The Side by Side Hive
This hive was designed out of necessity. After a wrist injury made it impossible to manage traditional stacked hives, the focus shifted to finding a safer, more practical way to keep bees without compromising their welfare.
Built through hands-on experience and careful observation, the design removes heavy lifting and reduces disruption to the colony.
It also draws on extensive research into horizontal hive layouts, which shows measurable benefits in areas such as brood development, temperature stability, and overall bee activity, closely reflecting the way bees organise themselves in nature.
Backed by Professionals, Supported by Science
“Horizontal hives more closely mimic the natural nest cavities preferred by bees in the wild, which encourages healthier brood rearing and less colony disturbance.”
Dr. Thomas Seeley, Professor of Biology and renowned bee researcher, author of “Honeybee Democracy”
“Horizontal hives eliminate the heavy lifting and stacking of boxes, making beekeeping accessible to a wider range of people and less physically demanding for all.”
Kim Flottum, Editor of Bee Culture magazine, author of “The Backyard Beekeeper”
“Horizontal hives offer better insulation and thermal stability by maintaining a single large brood chamber, which helps bees survive colder months and reduces stress.”
Dr. John Harbo, USDA Research Scientist, expert in honey bee health
Why the Side by Side Hive?
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Built to save your body, not just the bees
The low-profile, no-stacking design allows for effortless hive inspections and honey harvests right in your own backyard. Smooth, integrated hinges on all faces create an efficient, carefree experience eliminating loose panels, misplaced windows, or covers.
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Engineered to closely mimic natural bee hive structures
In the wild, bees naturally prefer horizontal cavities, with the brood kept safely at the centre and surrounded by layers of honey. This natural arrangement helps protect the colony from predators and buffer against temperature fluctuations.
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For beginners, and seasoned keepers
The simple, considered design opens beekeeping to those without expensive equipment or the time demanded by traditional hives. At the same time, experienced keepers are increasingly choosing simpler, more efficient setups like this for everyday beekeeping.