Silver Interior Space and Exhibition Design · 2026
Maison Equine Equestrian Lounge Interior
by Mai Wahdan
- A' Design Award 2026 Silver Winner in Interior Space and Exhibition Design
- Awarded April 15, 2026
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 14,749
- Verification code CDA4A5EB90 · Verify this award
About Maison Equine Equestrian Lounge Interior
This equestrian project transforms the conventional stable into a refined environment dedicated to beauty and show horses. Located in Barka, Oman, the design integrates a panoramic lounge overlooking the paddock, placing observation and social interaction at the center of the experience. A disciplined circulation strategy clearly separates hospitality and operational zones, ensuring safety, efficiency and animal welfare. Layered natural materials, bold color compositions and tactile surfaces establish a distinctive spatial identity, while equestrian grade finishes guarantee durability.
Mai Wahdan's Maison Equine Equestrian Lounge Interior represents a compelling synthesis of contemporary spatial design with the venerable traditions of equestrian culture, creating an environment that honors both the ancient bond between humans and horses and the sophisticated requirements of modern hospitality architecture. The work demonstrates exceptional sensitivity to the phenomenology of threshold spaces, employing a monumental glass membrane that transforms the architectural enclosure into a viewing pavilion where the equestrian paddock becomes living art, constantly recomposed by equine movement and atmospheric change. The designer's material vocabulary establishes a dialogue between refined craftsmanship and rustic authenticity, with exposed timber beams and carved wood panels suggesting stable architecture translated into residential luxury, while the two-tiered iron chandelier with its oxidized patina evokes the functional hardware of traditional equestrian facilities elevated to decorative centerpiece. The chromatic strategy balances the warm amber flood of natural sunset light against the rich polychrome of accumulated textiles, creating an interior that appears to glow from within while remaining grounded in earthy materiality. Particularly noteworthy is the spatial choreography that allows multiple intimate seating zones within a single expansive volume, suggesting both the communal gathering of equestrian communities and the contemplative solitude available to individual observers of the pastoral scene. The layered Oriental carpets function not merely as decorative elements but as spatial anchors defining conversation territories while contributing acoustic warmth to what might otherwise become an echoic glass pavilion. This work invites consideration of how contemporary design might celebrate heritage practices and human-animal relationships while creating environments of profound beauty and comfort, prompting viewers to contemplate what defines authentic luxury in an age increasingly disconnected from natural rhythms.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- This project reinterprets the traditional horse stable as a culturally infused equestrian lounge. Located in Barka, Oman, the design blends earthy materials, layered textures, and bold color accents to reflect the client’s equestrian lifestyle and artistic spirit. Carefully planned circulation enhances functionality between lounge and stable zones, while durable finishes ensure performance. The result elevates a utilitarian structure into a refined, hospitality-oriented destination.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Total built up area: approx. 1200 sqm.
Lounge area: approx. 150 sqm; inclined ceiling height 4000 mm - 8000 mm.
Standard stall module: 3600 mm W x 3600 mm D x 3200 mm H.
Main walkways: minimum 3000 mm clear width.
Flooring: equestrian grade interlock pavers; shower zones in treated timber decking for slip resistance. - Tags
- Equestrian Interior, Cultural Design, Horse-Friendly Architecture, Oman Heritage, Luxury Stable, Beauty Horses Facility, Climate-Responsive Design, Hospitality Lounge, Functional Zoning
- Production Technology
- The project was developed using function-driven spatial planning aligned with equestrian operational standards. Zoning strategies separated public lounge areas from stable and service circulation to ensure safety and efficiency. Structural engineering accommodated the inclined ceiling spanning 4,000–8,000 mm. Materials were selected for climate durability and animal safety. Custom joinery and detailing were locally fabricated to ensure precision and contextual authenticity.
- Design Challenge
- The primary challenge was balancing refined hospitality aesthetics with strict equestrian safety requirements. The design needed to reflect cultural richness while ensuring durability, ventilation, and stress-free movement for beauty horses. Climate conditions in Oman required heat-conscious material choices and shaded circulation. Coordinating between client vision, operational standards, and construction feasibility demanded continuous adaptation to technical constraints and on-site realities.
