In Sydney, a wool store, a Baptist church and a hospital staff building have been transformed into stunning travel venues for the public to enjoy

The Woolstore 1888 by Ovolo

Past life
As you can guess, this space used to house Sydney’s oldest wool store.

What it is now
The Woolstore 1888 by Ovolo underwent a AUD30 million facelift opening in 2013. The team behind the redevelopment was careful to keep the building’s history front and centre. A stone's throw from Darling Harbour, the luxury hotel has features like carefully restored ironbark beams, pillars, period windows and exposed brick walls that are juxtaposed with striking Australian pop art and colourful furniture. The result is a space where guests linger to enjoy the Ovolo Hotels' unique touches in a place that celebrates its heritage roots. ovolohotels.com

Eternity Playhouse

Past life
For over 100 years, Burton Street Tabernacle was a landmark Baptist church, with beginnings stretching back to 1887. Former soldier Arthur Stace was inspired to start chalking the word “Eternity” on the streets of Sydney after attending church here.

What it is now
The church fell into disrepair soon after its closing in 1996 but was acquired by the City of Sydney in 2004 and later transformed into a theatre and creative arts centre. Named Eternity Playhouse as a tribute to Stace and his calligraphic “Eternity”, the community hub opened in 2013. The AUD7.9 million refurbishment was a major undertaking, with restoration works concentrated on highlighting the heritage building’s features.

With 200 seats at full capacity, and the facility to transform into an intimate 48-seat cabaret space that hosts a range of music and comedy shows such as fan-favourite event Thirsty Thursdays. darlinghursttheatre.com

The Joynton Avenue Creative Centre

Past life
The Esme Cahill building was part of South Sydney Hospital and housed the nurses’ accommodation block.

What it is now
The Joynton Avenue Creative Centre now houses artists’ workspaces, galleries and start-ups, and supports creative endeavours through events and interactive activities like jewellery-making. Much of the original building has been left intact as part of the refurbishment, such as the roof, brickwork, joinery, floors, plastered walls and ceilings. A stunning arched canopy constructed from seven flat arches – part of the original façade – elevate the look. 107.org.au/ joynton