capella hotel in Singapore. It was the first time the Capella brand appeared on my radar. It almost instantly hit me that his take on relaxed luxury seamlessly aligns with the ethos of Capella Hotels and Resorts.
Given the pedigree of the Capella hotel, I envisaged Capella Sydney as reinvigorated luxury that is an ode to its local heritage as well as a nod to contemporary design.
Sitting beneath a mesmerizing floral-inspired art installation that blossomed in graceful movement and dance, we savored an array of exquisite Aussie-inspired cakes and treats. Each delicacy was paired with thoughtfully selected tea.
My Encounter with Capella Sydney at its Inception
When my friend, a former architect turned photographer, decided to relocate to Tokyo this February, we longed for the perfect spot for an intimate chat and farewell. By a stroke of serendipity, Capella surfaced as the unrivaled choice. We booked afternoon tea at Aperture, located on the hotel's ground floor, which features a hypnotic kinetic sculpture titled Meadow, suspended from the glass ceiling. Sitting beneath a mesmerizing floral-inspired art installation that blossomed in graceful movement and dance, we savored an array of exquisite Aussie-inspired cakes and treats. Each delicacy was paired with thoughtfully selected tea. We chatted through the entire afternoon.
Aperture, as the latest incarnation, reinvigorates the former Department of Education building by reinstating its once central courtyard as a lush, green sanctuary—the ultimate urban oasis. Surrounded by a cascading seven-meter-high green wall featuring nearly 70 local species of flora, guests are enveloped in a container of serenity, striking a profound architectural moment and spatial experience. The space archives a story, and the memory of that afternoon will never fade yet remains perpetually encapsulated.
My Inaugural Staycation at Capella Sydney
Halfway through this year, I planned my first-ever staycation for emotional decompression and unwinding. I have a strong affinity for hotels tucked away from the central business district, offering an imminent escape from the city's hustle and bustle without being completely off the grid.
Hotels like Gajoen and Okura in Tokyo also adopt t a like-minded approach when choosing their sites. I still enjoy the panorama of skyscrapers and urban sprawl, which fuels my inner desire and adrenaline to aim higher and dream bigger. Apart from that, Capella is just a half-hour train ride from my home, with a neat and streamlined 10-minute packing process. I even managed to make it to my gym session the day after check-out. Here's an added merit : it doesn’t disrupt my routine.
Hence, a big shoutout to staycations that cater to Sydneysiders on a tight schedule yet yearning for a much-needed getaway, as well as international travelers who can enjoy premium transport benefits and close proximity to Sydney's iconic landmarks, like the Sydney Opera House (literally a 5-minute stroll away).
Like any other humble yet discerning hotel lover, I do factor location into my hotel pick-up, but it is never the determining factor. What always strikes a chord with me is the hotel's core essence. It is this core that transcends the physical entity, manifesting in a philosophical form underpinned by unwavering values.
I indulged in an afternoon brimming with historical reminiscence, long-standing arts and traditions, and a palpable sense of intimacy through local storytelling that aroused all my senses
At the heart of the Capella philosophy is our visionary curation of culture and experience, with core value rooted in crafted hospitality
Prior to check-in, Capella culturists attentively addressed my requests and booked a series of tailored internal activities for my stay. Their personalized approach and bespoke service guided me on a journey of discovery with ease, alleviating the usual hint of fluster I feel when venturing into unknown territory.
From an Aboriginal art workshop and a bush food journey to the storytelling-themed Echoes of Eternity in the living room, my experiences were a true testament to the exceptional ability and masterful skill of Capella culturists in curating and delivering cultural programs. This heritage-listed building has retained its mock baroque architecture intact for a century, with reverberations resounding through the historic precinct. Its sandstone silhouette was dressed in soft afternoon sunlight and a golden halo as the polished iron door opened to welcome me for the second time. Magic awaited behind that door.
The lobby and reception area, a soaring double-height space, is a celebration of grand volume and space, adorned with two large-scale statement artworks commissioned from local artist Judy Watson. These pieces set a composed yet revitalized tone for the now high-end hotel. Iterating from its origins as an education department building characterized by utilitarianism and rationalism, Capella Sydney refines its aesthetic into multifaceted layers, crafting experiences that are truly multisensory. A subtle delineation of physical space between the lobby and the adjacent atrium creates a boundless spatial connection, offering visitors a seamless transition and an inviting arrival experience.
