Looks like it is managed just like a top-bar hive, w/follower boards etc. Technically, it is the same just the bars have a frame to support the sides and bottom of the comb.
Sorry but I don't think I will get one of these hives. This is not a UK National hive. I don't know what it is. For years we have had several types of hive available. In recent years even more hives have been designed and offered for sale. If I can't sleep, instead of counting sheep I could try thinking of all the different hive types available. Trouble is this would lead to a NIGHTMARE !
Here is the website for those hives. Looks like the fellow is in California. http://76.12.155.86/~gaiabees/?page_id=2
There's no need to apologize. The post read "Has anyone seen this style of hive" not "hurry up and get this style of hive so you can count sheep more efficiently" lol
It looks like it could be a Dartington Long Deep hive. I don't know much about them. I was looking at different types of hives. Here is a link : http://www.dartingtonhives.co.uk/ There was an auction of one of them on a uk site. It didn't have the telescoping cover on it, (has ornamental one) but you can see what it comes with. http://www.bid4bees.co.uk/auction.asp?id=1316&name=Dartington-Long-deep-Hive I also found this catalog site. Uk based, I believe. It has many types of hives. http://www.beekeeping.co.uk/category/bee-hives
Sorry, it's not a Dartington. The Dartington Long hive uses Hoffman Deep National (14 x 12) frames which have 1.5 inch lugs. A few years ago, I saw a working Dartington during an association visit to a member's apiary. I don't think the members attending were likely to rush out and get one. .
I wasn't sure. That's why I said "could be". It was interesting to look at some of the other types of hives that are available though. I had no idea there were so many options!
For interest, maybe someone could post a link to a "Catenary" hive. I know of this type of hive. I have never seen one. I believe one has languished for several years unused at my association apiary.