Pontiac Land Group Unveils 'The Lands by Capella'

Sydney, Thursday, 22 May 2025 – Pontiac Land Group announced the official naming of the former Department of Lands building at a naming ceremony with key government representatives, stakeholders and partners today. The heritage-listed icon will now be known as “The Lands by Capella”; a name that pays homage to its storied past while embodying a bold, contemporary vision for the future.

The naming ceremony was attended by representatives from the New South Wales Government including His Excellency Anil Kumar Nayar, Singapore High Commissioner to Australia; The Honourable Stephen Kamper, Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Lands and Property, Multiculturalism, and Sport; The Honourable Jacqueline Amy Munro, Shadow Assistant Minister for the Arts, Innovation, Digital Government and the 24-Hour Economy; Mr. Leon Walker, Chief Executive Officer of Property and Development NSW; Mr Michael Rodrigues, 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, Investment NSW; the Chairman, Directors and senior executives from Pontiac Land Group and Capella Sydney.

“The naming of the Department of Lands building marks a defining moment in the evolution of the Sandstone Precinct as a world-class destination. This landmark transformation of one of Sydney’s most celebrated heritage sites will only further activate and rejuvenate Circular Quay. The Lands by Capella is a stellar example of what can be achieved when public and private sectors work together for outcomes that respect the past while looking boldly to the future.,” said Minister Kamper.

“I am delighted that the Naming Ceremony of The Lands by Capella takes place as we mark the 60th anniversary of Singapore-Australia diplomatic relations this year. The project is another example of the strong and wide-ranging cooperation between partners from Singapore and Australia, underpinned by our two countries’ deep historical ties and rich people-to-people linkages. It also underscores the energy and dynamism in the ever strengthening engagement between Singapore and Sydney in New South Wales,” said Mr Anil Nayar, Singapore High Commissioner to Australia.

The Sandstone Precinct: A New Luxury Precinct

Strategically located at the nexus between Circular Quay, Macquarie and George Streets in one of the city’s most dynamic districts, The Lands by Capella builds upon the success of its neighbour, Capella Sydney as both were designed to be complementary in creating the overall vision. Also developed by the Pontiac Land Group, the hotel spans an entire city block and occupies the historic former Department of Education building. Since its opening in 2023, the hotel has received widespread acclaim, setting a new global benchmark for luxury accommodation, culinary excellence and cultural immersion.

Collectively, the two majestic heritage properties are known as The Sandstone Precinct, a powerful luxury precinct that champions Sydney’s cultural heritage while shaping its modern identity.

The two Sandstone buildings also mark Pontiac Land Group’s first mixed-use development in Australia and is one of the largest privately funded tourism infrastructure projects in NSW.

“The Lands by Capella highlights our continued commitment to creating extraordinary places where history, craft, culture, and local community are honoured. Working in close collaboration with the NSW Government, City of Sydney and First Nations advisors, restoration and conservation works are being meticulously carried out to honour the trust placed in Pontiac Land Group, and showcase our commitment to celebrating Australian heritage, art and culture,” said David Tsang, Chief Executive Officer of Pontiac Land Group.

He added, “The Lands by Capella, together with Capella Sydney, exemplifies our passion for creating inspiring environments that contribute and help shape local communities. The reawakening of Sydney’s cherished Sandstone buildings will not only welcome visitors in for the first time, but also become the common ground for travellers and locals alike to connect.”

The Lands by Capella: A Welcoming House of Light Dedicated to its Community

The Lands by Capella blends heritage architecture with bold innovation, offering approximately 10,000 square metres of experiential luxury retail, refreshing F&B concepts with rooftop dining and large-scale event spaces, all set to serve a community of discerning Sydneysiders

The Lands by Capella is also home to Florence Guild’s newest venture, The Sandstones Club by Florence Guild. This marks the next chapter in Florence Guild’s evolution, expanding its portfolio of ten Work Clubs and a growing collection of hospitality venues, including the acclaimed restaurant Freyja in Melbourne.

Set within the heritage-listed building, The Sandstones Club is designed to inspire a modern renaissance in how we live, work, and connect—uniting thoughtful design, cultural programming, and a like-minded community in pursuit of excellence.

From the opulent ballroom to the next-generation social hub, from restaurants and bars to stunning new luxury retail, The Lands by Capella has been curated to be the refined locale for shared experiences, memorable occasions and vibrant encounters.

“The Lands by Capella presents an opportunity to extend our World's Best Brand award-winning bespoke luxury hospitality to the wider community. Luxury is not just where you stay, but how you live. By curating extraordinary experiences across hospitality and retail, we bring the art of refined living and personalised service into every touchpoint," said Marc von Arnim, General Manager of Capella Sydney.

The Lands by Capella is scheduled to open to the public in Quarter 1, 2026.

To stay updated, visit www.thelandsbycapella.com.. For leasing opportunities and enquiries, please contact capella.lands.leasing@pontiacland.com.