I was escorted to a function room featuring herringbone floorboards and contemporary interiors to begin my exploration with an Aboriginal art workshop, followed by a unique bush food experience with locally sourced produce and ingredients. At first glance, the wallpaper patterns and ceiling pendants in the function room conjured up images of André Fu’s product line, André Fu Living, though I couldn’t confirm it.
I indulged in an afternoon brimming with historical reminiscence, long-standing arts and traditions, and a palpable sense of intimacy through local storytelling that aroused all my senses. My heart was touched by the revival of the world’s oldest living culture, while my taste buds were taken on a culinary journey from the origin of ingredients to the final treats. This kind of immersive experience always energizes my mind, sparks new ideas, and fuels future actions. Capella’ s intentional and thoughtful Endeavor to emotionally engaging people in space remain evident, the result is giving people a unique interaction within space.
Elegance Redefined: Inside Capella's Exquisite Room Design and Luxurious Experience
I was then guided by their guest services for a smooth check-in. Throughout my entire stay , every Capella staff member I encountered, from the culturists to the guest services representatives, demonstrated exceptional knowledge and expertise, channeling their energy and passion to set a new benchmark for luxury hospitality. They not only uphold the gold standard of luxury but also embody the quintessential Australian vibe: warm and unpretentious.
The interior of my room features pared-back lines and high-end luxury. Its restrained elegance and understated sophistication exude Capella’s inherent aura of collected composure. The warm ambiance is achieved through a layered approach, with thoughtful artwork embellishments and considered touches, evoking the sense of a serene and poised urban sanctuary.
To deconstruct the design elements and architectural techniques through my lens, first and foremost, praise goes to the diverse array of talents assembled by the Capella group. This includes Make Architects, Bar Studio, stylist Simone, and the meaningfully curated artwork by The Artling. Their collaboration, built on complementary skill sets and a shared design vision, breathes new life into the existing building, where modern glory meets its legacy spirit. It marks the beginning of a new era.
What stands out to me most is their consistent use of black steel and steel-framed glazed screens, windows, and doors throughout the Capella Hotel. They draw inspiration from predecessors and cues from the building’s exterior steel-framed, panelized windows to introduce a language of framed elements within the interiors. This very conscious yet updated design approach pays homage to the original structure while evolving to reflect a modern context and meet contemporary needs. The framing technique, which aligns with my own aesthetic preferences (exhibit A: the black-steel-framed wardrobe in my home, lol), also effectively demarcates the guestroom’s constituent parts, such as the entry, bedroom, and bathroom.
It’s worth taking a moment to gaze into the room’s interior, which exemplifies a classic blend of materials, textures, and lighting. The furnishings and bedding feature sumptuous fabrics and leather, with meticulous attention to detail, such as the leather-clad tissue box. This cohesion and consistency reflect the entire design narrative. The black-steel framing approach introduces an ordered system and intentional boundaries to define the space, grounding the bathroom without its aesthetic descending into dullness or becoming characterless. Instead, it offers a restrained yet sophisticated luxury that radiates timeless beauty and endless inspiration. Whether it’s the double floating vanity flanked by brass-finished sconces or the choice of neutral textured tiles (a material I usually find too cool and crisp), the livable luxury of the space becomes tangible. Its ethos is expressed through a robust visual language with a profound connection to humanity, resulting in an eye-appealing and emotionally soothing experience for me.
Room comfort and convenience hold equal importance in the hotel experience
Zooming out from the interior, room comfort and convenience hold equal importance in the hotel experience, in my view. Beyond the opulent amenities, such as custom Italian Frette linens (side note: the assortment of waters in the minibar was a delightful touch for a water addict like me), the welcome treats, and the carefully curated toiletries boasting premium local organic brands, the list can go on. However, he winner of the night goes to the digital iPad control system for room temperature, lighting, and curtains. Call me nostalgic in every sense, but the right amount of innovation and technology integration in the right places was a true stroke of genius, embodying thoughtful and advanced hospitality service. Personally, I, out of all people, appreciate the effortless and smooth switch on/off function the most. I never enjoyed playing hide and seek as a child, and as an adult, I certainly don’t relish searching for light switches or any other controls in a hotel room. It’s just vexing to have to reactivate my detective radar to locate a light switch, which can sometimes be hidden in truly baffling places before bedtime lol
I also feel compelled to spotlight the custom lighting composition, which is uniquely designed and thoughtfully layered, standing out as a work of art on its own
The Art of Illumination: Capella’s Dazzling Bespoke Lighting Scheme
The commissioned art collection and bespoke lighting scheme take center stage in the illuminating debut of Capella’s Hotel Constellation in the Southern Hemisphere. Capella’s dedication to blending its brand essence with local customization is evident in every design element and decision. They source local design items, commission Australian artists and designers, and curate the most authentic cultural experience with selected local partners and brands.
