Mare & Foal Sanctuary - Updated

Equine Landscape Extension

This project was designed to create a new space to comfortably support the growing number of horses at the Mare and Foal Sanctuary. As an extension to the existing facilities, the design carefully responds to the surrounding landscape, minimising visual impact, and enhancing local biodiversity.

The landscape includes wildflower meadows, swales, and fruit trees, providing natural drainage, food sources, shade, and shelter for the horses. These elements not only support ecological health but also add beauty and harmony to the site.

Overall, the design balances practicality, environmental responsibility, and visual appeal, creating a calm, functional, and nature-rich environment for both horses and people.

Paddock Area Redesign

As the new stables were under construction, our client wanted to push the landscape design further and be ambitious in how they would use the spaces around the new stable block to engage and attract future visitors.

We came up with a concept of four different natural element zones for engaging visitors and interacting with the horses. Each shaping a distinct zone of activity and experience within the wider space.

Zone 1 - EARTH - A grounding zone of sensory engagement inspired by Zen gardens and offering connection with the learning and horses

Zone 2 - WATER - A zone of calm and reflection; offering quieter, restorative experiences like cold plunge and sauna with beautiful view. Inspired by flow, stillness, and renewal

Zone 3 - WIND - An open, expansive zone for movement, freedom, and active play; drawing on the open skies and open paddock character of the site

Zone 4 - FIRE - A gathering and celebration zone with fire temple; a place for warmth, connection, and shared experiences around light and energy