The Lands by Capella: Hassell & Purcell’s Adaptive Reuse Design in Sydney

The Lands by Capella, designed by Hassell with heritage architects Purcell, transforms Sydney’s former Department of Lands building into a vibrant cultural and hospitality destination.

Part of the Capella Sydney hotel precinct, the adaptive reuse project unites five-star accommodation with public life and commercial activity, while conserving the landmark’s sandstone facades and interiors. Set to open in early 2026, the project delivers nearly 10,000 square metres of new amenity — from retail and dining to event spaces — reinforcing the Sandstone Precinct’s reputation as one of the city’s most dynamic cultural districts.

Together with the neighbouring Department of Education building, the project completes the vision for luxury hotel Capella Sydney, bringing hospitality, public life and commercial energy into the heart of the precinct.

Transforming a long-underutilised government office into a dynamic, publicly accessible destination will elevate the Sandstone Precinct’s growing reputation — reinforcing its emergence as one of Sydney’s most vibrant cultural and tourism districts.

Hassell Managing Director Liz Westgarth says the project is a powerful demonstration of how adaptive reuse can shape the future of our cities.

“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,” said Liz.

Hassell’s adaptive reuse design carefully preserves the historic fabric of the site while opening a mix of vibrant new spaces — from luxury experiential retail and elevated food and beverage offerings to rooftop dining and expansive event venues.

The dynamic sandstone facades encircling the building have been carefully conserved, while the prominent domes and tempiettos of the roof have been revitalised with new copper sheeting in a traditional style. The conservation works have been established to preserve the significant visual qualities of The Lands by Capella.

Purcell’s Director Tracey Skovronek says, “Restoring the historic character of The Lands has been a meticulous and rewarding process, one that honours the building’s legacy while securing its future.”

Modern upgrades — such as lifts and bathroom amenities — have been strategically inserted into areas already altered over time, allowing the significant heritage rooms around the perimeter to remain intact in their original configuration. This design strategy preserves each room’s connection to the city and ensures these civic spaces continue to inspire. The result is a remarkable, dynamic destination poised to become a central gathering place for Sydneysiders and visitors alike.

Set to open to the public in early 2026, The Lands by Capella represents the best of what adaptive reuse can offer: cultural continuity, architectural excellence and enduring impact.

More information: thelandsbycapella.com