The Hive, an integrated library, history centre and archive, and the latest addition to the Worcester skyline, is now complete. Natural stone specialist, Forest Pennant, supplied a suite of Pennant sandstone products for the iconic structure, including vertical strip cladding, external masonry and coping for the innovative ‘island’, a solid structure topped by three Scots pines. The island offers a shaded meeting point for classes and groups, and is all set to come into its own during a flood, as The Hive sits proudly alongside the River Severn.

Pennant sandstone cladding for the plinth of The Hive and a complete package of hard landscaping products work to complement the brash, stark lines of the building and the striking gold of the roofline, comprising of seven, copper alloy clad funnels.

As a combined facility The Hive is believed to be the first of its kind in Europe, and will open to the public in July.

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, working with landscape architects Grant Associates, designed the Hive. It has been built through a PFI that brings together the public sector with private sector developers, Galliford Try. The Hive development is a partnership between Worcestershire County Council, the University of Worcester and Worcester City Council.

About Royal Forest Pennant sandstone

Royal Forest Pennant Natural Stone is a unique source of carboniferous pennant sandstone that is locally quarried and sawn in Gloucestershire, it has naturally hard wearing properties with exceptional whole life costs. It boasts a stunning mix of colours and is available with various finishes to create a number of beautiful effects.

In addition to the full range of hard landscaping products, the company also produces steps, copings, tactile and corduroy paving, along with building stone and bespoke architectural masonry.

Pennant paving stone is available in standard gauge widths and is typically supplied in a 50mm thickness but other sizes and thicknesses are available. Kerbs, ancillaries and walling stone are also available. The company has a high sawing capacity, and is able to quickly accommodate large orders.