Quinis Design Works
5A 2582 Mt Lehman Rd V4X 2R5 Abbotsford, BC, Canada

Though we operate across the continent, we do have a soft spot for BCour beautiful, forest-filled home here in Canada. A value we hold as building industry professionals is sustainability. Along with this value comes preservation, reclaiming, and education on the importance of keeping our natural resources out of landfills. We took some time out of our Friday last week to visit Western Reclaimed Timber in Maple Ridge. Western Reclaimed Timber specializes in sourcing environm...entally friendly recycled timbers. With each saved piece of wood, they share a part of British Columbia and Vancouver’s history. Having used WRT’s timbers in more than a few of our designs, we know the stunning effect reclaimed wood can have, which is rarely replicated. We’ll leave you with dreamy photos of reclaimed pieces from our visit, waiting to bring character and authenticity to their next build.

As promised, it’s a new week (and a new year), and that means new designs. We’re honoured to be chosen to design the facility for this special ranch. As we know, behind each design is a story to make it distinctly it’s own. We’ll leave you with this rendering viewstay tuned for more on this classic design in the coming week. Happy Monday!

While there were many unique and memorable materials to work with in this build, this timber’s alluring texture and wood grain held the spotlight. ~ Working with local builders for a given project, we are reminded of the importance of partnership. Bringing our designs to life in the best way possiblethis is a value we do not compromise on. This is what makes our designs into the striking photos you see, and gives our clients the product they’ve been dreaming of. Thinking of ...a new build, and aren’t decided on a builder? With every design, Quinis will interview local builders to ensure you have the right partnership. We act as a liaison between client and builder to ensure design criteria, budget targets and overall project schedules are met, and stand as an educated representative throughout the entire process. Build: Werner Bartel Project Management

Coastal Equestrian Build is expertly bringing this design to life. This spacious, 4-stall stable is one of our designs taking shape in 2021.

We are pleased to introduce this facility design for North Willow Creek Ranch, showing some updated material choices as part of its development. Located in beautiful Montana, North Willow Creek Ranch is all things farming and family. The ranch is home to Hollow Top Angus , a family owned seedstock Black Angus operation. Among many principles, Hollow Top strives to honour ranching tradition and respect for their land and animals. One of the ways they accomplish this is through... their horses, minimizing the use of motorized vehicles. Among many things , keeping the love of horsemanship alive in Montana is also an objective with their new facility. The arena will be well used as a place where youth can engage in equine activities such as roping games to include their cattle, and participate in 4H programs. We are excited to see this facility take its place on the beautiful landscape of Montana, and become part of the well-loved farm.

A little bit of our why: The past 20+ years have seen our team design in various disciplines, our focus being in equestrian designwell thought-through facilities and stables. This passion was paired with the need we saw for skilled architectural designers that truly knew horses and how a barn operates. With more than a few designs on the boards in 2020, here’s to seeing those designs break ground in 2021. Thanks for following along with us through this window of media!

The coziest 1300 square ft. guest cabin. We hope everyone has the chance to slow down and enjoy this holiday season as we bring in the new year. A reminder that the Quinis office will be closed until January 4th as we do the same!

A home for the horses, and yet designed so the riders don’t mind spending most of their day there as well. A few factors make this courtyard entry convenient and accessiblefor both horses and humans. Each stall runout pen has its own gate for the horse to enter and exit the barn to pasture. Soon after move-in, the herd learned to recognize their stall when coming in from the migration path. The courtyard also contains stand-alone Nelson Waterers for equine water supply when ...on the dry lot. Ample spacing allowances in the courtyard and large, heavy-duty passage doors encourage practical and safe retrieving of horses and cleaning practices. ~ Build: Loewen’s Construction Stall systems: Innovative Equine Systems www.quinis.net

Fields as far as the eye can see. Wouldn’t you run too? #fortheloveofhorses

Our team here at Quinis wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season, however it may look this year. Merry Christmas and happy New Year, from Quinis Design Works.

Oh the beauty and diversity a stone feature gives to our designs. ~ Stone supplied by: K2 Stone... Build: Werner Bartel Project Management See more

A quick fly-by over this Comox Valley build gives some perspective. ~ The stable will hold a storage/hay room, spacious tack room, wash & tack up areas and four stalls with walk-out pens.