- Project Duration
- The interior design phase commenced in May 2025 in Barka, Al-Batinah South, Oman, and was completed within four months. The project is currently under construction, with execution progressing in accordance with the finalized design documentation and technical specifications.
- Operation Flow
- Visitors enter through a central axis that immediately reveals the lounge as the social heart of the project. From this point, circulation gently curves toward the stalls, allowing visual connection without disrupting stable operations. Public and service routes are clearly separated to ensure safety for horses and guests. The layout supports smooth daily routines - feeding, grooming, and hosting - while maintaining a calm, intuitive experience that feels welcoming rather than industrial.
- Research
- Type of Research: Applied equestrian focused spatial research.
Research Objectives: To design a culturally rooted yet horse friendly environment tailored for beauty horses.
Methodology: Behavioral observation, circulation mapping, and climate responsive planning.
Data Collection and Tools: Client interviews, consultation with stable operators, CAD simulations, and material safety analysis.
Participants: Client, stable staff, and equestrian specialists.
Results: Reduced stress zones, safer movement paths, and improved ventilation.
Insights and Impacts: The research proves that combining cultural identity with animal centered design enhances welfare, operational efficiency, and long term facility value. - Inspiration
- The inspiration emerged from the cultural depth of Oman, where heritage, craftsmanship, and equestrian tradition coexist with quiet elegance. The project was conceived as a spatial narrative that honors the country’s desert tones, artisanal textures, and social hospitality rituals. Research into local materials, climate responsiveness, and stable functionality informed the technical framework. The intent was to translate cultural memory into a contemporary equestrian environment that feels both
- Image Credits
- Image #1: Architect and Interior Designer Mai Wahdan, VIP Lounge Overlooking Horse Paddock, 2025.
Image #2: Architect and Interior Designer Mai Wahdan, VIP Lounge View Toward Main Entrance, 2025.
Image #3: Architect and Interior Designer Mai Wahdan, Top View Showing VIP Lounge Layout, 2025.
Image #4: Architect and Interior Designer Mai Wahdan, Horse Walkways Circulation Perspective, 2026.
Image #5: Architect and Interior Designer Mai Wahdan, Interior Design Elements and Material Composition, 2025. - Patents
- Copyrights belong to Mai Wahdan and Luxentti Design House, 2025.
Colors of Maison Equine Equestrian Lounge Interior
Design Interview about Maison Equine Equestrian Lounge Interior
Maison Equine was inspired by the idea of transforming a traditional horse stable into a refined lifestyle environment, where equestrian function, hospitality, and cultural identity coexist. The main principle was to design a space that supports the daily needs of horses and staff while also creating an emotional experience for visitors.
The project was shaped around the client’s bold personality and deep connection to horses. Instead of treating the stable as a purely service-based building, I approached it as a social and cultural destination. The lounge overlooking the paddock became the heart of the design, allowing visitors to feel connected to the horses while enjoying a warm, expressive, and highly personal interior atmosphere.
The inspiration came from a tailored fusion of Omani context, bohemian layering, earthy materials, rich tones, artistic details, and dynamic textures. My aim was to create a stable that feels rooted, memorable, and full of character, while still respecting the practical requirements of equestrian movement, safety, and comfort.
The project was shaped around the client’s bold personality and deep connection to horses. Instead of treating the stable as a purely service-based building, I approached it as a social and cultural destination. The lounge overlooking the paddock became the heart of the design, allowing visitors to feel connected to the horses while enjoying a warm, expressive, and highly personal interior atmosphere.
The inspiration came from a tailored fusion of Omani context, bohemian layering, earthy materials, rich tones, artistic details, and dynamic textures. My aim was to create a stable that feels rooted, memorable, and full of character, while still respecting the practical requirements of equestrian movement, safety, and comfort.
My main focus was to redefine the emotional experience of a horse stable. I wanted Maison Equine to move beyond the conventional image of equestrian facilities as purely utilitarian spaces and instead become a destination that feels warm, immersive, and culturally expressive.
From the beginning, I aimed to achieve a balance between functionality and atmosphere. Every design decision considered both the wellbeing of the horses and the experience of the people interacting with the space. Circulation paths were carefully planned to ensure smooth and safe movement, while the lounge areas were designed to feel inviting, artistic, and visually connected to the paddock.
