PRECEDENT STUDIES: THE HIVE PROJECT

Energy

Roof-mounted photovoltaic systems, supported by onsite renewable energy sources, provide electricity to dwellings, public areas, and shared e-vehicle charging stations.

Geothermal closed-loop piles and heat pumps control the temperature of heating, cooling, and hot water systems.

Solar studies suggest the best orientation for dwellings is between 60° and 75° N, which helps minimize overheating during summer and maximize energy savings during winter.

To maintain high safety and air quality standards, air quality sensors, mechanical ventilation systems, and natural ventilation are used.

A Building Management System (BMS)allows for intelligent management of all available resources.

Water

Dedicated networks for potable, greywater, and blackwater recycling.

Water-saving fittings and micro-flush composting toilets.

A community-harvested rainwater cistern will supply part of the dwelling’s water demand.

Humanure fertilizer and leachate are used to feed local food production for the community.

Agriculture

Dedicated energy and food-production facilities

Plot is divided into two areas: the "Nature Regeneration Area" (NRA) and the future "Development Area" (DA). During the planning and permission phase, the DA becomes a temporary crop area, such as industrial hemp for construction.

Material

Advanced robotic and IoT technologies are used off-site to assemble the modular system's timber-frame structure efficiently, reducing installation time and on-site labor.

A mix of locally sourced industrial hemp and natural binder offers a Carbon-negative alternative to traditional insulation layers. It offers humidity control, vapor permeability, and robust sound insulation properties.

Circular economy principles applied to material selection. Biodegradable construction materials like hemp, limestone, and wood can be easily disposed of at the end of their lifecycle, becoming nutrients for crops and nature. The remaining materials can also be reclaimed and reused for new construction.

Biomimeticdesign

Modular community inspired by honeybee communities.

A hexagonal form is used in the architecture of each space to maximize space and allow for efficient structural integrity efficiently.

Biophilicdesign

Use of natural woods, textures,and materials.

Large windows allow views of nature in the space.

Use of plants in interior spaces to bring nature inside.

Integration of wild nature habitats on the site.

Socialbenefits

Integrates diversity and inclusion as keyaspects. Hexagonal module provides excellent flexibility, allowing each inhabitant to customize their home in multiple ways at different stages of life.

Shared Services –Privacy balanced with social living, self-sufficiency with co-ownership.

The Hive Project is a prime example of how the built environment can harmoniously coexist with nature and enhance the ecosystems it inhabits. By embracing biophilic design, circularity, and biomimetics, the Hive Project demonstrates a sustainable and regenerative community. Through photovoltaic energy capture and geothermal heating and cooling systems, the community can reduce its reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Additionally, the incorporation of cradle-to-cradle certified materials and the utilization of biocomposites derived from natural fibers and recycled plastics further minimize the environmental impact of the construction process.

Inspired by the honeybee community, the hexagonal design elements maximize space utilization and foster unity within the community. The biophilic design enhances residents' connection to nature, improving their well-being. From creating a warm ambiance through natural woods to allowing ample natural light via large windows, the design incorporates views of surrounding landscapes.

In addition to environmental and health advantages, The Hive Project prioritizes social inclusivity. It implements shared services that support privacy yet encourage communal living, ultimately strengthening community ties through resource sharing and collaborative interactions. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion, the Hive Project ensures that it caters to a wide range of residents and promotes a sense of belonging for all. The Hive Project sets a precedent for future residential developments by demonstrating that sustainable, regenerative,and inclusive design can coexist and thrive within the natural world.