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The Strout Horizontal Hive is a custom-designed beehive that incorporates features for easy comb manipulation, sufficient space for overwintering in colder climates, and compatibility with existing honey harvesting tools. Inspired by my beekeeping journey in New Zealand, I created these hives to match my own beekeeping preferences and offer the plans online, which have been downloaded over 50 times.
My journey with beekeeping began during a year in New Zealand, where I first learned the craft. After returning to the U.S., I couldn’t find a hive design that suited my needs, so I designed my own using CAD to create an accurate cut list and part drawings. The original hive focused on functionality for cold-weather beekeeping and efficient honey harvesting. Version 2.0, the White House Hive, includes adjustments based on lessons from the original design and is painted to honor my time in Washington, DC. Initially located on a Maryland farm, it has recently moved to Georgetown University’s apiary, where I plan to continue observing and improving its performance. Along the way, I documented the project in a video playlist to explain its features and share my enthusiasm with friends and family.
This project came a long way, and continued to evolve as my knowledge of beekeeping continued to grow. One of the unique challenges, which I really enjoyed, was using CAD and videos to communicate my ideas. The White House Hive’s evolution has also taught me the value of connecting personal creativity with local communities, both in its design and its new home at Georgetown’s apiary. These insights continue to inform my approach to sustainable and user-focused design.
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