Designer and Polestar Ambassador David Caon shares his guide to Sydney. From considered design destinations and architectural landmarks to creative neighbourhoods and local haunts, he offers his perspective on the city through a designer’s lens.
To David, Sydney is a city shaped by its natural landscape, distinctive architecture and diverse creative communities. From the harbour and its iconic buildings to the character and energy of its neighbourhoods, the city offers a constant source of inspiration. Hear from David on Saturday, 5 September, at 12pm for The Material Turn within the Sydney Contemporary Talks Program.
What makes Sydney stand out as a cultural destination?
Sydney has more depth than it’s given credit for. Yes, there’s the natural beauty of the harbour, beaches and the iconic landmarks. But there’s also a youthful energy in the outer parts of Sydney that inspires and feeds the art and design scene. This energy inevitably flows back into the more established parts of the city.
Installation view of Billy Bain: By the River at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, featuring Mudjin (family) 2026, artworks © Billy Bain
Installation view of Billy Bain: By the River at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, featuring Mudjin (family) 2026, artworks © Billy BainI always say the Art Gallery of NSW. Walk there from town if you can.
What cultural events or exhibitions coincide with Sydney Contemporary that you recommend?
Sally Dan-Cuthbert has Donna Marcus on until 12 September. White Rabbit in Chippendale is the other one, and it’s free and a short walk from Carriageworks.
Donna Marcus, GABO, Courtesy the artist and Gallery Sally Dan-Cuthbert. Photo: Simon Hewson
Do you have a favourite public art installation or mural in the city? What makes it special?
It’s not public art, but the Reader’s Digest Building in Surry Hills. John James built it in 1967 and it’s a fascinating, sculptural piece of architecture, now being carefully adapted by Design 5 and SJB so the intricate details survive.
Fontana Redfern, courtesy Fontana. Photo: Nic Gossage and Charlotte Koch.
Fontana Redfern, courtesy Fontana. Photo: Nic Gossage and Charlotte Koch.After a day of exploring Sydney Contemporary, where would you go for dinner and drinks?
Dinner at Fontana in Redfern, then Piccolo Bar in Potts Point for a drink. Piccolo has been there forever.
Courtesy Studio Henry Wilson
A hidden gem?
The Studio Henry Wilson store in Paddington. Henry has the most beautiful curation of products; you’ll be sure to take something home.
As a car enthusiast, what’s your favourite drive in Sydney?
The classic runs are up to Wisemans Ferry or down to Wattamolla Beach. I recently drove the Snowy Mountains Highway out of Cooma up through Tumut, which isn’t Sydney, but it was an amazing road with gorgeous views.
Sydney Contemporary returns to Carriageworks from 3 – 6 September.