Another important focus was creating a strong identity for the project. I wanted the design to reflect the client’s energetic personality and appreciation for art, culture, and bold aesthetics without losing the authenticity of the equestrian environment. Through layered textures, archways, earthy materials, rich colors, and handcrafted details, the project developed its own visual language that feels distinctive yet deeply connected to its context.
Ultimately, the goal was to create a stable that people would emotionally remember — not only for its appearance, but for the atmosphere and experience it creates.
From the beginning, I aimed to achieve a balance between functionality and atmosphere. Every design decision considered both the wellbeing of the horses and the experience of the people interacting with the space. Circulation paths were carefully planned to ensure smooth and safe movement, while the lounge areas were designed to feel inviting, artistic, and visually connected to the paddock.
Another important focus was creating a strong identity for the project. I wanted the design to reflect the client’s energetic personality and appreciation for art, culture, and bold aesthetics without losing the authenticity of the equestrian environment. Through layered textures, archways, earthy materials, rich colors, and handcrafted details, the project developed its own visual language that feels distinctive yet deeply connected to its context.
Ultimately, the goal was to create a stable that people would emotionally remember — not only for its appearance, but for the atmosphere and experience it creates.
Maison Equine is envisioned as more than a single project; it represents a broader direction for contemporary equestrian design that combines lifestyle, culture, and emotional experience. In the future, I hope to further develop this design language into larger equestrian destinations that integrate hospitality, wellness, social spaces, and horse-centered environments in a more immersive way.
I also see strong potential for expanding certain custom-designed elements from the project into collectible furniture and product pieces inspired by the equestrian atmosphere, material palette, and sculptural character of the space.
As the project gained international recognition, my future plan is to continue refining this approach and applying it to new projects across the Gulf region, while exploring how culturally expressive interiors can coexist with highly functional equestrian planning. The project opened new possibilities for creating stables that feel experiential, artistic, and emotionally connected rather than purely operational.
I also see strong potential for expanding certain custom-designed elements from the project into collectible furniture and product pieces inspired by the equestrian atmosphere, material palette, and sculptural character of the space.
As the project gained international recognition, my future plan is to continue refining this approach and applying it to new projects across the Gulf region, while exploring how culturally expressive interiors can coexist with highly functional equestrian planning. The project opened new possibilities for creating stables that feel experiential, artistic, and emotionally connected rather than purely operational.
The concept development for Maison Equine evolved over several stages and took a few months of exploration, refinement, and coordination. One of the most important parts of the process was traveling to Oman to experience the environment firsthand, understand the equestrian lifestyle surrounding the project, and observe the horses directly within their natural setting.
The client also introduced us to places and interiors she personally connected with, which helped us better understand her personality, emotional preferences, and the atmosphere she envisioned for the project. These experiences became an essential part of shaping the final direction, allowing the design to feel deeply personal rather than stylistically imposed.
A significant amount of time was dedicated to studying equestrian functionality, circulation efficiency, horse comfort, material durability, and the relationship between hospitality spaces and stable operations. Simultaneously, the visual language evolved through multiple iterations until the project developed its own identity through layered textures, earthy tones, artistic expression, and culturally influenced details tailored specifically to the client and the Omani context.
The client also introduced us to places and interiors she personally connected with, which helped us better understand her personality, emotional preferences, and the atmosphere she envisioned for the project. These experiences became an essential part of shaping the final direction, allowing the design to feel deeply personal rather than stylistically imposed.
A significant amount of time was dedicated to studying equestrian functionality, circulation efficiency, horse comfort, material durability, and the relationship between hospitality spaces and stable operations. Simultaneously, the visual language evolved through multiple iterations until the project developed its own identity through layered textures, earthy tones, artistic expression, and culturally influenced details tailored specifically to the client and the Omani context.
Maison Equine was developed through a deeply collaborative and immersive design journey shaped by the client’s personality, lifestyle, and emotional connection to horses. From the beginning, the intention was to create a stable environment that feels experiential and emotionally engaging rather than purely functional.
