by Andrea Chancellor | Photos courtesy of GH2
In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, a horse farmer or rancher who
needed a place to store hay, cereal, and supplies asked neighbors to band together collectively to raise a barn. It was an effective and friendly way to create a structure.
Today, a neighbor might be located just beyond the next hillside, but planning to build a barn and an entire equine complex is far more difficult than it was decades ago. Horse lovers now prefer professional advice and turn to architectural firms that
specialize in producing comprehensive equine designs and project elements. Professional equine architects can put many people and years of design experience to work in creating the kind of environment where horses can thrive.
In Tulsa, GH2 Equine Architects, a division of GH2 Architects, is active in the design of arenas, ranching and breeding facilities, stables, and other equine facilities.
One specific project a few years ago helped to expand the GH2 portfolio immensely, extending its design footprint across the state and beyond. That project was the statehood centennial plan for the Oklahoma State Fair. It included a redevelopment initiative that spanned 240 acres and involved upgrading nearly two million square feet of existing multiuse buildings, event arenas, and horse and stock barns. The project ran from 2005 to 2009. “The GH2 involvement in the centennial redevelopment project significantly expanded our portfolio, marking it one of our most substantial endeavors,” said Kala Ade, principal and director of equine specialty practice at GH2.
One OKC Fairgrounds park official said the site has “come eons” since the state centennial project. Work has included upgrades and improvements to various horse spaces.
GH2 Uses Comprehensive Planning
GH2 equine projects include the Tulsa Expo Square Ranger Arena, Diamond G Racing Stables and Training Center in Edmond, Doolin Racing Center in Shawnee, Woodridge Farm in Claremore, Bob Moore Farms in Norman, and Westwood Stables in Bixby.
“Whether it’s a multimillion-dollar event venue or a modest riding stable, GH2 believes a comprehensive plan is a critical tool,” said Ade.
Projects strive to optimize the land’s drainage, reduce the need for excessive roads and pathways, and enhance a farm’s efficiency and safety, she added. GH2 develops floor plans, elevations, and renderings to capture the essence of the project, allowing clients to make important decisions that align with their vision and budget.
GH2 has worked on a variety of projects, from equine veterinary hospitals to educational facilities. It has designed rodeo arenas, equestrian event centers, and privately owned training, breeding, and boarding spaces.
Populous Designs
OKC Fairgrounds Coliseum
All eyes in the horse world today are focused on the progress of a state-of-theart OKC Fairgrounds coliseum, designed to replace an aging arena. The new facility is part of the Oklahoma City MAPS 4 round of economic development projects. Oklahoma Horses carried a story about this world-class facility in its May-June 2023 issue. Construction is under way. The project will ensure that Oklahoma City retains prestigious equine events, along with the title of Horse Show Capital of the World.
The coliseum is the work of global architectural design firm Populous, which has an Oklahoma presence. Beyond Oklahoma, the firm created the WestWorld of Scottsdale Tony Nelssen Equestrian Center. It is a $56 million renovation that includes the addition of a climate-controlled multiuse facility for stalls, arenas, trade booths, and indoor warm-up ring.
What Is Good Horse Space?
So what constitutes good design for horse spaces? GH2 says it involves considering the size and nature of equine partners. Unlike other buildings, equine spaces must accommodate larger, heavier, and stronger bodies while recognizing the inherent differences in behavior between horses and humans.
GH2 shared a checklist it used in design planning and preparation for one project. The list ensured that design allowed for safe movement of vehicular traffic and horse trailers; efficient waste removal; an appropriate number of wash stalls; durable structural, mechanical, and electrical systems that require minimal maintenance; efficient circulation for livestock and holding pens; amenities such as loading areas; and space for vendors and exhibitors.
Rachel Ginter, an amateur rider who owns Arabian and Arabian-sadddlebred horses, said the design of arena footing is also very important.
“If the dirt gets too hard, a horse is very likely to get sore footed, and if the dirt is deep, it is easier for a horse to pull a ligament,” she explained. Athletes need proper turf during competition, and horses require support and good footing too, she said.
Ginter is a reserve national champion, regional champion, and class show winner. She will compete at the OKC Fairgrounds in the Midsummer Nationals.
