Frequently Asked Questions

Just about any gathering that fits the space and our guidelines. Popular uses include:

• Birthday and anniversary parties

• Graduation celebrations

• Family reunions and gatherings

• Bridal and baby showers

• Receptions and private parties

• Corporate meetings and presentations

• Workshops and classes

• Community and nonprofit events

• Fitness and wellness classes

• Photography and video sessions

• Holiday parties

• Retirement celebrations

• Private dinners and gatherings

Weddings can also be accommodated, but Starr Commons is intentionally designed as a flexible event space rather than a traditional wedding venue.

The main event space is approximately 2,000 square feet, not including the kitchen and restrooms. The appropriate capacity depends on the type of event and the layout you choose. 140 is the Occupancy Limit.

We'll help you determine the best setup for your particular event.

Starr Commons is designed to be flexible, approachable, and useful for more than just one type of event.

The building combines historic character—including original architectural features—with an open space that can be configured for everything from an intimate gathering to a larger celebration, meeting, class, or community event.

Our goal is simple: give you a great space without making you pay for a bunch of things you don't need.

You can check availability and submit an event inquiry through our website. Tell us what you're planning, the date you're considering, the approximate number of guests, and what type of event you're hosting.

We'll get back to you with availability and the appropriate rental options.

It depends on the type of event. Popular dates can fill quickly, particularly on weekends, so we recommend reserving your date as soon as you know when your event will take place.

For weekday meetings, classes, photo sessions, and other shorter events, availability may be much more flexible..

Yes. Starr Commons is intended to accommodate both shorter rentals and longer events.

This makes the space particularly useful for meetings, classes, workshops, photo sessions, showers, small gatherings, and other events that don't require an entire day.

Yes. We welcome conversations about recurring rentals such as weekly classes, fitness or wellness activities, workshops, meetings, clubs, and other community activities.

Recurring bookings may also provide a more convenient arrangement than booking each event individually.

Absolutely! Click here.

Because dates are held specifically for individual renters, cancellation policies are designed to protect both the renter and Starr Commons.

Cancellations made more than 30 days before the event may receive a refund less any processing fees.

Cancellations made within 30 days of the event are non-refundable unless otherwise approved by Starr Commons.

Rescheduling requests are subject to availability.

Your rental includes use of the main Starr Commons event space for the time period specified in your rental agreement, along with access to the included amenities and furnishings.

This includes tables, chairs, kitchen access, restrooms, Wi-Fi, and other available amenities.

Yes. Starr Commons includes a kitchenette area that can be used as part of your event. A 3 Bay Sink, a Refrigerator, a Microwave, and a Small Prep Table are included for your use. No items are to be left in the Refrigerator after your event.

Yes. Starr Commons is intended to give renters flexibility in how they plan their events.

You may bring in your own caterer or food service provider!

Yes. Outside food is permitted, subject to the terms of your rental agreement.

Yes. We encourage you to personalize the space for your event, provided decorations are installed and removed without damaging the historic building.

Some decorations and effects may be permitted, while others may not be appropriate for the building.

Contact us if you're planning to use candles, fog machines, confetti, special lighting, or anything else that may require special approval.

Alcohol is permitted for private events, subject to applicable local laws.

Depending on the type of event and alcohol service involved, a licensed or insured bartender/service provider may be suggested.

Additional Insurance for your event is always a good idea to ensure you are covered in the case of an unfortunate event. Reach out and we can help guide you in securing coverage.

Yes. Starr Commons is ADA compliant and designed to be accessible to guests with mobility needs.

The entry to the building is NOT ADA compliant but we have a mobile ramp available your your use.

Access depends on the rental period you've selected. Your rental time should include enough time for setup and cleanup unless otherwise arranged.

Starr Commons generally requires events to conclude by 10:00 p.m., with the building cleared according to the terms of the rental agreement.

This allows us to maintain a comfortable environment for the building's other guests and neighbors.

If both airbnb units are rented in conjunction with the event space, we remove any time constraints for noise.

At minimum, renters are responsible for leaving the space in the condition specified in the rental agreement. Additional setup or cleanup services may be available depending on the event.

Yes. One of the advantages of Starr Commons is the flexibility to make the event your own.

You can generally choose your own caterer, photographer, decorator, entertainment, and other vendors, subject to Starr Commons requirements.

Absolutely. Starr Commons is also available for photography and video sessions.

The building's historic architecture and distinctive interior provide an interesting backdrop for portraits, commercial photography, content creation, and other photo sessions.

Yes. Starr Commons is well suited for classes, workshops, meetings, wellness activities, small group instruction, and other recurring or one-time programs.

Contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Yes. Starr Commons includes Airbnb accommodations upstairs from the event space.

Availability and booking of the overnight accommodations are handled separately from event-space rentals unless otherwise arranged.