tom back: thrive hive

‘thrive hive’ by tom back

‘thrive hive’ provides a more simple and practical natural environment for beekeeping. conceived by tom back, a student of kingston university in london, UK, the design uses traditional hive weaving techniques with a structural framework which makes it possible to provide a habitat that is both suitable for the bees and the beekeeper. with this construction, bees are no longer cajoled into a home that does not fit their natural form. back’s design takes on a hollow trunk form, for which the wild bees build colonies. the weaving allows for a rounded shape, and the use of straw provides good insulating properties that are found naturally within the structure. this insulated home provides protection from the harsh winters, so that the weather is not so damaging to the bees, resulting in a stronger colony for the future.

by using a top bar design for ‘thrive hive’, the tools required for keeping bees are reduced, making the leap into beekeeping a little bit easier. back does not envision the design for commercial purposes, but more for communities and households to participate in beekeeping, enhancing the well-being of one’s garden or allotment.

‘thrive hive’ is on show at tent london from september 22nd to 25th, 2011.

open hive

detail of straw lid and handle

construction detail

internal view of the hive

materials and tools

wetting the straw

twisting the straw

forming the straw into the hive’s rounded shape