What inspired me to pursue this direction was the opportunity to reinterpret the atmosphere of equestrian spaces through a more artistic and culturally expressive lens. I wanted the project to feel warm, layered, and memorable while still respecting the calmness and functionality required within a horse-centered environment.
Traveling to Oman became an essential part of the creative process. Experiencing the horses firsthand, understanding the surrounding environment, and visiting places the client personally connected with helped the concept evolve naturally from real experiences and emotions. This allowed the design to develop its own identity, where equestrian functionality, artistic expression, and cultural atmosphere seamlessly intersect.
What inspired me to pursue this direction was the opportunity to reinterpret the atmosphere of equestrian spaces through a more artistic and culturally expressive lens. I wanted the project to feel warm, layered, and memorable while still respecting the calmness and functionality required within a horse-centered environment.
Traveling to Oman became an essential part of the creative process. Experiencing the horses firsthand, understanding the surrounding environment, and visiting places the client personally connected with helped the concept evolve naturally from real experiences and emotions. This allowed the design to develop its own identity, where equestrian functionality, artistic expression, and cultural atmosphere seamlessly intersect.
Maison Equine is a site-specific design developed around the client’s lifestyle and the unique atmosphere of the equestrian environment. I do not intend to reproduce the same design, as I believe every project should have its own identity, emotional character, and spatial language shaped specifically for its context and users.
I have always been interested in designing spaces that create an emotional experience rather than simply serving a function. Maison Equine gave me the opportunity to explore that idea within an equestrian environment, where interiors, lifestyle, and movement naturally intersect.
What attracted me most to this type of work was the challenge of creating a space that feels both calming and expressive at the same time. Designing around horses requires sensitivity to circulation, atmosphere, materials, and behavior, while also creating a refined environment for people to gather and connect with the space emotionally.
What attracted me most to this type of work was the challenge of creating a space that feels both calming and expressive at the same time. Designing around horses requires sensitivity to circulation, atmosphere, materials, and behavior, while also creating a refined environment for people to gather and connect with the space emotionally.
Rather than being influenced by a single designer or project, Maison Equine was shaped by a blend of cultural atmospheres, equestrian lifestyle experiences, and the client’s personal preferences. During the design journey in Oman, we visited places and interiors the client felt emotionally connected to, which helped inspire the project’s mood, textures, and overall character.
The design was also influenced by the balance often found in hospitality spaces between warmth, comfort, and visual identity, while adapting these qualities into a horse-centered environment with its own distinctive atmosphere.
The design was also influenced by the balance often found in hospitality spaces between warmth, comfort, and visual identity, while adapting these qualities into a horse-centered environment with its own distinctive atmosphere.
Maison Equine was designed for individuals who view equestrian spaces as an extension of their lifestyle rather than purely functional facilities. The project targets horse owners and visitors who value emotional atmosphere, cultural character, refined hospitality, and a deeper connection between people, space, and horses.
It was especially tailored for a client who appreciates bold artistic expression, layered materials, and immersive environments while maintaining the comfort and practical needs required within a horse-centered setting.
It was especially tailored for a client who appreciates bold artistic expression, layered materials, and immersive environments while maintaining the comfort and practical needs required within a horse-centered setting.
Maison Equine transforms the stable experience into an immersive lifestyle environment rather than a purely functional facility. Its identity comes from the balance between equestrian functionality, cultural warmth, artistic expression, and emotionally connected spaces tailored specifically to the client and horses.
The name Maison Equine combines the word “Maison,” meaning house or refined living, with “Equine,” representing the horse-centered nature of the project. Together, the name reflects the idea of a sophisticated equestrian environment that feels warm, immersive, and lifestyle-oriented rather than purely functional.
The project was developed using a combination of AutoCAD, SketchUp, and 3ds Max throughout different stages of the design process. AutoCAD was used for technical planning and circulation studies, SketchUp for spatial development and concept exploration, and 3ds Max for visualization, atmosphere development, and refining the final design presentation.
The most unique aspect of Maison Equine is the way it blends emotional atmosphere with equestrian functionality. The project was designed not only around the practical needs of horses, but also around the experience, personality, and lifestyle connected to the space, creating an environment that feels immersive, artistic, and deeply personal.
