Capella is an iconic mixed-use development in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The project provides 164 apartments, ground floor retail and a substantial contribution to public open space and urban amenity. Developed during the drafting of Randwick City Council’s Kensington DCP and in the early stages of SEPP 65, Capella was a test case for these new design controls. It in turn became an exemplar of Design Excellence for the NSW Premier Bob Carr, who instigated SEPP 65.
A fundamental aspect of the master plan was to reinforce the prominence of the adjoining Doncaster Hotel. The existing hotel, located on an acute corner site, is a local landmark and ‘gateway’ to the Kensington town centre.
The ground plane integrates a new sheltered urban square and residents’ garden. Retail, restaurant and cafe use is accommodated at ground level and links street activity with the new open spaces.