I also feel compelled to spotlight the custom lighting composition, which is uniquely designed and thoughtfully layered, standing out as a work of art on its own. The low-hanging pendant above my bedside table captivates me with its sculptural form and sleek, textured glass surface. It’s just one simple lighting piece—without being overly opulent or intricate—that elevates the entire interior to achieve a high-end vibe. This ultra-chicness extends to the corridor outside the guest rooms, where I encountered a very André Fu-akin-vibe floor lamp that casts a soft glow and radiates retro flair.
Reminiscent of the Art Deco era, these fixtures complement the black-and-white marble flooring, antique mirrors, and decorative arches that recur in The Living Room, McRae Bar, Brasserie 1930, and Aperture. In these spaces, lighting plays a pivotal role in creating a sophisticated nostalgia and timeless glamour.
the Living Room evoked the ambiance of a salon gathering where ideas flowed freely and joy permeated the air ; McRae Bar, named in commemoration of George McRae, the building's original architect, added a new layer of storytelling to my Capella night ; Aperture at night exudes an inner grandeur
My Footprint at Capella
I was lost in the "Echoes of Eternity" storytelling delivered by Capella’s culturalists in the Living Room. Surrounded by art, a book collection, the aroma of crafted coffee, and an elegant cocktail experience, the Living Room evoked the ambiance of a salon gathering where ideas flowed freely and joy permeated the air. Yet, it also offered a serene retreat for savoring delicacies and embracing old-world charm.
Golden opulence, wrapped in a restrained sense of contemporary ornamentation, shines through at Restaurant 1930, where I enjoyed both dinner and breakfast. The experience there carved out an evocative and emotional dining atmosphere.
McRae Bar, named in commemoration of George McRae, the building's original architect, added a new layer of storytelling to my Capella night. I was mesmerized by the striking lighting installation suspended in the center of the bar ceiling, complemented by an exquisite mural featuring lemon motifs—an intriguing detail shared by the delightful bartender. A pianist nearby later joined our conversation, which centered on the theme of pursuing passions. André Fu, in one of his restaurant projects, shared that ‘I imaged the restaurant as a fictional home with spaces defined as room that would arouse sense and trigger memories. I like to think of the person who would liver here as someone with glamorous , relaxed outlook on life, and the home should reflect this in maximalist style with joyfully clashing patterners, colors, and lavish decorative pieces’. I believe McRae Bar fulfills a similar vision with its aesthetic appeal. Despite my personal attachment to hotel bars—ironically, since I only sporadically indulge in gentle sweet cocktails or mocktails—their legacy and spirit, evolving through the ages, offer a perpetual and aesthetic container for new encounters and old reunions. There’s an aspirational quality to this enduring space, which is why the Orchid Bar at the Okura Hotel, where my friends and I created many memorable moments, remains a treasured part of my memories.
Aperture at night exudes an inner grandeur. I sent a short video to my friend with whom I had afternoon tea there last time, sharing the contrast of day and night, the juxtaposition of darkness and brightness. Suspended from the glass ceiling, the flower sculptures blend seamlessly with their surroundings. This breathtaking artistic addition, woven into the hotel’s already sophisticated interiors, represents the pinnacle of design, especially when the night vista infuses a shred of mystery into its poetic display and otherworldly presence. The sculptures create a symphony of color, light, and movement, embodying the contrasting dynamics of vitality and serenity through their expanding and contracting motions. The presence of this contemporary masterpiece—merging cutting-edge technology with artistic elegance—sitting within a historic building sparks hope for humankind. It demonstrates how we can preserve the essence of the past while embracing the future.
Auriga Spa, its gallery-grade aesthetic and museum-quality curation turn a wellness journey into an artistic multisensory experience
A Celestial Escape: Experiencing a Transcendent Wellness Journey at Auriga Spa
The next day, before checking out, I ticked off the final item on my itinerary: a facial treatment at Auriga Spa. My expectations were high, given its ambitious motto of providing an unparalleled, world-class transformative spa experience. It did not disappoint.
