Last night, Capella Hotels and Resorts hosted an exclusive opening event, marking a historic moment for Sydney. The black-tie occasion commemorated the transformation of the iconic heritage-listed 1915 Department of Education building into Capella Sydney, a benchmark destination of luxury accommodation, exquisite cuisine and incomparable cultural immersion.
The sweeping red carpet in the heart of Sydney’s Sandstone Precinct was walked by guests including Julie Bishop, Pip Edwards, Justin Hemmes, David Koch, Neil Perry, Edwina McCann, John Symond, Nadia Fairfax and Monika Tu. Beyond the hotel’s historic bronze doors, attendees were welcomed into a dramatically lit Aperture, the hotel’s central gathering space, and the surrounding ground-floor spaces.
In Aperture, guests were treated to dance performances set to the themes of the classical elements – air, earth, water and fire – with choreography inspired by a “living” soundscape from Australian DJ Jono Ma (best known as the producer-writer of Jagwar Ma). As guests moved through each room, the evolving ambience was built upon by musicians, including a pianist, cellist, percussionist and harpist, culminating with a DJ set by Rich Penny.
Earlier in the night, the hotel’s opening on Gadigal land was marked by a smoking ceremony to the sound of the didgeridoo and a performance by the Janawi Dance Clan. Aunty Margret Campbell offered a powerful Welcome to Country before media personality and architecture enthusiast Tim Ross introduced the honourable Clover Moore, Lord Mayor of Sydney, who commended Capella for an impeccable addition to the city’s tourism landscape.
After a seven-year restoration and renovation, Marc von Arnim, Capella Sydney’s General Manager, was elated to host such a momentous occasion. “The opening event was a truly spectacular affair that perfectly showcased the transformative effects of the Capella brand,” von Arnim says. “We are honoured to have welcomed our special guests to this iconic site and to share our vision for Capella Sydney with the world finally.”
From the majestic marble-clad foyer to the glamorous McRae Bar and landmark restaurant Brasserie 1930, the building’s impressive reawakening was a strong focus of the celebration. The attention to detail and commitment to excellence in the craft of hospitality was on full display, showcasing a new standard of luxury in Australia.
Backdropped by the hotel’s breathtaking architectural features, contemporary design aesthetic and curated art collections, guests experienced a snapshot of Capella Sydney’s food and beverage offering. Highlights included an “express” sit-down dinner in Brasserie 1930 with cuisine by The Bentley Group, a signature cocktail menu in McRae Bar and whiskey served from The Living Room – the hotel’s prestige guest-only lounge space.
Beginning with Sydney rock oysters and raw yellowfin tuna with succulents, canapes were served throughout the evening. Guests enjoyed crumpets with crème fraiche and caviar, blue eye cod and scallop toast, and osso buco pie with bush tomato, among other modern classics, served alongside flowing champagne.
With the unveiling of Capella Sydney, Von Arnim says the city has gained a spectacular new destination that combines the best of heritage and contemporary design, World-class accommodation and dining, and transformative guest experiences. “Capella Sydney is an invitation to unlock this vibrant city’s stories, culture and special experiences. We welcome everyone to join us in the revitalised Sandstone Precinct.”
The grand opening of Capella Sydney was managed by Public Relations agency Élysée Collective and created by events agency Rizer.
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