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.
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.
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