Equestrian Building Tips and Considerations
Crafting the perfect environment for horses goes far beyond building mere shelters for them. Truly great equestrian facilities combine optimal safety and forward-thinking design to meet the distinct needs of these remarkable animals.
At Coresteel, we understand the unique demands of equestrian buildings and are here to share our expertise. Explore our valuable insights and practical tips on equestrian arena construction to ensure your facility exceeds expectations.
Safety First: Designing for Horse Health and Wellbeing
The primary concern in equestrian facility design is the safety and wellbeing of the horses. Horses are large, powerful animals that require specialised infrastructure to keep them comfortable, healthy, and protected from harm. Proper design and material choices are crucial; consider the following when designing your facility.
Durable, Safe Structures
Durable and safe structures protect horses from injuries due to structural failures, sharp edges, or unsuitable materials. Your equestrian building should withstand the rigours of daily use and harsh weather conditions, protecting the animals and ensuring that activities can continue regardless of the weather.
As leaders in industrial steel building construction, Coresteel’s use of high-quality steel and modern construction techniques provides strong, durable buildings capable of withstanding New Zealand’s varied climatic conditions. Our steel structures are resistant to rot, pests, and fire, enhancing the facility’s overall safety and longevity.
Proper Ventilation
Ventilation is essential for ensuring a safe, healthy, and comfortable environment for horses, affecting everything from air quality to disease prevention. At Coresteel, we can incorporate perforated sheets for easy airflow and excellent ventilation throughout the complex.
Non-Slip Flooring
Horses can be surprisingly vulnerable to injuries from slipping on hard or slick surfaces. Incorporating non-slip flooring into your equestrian facility can minimise the risk of accidents and injuries to animals and riders.
Safe Stall Design
The individual stalls where the horses reside require specific design considerations for equine safety. Stall walls should be high enough to prevent horses from attempting to jump out, with no exposed sharp edges, fittings, or protrusions that could cause injuries.
Creating Functional Layouts for Space and Flow
Horses require ample space to move freely, socialise, and engage with their environment. A well-designed equestrian facility should cater to these needs by promoting a natural flow of movement and minimising bottlenecks or stress points. This includes providing ample room in stables for horses to lie down, stand up, and turn comfortably, as well as access to outdoor areas where they can socialise and exercise.
Design Flaws to Avoid
A common pitfall in equestrian facility design is the segregation of spaces into multiple small buildings with limited functional connectivity. This can lead to operational inefficiencies and complicate the movement of horses and people throughout the site. Coresteel recognises this issue and emphasises the importance of designs that foster a seamless flow of movement throughout the facility.
Promoting Natural Flow and Movement
It’s crucial to design pathways, gateways, and multiple entrance points that facilitate easy movement between stables, arenas, pastures, and other key areas. Strategic planning of these elements can significantly improve the accessibility of different zones, making it easier for horses and handlers to navigate the space efficiently.
The Role of Innovative Building Technologies
Modern building technology is dramatically improving the spatial quality and functionality of equestrian facilities. Coresteel’s clear-span technology exemplifies such innovation, allowing for the construction of large, open spaces without internal support columns. This design feature is particularly beneficial in stable areas, where the absence of obstacles enables horses to move freely and safely.
Coresteel utilised its unique DonoBeam system for the Ardmore Stable Complex, allowing for a 2,462 m² building with a bird-proof design, thanks to angled purlins. This metal box beam, made by welding folded steel plates into a box, reduces weight and cost without sacrificing strength. The complex features multiple entrances and a practical layout to enhance day-to-day operations alongside perforated sheets for superior ventilation. This innovative approach resulted in a polished, high-quality finish, boosting the client’s clientele through a facility that ensures the horses’ wellbeing.
Create a Safe, Spacious Equestrian Arena with Coresteel
Whether planning to build a new equestrian centre or upgrading an existing facility, you can trust Coresteel to deliver a state-of-the-art solution. Our innovative approach is transforming how these spaces are designed, eliminating obstacles and opening up endless possibilities for layout efficiency and safety. Get in touch with your local Coresteel expert today to get started and take the first step towards realising a visionary equestrian project that exceeds expectations.