Starbase18 got its origins in 2018 with an Erasmus+ project from the Craft Your Future movement, which had the aim of letting students’ rediscover and re-evaluate (old) crafts and locally available materials by combining them with new technologies and methodologies. After the success of this project, Frank Kroondijk and Janneke Wittebol were excited for the prospect of providing this opportunity to more students who could experience the living lab in an international setting. Thus, began the planning for Starbase18.
SB18 is located in Meios Guarda, Portugal within the Serra da Estrela Mountains. “Quinta Das Novas Estrelas” translates to “The farm of the new (circular) stars”. Therefore, Starbase18 provides a creative space for students to work on circular ideas in the Mountains of the Stars. Furthermore, there are numerous activities to enjoy such as hiking, biking, swimming, and more. SB18 also strives to include the local community by involving them in various projects.
The Starbase property has 5 hectares of land with woodworking, iron, and 3D print workshops, as well as land to be used for gardening and agricultural projects. The property includes student and teacher housing, campsites, kitchens, and classrooms.,