Keeping the vision going. A way to show spacing and specific aspects, these viewpoint model videos have proven to be helpful gaining perspective on a new design. What you see in these renderings is typically not an exact replica to what will be built, as there can be many changes which happen along the way.... This specific design is currently under construction and includes 4 stalls, tack up and wash bay, a comfortable tack room with bathroom and loft and a hay room. We can’t wait to see the horses all moved in on this one.

The beauty is there. We compliment it through architecture, even imitate it, but never take away from it. Land really is the best art. -Andy Warhol We had a very kind neighbouring resident extend their appreciation for the completed rancher design here. Not often do architects take into account onlookers with the property within their gaze. The completed design, fitting right into the landscape, did not take away from or hinder their serene views.... Captured during our most recent shoot at the Dunn Ranch outside Calgary, Alberta.

We typically spend most of our time in the office, so it is a nice change of pace to see our designs being built. Site visits are essential to the project moving forward, and it’s a highlight to see the lines on paper come to life. Not to mention, it’s always a pleasure to come to a Coastal Equestrian Build site. Swipe through to see a rendering of this 4-stall barn’s finished look!

Move beyond the average this new year. Despite all the challenges this past year, we are extremely grateful for our wonderful clients and industry partners who have been a dream to work with. We can’t wait to share a look into our designs jumping into the new year. Have a new project in mind for 2021? Let’s connect. We would love to set up a video or phone call with you. Visit http://quinis.net/contact-us/ to take you to our contact page. ... Curious to see more of our completed and up-coming designs? We do our best to keep http://quinis.net/portfolio/ updated with project photos. We can’t wait to hear from you!

The serene landscape of where a new facility will soon be built. We can see it. Can you?

Having just received this beautiful gift in the mail, we couldn't resist snapping a few shots. This will be a wonderful addition to our office, displayed for clients to gain inspiration as they peruse these pages. Did you catch the three Quinis barns featured? We are honoured to be included with the many talented architects and designers showcased. A big thank you to Raquel from Stable Style for creating this masterpiece for all equestrians to enjoy.

Let's use this time leading to the New Year to get inspired. It’s alright to dream a little, right? Being in the business of helping clients realize their dreams and goals, we are all about new beginnings. Whether this be a new stable, a heritage barn renovation, or master planning for your new equestrian property, we're here to make those dreams come true. ~... Pictured is an upcoming equestrian facility currently on our design boards.

Who loves a nice big stall? While there are industry standards for stall size (we typically do not recommend any smaller than 12x12 for a full size horse), choosing this really comes down to equine quality of life. Taking a basis of safety and comfort is a good place to start. Too small a stall, and you may see your horse develop anxious habits such as pacing or cribbing. Extra large stalls, while essential for foaling or rehabilitation, require more cleaning time and beddingand can pack on the square footage. How large the breed is and how often your horse will be stalled will affect your choice. A stall equipped with a runout paddock will also increase the quality of life for horses with limited pasture time.

Balance holds an important place in design. If you have the chance to spend some time with us, you’ll probably hear the words Form, Function and Budget often! Balance of these principles in any project is like the balance of a three-legged stool. If one does not coordinate with another, balance, or the integrity of the project, is at risk. A great design, whether large or small, will have balance and connection between these three principles. You can learn more about our design process and view recent projects at www.quinis.net.

Little compares to the satisfaction of a newly completed design, turned to working barn, filled with the horses it was intended for. Here to usher you into the weekend.

Just a simple Zoom screen, but we had the pleasure of spending this morning with the students of the Equestrian Studies class at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Our designer and president Ernest spent the class detailing our experience in this industry, our design principles and processes, and even took a tour through our website portfolio. To be considered as a guest speaker for classes such as these, and to inspire others in the industry we lovethis is a great honour for us.

It’s been a while since we’ve done an office update. We have walls! Though we may have to postpone our office warming party in the current circumstances, we can’t wait to welcome our current and future clients here. Fundamentally, this space is dedicated to imagining the most important buildings; a space for envisioning the dream. We’ve spent some time making it distinctly our own.... See a few more photos in our story.

Lights off, still bright. It’s all in design. Happy Monday.

In planning for this particular facility, we worked with our client’s distinct vision to include a migration trail surrounding the property. The trail is primarily intended for use when the herd is not on pasture. Leading out to a large resting and feeding shelter at the end of the property, it encouraged exercise and activity for the herd. The broad paths provide pasture separation and easy access to various areas of the farm. The trail is also used for private riding use, wandering in and out of forest and providing picturesque views of the entire farmthe perfect walk-out after a riding session.

