For more than 40 years, Blackburn Architects has led the world in the design of equestrian facilities that are beautiful and innovative.
Masters of Equestrian Architecture™
Our designers use principles of natural ventilation to create buildings that “breathe” with air and with light, dissipating heat and moisture. We begin by placing buildings within the landscape to take best advantage of a site’s natural features.
Then, by venting through the roof, we create “chimneys” encouraging heat to rise. Reduced pressure on the leeward side of a roof, similar to the low pressure created by the shape of an airplane wing, suctions air out of our barns through openings in the roof or vented skylights.
Inspired by its location near the Blue Ridge Parkway, Meadow Creek Farm's design highlights natural views and a low-profile barn and arena. Paddocks and grade changes help manage stormwater and blend the structures into the landscape.
Pegaso Farm’s design responds to harsh winters and the owner’s modernist preferences, with a layout inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. The barn and arena placement shields against wind, while skylights, louvers, Dutch doors, and overhangs optimize light, ventilation, and seasonal comfort.
River Farm was transformed from a cattle farm into a horse farm with arenas and family residences, while preserving and adapting existing structures in harmony with their original style. The new barn was strategically placed on a high south slope to capture summer breezes and minimize its visual impact from the owner's home. Designed symmetrically, the barn separates service areas from horse stalls and includes fire separations and heated flooring for comfort and safety.
Light, air, space to breathe.
It’s all in the design.
Sustainability & Design Thought Leaders
We are proud that our firm is credited with raising the bar on barn design through the use of aerodynamic principles. Our goal for decades has been to ensure the health and safety of horses through design and to do our part to protect the planet through the incorporation of sustainable design principles for the farm and all structures.
