A valuable building kit for the astute horseman.
For years we had been trying to develop a covered round pen that is functional and attractive, while being financially attainable for the average horseperson.
All of our ideas for a round roof structure were either a) not enough bang for your buck or b) too much buck for the bang.
Then one day, we (literally) went back to the drawing board. A 60'x60' post and beam structure with a 60' round pen inside. It was not particularly thrilling until we started measuring out the "wasted" corners. An epiphany was had. Those corners turned an expensive "covered round pen" into an incredibly functional space with real value.
The average horseperson does not need a 10 stall barn, or 80'x200' indoor riding arena. That kind of facility is a dream for sure, but in reality the initial cost plus upkeep is not sustainable. If you're in a position of wanting (needing?) a functional working space with a couple stalls, some storage, and the ability for friends and family to hang out then the Meridian design may be just the thing.
The entire design revolves around a 60' diameter round training ring, otherwise known as a round pen. This size round pen is not only great for ground work, but also comfortable to ride in. The round pen panels are 6' tall and solid on the lower half for safety.
Solid Bottom Round Pen pics & more
Those pesky corners that took away from our idea of a pretty Covered Round Pen?
They're a blessing in disguise.
While not the traditional box shape that we expect, they're larger than they appear. From inside corner to exterior door, it is over 16' in length, and from inside corner to round pen, it is 10'. That makes the corner stalls comparable in space to a 12x12 box stall.
We have chosen to utilize two of those corners as stalls. For safety, we have designed movable panels that make it so that the most narrow area is 4' wide and quickly widens from there. The length/location of these dividers can be adjusted. Since there is never enough storage, the space between the divider and exterior door is accessible.
We are using our Cowboy Stall designs which are 6' tall panels with a tightly stacked lower half. We build these using No Chew White Oak lumber and bolt construction. The specialized bolts we use are flush on both sides so there is nothing protruding to get hung up on. The stall/round pen panels connect to each other via pins. This means that if you need to open up a stall to get a horse out quickly, that can be done in a matter of seconds without losing long term strength.
Take a look inside with this interactive tool!
One corner of the Meridian has a raised viewing deck with outdoor access via a Dutch Door. This raised deck is a fantastic congregration space with enough elevation to allow spectators to see horses being worked without visual obstruction. There is enough space here for tables, chairs, kids toys, even a refrigerator. The viewing deck is shipped to you in two pieces and gets set into place. No need for deck building skills!
We did not stop at the interior.
The Meridian is a 60'x60' post and beam construction building with 16' side walls. Some may try to tell you that the 16' side walls are overkill, but we disagree. In the longterm that height will allow for lean-too addition(s). Whether that be for trailer storage, hay storage, a shop, additional stalls, run-ins, or whatever else you can dream up. The Meridian is all about progressive thinking and efficiency.
The steel roof and siding are available in 22 different colors.
Please note, we are working with a third party to supply the shell building materials. Steve has extensive professional experience as a barn builder, but has chosen to exit that industry. The Meridian shell is built to his preferences, and he is happy to discuss the technicalities of it via phone. (952) 232-7115
The lower 8' of the Meridians shell is covered with white oak Board & Batten siding. This is not only a much more attractive option than steel, but it also is more durable. Horses, ideally, should not have direct access to steel siding in case of a kick. The white oak Board & Batten is a hardwood that can stand up to the worst. Additionaly, white oak is naturally a No Chew material as horses hate the bitter taste.
Board & Batten Siding pics & more
What can make or break a barn?
Natural light, airflow, and access.
The Meridian has, count them, 4 12' Barn Doors that offer all three. Each opening also has an Entrance Gate in a frame that connects to the round pen panels. This allows you to safely keep doors open while using the working space.
Sliding Split Barn Door pics & more
We are in the process of updating this page, please check back for more information. (6/25/2025)
Want to chat with someone direct? Call (952) 232-7115 or email info@greatoakequine.com