Bags of mixed lollies are now a distant memory at a former Geelong milk bar, which has been transformed into a luxury inner-city home following an award-winning conversion. Developer Bill Votsaris spearheaded the transformation of the prominent heritage building located at the corner of Malop and Swanston streets, rescuing it from years of neglect.
Votsaris is currently seeking a buyer for one of the two premium townhouses within the landmark 1852 bluestone building. According to Jellis Craig Geelong listing agent Marcus Falconer, the $1.8 million property sets a new benchmark for luxury living in Geelong’s city centre.
A Heritage Revived
The building, most recently home to Fan’s Milk Bar, was in “very dire” condition when Votsaris purchased it. His meticulous efforts to restore its original Victorian-era facade have not gone unnoticed, earning the project a 2024 Geelong Heritage Award. The thoughtful integration of original bluestone and red brick details into the interior design pays homage to the building’s storied past.
Falconer emphasized the rarity of such an investment in historical preservation, stating,
“There are not too many people that would invest the money in saving that kind of history.”
The project involved SJB Architects, renowned as one of Victoria’s premier architectural firms, ensuring that the attention to detail and quality of fixtures and fittings are unparalleled in the Geelong market.
Modern Luxury Meets Historical Charm
The townhouse features a private rooftop terrace with an indoor bar and servery, which serves as the crowning glory of the two-bedroom residence. A high-end kitchen, complete with an integrated Liebherr fridge/freezer and Gaggenau induction cooktop, ovens, and a coffee machine, forms the centerpiece of the ground floor’s open-plan living zone.
A private north-facing courtyard offers an alternative outdoor entertainment area, while a wide tandem garage accommodates two cars. Falconer noted that the townhouse offers an attractive alternative for premium apartment buyers seeking easy access to the waterfront, Eastern Gardens, and the CBD.
He added,
“This is one for people that perhaps don’t want to be part of a body corporate and run the risk of big fees. It’s one where everything has been done.”
Implications for Geelong’s Real Estate Market
This development follows a trend of revitalizing historical properties in Geelong, reflecting a broader movement towards preserving architectural heritage while meeting modern living standards. The conversion of the milk bar into a luxury home could inspire similar projects, potentially boosting the value of heritage properties in the area.
Meanwhile, the project highlights Geelong’s evolving real estate landscape, where historical charm and modern luxury coexist. As more developers recognize the potential in preserving historical sites, Geelong could see a rise in property values and increased interest from buyers seeking unique, high-end homes.
As Votsaris continues to seek a buyer for this remarkable townhouse, the project stands as a testament to the potential for blending history with modern luxury, offering a glimpse into the future of urban living in Geelong.
