The DNA: The Capella Sydney occupies a grand, heritage-listed sandstone building – once home to the government departments of education (built in 1912) and agriculture (added in 1938) – and its design has been spearheaded by architecture studio Make, which incorporated a five-floor extension from the original roof, slightly set back, making it less visible from the street below. The design itself makes the most of the building’s existing features, such as the majestic marble-clad entrance, while celebrating contemporary Australia with modern details.

Seen: Wallpaper*

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 192 rooms, including 34 suites (46-235m2) (495-2,530 sq ft) • hotel opened: March 2023 • architecture: make • bathroom amenities: Haeckels • parking possible nearby (charged) • no pets allowed • 24-hour front desk • wheelchair accessible