A quintessential spa often features restrained luxury and a discreet atmosphere to evoke intimacy, privacy, and close proximity for restoration and rejuvenation. Auriga Spa, however, surpasses even its own high standards, elevating its luxury to new heights. Its timeless elegance evolves while retaining its inherent spirit. Previous life as an art gallery housed in the Department of Education, Auriga Spa has been transformed into a world-class facility boasting a full range of extravagant amenities in the container of Sydney Capella. Its gallery-grade aesthetic and museum-quality curation turn a wellness journey into an artistic multisensory experience.
From my perspective, its uniqueness peaks in its architectural preservation, restoration, and repurposing. My treatment room, with its vaulted ceiling punctuated by a skylight allowing natural light to filter through, provided a serene environment. My eyes were gently covered to shield me from direct exposure to sunlight, and the entire ritualistic setting reminded me of the stone church in Karuizawa. It was one of those ephemeral moments yet never-fading memories, built into architectural time and space where light and shadow intertwined that afternoon.
The essence of Auriga’s philosophy, inspired by the cycles of nature and the moon, contributes to a uniquely divine experience for me. By aligning with celestial rhythms, an equilibrium of body, mind, and spirit is achieved. My therapist brought genuine care and an empathic touch to a bespoke, holistic approach. I found myself briefly derailed from the roaring engine of societal mechanisms, surrendering to a place where I could unwind and decompress. I was bathing in an ambiance of humility and grace, where I reclaimed my awareness of wellness and self-care practices.
Gilded Past, Golden Present, Radiant Future
I distinctly remember the morning I woke up, walked out of my room for breakfast, and encountered the cleaning lady in the corridor. Her cheerful "good morning" was imbued with a profound joy and energy that instantly lifted my spirits and stayed with me throughout the day. There was an inexplicable sense of hope and vitality beneath the sentiment of her greeting. It stirred a deep feeling within me, longing to possess such energy and the capacity to spread it around.
Michelle, an architect from Make, reflects: "Walking into the now-complete Capella Hotel Sydney is surreal. It was an emotional investment for all of us to achieve an end goal that we’re proud of and that creates a legacy for generations to come."
I am marveled by Capella Sydney’s architectural restoration, timeless design, and innovative approach. Above all, it is the humility that every Capella staff member translates into their service with pride and empathy. A hotel with both substance and soul is destined for a golden present and a radiant future, evolving from its gilded past.
Show Notes
Capella Sydney, the first outpost of the Capella Hotel Group in Sydney, was ushering under the spotlight of luxury hotel unveiling in 2023. After a meticulous seven-year restoration and expansion, coupled with a $225 million investment, Capella Sydney emerged as a new luminary in the world of luxury hotels, instantly standing out from its peers. It has been honored as the No. 3 best city hotel in Australia and New Zealand.
Andre Fu, whom I hold in the highest regard within the realms of architecture and interior design , renovated Capella hotel in Singapore. It was the first time the Capella brand appeared on my radar. It almost instantly hit me that his take on relaxed luxury seamlessly aligns with the ethos of Capella Hotels and Resorts.
Given the pedigree of the Capella hotel, I envisaged Capella Sydney as reinvigorated luxury that is an ode to its local heritage as well as a nod to contemporary design.
My Encounter with Capella Sydney at its Inception
When my friend, a former architect turned photographer, decided to relocate to Tokyo this February, we longed for the perfect spot for an intimate chat and farewell. By a stroke of serendipity, Capella surfaced as the unrivaled choice. We booked afternoon tea at Aperture, located on the hotel's ground floor, which features a hypnotic kinetic sculpture titled Meadow, suspended from the glass ceiling. Sitting beneath a mesmerizing floral-inspired art installation that blossomed in graceful movement and dance, we savored an array of exquisite Aussie-inspired cakes and treats. Each delicacy was paired with thoughtfully selected tea. We chatted through the entire afternoon.
Aperture, as the latest incarnation, reinvigorates the former Department of Education building by reinstating its once central courtyard as a lush, green sanctuary—the ultimate urban oasis. Surrounded by a cascading seven-meter-high green wall featuring nearly 70 local species of flora, guests are enveloped in a container of serenity, striking a profound architectural moment and spatial experience. The space archives a story, and the memory of that afternoon will never fade yet remains perpetually encapsulated.
