Ashley Griffin, University of Kentucky
General Layout Considerations
Barn layouts are associated with both function and engineering design. Barns classified by function are used for breeding, riding, loose housing, hay, and utility.
The existing building site and prevailing management practices often influence both building width and length. To obtain wider spans, attached sheds or a roof extension may be necessary. Determine the proper barn width during the planning stages. Match the functional requirements of the building with the attainable needs of the owner to determine the width (and length) of a structure. The outside dimensions of the structure should allow for all the planned interior arrangements and facilities without compromising size.
Outside dimensions of buildings always indicate the outside size of the finished structure. Some space in most buildings is taken up by walls and other structural components, reducing the usable space inside the building. This reduction may result in less space and smaller facilities than actually needed, especially if planning decisions were based on minimum space requirements and the interior features of the building were ignored. Two rows of 10' x 10' box stalls separated by a 10' wide alley will not fit into a building having a 30' outside dimension.
Check and recheck inside measurements against space requirements and facility sizes before selecting a building plan.
Minimum space requirements cannot be reduced when the welfare of the horse and the performance of associated activities are considered. However, reference to minimum dimensions does not preclude more expansive facilities. Many horse owners consider minimum dimensions and space requirements incompatible with adequate housing, horse care, riding enjoyment, convenience, and the efficient use of labor.
