Hi, I’m Lin!
I am the owner and founder of the Bella Bottega. My vision is to gather other creative professionals to join me in sharing our skills and passions with others.
The 2 things I love most are creating and people. I am a wife, a mum of 4 and a new Nana. Motherhood has been one of the greatest joys of my life. One of the others has been the opportunity I have had to travel to the Philippines once or twice a year, most years since 2008, where I have been able to share my gift of sewing with women living in poverty to equip them with skills to earn a living.
I have over 30 years of experience in designing and making couture formal and bridal gowns. As a 17 year old, I was fortunate enough to have someone take a chance on me and personally train me as a professional Couturier. Forever grateful for the opportunity I was given, I am passionate about passing on my creative skills to as many people as I can.
About the venue
The building that now houses the Bella Bottega is steeped in Newcastle history. The premises at 738 Hunter Street was built as a hotel in 1878 in a Victorian Italianate style. It operated as the Bellevue Hotel from 1878 until 1994 and is protected by a Heritage listing.
Bellevue Hotel c1905 , showing that the building appeared as two adjoining buildings. Hunter Photobank No. 163 001425
The building underwent a major remodelling and extension in 1935 which accounts for its ground floor Art Deco facade. It was during this time that the 2 buildings were combined to give the appearance of one building.
The Bellevue Hotel in 1959. Hunter Photobank No. 460000023 ->
The Bella Bottega occupies the entire ground floor of the building now known as the Bellevue Apartments. The name Bella Bottega is a nod to the legacy of this historic building. Both Italian words in recognition of its Italianate style. Bella meaning "Beautiful" taken from Bellevue and Bottega meaning "The studio of a master artist, in which aspiring artists, apprentices, or students learn by participating in the work" is a description of our purpose for the space.
Our logo is inspired by the beautiful art deco leadlight windows and exterior tiles. You may be surprized by the clean, milky white interior including lush velvet curtains and white leather lounge. Our air-conditioned space is equipped with several solid work tables with white marble look tops and black legs with brass accents complete with velvet chairs in rich, art deco colours.
Current day - The Bella Bottega