Abu Dhabi Equestrian Facility | Mimark Architecture

Mimark Architecture, an Istanbul based design office, implements equestrian facility projects in many different countries of the world, with the experience of Founder Architect Kaan Kutsal Alkan, by his passion for equestrianism. The latest example of these projects is the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Facility, where the comfort and health of horses defines the design process.

Continuing its architectural and interior design project and application activities for more than 10 years with its team specializing in different building typologies, Mimark Architecture applies the latest example of its expertise in equestrian facilities design in Abu Dhabi, where the equestrian culture is widespread and accepted as a home to the world's most important equestrian facilities. The implementation of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Facility, which is a very special structure designed in accordance with the geographical and climatic conditions of the region, reflecting the passion for horse and equestrian is currently ongoing.

The building, designed for eight horses in total, has a fully symmetrical 4+4 composition. Apart from the barn areas, there is a saddle shed, a groom's room, two warehouses, two washing and mooring areas. When viewed from the outside, the building, which is quite simple but has a strong stance, draws attention with its classical lines. The embracing and ostentatious appearance of the building, designed in U-shape, when you enter the land on which it rises; Marble material is preferred for the eaves pediments, columns and façade cladding.

In the project, where different solutions are produced with the aim of protecting the health and
comfort of the horses in the climatic conditions of the region, a skylight is placed on the ceiling to provide natural ventilation in the stables. In addition to natural ventilation, the architects, who worked in detail on the air conditioning project of the building, separated the electricity and mechanics of the ventilation system, as well as the symmetrical air conditioning of the two blocks, in order to ensure energy efficiency.

Using the sand paddock and the hall that connects the entrances to each other in the middle of the steel construction building as the main circulation area, Mimark also covered the inside of the barn and the half walls of the barn with rubber. All stables have paddock doors so that horse owners can see their horses in the project, where a simple design language is adopted.
In the equestrian facilities, where different criteria are observed compared to other projects, the design direction and at the same time inspiring points, Architect Kaan Kutsal Alkan is conveyed with the following words:

“Taking care of a horse opens a door for you to a bright world. Designing for these gentle and strong friends requires seeing the world through their eyes. Designing the life cycle of horses by considering their habits and needs is not only difficult but also very satisfying in terms of spirituality. It is important to be the eyes and words of these customers who cannot express their wishes, and to consider the comfort of their caregivers, riders and owners.

While designing an equestrian facility, a large network of collaborations is formed by landscape architects, agricultural engineers, ventilation specialists, interior architects, craftsmen, professionals that can be diversified according to the needs of the project, and consultants.

In the design of equestrian facilities, we put horses at the center; we think about the details that will make them feel healthy and themselves in their natural environment. We do not give up on the choice of natural materials, sustainable landscape areas and the comfort of the riders are important to us. Clean air, natural ventilation and light are indispensable for our projects.”