Not your usual shiny-façade hotel, you’ll find the Capella in the middle of the financial district, in a lovingly renovated sandstone building reminiscent of a New York brownstone. It’s located a short walk from the harbor and the transport hubs, which take you by road, rail, and water to wherever you want in the city.
This place is all about nuance and subtlety. When you book, you’ll receive a call from one of their “Culturalists,” who will briefly quiz you about your interests—the arts, rock’n’roll, vintage shopping, theater—and prepare a suggested program of activities. Most rooms have views of the surrounding skyscrapers, and some have partial views of the harbor. Still, you’ll be looking inwards at the thoughtful interiors celebrating Australia’s natural resources—wood, rock, and wool—offset by midcentury touches such as Sputnik light fittings and bouclé chairs.
Brasserie 1930 is a two-Hat establishment (the slightly more “call a spade a spade” Aussie take on Michelin stars), and also serves breakfast amongst its polished checkerboard tiles and Art Deco flourishes. Be sure to also sip an evening cocktail at the bar, McRae’s, honoring the building’s original architect, George McRae.
