Abu Dhabi Equestrian Facility

Project Details

Project Description

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 grooms 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.”