My Inaugural Staycation at Capella Sydney
Halfway through this year, I planned my first-ever staycation for emotional decompression and unwinding. I have a strong affinity for hotels tucked away from the central business district, offering an imminent escape from the city's hustle and bustle without being completely off the grid. Hotels like Gajoen and Okura in Tokyo also adopt t a like-minded approach when choosing their sites. I still enjoy the panorama of skyscrapers and urban sprawl, which fuels my inner desire and adrenaline to aim higher and dream bigger. Apart from that, Capella is just a half-hour train ride from my home, with a neat and streamlined 10-minute packing process. I even managed to make it to my gym session the day after check-out. Here's an added merit : it doesn’t disrupt my routine.
Hence, a big shoutout to staycations that cater to Sydneysiders on a tight schedule yet yearning for a much-needed getaway, as well as international travelers who can enjoy premium transport benefits and close proximity to Sydney's iconic landmarks, like the Sydney Opera House (literally a 5-minute stroll away).
Like any other humble yet discerning hotel lover, I do factor location into my hotel pick-up, but it is never the determining factor. What always strikes a chord with me is the hotel's core essence. It is this core that transcends the physical entity, manifesting in a philosophical form underpinned by unwavering values.
At the heart of the Capella philosophy is our visionary curation of culture and experience, with core value rooted in crafted hospitality
Prior to check-in, Capella culturists attentively addressed my requests and booked a series of tailored internal activities for my stay. Their personalized approach and bespoke service guided me on a journey of discovery with ease, alleviating the usual hint of fluster I feel when venturing into unknown territory.
From an Aboriginal art workshop and a bush food journey to the storytelling-themed Echoes of Eternity in the living room, my experiences were a true testament to the exceptional ability and masterful skill of Capella culturists in curating and delivering cultural programs. This heritage-listed building has retained its mock baroque architecture intact for a century, with reverberations resounding through the historic precinct. Its sandstone silhouette was dressed in soft afternoon sunlight and a golden halo as the polished iron door opened to welcome me for the second time. Magic awaited behind that door.
The lobby and reception area, a soaring double-height space, is a celebration of grand volume and space, adorned with two large-scale statement artworks commissioned from local artist Judy Watson. These pieces set a composed yet revitalized tone for the now high-end hotel. Iterating from its origins as an education department building characterized by utilitarianism and rationalism, Capella Sydney refines its aesthetic into multifaceted layers, crafting experiences that are truly multisensory. A subtle delineation of physical space between the lobby and the adjacent atrium creates a boundless spatial connection, offering visitors a seamless transition and an inviting arrival experience.
I was escorted to a function room featuring herringbone floorboards and contemporary interiors to begin my exploration with an Aboriginal art workshop, followed by a unique bush food experience with locally sourced produce and ingredients. At first glance, the wallpaper patterns and ceiling pendants in the function room conjured up images of André Fu’s product line, André Fu Living, though I couldn’t confirm it.
I indulged in an afternoon brimming with historical reminiscence, long-standing arts and traditions, and a palpable sense of intimacy through local storytelling that aroused all my senses. My heart was touched by the revival of the world’s oldest living culture, while my taste buds were taken on a culinary journey from the origin of ingredients to the final treats. This kind of immersive experience always energizes my mind, sparks new ideas, and fuels future actions. Capella’ s intentional and thoughtful Endeavor to emotionally engaging people in space remain evident, the result is giving people a unique interaction within space.
Elegance Redefined: Inside Capella's Exquisite Room Design and Luxurious Experience
I was then guided by their guest services for a smooth check-in. Every Capella staff member I encountered, from the culturists to the guest services representatives, demonstrated exceptional knowledge and expertise, channeling their energy and passion to set a new benchmark for luxury hospitality. They not only uphold the gold standard of luxury but also embody the quintessential Australian vibe: warm and unpretentious.
The interior of my room features pared-back lines and high-end luxury. Its restrained elegance and understated sophistication exude Capella’s inherent aura of collected composure. The warm ambiance is achieved through a layered approach, with thoughtful artwork embellishments and considered touches, evoking the sense of a serene and poised urban sanctuary.
To deconstruct the design elements and architectural techniques through my lens, first and foremost, praise goes to the diverse array of talents assembled by the Capella Group. This includes Make Architects, Bar Studio, stylist Simone, and the meaningfully curated artwork by The Artling. Their collaboration, built on complementary skill sets and a shared design vision, breathes new life into the existing building, where modern glory meets its legacy spirit. It marks the beginning of a new era.
