A Waterford City and County Council project to bring a long-vacant property at 29 The Glen back into use has been shortlisted for Retrofitting / Renovation Project of the Year at the Irish Building & Design Awards 2026.

The category recognises exemplary retrofitting or renovation that transforms existing buildings through innovation, sustainability and quality craftsmanship. It highlights projects that improve performance, extend a building’s lifespan and revitalise older properties.

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Identified as a key opportunity to deliver sustainable social housing in the city centre, the scheme created four high-quality one-bedroom apartments. Construction began in January 2024 and finished in October 2024.

The first allocations were made in January 2025 and the building is now fully occupied. All units have been allocated to applicants on Waterford City and County Council’s social housing list, supporting residential amenity in the area.

The development provides accessible, safe homes suited to tenants’ needs and strengthens links with the wider community. The revitalisation of vacant city-centre properties is also associated with reduced isolation and improved health and wellbeing for residents.

Winners of IBDA 2026 will be revealed at a gala dinner in Dublin on 13 March 2026.