[1][2] The venue was initiated by the City of Sydney and was specifically designed for solo recitals, chamber music and the spoken word.

The spoken word and amplified music are accommodated by the operation of specially designed acoustic banners.

The entire auditorium is supported on rubber bearings to avoid vibration and street sounds and the air conditioning and lighting systems have been treated to minimise external noise.

[3] In addition, the venue's audio system has been upgraded to enable 360-degree spatial sound on all three levels, with the aim of further establishing a place in Sydney's contemporary music scene to complement classical offerings.

[4][5] Since June 2023[update], partially as a result of renovations, City Recital Hall began offering standing general admission concerts.