MFLL Stables: Polo Paradise Rooted in the Landscape of Villa Ruiz

Tour a peaceful polo property in Villa Ruiz.

This exquisite polo stable is situated in Villa Ruiz, within the province of Buenos Aires, just a short distance from the charming town of Carlos Keen. Set on a private property surrounded by a remarkable natural landscape, the grounds feature a collection of Mediterranean colonial-style structures, each with its own unique character. From the outset, it was clear that the project needed to thoughtfully integrate with this architectural language—not only to honor its presence, but to elevate and complement it through considered design.

Credits:

Architect: NRV Arquitectura

Nicholas R. Vera, head architect

Construction: NRV Arquitectura

Landscaping: Anita Maiquez

Photography by Hernan Taboada

The property houses a main stable with 16 stalls for polo ponies, two pastures, a veterinary clinic, a tack room, and two grooms’ quarters. It also features an outdoor patio, walking area, bathing area, and a drinking fountain, allowing the entire complex to operate efficiently and comfortably with a rural feel.

Completed by Nicholas Vera of NRV Architectura, the goal was to create a stable that didn’t feel new—or even timeless—but rather as if it has always been part of the landscape. This sense of permanence was achieved largely through the use of high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Brick served as the primary material, left exposed on the interior to showcase its natural texture, and painted white on the exterior to align with the aesthetic of the surrounding Mediterranean colonial-style buildings. All ironwork was custom-forged, while the woodwork was constructed from solid wood, crafted with the same commitment to understated elegance and enduring quality.

At the front of the stable, there is a wash rack and water trough for cooling off the horses after practice.

The drinking fountain is located in the bathing area, framing one of the sides. It was made entirely of concrete and painted midnight green, like all the exterior sheet metal details.

Across the way from the wash rack is access to the covered walker for exercising the horses.

Covered Walker

Barn Interior

One of the most important elements addressed in the main barn was lighting. Given the length and depth of the space, ensuring consistent natural light throughout the day was essential. To achieve this, eight skylights were strategically integrated into the ceiling, allowing light to filter in evenly and gently. The result is a warm, tranquil atmosphere where natural light plays a central role in shaping the experience of the space.

All lighting throughout the stable was designed by NRV Arquitectura. For the exterior, the design of the sconces was modeled after those found on the existing buildings within the surrounding field. Following numerous prototypes and material samples crafted by skilled blacksmiths, a final design and scale were selected to harmonize seamlessly with the stable’s architecture.

Custom sconces were also fabricated for the metal structures along the main corridor. These fixtures were conceived to evoke a “shed” aesthetic and provide low-level illumination, effectively marking the path and highlighting stall entrances during early mornings and dark winter evenings.

Pendant lamps positioned along the center of the main corridor were custom-designed using cylindrical sheet metal in two diameters—smaller at the top and wider at the base. These fixtures deliver ambient lighting to the main circulation areas, contributing to a warm and cohesive interior environment.

All interior lighting elements underwent a natural oxidization process to create a refined, antique patina consistent with the overall aesthetic of the space.

At NRV, particular attention was given to thermal insulation. The roof was designed with a wooden structure and tongue-and-groove paneling, paired with insulation specifically chosen to accommodate the region’s climatic extremes—intense summer heat and cold winter temperatures. This approach ensures consistent interior comfort throughout the year, while preserving the integrity of both the materials and the spatial character.

All the interior carpentry of the stable was made from solid anchico wood. The ironwork, including the barn gates and the main corridor and main structure of the warehouse, was done by a team of blacksmiths from the studio, along with the finer details.

The defining characteristic of this stable is its unwavering focus on detail and animal welfare. Recognizing that a horse’s comfort is as essential as its functionality, every surface and structural element was intentionally designed with safety in mind. Edges—whether in masonry or metalwork—were rounded and softened to eliminate risks of injury. Every choice in materials, fittings, and finishes was made with the clear objective of protecting the horse and fostering a space that is both respectful and supportive.

Tack Room

Pine and lapacho wood are found throughout the tack room, adding warmth and a contrast to the brick with custom shelving, storage and racks.

Inviting Spaces

This is far more than a conventional stable. While fully functional, it is also a carefully conceived architectural project—one that engages thoughtfully with its surroundings and demonstrates respect for the horse, the caretaker, and the natural landscape. Designed with longevity in mind, it does not follow trends or fleeting styles, but instead reflects a commitment to enduring quality. The architecture is executed with precision, using noble materials and guided by a discerning design approach. Above all, it aspires to elevate the standard of what a stable can represent within the national context.

The fireplace is located at the back of the stable. It is located at the end of the hallway, between the veterinary office and the tack room. It frames a meeting space and provides heating to this area, which is heavily used by grooms and polo players. It aims to create an indoor meeting space, specifically for the cold winter temperatures, a place to relax or prepare for a game, chat with friends, sip a mate, etc. It’s a space widely used and valued by everyone who works at the stables.

Outdoor Patio

The barn doors were custom-made from folded sheet metal simulating wood tongue and groove. They were injected with polyurethane to maintain thermal performance and are much lighter than wood, allowing for easy opening and closing.