EVT has unveiled the latest hotel in its fast-growing Independent Collection with the official reopening of The Capitol Hotel in Sydney’s bustling inner-city suburb of Haymarket.

The heritage building, which was closed for two years, quietly reopened in March 2023 following an extensive refurbishment of all guest rooms and public spaces.

Following its soft launch, The Capitol Hotel, General Manager Brad Worker and his team have improved and refined the offering over the last six months before proudly unveiling the new look to media this week.

The 95-room hotel features 11 accommodation styles, catering to a wide variety of guests, from solo travellers to groups of friends and families, eager to take advantage of its prime location next to the iconic Capitol Theatre and a short walk from Chinatown, Paddy’s Market, Darling Harbour and Central Station.

The hotel’s carefully considered design choices – including the team uniform complete with red suspenders – reflect the fun and quirks of the heritage-listed atmospheric theatre on its doorstep as well as the hotel building’s unique history as a circus and a hippodrome.

Head designer Andrea D’Cruz incorporated curved mirrors and arched wallpaper, a large curtain feature on the ground floor, evoking memories of the theatre, directional carpet and bespoke furniture and décor including pillowcases inspired by well-known musicals.

On each level, one of four carefully selected colours – teal, gold, sage, and red – take centre stage, complemented by matching art, providing a constantly changing but connected visual experience.

The owner’s touch is felt throughout in their selection of eye-catching artworks adorning the walls.

“The owner wanted to bring that theatre and entertainment aspects right the way through and have a little bit of a quirk at every corner,” Worker told HM.

“We have a lot of guests that have come to see the theatre shows – many coming in from rural areas for the weekend – and midweek we are seeing a lot of interstate visitors, whether for work or a getaway.”

Technology is a key feature throughout the guest experience with pre-arrival check-in available the day prior, meaning a quick scan of a QR code is all that is needed to produce a room key.

Sleek self-service check-in kiosks are positioned in the reception area with friendly staff on hand to welcome guests and assist with the process.

“The kiosks have been really well received since we’ve had them in operation and the feedback has been fantastic,” said Worker.

“In the rooms, we’ve moved away from phones and introduced the Intelity tablet, which allows guests to chat with the team at the desk and request anything they need. We will also roll out room service and minibar service through the tablet down the track.

“All of our TVs offer streaming which can be set up via a QR code on the screen, so guests can watch whatever they like from their device.”

EVT’s Culinary Director Adam Petta has guided the hotel’s food and beverage offering, The Capitol Kitchen and Bar, which is located on the lobby level.

Catering to in-house guests to start, the modern Australian menu offers causal pre-theatre dining as well as a generous continental breakfast.

“The Capitol Hotel’s remarkable transformation embraces its rich history whilst offering a boutique guest experience,” Worker said.

“From the playful and engaging design elements that immerse guests in a theatrical adventure, to The Capitol Kitchen and Bar boasting a contemporary, delicious menu, this is Sydney’s hidden gem.

“We look forward to welcoming guests as they embark on a night in the spotlight, enjoy our comfortable rooms and lose themselves in the views across vibrant Haymarket.”