A Minimalistic Design Creates an Exceptional Texas Ranch

Marvine Ranch’s design is simple, yet stunning.

In 2008, GH2 Equine Architects worked as a consultant to Lake Flato Architects on this spectacular horse property. GH2 provided master planning along with design consulting services for the premier cutting horse facility located in Texas. The client envisioned the signature architecture style of Lake Flato paired with the equestrian expertise of GH2 to create a special ranch, unlike any other.

The vast property houses seven buildings on site: a 22- stall training barn, 12-stall mare barn, covered arena, hydrotherapy barn, a pavilion overlooking an outdoor training arena, equipment barn and a hay barn.

The spacious training barn includes tack and wash areas, an office and conference space, break room with a screened porch, tack room, dedicated vet and farrier areas and storage areas.

The memorable stall fronts were made custom by Lucas Equine Equipment. GH2 worked closely with Lucas Equine to create a unique design with a custom rusted finish, all while keeping safety and function in mind for the horses. The stalls in the mare barn all have outdoor runs attached.

A 42’ diameter hot walker is located between the training barn and covered arena. All three areas are conveniently connected via a covered connector and ramp. The setup allows the horses to get out in all weather and offers protection from the elements.

Thoughtful design details are found throughout the ranch, like this water component. In addition to helping cool the immediate surrounding area, the water feature is a decorative element rooted from the historical function of ranch water trough.

Here is a glimpse inside the mare barn. Behind the doors you’ll find a vet lab, vet examination area, utility room and tack room.

Lake Flato’s impressive signature style has been cultivated using local materials and responding to the site’s natural environment. Each individual aspect of the ranch was custom designed, including the loafing sheds in the pastures. Rusted steel pipe, perforated corrugated metal, natural wood and simple structural connection create a minimalistic and durable palette of materials.

Therapy Building

The therapy building is a separate structure, located between the training barn and mare barn for convenient access.

This building includes a submerged aqua-treadmill, solarium, two wash areas and a holding stall.

The covered arena is 136’ x 300’.

One of the biggest project challenges for GH2 was designing a variety of facilities using a non-traditional palette of materials. Ultimately ensuring that all facilities incorporate a unique architectural style and detailing, while maintaining a balance of horse safety and function.