HIVE Houston will not be your ordinary live/work artists’ colony. But if it is ever completed, it will certainly look like a colony – for bees. The aerial rendering is a sight to behold. A giant walled compound, consisting of hundreds of stacked multi-colored shipping containers, suitable for habitation and an eco lifestyle.
According to the creators’ website, its mission is:
…to design and build an affordable, inhabitable work of art as a community. By recycling the humble and strong steel shipping container, we propose to create a beautiful, green, sustainable, safe and secure village for thriving cultural exchange and enterprise. Inspired by artists, creative professionals and environmentalists, we will work in partnerships with individuals and organizations to experiment and discover the next generation of responsible building and living practices. We plan to offer an increasing variety of tenant uses, including office, studio, retail, restaurant, entertainment and residential opportunities. We hope to replicate or adapt HIVE in other locations around the world. HIVE is a 501©(3) non-profit organization.
Unfurnished and unequipped 40-foot containers will be available for rent to merchandise vendors. Fully built-out containers will be available for rental tenancies, as well. Amenities will include electricity, sink, toilet, mini shower and two windows. Fifty thousand dollars will buy a 40-foot fully built-out container. Shells will start at $10,000.
According to their website FAQ, those interested may “…submit an application and portfolio and/or curriculum vitae for consideration by the Admissions Committee.” Completion is scheduled for Summer 2016. For those who like to think inside the box, this may be just the thing.
