The Lands by Capella: A New Era of Event Spaces in Sydney

In early 2026, Sydney will welcome a remarkable addition to its event landscape: The Lands by Capella. Nestled within the historic Department of Lands building, this venue promises to redefine the standards of event hosting in the city’s bustling central business district. With a sprawling 10,000 square meters of event space, The Lands by Capella is set to become a premier destination for both local and international gatherings.

A Vision Realized by Pontiac Land Group

Developed by Singapore’s esteemed Pontiac Land Group, The Lands by Capella is part of the larger Sandstone Precinct, which also includes the award-winning Capella Sydney hotel that opened its doors in 2023. This precinct is strategically located between Circular Quay, Macquarie, and George Streets, making it easily accessible and a prime location for events. The synergy between the hotel and the new venue is expected to enhance the overall experience for guests and event organizers alike.

Diverse Event Spaces to Cater to Every Need

The Lands by Capella will feature a variety of event spaces designed to accommodate a range of functions. On Level 2, five distinct event spaces will be available, headlined by the impressive Capella Ballroom, which can host up to 250 guests. For smaller gatherings, the Liberty Ballroom offers a capacity of 120 guests, while three meeting suites—the Botanist Suite and the Surveyors Suite (both accommodating 40 guests each) and the Explorers Suite (80 guests)—provide versatile options for meetings and workshops.

This diverse range of spaces ensures that The Lands by Capella can cater to everything from grand celebrations to intimate meetings, making it an ideal choice for event organizers.

A Harmonious Blend of Heritage and Modern Design

The architectural vision for The Lands by Capella is spearheaded by the renowned firm Hassell, in collaboration with heritage specialists Purcell. The adaptive reuse project aims to preserve the building’s original features, such as its stunning arched windows, elegant marble corridors, and classic timber doors. These historical elements will be thoughtfully integrated with contemporary design, creating a unique atmosphere that honors the building’s past while providing modern amenities.

Hassell’s managing director, Liz Westgarth, expressed the firm’s commitment to revitalizing the site: “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.”

Exceptional Hospitality and Culinary Excellence

Events at The Lands by Capella will be supported by the exceptional hospitality team from Capella Sydney, ensuring that every detail is meticulously attended to. Executive chef Gabriele Taddeucci will lead the culinary offerings, promising a dining experience that complements the venue’s elegant atmosphere. The neighboring Capella Sydney hotel, with its 192 luxurious rooms, will also provide convenient accommodations for overnight guests, enhancing the overall experience for event attendees.

A Unique Offering in the Heart of Sydney

Lyn Lewis-Smith, the former chief executive of Business Events Sydney, highlighted the venue’s unique appeal: “The Lands by Capella offers event organizers 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.” This blend of old-world charm and modern functionality positions The Lands by Capella as a standout choice for a variety of events.

The Sandstones Club and Additional Amenities

In addition to its event spaces, The Lands by Capella will also house The Sandstones Club by Florence Guild, a members-only club that promises to add an exclusive touch to the precinct. Furthermore, the venue will feature retail and dining spaces, creating a vibrant atmosphere that encourages social interaction and engagement among guests.

Conclusion

As The Lands by Capella prepares to open its doors in early 2026, it stands poised to become a cornerstone of Sydney’s event scene. With its rich heritage, modern design, and exceptional hospitality, this venue is set to offer an unparalleled experience for event organizers and attendees alike. The combination of historical significance and contemporary elegance makes The Lands by Capella not just a venue, but a destination in its own right.