The Bottleworks apartments in Geelong have been named a finalist in the Urban Renewal category of the 2026 UDIA Victoria Awards for Excellence.
The project involved the restoration and conversion of the former Geelong Glass Works factory into seven boutique apartments, retaining an important part of Geelong's industrial history while introducing new housing within an established neighbourhood.
Originally constructed in 1920, the former Glass Works is the oldest surviving glass factory building in Geelong. Located at 135 Fitzroy Street, the heritage building now forms the centrepiece of The Bottleworks, a residential development that has transformed the former Big Shed industrial site into a new neighbourhood.
For Hygge, the opportunity was to retain the character and history of the original factory while finding a new purpose for a building that had been part of South Geelong for more than a century.
Working with Chamberlain Architects & Interiors, the design was guided by the building's original structure. Timber trusses, hardwood columns and other significant heritage features were carefully restored and incorporated into the apartments, creating seven individual homes shaped by the history of the building.
Delivering the project required a specialist approach. Abode Construction undertook an extensive heritage restoration programme, including the reconstruction of the distinctive roof form and restoration of original timber elements, before Fox Building Group completed the residential conversion.
The building's history has also been brought back into view through the recreation of the original Geelong Glass Works rooftop sign, archival photography and a bespoke glass artwork by Melbourne artist Ruth Allen.
The Bottleworks is an example of how thoughtful urban renewal can preserve the character of an existing place while creating new opportunities for housing.
Being named a finalist acknowledges the work and collaboration involved in bringing the former Glass Works back to life. The winners of the 2026 UDIA Victoria Awards for Excellence will be announced in November.