Spring is the perfect time to start planning for your new stables, barn or even that all important upgrade to your existing horse stabling set-up with new stable doors, partitions, frontages or windows.
Getting set for Spring and Summer is important but there are also a lot of things to consider ahead of starting any build. Cheval Liberté are Europe’s leading manufacturer of the premium collection of internal and external horse stables, barns, lunge pens and much more.
The Cheval Liberté team of stabling experts are always on hand to support any customer through a new build or upgrade, and with this experience comes a lot of essential knowledge on how to approach any type of stabling project.
Here are Cheval Liberté’s Top Tips to consider ahead of building new horse stables, barn or even upgrading your current stabling set-up.
Budget
Unfortunately this is usually the starting point for any project, the available funds! With an abundance of stabling options available from a field shelter up to a premium American Barn, the budget will often limit your stabling dream. If you have a very limited budget and only need a stable for a short period of time, temporary stables are a great option. They are available to hire and don’t require a large financial outlay or planning permission as they are movable.
Location
Do you have an existing building which you could fit internal stables into? Or are you looking for a new build? If you’re looking to build your stables from scratch, spend time to consider the right location. Is it in a well drained area or do you require additional groundworks and planning permission?
Ventilation
Good ventilation is paramount, especially during the hot summer months. Internal stables with high bar frontages and partitions enable airflow, and can also be used on the front of external timer builds to allow maximum ventilation. If you don’t have any windows, you can add shutters or plexiglass windows to any existing buildings. These allow airflow through the stables and natural light – which can help reduce electricity bills!
Layout
There are a number of layout configurations for you to choose from. You can have the stables aligned in one straight row, an L shape, or a U shape block. Alternatively, an American Barn allows the stables to be housed all under one roof and on opposite rows. This can be particularly helpful for horses which get anxious when stabled, as they can see one another to the side and in front.
Usage
Depending on if the stables are going to be for personal use or commercial purposes, this can make a difference to layout and choices you will need to make before going ahead. For example, if the stables are for commercial use, then perhaps consider a livery set up. This is a stable with an individual secure storage area located to the rear and accessed through the stable.
Amenities
Again, this is paramount if you are looking at using the stables for business purposes. Individual store rooms, toilets and a seating / kitchen area may be an option? However, these are also worth considering for personal use if the stables are located away from home.
Finishes
With a range of stable frontages to choose from, for internal or external use, you can personalise your yard to your specific tastes. The Club range offers quality and functionality, with the prestige offering a superior appearance. With a choice of infill materials, Treated Pine, Hardwood (Oak or Denya), and Recycled Plastic in 5 colours to choose from. There are also a range of stable features and accessories such as integrated hay racks, swivel feeders and rubber matting to consider.
Size matters
Ensuring the stable size is right for your horses will be crucial, but also factor in the allocation of space needed for areas such as a wash facility or even a storage area for all that important equestrian equipment.
Another factor is expansion – if you decide to purchase another horse in the future, ensure you have suitable space to acomodate this new companion in the future.
And finally…Trust & Expertise
A new stabling project requires a significant amount of time and money, so to make this experience a positive one, choosing the right equestrian partner to help delivr this project on time and on budget will be hugely important.
With over 20 years of experience in the equestrian market, Cheval Liberté provides a professional end-to-end service through a team of knowledgeable experts committed to putting your needs first and foremost.
If you are starting to plan for your new stables, barn or upgrade, now might be the perfect times to tak to the stabling experts at Cheval Liberté.
Call 01490 736323 or email hello@cheval-liberte.co.uk
