Designing the Perfect Outdoor Space for Equestrian Living

The outdoor areas of a property and an equestrian facility are not left idle. They are integrated into daily life and are subject to wear and tear as people move through them on foot, by car, on horse, or with dogs. A strong design for an equestrian lifestyle home is functional, comfortable, and durable while maintaining style.

Where will you land? Outdoor living spaces can invite activity, grapple with inclement weather, endure years of wear-and-tear, and challenge for a spot to truly relax. Which wins out in the end?

Start with Flow Between Stable and Home

Equestrian properties can differ in many ways, but one of the defining characteristics is how often the design relocates you between outdoor and indoor spaces. Unlike regular housing, where you have a clear line between a garden and internal space, in an equestrian residence, the barn, paddock, and outside space are typically incorporated into the design.

When designing an outdoor area, it is easier to create a functional space if you design with “traffic flow” in mind. Remember that no matter how beautiful a seating area you create, if it is tucked away and rarely used, it is probably wasting valuable real estate. When creating a hardscape for an outdoor area, it is important that the paths and surfaces are organically laid out and durable enough for heavy foot traffic with minimal upkeep.

Space is functional when it allows for the natural flow of movement.

Choose Materials That Handle Real Conditions

We favor natural materials for a beach house because not only are they functional in this setting, but they also look great. Wood develops nice character with age, stone settles into a space perfectly, and metal finishes never go out of style.

We strongly advise against using upholstery materials or fabrics that require synthetic coatings or delicate color finishes. They are likely to let the side down under the worst abuse.

Create Zones That Serve a Purpose

We are frequently reminded that it is unnatural to have an outdoor living space set up as a single large open space. More natural and pleasing to the eye are smaller regions arranged to create distinct spaces and purposes.

You might have a shaded seating area by the house for entertaining, another spot near the barn to sit, eat, and clean up after being with the horses, and a separate dining area outside for casual get-togethers or bigger gatherings.

Every part of the house should have a purpose, but that doesn’t mean spaces need to be rigid or limited. Instead, each room can be flexible and used for different activities throughout the day.

Design for Boots, Pets, and Movement

This home is set up to suit the busy lives of equestrian owners, with traffic flowing through the home and out the back doors for the dogs, kids (and gear), etc. Furniture must be practical and not obtrusive.

Long-term furniture, such as benches, tables, and open spaces, can make a big impact on a space. The furniture should be durable, robust, and long-lasting enough to withstand heavy use. It should also be low maintenance and easy to clean.

Movable furniture creates a more comfortable and functional interior while adding no special difficulties to its use.

Let the Space Feel Natural, Not Staged

Designing a great outdoor space can be tough. What really draws in are the details, the seats, tables, stone, and stucco. When a space feels like it has always belonged there, that’s the true beauty of landscape design.

Inside, neutral colors and textures with clean lines help the design blend with the outdoors, rather than compete with it.

The earthy palette gives a more realistic feel than going for style and using multiple colors.

Think Long-Term, Not Seasonal

Equestrian properties are built to last, so your outdoor design and furnishings should also be long-lasting and able to withstand the seasons.

Choosing high-quality outdoor furniture and accessories will ensure that you do not have to constantly replace items. Creating an inspired outdoor setting with high-quality products means your space is going to look great today and, over time, remain consistent with your aesthetic while allowing it to evolve naturally with age and character.

Explore the Equestrian lifestyle home design philosophy at Idlewild Imports.