What stands out to me most is their consistent use of black steel and steel-framed glazed screens, windows, and doors throughout the Capella Hotel. They draw inspiration from predecessors and cues from the building’s exterior steel-framed, panelized windows to introduce a language of framed elements within the interiors. This very conscious yet updated design approach pays homage to the original structure while evolving to reflect a modern context and meet contemporary needs. The framing technique, which aligns with my own aesthetic preferences (exhibit A: the black-steel-framed wardrobe in my home, lol), also effectively demarcates the guestroom’s constituent parts, such as the entry, bedroom, and bathroom.
It’s worth taking a moment to gaze into the room’s interior, which exemplifies a classic blend of materials, textures, and lighting. The furnishings and bedding feature sumptuous fabrics and leather, with meticulous attention to detail, such as the leather-clad tissue box. This cohesion and consistency reflect the entire design narrative. The black-steel framing approach introduces an ordered system and intentional boundaries to define the space, grounding the bathroom without its aesthetic descending into dullness or becoming characterless. Instead, it offers a restrained yet sophisticated luxury that radiates timeless beauty and endless inspiration. Whether it’s the double floating vanity flanked by brass-finished sconces or the choice of neutral textured tiles (a material I usually find too cool and crisp), the livable luxury of the space becomes tangible. Its ethos is expressed through a robust visual language with a profound connection to humanity, resulting in an eye-appealing and emotionally soothing experience for me.
Zooming out from the interior, room comfort and convenience hold equal importance in the hotel experience, in my view. Beyond the opulent amenities, such as custom Italian Frette linens (side note: the assortment of waters in the minibar was a delightful touch for a water addict like me), the welcome treats, and the carefully curated toiletries boasting premium local organic brands, the list can go on. However, the winner of the night goes to the digital iPad control system for room temperature, lighting, and curtains. Call me nostalgic in every sense, but the right amount of innovation and technology integration in the right places was a true stroke of genius, embodying thoughtful and advanced hospitality service. Personally, I, out of all people, appreciate the effortless and smooth switch on/off function the most. I never enjoyed playing hide and seek as a child, and as an adult, I certainly don’t relish searching for light switches or any other controls in a hotel room. It’s just vexing to have to reactivate my detective radar to locate a light switch, which can sometimes be hidden in truly baffling places before bedtime lol!
The Art of Illumination: Capella’s Dazzling Bespoke Lighting Scheme
The commissioned art collection and bespoke lighting scheme take center stage in the illuminating debut of Capella’s Hotel Constellation in the Southern Hemisphere. Capella’s dedication to blending its brand essence with local customization is evident in every design element and decision. They source local design items, commission Australian artists and designers, and curate the most authentic cultural experience with selected local partners and brands.
I also feel compelled to spotlight the custom lighting composition, which is uniquely designed and thoughtfully layered, standing out as a work of art on its own. The low-hanging pendant above my bedside table captivates me with its sculptural form and sleek, textured glass surface. It’s just one simple lighting piece—without being overly opulent or intricate—that elevates the entire interior to achieve a high-end vibe. This ultra-chicness extends to the corridor outside the guest rooms, where I encountered a very André Fu-akin-vibe floor lamp that casts a soft glow and radiates retro flair.
Reminiscent of the Art Deco era, these fixtures complement the black-and-white marble flooring, antique mirrors, and decorative arches that recur in The Living Room, McRae Bar, Brasserie 1930, and Aperture. In these spaces, lighting plays a pivotal role in creating a sophisticated nostalgia and timeless glamour.
My Footprint at Capella Sydney
I was lost in the "Echoes of Eternity" storytelling delivered by Capella’s culturalists in the Living Room. Surrounded by art, a book collection, the aroma of crafted coffee, and an elegant cocktail experience, the Living Room evoked the ambiance of a salon gathering where ideas flowed freely and joy permeated the air. Yet, it also offered a serene retreat for savoring delicacies and embracing old-world charm.
Golden opulence, wrapped in a restrained sense of contemporary ornamentation, shines through at Restaurant 1930, where I enjoyed both dinner and breakfast. The experience there carved out an evocative and emotional dining atmosphere.
