Founded by a group of creatives, Capybara Bathing is a wellness sanctuary in the heart of Surry Hills. It’s an inclusive space to slow down and counter the rush of daily life.
We caught up with co-founders Natalie Cheung and Rebecca Qin to discuss the creation and vision for the space—bringing together diverse bathing cultures with the playful spirit of the capybara.
Photography by Declan Blackall and portrait by Jes Lindsay.
What inspired your vision for Capybara?
Having experienced the bathhouse culture in various countries around the world, we wanted to bring this tradition to Sydney, which we felt was missing. Our vision was to create a community-focused space in the heart of the city, where like-minded individuals could slow down and prioritise self-care.
We personally love the feeling of eager anticipation when entering a bathhouse anywhere we visit, and the refreshed, renewed feeling that follows afterward. Our goal was to bring to life a space that we ourselves wouldlove to experience.
"With most of our founders having a background in design, we drew upon our collective expertise in architectural expression and spatial experiences. The lounge and mineral bath served as the primary "gathering" spaces, while the steam room, sauna, and bathroom pods were thoughtfully nestled around them."
How did you choose objects and products for the space?
One of our core values was to enrich our space through collaborations with local friends, bringing beautiful offerings that elevate the experience. This included bespoke ceramic basins, sculptures, and functional wares from Project Snail; artwork from various Australian artists; handmade staff garments from Shhorn; and a selection of natural, luxurious cleansing products from LEIF.
How does the use of colour enhance the overall atmosphere?
The materiality and colour palette were designed to be warm and inviting, creating a cohesive language throughout the bathhouse. The main areas are bathed in soft natural tones, while each individual facility deepens into rich earthy hues as you enter, cocooning the body and enhancing the sensory experience.
What do you hope visitors feel when they visit Capybara?
We truly hope that our guests feel the care and attention to detail that every member of our team and collaborators are placing into our space. Whether it's the soothing first soak in a warm mineral bath after a long day or the invigorating dip in the ice plunge in the morning, we aim to share these moments of renewal and refreshment with our patrons.
Do you have a favourite space within the bathhouse?
Our favourite space is the reception. It's where we greet our guests and, of course, where we get to see their relaxed faces as they leave. While of course the rest of our bathhouse needs to have privacy, the reception has a connection to the street and community, with a lovely quality of light at the right time of day. But, naturally, the mineral bath holds a special place too—it's truly the heart of our bathhouse.
1. What are you currently listening to?
LANY seems to always have the right track to close out the day as we wind down the bathhouse.
2. What colour are you currently drawn to and why?
For me - blue. There’s something special about that colour.
3. What gets you out of bed every morning?
My cat - she thumps me on the head for her breakfast.
4. Items you just can't live without?
My perfume - it’s a scent that is nostalgic for me.
5. Favourite bathhouse you have visited in the world?
Therme Vals in Switzerland - it’s the architecture and the way it feels removed from the world.
Learn more about Capybara and make a booking here.
