I use semi-cylindrical top bar hives with the 17" top bars forming the diameter, allowing the bees to draw their comb in their preferred catenary shape. The entrance is at the sunny end and I can work them from the back or from the side without difficulty. As I build them from re-cycled pallets they're free!
On my 'to do' list for the coming year is to make a long hive from a couple of National brood boxes.
Chris
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