Yes, the project involved collaboration and coordination across different technical and creative aspects during the design development and realization process.
Technology played an important role in both the development and presentation of Maison Equine. Digital design tools were used to study circulation, proportions, lighting, and the relationship between the lounge and equestrian areas to create a balanced experience for both horses and visitors.
AI was also integrated during the final visualization stage to enhance atmosphere, cinematic storytelling, and visual communication. In addition, AI-assisted tools were used to create a conceptual video for the project, helping communicate the emotional experience and immersive character of the space in a more dynamic way.
AI was also integrated during the final visualization stage to enhance atmosphere, cinematic storytelling, and visual communication. In addition, AI-assisted tools were used to create a conceptual video for the project, helping communicate the emotional experience and immersive character of the space in a more dynamic way.
Yes, the design was influenced by both observational and functional research related to equestrian environments. A significant part of the process focused on understanding horse behavior, movement patterns, comfort, and daily stable routines to create a space that feels calm, safe, and practical for the horses themselves.
We also researched different stable design approaches and equestrian environments to better understand how circulation, materials, ventilation, and spatial organization affect both horses and visitors. Visiting the site in Oman and experiencing the horses directly also became an important part of shaping the final design direction.
We also researched different stable design approaches and equestrian environments to better understand how circulation, materials, ventilation, and spatial organization affect both horses and visitors. Visiting the site in Oman and experiencing the horses directly also became an important part of shaping the final design direction.
One of the main challenges was balancing the emotional and artistic character of the space with the practical requirements of an equestrian environment. The design needed to feel immersive and visually distinctive while still ensuring safe circulation, durability, comfort, and functionality for both horses and visitors.
Another challenge was creating a socially inviting atmosphere without disrupting the operational flow of the horses and staff. The relationship between the lounge, walkways, paddock views, and service areas had to be carefully planned to maintain both visual connection and functional separation while preserving a calm and refined equestrian
Another challenge was creating a socially inviting atmosphere without disrupting the operational flow of the horses and staff. The relationship between the lounge, walkways, paddock views, and service areas had to be carefully planned to maintain both visual connection and functional separation while preserving a calm and refined equestrian
This was not my first experience participating in international design competitions, but Maison Equine felt different from the beginning. I believed the project carried a unique emotional and cultural character that deserved to be recognized on a global level.
Designing Maison Equine became a learning journey into the world of horses and equestrian environments. Throughout the process, I learned about horse behavior, movement patterns, daily routines, comfort requirements, and how sensitive they are to circulation, atmosphere, and spatial organization.
This experience changed the way I approached the design entirely, allowing me to create a space that feels not only visually immersive, but also more responsive to the horses themselves and the lifestyle surrounding them.
This experience changed the way I approached the design entirely, allowing me to create a space that feels not only visually immersive, but also more responsive to the horses themselves and the lifestyle surrounding them.
No, I believe the interview covered the main aspects of Maison Equine and the design journey behind it.
Grand Interview about Maison Equine Equestrian Lounge Interior
The defining moment came during our visit to Oman, where we observed the horses and experienced the client’s equestrian lifestyle firsthand. I realized that the most meaningful part of the experience was not the stable itself, but the connection between people and horses.From that point, the lounge became the heart of the project. Every design decision—from circulation and sightlines to materials and furniture layout—was shaped to strengthen that visual and emotional connection, transforming the stable into a place for gathering, observation, and shared experiences.
Research played a significant role in shaping Maison Equine. We spent time learning about horse behavior, movement patterns, daily routines, and how horses respond to their surroundings. This directly influenced circulation planning, the separation of visitor and service zones, and the visual connection between the lounge and the equestrian areas.The process reinforced an important idea: animal-centered design should not be treated as a technical requirement alone, but as a design philosophy. As designers become more aware of animal wellbeing, I believe future equestrian and animal-related environments will increasingly combine functionality, welfare, and emotional experience within a single integrated design approach.