McRae Bar, named in commemoration of George McRae, the building's original architect, added a new layer of storytelling to my Capella night. I was mesmerized by the striking lighting installation suspended in the center of the bar ceiling, complemented by an exquisite mural featuring lemon motifs—an intriguing detail shared by the delightful bartender girl. A pianist sitting next later joined our conversation, which centered on the theme of passion pursuit. André Fu, in one of his restaurant projects, shared that ‘I imaged the restaurant as a fictional home with spaces defined as room that would arouse sense and trigger memories. I like to think of the person who would liver here as someone with glamorous , relaxed outlook on life, and the home should reflect this in maximalist style with joyfully clashing patterners, colors, and lavish decorative pieces’. I believe McRae Bar fulfills a similar vision with its aesthetic appeal. Despite my personal attachment to hotel bars—ironically, since I only sporadically indulge in gentle sweet cocktails or mocktails—their legacy and spirit, evolving through the ages, offer a perpetual and aesthetic container for new encounters and old reunions. There’s an aspirational quality to this enduring space, which is why the Orchid Bar at the Okura Hotel, where my friends and I created many memorable moments, remains a treasured part of my memories.
Aperture at night exudes an inner grandeur. I sent a short video to my friend who I had afternoon tea there last time, sharing the contrast of day and night, the juxtaposition of darkness and brightness. Suspended from the glass ceiling, the flower sculptures blend seamlessly with their surroundings. This breath-taking artistic addition, woven into the hotel’s already sophisticated interiors, represents the pinnacle of design, especially when the night vista infuses a shred of mystery into its poetic display and otherworldly presence. The sculptures create a symphony of color, light, and movement, embodying the contrasting dynamics of vitality and serenity through their expanding and contracting motions. The presence of this contemporary masterpiece—merging cutting-edge technology with artistic elegance—sitting within a historic building sparks hope for humankind. It demonstrates how we can preserve the essence of the past while embracing the future.
A Celestial Escape: Experiencing a Transcendent Wellness Journey at Auriga Spa
The next day, before checking out, I ticked off the final item on my itinerary: a facial treatment at Auriga Spa. My expectations were high, given its ambitious motto of providing an unparalleled, world-class transformative spa experience. It did not disappoint.
A quintessential spa often features restrained luxury and a discreet atmosphere to evoke intimacy, privacy, and close proximity for restoration and rejuvenation. Auriga Spa, however, surpasses even its own high standards, elevating its luxury to new heights. Its timeless elegance evolves while retaining its inherent spirit. Previous life as an art gallery housed in the Department of Education, Auriga Spa has been transformed into a world-class facility boasting a full range of extravagant amenities in the container of Sydney Capella. Its gallery-grade aesthetic and museum-quality curation turn a wellness journey into an artistic multisensory experience.
From my perspective, its uniqueness peaks in its architectural preservation, restoration, and repurposing. My treatment room, with its vaulted ceiling punctuated by a skylight allowing natural light to filter through, provided a serene environment. My eyes were gently covered to shield me from direct exposure to sunlight, and the entire ritualistic setting reminded me of the stone church in Karuizawa. It was one of those ephemeral moments yet never-fading memories, built into architectural time and space where light and shadow intertwined that afternoon.
The essence of Auriga’s philosophy, inspired by the cycles of nature and the moon, contributes to a uniquely divine experience for me. By aligning with celestial rhythms, an equilibrium of body, mind, and spirit is achieved. My therapist brought genuine care and an empathic touch to a bespoke, holistic approach. I found myself briefly derailed from the roaring engine of societal mechanisms, surrendering to a place where I could unwind and decompress. I was bathing in an ambiance of humility and grace, where I reclaimed my awareness of wellness and self-care practices.
Gilded Past, Golden Present, Radiant Future
I distinctly remember the morning I woke up, walked out of my room for breakfast, and encountered the cleaning lady in the corridor. Her cheerful "good morning" was imbued with a profound joy and energy that instantly lifted my spirits and stayed with me throughout the day. There was an inexplicable sense of hope and vitality beneath the sentiment of her greeting. It stirred a deep feeling within me, longing to possess such energy and the capacity to spread it around.
Michelle, an architect from Make, reflects: "Walking into the now-complete Capella Hotel Sydney is surreal. It was an emotional investment for all of us to achieve an end goal that we’re proud of and that creates a legacy for generations to come."
I wholeheartedly feel this goal has been accomplished, as I am marveled by Capella Sydney’s architectural restoration, timeless design, and innovative approach. Above all, it is the humility that every Capella staff member translates into their service with pride and empathy. A hotel with both substance and soul is destined for a golden present and a radiant future, evolving from its gilded past.
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