Introducing the new generation of Urbanbee.lt beehives
On our beekeeping journey, we are always looking for solutions that allow us to balance two key considerations: the natural needs of the bees and the beekeeper’s ability to work comfortably, efficiently and safely. Every change to the hive’s design requires meticulous preparation, observation and in-depth knowledge of beekeeping, as even the smallest detail can have a huge impact on the well-being of the entire bee colony. For us, responsible beekeeping means not only harvesting honey, but also constantly paying attention to how bees live in the wild and how we can create the most favourable conditions for them.
Today, we are delighted to present our updated hive design, which we have perfected ourselves! We have combined the world’s best beekeeping practices, Lithuanian traditions and the ergonomics dictated by nature itself. Here are the 5 key features of the new hive and the reasons why this change is so important to us and our bees:
1. Hive simulation – a hive that resembles a natural bee cluster
Traditional hives are often wide, but in the wild, bees have for thousands of years made their homes in tree hollows, which expand upwards rather than outwards. The new Urbanbee.lt hive is narrower (up to 30 cm wide) – this perfectly matches the natural diameter of the bee cluster during winter. During the cold season, the bees do not need to waste vital energy moving sideways to neighbouring combs, thereby drastically reducing the risk of food shortages and starvation. By expanding the hive upwards rather than outwards, authentic living conditions are created that closely resemble a tree hollow. This vertical space also makes it much easier for the bees to maintain an optimal temperature and humidity balance during spring brood rearing, using fewer food reserves and preserving the strength of the colony.
2. The global standard – Langstroth frames
When making decisions, we prioritise versatility, compatibility and operational efficiency; that is why we have chosen the frame standard widely used in the Western world, known in Lithuania as ‘Ruto’ and abroad as ‘Langstroth’. More than half of the world’s beekeepers choose this particular standard, as this frame size is not too large for honey extraction and harvesting, whilst at the same time providing the ideal space for the queen bee to lay her eggs. Having the same frame size across all hive bodies provides complete freedom for modular beekeeping, such as swapping hive bodies around, easily forming new colonies or adjusting the hive’s volume according to the season. Furthermore, this international standard opens up opportunities to easily adapt global best practice, the latest innovations in beekeeping and professional equipment.
3. Ergonomic Austrian hive body design
Working with bees should be comfortable, safe and hassle-free. Inspired by Austrian hive design, we have created hive bodies that stand out for their exceptional comfort, ergonomics and aesthetics. The hive bodies feature comfortable, wide handles that can be gripped easily and securely even whilst wearing gloves, making them much easier and safer for beekeepers’ backs to lift and manoeuvre whilst working. Faster and smoother handling of the hive bodies also reduces the time taken to inspect the hive, which means less stress for the bees and less disruption to the hive’s microclimate and heat retention. In addition to all these practical advantages, this hive has a modern, neat appearance and enhances any setting, transforming it into an aesthetically pleasing space.
4. 100% natural and durable finish: charred wood and oils
The weather in Lithuania is often changeable, damp and harsh, which is why we have chosen an ancient yet highly effective method of natural wood charring to protect the beehive. During the charring process, the outer layer of the wood is carbonised, sealing the pores, and we then impregnate the charred wood with pure linseed oil and natural pine resin. We do not use any synthetic paints, harmful varnishes or solvents, so the hive remains completely natural and allows the wood to ‘breathe’, which prevents moisture from building up inside the hive. These natural materials provide excellent protection for the hive against damp, rot and temperature fluctuations. We also use local resources and production methods, contributing to a more sustainable environment and shortening the supply chain.
5. The option to integrate a viewing window to observe the peaceful life of the bees
A special viewing window can be fitted to the hive. This is an excellent way to safely peek inside at any time and observe the bees’ daily activities without causing any stress to the colony. This solution allows you to assess the situation quickly without using smoke or opening the hive itself, which is particularly useful when working in an urban environment, where peace and quiet and minimal disturbance are a top priority.
6. A unique design created by us – even for city rooftops
This hive is not simply a model copied blindly from a textbook. It is our own creation, developed by combining the best features of different hive types and adapting them to the natural behaviour of bees. Thanks to its vertical design, compactness, sturdiness and resistance to gusts of wind, this hive allows us to work efficiently and safely even in the most challenging and unusual locations – for example, on city rooftops or small terraces. It blends perfectly into the urban landscape, provides a safe haven for bees and enables the creation of a sustainable beekeeping ecosystem right in the heart of the city.
Our aim is to have happy, healthy bees and top-quality honey. We believe that this renewal will enable us to look after our hard-working bees even better and take a firm step forward on the path to sustainable and natural beekeeping. Would you like to find out more about our work with bees in the city or try our honey?