Similar to other micro-homes we have looked at, the Hivehaus comes flat-packed, is self-contained and appears relatively easy to build. Taking its name from the honeycomb structures built by bees, Hivehaus is a modular housing system constructed from individual hexagonal cells that can be customized and connected, offering plenty of design flexibility.
Designed by Barry Jackson, the Hivehaus is comprised of as many or as few cells as the owner desires, with the ability to begin with a single-celled space that can be expanded on as required. Each cell provides 9.3 sq m (100 sq ft) of floor space, enclosed by floor and walls made of 100 mm (3.93 in) insulated timber frames with primed medium-density fiberboard (MDF) for the internal panels and Oriented Strand Board (OSB) on the outer.
Designed by Barry Jackson, the Hivehaus is comprised of as many or as few cells as the owner desires, with the ability to begin with a single-celled space that can be expanded on as required. Each cell provides 9.3 sq m (100 sq ft) of floor space, enclosed by floor and walls made of 100 mm (3.93 in) insulated timber frames with primed medium-density fiberboard (MDF) for the internal panels and Oriented Strand Board (OSB) on the outer.
For insulation, the inner and outer panels are bonded with polyurethane foam, while "powder coated steel facing laminate" on the outside provides a shield from the elements. The cells are fitted with with double- (with the option of triple-) glazed black un-plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) aluminum composite doors and windows.
The roof made from glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) fiberglass with polycarbonate dome skylights offers additional natural light. The cells are entirely self-contained and include six LED down lights and four double 240 V electrical sockets. Off-grid power solutions including solar panels are available, along with composting toilets and rainwater harvesting. Optional extras for the Hivehaus include additional windows and skylights, exterior decking, kitchen, heating, such as wood burning stoves, and disabled access.
All of this sits atop a lightweight steel frame which is supported by adjustable zinc-coated steel base jacks – useful for Hivehaus owners building on uneven terrain.
The Hivehaus is currently undergoing product testing and the team expects to begin production in the UK early next year. Pricing is on a cost-per panel style basis, meaning that the final specifications of each cell combined with any add on features will determine the total price of the house.
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