The concept demonstrates how one of these robust concrete structures, with high embodied energy, can provide a last-mile logistics solution for cities that are facing the challenges of lack of space, environmental pollution and congestion, and housing and feeding growing populations.

E-Hive2 is a multi-purpose adaptable hub. It incorporates urban logistics solutions; residential units; recreational, cultural, and social spaces; retail; places for growing food; and places for creating energy and conserving precious natural resources.

Its construction combines new cladding on the existing structure to actively clean air, create energy, and recycle water, with a flexible system of hexagonal pods designed to be added and adapted in response to changing needs and uses. The design, structure and materials of each pod are optimised to fulfil the pod’s specific purpose within the E-Hive2 community. Its logistics hubs provide new options to manage the ever-increasing demand for just-in-time and last-minute delivery that underpins today’s urban economies.

E-Hive2 is set in a biodiverse public realm that integrates with surrounding neighbourhoods and communities by opening up greener routes and connections for people and goods, including new waterway and underground routes and walking and cycle paths.