A beautiful new horse facility on a scenic Montana ranch features pleasing aesthetics, a highly functional design and a focus on horse comfort and safety.
The new facility, which includes a riding arena complex and a separate breeding barn, was purpose-built by Morton Buildings, a leading builder of post-frame equestrian facilities throughout the U.S.
Riding Arena
The focal point of the project is a spacious indoor riding arena measuring 125 by 250 feet, featuring two dedicated viewing areas. One viewing area is situated at ground level along the sidewall, providing a family viewing area with an unobstructed perspective of activities within the arena. The second viewing area is located on the second floor, centrally positioned on the end wall. These features offer riders flexibility in selecting their preferred vantage point when not engaged in riding.
Morton Buildings sales consultants Nik Zuhlsdorf and Jesse Holzemer worked with the owners’ design and made it into an efficient, well-thought-out, aesthetically pleasing facility. “The trick is always how to make a large structure fit into the landscape,” Holzemer said. “The owners had already completed a few other buildings, and we wanted to ensure the new riding arena and barn was complementary to the overall landscape.”
The riding arena includes a tack room, wash bay, office and six oversized stalls with low euro stall fronts, automatic waterers and stall mats, all for efficient management and horse health and safety.
Breeding Program Barn
The second part of the project is a free-standing barn measuring 48 by 160 feet and is used to support the operation’s horse breeding program. It has 20 oversized stalls, each 12 by 16 feet, and incorporates numerous aesthetic and functional features in line with those found in the riding arena.
Holzemer said one of the features used for both structures is the selection of the weathered gray steel siding, which provides a subtle, wood-like, soft finish with a low level of reflection, but also the strength and low maintenance of steel.
He explained, “When we construct buildings in mountainous areas like this, we make a point to consider neighboring properties and the people who live there. For instance, glare from a shiny building surface might seem minor, but it can be quite bothersome in this region. Small considerations like this can have a significant impact.”
Along with the exterior steel paint, the facility’s design features numerous other elements that enhance both visual appeal and offer structural benefits. Included are:
- Morton’s Hi-Rib steel, used to provide superior strength and durability.
- Morton’s Energy Performer Insulation Package, which provides maximum comfort and energy savings.
- Morton’s hybrid truss and straight wall system, offering more usable arena space than typical all-steel structures.
- Aesthetic decor components, including steel and stone wainscots, cupolas, porches, Dutch doors and turkey tails.
Holzemer shared that the ranch owners were thrilled with the outcome of the project, which also attracted interest from other equestrian enthusiasts in the region. “Our objective is to assist our equestrian clients in constructing facilities that prioritize safety, functionality and style while fulfilling their overall vision,” Holzemer stated.
Whether you enjoy horses for recreation, sport or companionship, Morton can design an equestrian facility that is built stronger, lasts longer and looks better. To learn more, visit mortonbuildings.com/projects/equestrian.
