Project:   Private Stable

Location:   Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

CMW's specialized experience with equine facilities led to a commission for a private stable located in the United Arab Emirate of Sharjah, near Dubai . The Owner is a breeder of world class Arabian horses who wanted to create a state-of-the-art training and breeding farm for his horses.

The expansive site is located in an undeveloped area of this growing Emirate. The extreme desert climate, as well as the environmentally sensitive conditions of this wilderness posed a creative and engineering challenge to CMW's team of architects and engineers. One major issue was dealing with intense summer heat which can reach temperatures of 50 degrees C (approx 120 degrees F). After extensive research and engineering, a solution which combines passive solar and natural ventilation design strategies, with supplemental mechanical natural ventilation and cooling was developed.

The architectural design and planning for the farm and stable was equally studied to address the special climatic conditions of the project. The 65 stall complex is arranged in ring configuration with extensive shedrows to promote natural ventilation and shading. Use of substantial concrete and masonry walls and framing, stucco exterior wall finishes, and clay roofing tiles fit into to neo-Arabic architectural style which the Owner admired. These materials also serve to absorb heat and maintain a more comfortable temperature inside the buildings through much of the year.

In addition to the stalls, the design includes tack rooms, wash stalls, a vet clinic, grooming and exercise areas, as well as a fully conditioned Lounge and Viewing area for the Owner and his guests. The overall complex also includes a Quarantine Barn, Therapy and Training pool, Maintenance Garage, Staff Quarters, and other service and support facilities.

CMW's services included overall masterplanning, as well as building design and engineering and CMW is collaborating with a local engineering company as the project moves forward.