Whether you are raising horses for pleasure or business, it is common to want to set up metal horse arenas for friends, family, and visitors. With the evolution of technology and aesthetics taking over the world, it is increasingly becoming essential to build an arena that not only functions better but looks and feels terrific. 

Heightened comfort, better experience, and additional features are often preferred when it comes to modern structures. With steel riding arenas, it is hassle-free to carry out a range of customizations and integrations, making the space look elegant, contemporary, or grand. You can also play around to design the perfect arena as per your aesthetic preferences. 

Design and dimensions go hand-in-hand

Before you land on a design for your riding arena, it is crucial to land on the correct size. It will also help you understand whether the dimensions of your equestrian metal buildings allow for the design integrations that you are planning. The size will also depend on the use of the riding arena — will it be multi-purpose or only meant for riding? 

The most common dimensions are:

Starting at 40 feet wide, metal horse arenas can extend up to 300 feet wide, with the length being adjusted accordingly. Ideally, the height of the arena should be between 16 feet and 18 feet. Moreover, a 4:12 roof pitch is, at the very least, required for riding arenas. However, if you live in heavy snow-prone areas, then you can consider a 6:12 roof pitch or taller. 

Modernity Meets Class: Top Design Trends For Steel Riding Arenas

A lot has changed since riding arenas were just another way of passing time. Now, along with the increase in interest in horse riding, people are also looking for spaces that make them feel comfortable, deliver a tremendous ride-watching experience, and offer other facilities. In 2024, interests are evolving, so why shouldn’t your metal riding arenas?

Modern lighting 

There is plenty of potential when it comes to playing around with lighting. You can opt to set up several LED bulbs or bright floodlights, depending on the appearance you are planning to achieve. While natural and warm lights are preferred, you can create an outstanding night horse riding experience with fancy lighting. Dimmable lights and motion-sensor systems are gaining popularity as they add a contemporary touch to your arenas. 

Tiered seating

To deliver a professional and stadium-like viewing experience for your guests, your equestrian metal buildings can feature tiered seating. This will not only offer optimal views but will also allow you to accommodate large crowds for competitions while keeping them comfortable. You can make them attractive by adding handrests and snacking tables. 

Large spans and doors

Steel riding arenas feature clear span designs, which allow you to easily utilize the large spans and curate the right horse riding space without interior columns interfering. This is probably why these structures are becoming more and more popular in 2024. 

You can also install large doors to enhance the appeal of your riding arena. Choose among sliding doors, hinged doors, or roll-up doors as per your design and layout preferences. 

Embrace transparency

Another design element that is the rage at the moment is adding transparent elements like glass fronts, skylights, and large windows. These elements do not only let sunlight into the structure but also enhance the appearance of the building. As metal riding arenas do not feature any internal posts, they can easily integrate glass for a modern aesthetic, flooding the interiors with natural light. This also helps connect the riders to the outside while riding indoors. 

Maximalism 

If you’re a maximalist, why shy away from it when designing your own metal horse arenas? There are several add-ons that can enhance the design of your arenas. You can add ceiling-mounted chandeliers instead of other light elements in the riding area. You can also choose to opt for viewing balconies instead of other seating options for guests to transform the space into a glamorous area. The grand, opulent designs will help you blend sophistication and functionality together. 

Viewing with entertainment 

You can set up a dedicated viewing area separated from the arena with huge glasses to offer a clear sight for the viewers and also shield them from noise and dust. This area can also be a lounge area with proper heating and cooling systems. 

You can also consider setting up a lounge area by adding cozy seating, food and beverages, and screens to improve the overall arena experience.

Arena with stalls

Several owners of equestrian metal buildings prefer having built-in stalls for their horses. This allows them to care for their animals on-site with efficiency. This also saves them from constantly worrying about their equines. By integrating training areas and stables, you can also maximize the potential of the structure and save yourself the trouble of investing in another property. 

Audio systems  

Strategic integration of sound systems will not only allow you to coordinate better and increase efficiency during training or events but will also help you offer an interactive, high-tech experience to the riders as well as spectators. 

Environmentally-friendly

With sustainability being at the center stage in 2024, the need for eco-friendly and energy-sufficient metal horse arenas is on the rise. You can opt for several energy-saving options to reduce your carbon footprint, such as:

• Setting up solar panels on the roof to reduce energy consumption.
• Conserve rainwater by setting up a proper gutter and downspout system as well as water tanks. You can use this water to wash horses and the arena.
• Metal riding arenas are the best option, as steel is 100% recyclable. 
• Use LED lights instead of others to further save on energy costs.
  

In 2024, you should be focusing on utilizing every corner of your riding arenas to improve its design, strength, or appeal. As the world progresses, all design elements are being embraced, so you can never go wrong!