A contemporary equine barn and arena in Abiquiú (2019). A 110-foot ribbon skylight and perforated steel walls blur the line between earth and sky — recognized with the 2020 AIA New Mexico Distinguished Architecture Award of Merit.
The brief
This 2019 project in Abiquiú is a special equine barn and arena that blends the indoors with the views and surrounding landscape. A contemporary horse barn — a dream come true for the owners of the farm.
The design language
Buildings of southern Colorado and west Texas, along with the northern New Mexican landscape, became the design principle for Skybound. Finishes are inspired by a half-buried, doorless truck in the arroyo.
There is no clear defining line between indoor space and outdoor space. A 110-foot-long skylight and a 170-square-foot hole in the roof of the barn blur the line between earth and sky. Steel is perforated or moving — allowing light and sound to pass.
A perforated, corrugated steel wall slides to protect riders from dust and wind and to let in views and sunlight. The stalls feature a 110-foot ribbon skylight stretching the full length of the rows, washing the stalls with natural light.
Recognition
Skybound received the 2020 AIA New Mexico Distinguished Architecture Award of Merit.
Our approach
A project that hinges on a 110-foot ribbon skylight and sliding perforated-steel walls is a job for tight steel detailing and careful weatherproofing. Tent Rock, Inc. coordinated structural steel, glazing, weather sealing, and the equine-specific finish details (stall ventilation, footing, drainage) as a single delivery — keeping the architect's intent of light, motion, and openness intact while building the equine program in.
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