New Website Launch
December 2, 2022
We are excited to launch our new website that encompasses our purpose as an architect practice. We have partnered with Native Design Agency to deliver an immersive website experience.
Office reno updates
December 8, 2022
For those who don't know yet, we are excitingly expanding our office space by renovating the floor above. Its been an interesting few weeks at Starbox as we have "enjoyed" listening to the demolition and new fit-out happening above us.
Here's a little sneak peak of where its currently at in the process. We are already loving all of that natural light flooding in from a few strategically placed skylights.
National Award Winner - Best Use of Glass & Glazing: Residential
December 11, 2022
The Australian Glass and Window Association named "The View" the National Award winner for the best use of glass and glazing 2019.
We are thrilled with the results and congratulations to everyone involved:
Architect: Starbox Architecture
Builder: Beardwood Pty Ltd
Glazier: GP Glass
Curved Glass: Bent and Curved Glass
Best Renovation over $650k - "The Bandit"
December 11, 2022
Masterbuilders Tasmania awarded our project "The Bandit" the best renovation under $650k 2020. Congratulations JPO Building Contractors for mastering excellence in this fantastic renovation.
Glass and Window Award Winner "The Char House"
December 11, 2022
Australian Glass and Window Association awarded “The Char House” project - Best use of glass in windows and doors over $80k. Well done team!
Architect: Starbox Architecture
Builder: Beardwood Pty Ltd
Glazier: GP Glass Tas
"The Beach Shack" was featured in Architecture AU
December 11, 2022
"The Beach Shack" was featured in Architecture AU by Australian Concrete for sustainability highlighting passive solar principles, including the use of an exposed polished concrete floor slab to regulate the internal temperatures and reduce energy costs.
The True Cost of Poorly Designed Spaces
June 3, 2023
Choosing a cheap, pre-designed home may seem like a good idea to save money, but it can actually cost you more in the long run. Here are some overlooked facts about the true cost of poorly designed spaces:
- Poor design can lead to inefficient use of space and energy, resulting in higher utility bills and maintenance costs.
- Cheap materials and construction techniques can reduce the lifespan of a building, leading to more frequent repairs and renovations.
- Pre-designed homes may not meet your specific needs, leading to a lack of functionality, comfort, and resale value. Living in a space that doesn't meet your needs can have a negative impact on your mental and emotional well-being.
- According to ArchiTeam research, after 10 years, the median home price of homeowners who employed an architect was $256,000 higher than those who didn't. Investing in custom-designed spaces can provide significant financial and personal benefits in the long run.
At Starbox Architecture, we prioritise functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics in our design solutions to create spaces that function efficiently, save money, and increase in value over time. Let us help you create a space that meets your unique needs and reflects your personality.
The Architecture Process - Series
June 19, 2023
Check out our socials as we roll out a series breaking down the steps to the Architecture process. We hope you gain insight into what we do and how true custom design is crucial to achieving a functional home. We will include real-life diagrams and examples that you can expect.
Stage 1. Pre-Design
This is the research + information gathering stage presented in a 'Project Return Brief'. This provides a foundational framework from which we develop the concept design. Every project we undertake be it small or large scale will be different. This is due to various factors including the site and its context, the client and the brief. However, the process is always the same. It consists of stages that enable the client and the architect team to analyse and develop each project in detail, maintain order, identify periods for review and create a structured release of design information.
Stage 2. Concept Design
June 19, 2023
The concept design stage deals with the formative ideas: form, scale + mass, appearance of the building within its surroundings + context, and resolving the functional internal + external relationships.
Stage 3. Design Development
July 1, 2023
Stage 4. Development Approval
July 9, 2023
The Architecture Process: Stage 4. Development Application
During this phase we will confirm the statutory authority requirements, attend meetings with relevant authorities, prepare the planning application - including plans, diagrams analysis, studies, reports and other information as well as assist the client with lodging the formal application.
See below for examples of diagrams: pedestrian analysis, use diagram, vehicle access diagram.
Stage 5. Construction Documentation
August 16, 2023
During this phase we will confirm the statutory authority requirements, attend meetings with relevant authorities, prepare the planning application - including plans, diagrams analysis, studies, reports and other information for the submission and assist the client with lodging the formal application.
Stage 6. Contractor Selection
August 16, 2023
This stage includes preparation of the preferred method of tendering and contract selection. It involves calling tenders or negotiating with the preferred contractor, responding to queries during the tender period and evaluating the tenders with a recommendation of a suitable contractor. This is finalised with the arrangement for the siging and execution of the contract documents by both parties. This is finalised with the arranement for the signing and execution or the contract documents by both parties.
Stage 7. Contract Administration
August 16, 2023
Contract administration refers to the task or function of ensuring that a construction contract (between the client + contractor) is executed in accordance with the terms of the contract. During this stage the Architect observes conformity to the building contract documents as well as the quality of the outcome. Obligations include periodic site visits, meetings, responding to 'Requests For Information' (RFI), issuing Architects Instructions (AI), assessing progress claims, issuing progress certificates and assessing variations and claims for adjustments of time.
Stage 8. Hand Over
September 25, 2023
The Architecture Process: Stage 8. Hand over
The final and most eagerly anticipated step in the architecture process is the Hand Over. This momentous occasion marks the culmination of months or even years of meticulous planning, designing, and construction. With great excitement, we gather for a walkthrough celebration, where we will symbolically pass the keys to our valued client. Revealing the realisation of our combined vision, the sense of achievement and satisfaction is palpable. This marks the beginning of a new chapter for our clients, as they step into a space that is beautiful and tailored to their unique needs and desires. The Hand Over is a moment of profound gratification for us as architects. It is a testament to our commitment to excellence and our passion for transforming visions into reality.