Rehanna Smith

This project transforms Greyfriars Chapel into a bee-focused sanctuary that celebrates both heritage, education and community. At its heart is a workshop space where visitors can engage in candle making using beeswax from the on-site hives, with a live observation hive offering a unique, educational experience and allowing bees to safely exit through the roof. Community connection is fostered through a small café that serves locally sourced goods, including honey-based treats, with an outdoor hatch and seating area designed to encourage social interaction and shared enjoyment of the peaceful setting. Soft landscaping subtly guides visitors into this area, creating a seamless flow between built and natural spaces. The educational hub is a space designed to engage visitors of all ages with the world of bees and conservation. It features interactive panels, tactile displays, and visual storytelling that explore bee behaviour, their ecological importance, and ways we can help protect them. At its centre sits a biomimicry-inspired installation that doubles as both a sculptural learning tool and a playful tunnel for children, encouraging hands-on discovery and immersive learning.

These design elements respect the historical fabric of Greyfriars Chapel while introducing functional, engaging spaces that promote environmental awareness, craft, and community connection in a unified and meaningful way.