Our Story

A legacy to remember

IN GRATEFUL MEMORY of THE LATE GEORGE HENRY & ANNIE STARCK

The George and Annie Starck Homes is a registered welfare organization founded in 1967, conceived from the heartfelt wish of benefactor George Henry Starck, who passed away in 1958.

The centrepiece of our community is the manor house “Oosterzee,” originally the Starck family home, situated on the slopes of Tygerberg in Bellville. This property is now the vibrant focal point of all Starck Homes’ activities.

Our Founders and Legacy

George Henry Starck’s story is one of resilience and visionary generosity. Born in London in 1882, he arrived in Cape Town in 1902 with little more than determination to build a successful future.


Initially selling handmade furniture, he endured hardship and slept under his workbench until he spotted a job opportunity at Newlands station—an event that became a turning point in his life.

In 1911, bolstered by the support of a gracious benefactor, he founded G H Starck Ltd, which grew into the largest furniture manufacturer in South Africa, possibly even in the Southern Hemisphere. His commitment to innovation, ethical business, and leadership earned him multiple directorships and honorary roles, including chairmanships and a wartime administrative position, pro bono, for which he was widely respected.

His wife, Annie Starck (née Oram), was his steadfast partner, warm, compassionate, and deeply valued for her moral integrity.

Together, the Starcks bequeathed their beloved family home and estate to benefit elderly citizens, setting the foundation for what would become the George and Annie Starck Homes.

Our Origins and Growth

  • 1967: Official establishment of the welfare organisation and opening of the homes on the Starck estate.

  • [Needs to be updated] The Homes now comprise 10 supervised communal houses, each accommodating 10 residents, alongside a separate healthcare facility for 52 residents.

  • The beautiful gardens and peaceful surroundings are testament to the Starcks’ original vision.

Vision & Mission

Vision:
“To create a homely, family-oriented environment in which our residents can live life to the fullest. Here at The George and Annie Starck Homes it is not about the quantity of life but rather the quality of life in a homely, tranquil, and caring environment.”

Mission:
“We strive for service excellence by focusing on our core aim, keeping our residents happy, content, and well cared for daily. We aim to foster an environment where residents feel safe and can co-exist in harmony with staff who treat them with dignity, love, and respect.”

Our values

Respect:
Celebrating each person’s dignity in a home-like setting

Care:
Providing daily, compassionate support

Community:
Building meaningful connections between residents and staff

Professionalism:
Upholding the highest standards in all aspects of care

 

Today and Beyond

From those early days of a generous bequest, Starck Homes has grown into a trusted community for seniors, rooted in history but continually evolving to provide warmth, dignity, and quality care.