Designed for Legacie Developments, The Hive is an 11-storey residential development delivering 67 one- and two-bedroom apartments on a prominent 0.12-hectare site in Luton town centre. The scheme replaces a disused two-storey commercial building, enabling the creation of new public realm, an improved street frontage and a contemporary building form that contributes positively to the surrounding urban fabric.

A key design driver was the sensitive relationship with the neighbouring former chapel. It was vital that the proposals showed proper respect for this locally significant building, and the planning authority were highly complementary about the way the massing, façade articulation and stepped roofline respond to it. The terraced rooftop design helps to break down the scale of the building, creating a sympathetic transition in height while establishing a refined silhouette within the streetscape.

The architecture adopts a carefully considered brick palette with tonal variation and depth, complemented by generous glazing to provide bright, well-proportioned homes. Secure parking, cycle storage and enhanced landscaping complete the development, supporting sustainable urban living and reinforcing the site’s connection to key transport links.

Together, these elements create a high-quality residential scheme that respects its heritage context while delivering modern, desirable homes for Legacie Developments and the wider community. The Hive reached completion in 2025.