The climate of Barka was an important consideration throughout the design process. High temperatures influenced both the material selection and the spatial organization of the project, leading us to prioritize durable finishes, shaded circulation areas, and materials suited to demanding environmental conditions. Mechanical cooling systems, including air conditioning and strategically placed fans, were also integrated to enhance comfort for both visitors and horses.Beyond performance, the climate encouraged a design approach that feels connected to its setting rather than imposed upon it. I believe climate-responsive design is essential in the Gulf region, where successful spaces must balance comfort, durability, animal welfare, and cultural identity while responding thoughtfully to local environmental conditions.
The balance came from treating culture and functionality as complementary rather than competing priorities. From the beginning, the goal was not to apply cultural references as decoration, but to create an atmosphere inspired by the warmth, materials, colors, and character of the Omani context while ensuring the facility remained practical, safe, and comfortable for both horses and visitors.Every design decision was evaluated through both lenses. Circulation, durability, ventilation, and operational efficiency were carefully planned, while the material palette, textures, and spatial experience were used to create a sense of place and identity. The result is an environment that feels culturally rooted while fully supporting the daily requirements of an active equestrian facility.
One of the most transformative challenges was learning how to design from the perspective of the horses themselves rather than focusing only on the human experience. This required extensive research into horse behavior, movement patterns, comfort, and daily routines, which influenced many of the project’s planning decisions.Another challenge was balancing the operational requirements of a working equestrian facility with the desire to create an emotionally engaging and culturally expressive environment. Resolving this balance changed my understanding of equestrian design, showing me that these spaces can be much more than functional facilities—they can become immersive environments that create meaningful experiences for both horses and people.
The material and color language of Maison Equine developed through a combination of the client’s personality, the Omani context, and the atmosphere we wanted the space to create. During our visit to Oman, we gained a deeper understanding of the client’s preferences, the local environment, and the emotional connection between the horses and the people who care for them. This naturally guided us toward earthy materials, layered textures, and bold yet warm color compositions.Whenever cultural inspiration, functional requirements, and aesthetic intentions seemed to pull in different directions, functionality remained the foundation. Once the needs of the horses, visitors, and daily operations were resolved, we carefully layered materials, colors, and textures to create a space that felt expressive and memorable without compromising comfort, safety, or usability.
Maison Equine reinforced a direction that has always been important to my work: creating spaces that connect functionality with emotion, culture, and human experience. The project demonstrated that highly specialized environments can still possess a strong sense of identity and atmosphere without compromising their practical requirements.Looking ahead, I see these ideas continuing to influence future projects at Luxentti Design House, particularly those where lifestyle, wellbeing, and cultural context intersect. I also believe that animal-centered design will continue to evolve as a serious discipline, with greater emphasis on understanding behavior, comfort, and welfare while creating spaces that are meaningful for the people who interact with them. Maison Equine showed that functionality, cultural identity, and hospitality can coexist within a single design vision, and I believe this approach will become increasingly relevant in the future.
One aspect that may not be immediately visible is that Maison Equine was designed around relationships rather than spaces. While visitors often notice the materials, colors, or lounge experience, the deeper idea was to strengthen the connection between horses, people, and their daily environment.For me, the project was never only about designing a stable or a lounge. It was about creating a place where functionality, wellbeing, and emotional experience coexist naturally. If there is one idea I would like fellow designers to take away from the project, it is that even highly specialized facilities can be designed with empathy, identity, and a strong sense of human and animal connection.
The inclined ceiling was introduced by the architect as a way to enhance the sense of scale and create a more luxurious spatial experience within the lounge. The varying height helped the space feel more open, generous, and visually impactful, reinforcing its role as the social heart of the project.From an interior design perspective, this architectural gesture became an opportunity to emphasize volume, light, and the connection to the paddock. It elevated the overall atmosphere of the lounge, creating a space that feels welcoming, refined, and memorable while supporting the project’s broader goal of transforming the stable experience into something more immersive and experiential.
Material selection for Maison Equine was guided by a balance of aesthetics, functionality, durability, and suitability for the local environment. Some elements were sourced locally, while others were selected internationally to achieve the desired quality, performance, and design intent.Rather than focusing on the origin of individual materials, the priority was creating a cohesive and authentic experience. The project reinforced the idea that successful design comes from thoughtfully combining the best available resources—whether local or global—to create spaces that feel meaningful, contextually appropriate, and responsive to the needs of their users.