If we didn’t know any better, this could be a barn hallway. Dark wood trim, reclaimed timbers, shiplap ceilingnot to mention all the natural light you could ask for. This was the inspiration for the Dunn ranch home; made to feel as though the residence occupied an establishment from a time gone by.

We are fortunate to say we truly love what we do. Having a few riders on our team, we know the fundamental connection between equine lifestyle and stable, and the impact environment has on a horse. Equestrian design encompasses these factors; always beginning with the purpose of the stable, bringing logical and innovative solutions from a holistic perspective.

Integrated design means much more than layout. This aisle way feed cabinet was created for a 4-stall barn to hold four in-counter grain bins, while containing additional shelving and storage. The counter is designed to be rodent-free with each bin being removable for easy cleaning between refills. An aisle feed unit was the perfect choice for this stable, as opposed to an entirely separate feed room. Design: Quinis Equestrian Assembly: Pilat’s Custom Cabinetry

Dreams are extremely important. You can’t do it unless you imagine it. -George Lucas Is your dream just peeking over the hill? Let us give you inspiration.

You might notice a few of our arena designs use a steel building assembly. We get quite a few questions on the benefit to using steel structures, and why one might choose a tension fabric roof. We’d like to shed some light on WeCover Structures, and what they bring to the table for our designs. We’ll start by saying, there is no one right answer for every project. Climate and weather patterns differ drastically from one location to the next, and the choice between a metal or... tension fabric roof depends on elements such as these. Incorporating a customizable free span steel structure into our arena designs means receiving natural and controlled airflow, almost unlimited size variations, bright natural light, and an unmatched quality for decades to come. A translucent tension fabric roof, while not the choice for every circumstance, offers soft natural light and a conserved electric bill without the need for daytime lighting. A Ridgeline, or metal roof, offers increased temperature control as the roof can be insulated. I think it’s just happier and healthier all the way around, for both horses and riders. : WeCover Structures

Observation deck with maximum view of the arena? Swipe through for a rendition of what spectators might see in this bright, naturally lit indoor. Within our design process we take the time to encourage a calm and focused riding experience in the arena. While we can’t guarantee your ride will be these things, what we can do is suggest spacing allowances, eliminate harsh lighting and shadows, reduce possible distractions and address frustrations you might have with your current setup. A good ride is first a safe ride.

We know what you’re thinking... how great would this look in a barn lounge? Good news: the twin to this bar counter found its home just there, in this property’s stable.

Fundamental. Effective.

No tricks, just treats We had the pleasure of photographing a few finished projects in the October sun, both equestrian and residential, before the trees lose their leaves. We hope everyone had an enjoyable and safe Halloween weekend.

Creating the allure of old meets new. Though the cabin was finished in 2016, it was designed to look as though it had been there for many years. During our planning for the addition, it was important to delineate the main residence from the cabin, and yet incorporate them. As one walks through the porte cochere, the back wall of the cabin and its Shou Sugi Ban cladding can still be clearly seen through connection and highlighted as a feature, rather than an afterthought.... The cabin is now used as a separate guesthouse for visiting friends. See more

Welcome to the barn

Sharing a small preview of this equestrian property, which holds a few Quinis designs completed just this year. As we know, the details truly make the design. In this case, you’ll quickly see that timber and wood grain are the star of the show, giving depth, texture, and of course those beautiful wood tones. Project built with Tundra Developments Inc.... Reclaimed timber by Western Reclaimed Timber See more

Why not walk through your barn before it’s built? We often hear clients say that they are visual people. In truth, we all are! When you have the option of viewing a design in 3D (though this is simply a rendition of what will come), it can make all the difference when making key decisions and committing to a design. Happy weekend!

A small virtual tour of one of our not-so-small designs, Elysium Equestrian. Set to begin construction early 2021, this facility will soon be the heart of a devoted breeding and training business. The facility will be equipped with two separate stall wings, an on-site vet lab and public & private tack rooms for versatile use.

We’re sure we could fill many albums with all the captured details and unique materials of the Dunn property

An exciting point in the design process is getting to see what the end result may look like after months of planning and adjustments. Included in this spacious 4-stall stable is a hay/storage room, tack room with sitting area and loft, wash stall and tack up stall. Moving away from a typical long aisle way design, this stall configuration allowed for increasingly thoughtful use of square footage with each room’s purpose in mind.... While we do our best to ensure accuracy in these renderings, they are meant to be an artistic rendition of what is to come. We are excited to see this stable take shape this year on Vancouver Island!

Fall is in the air We love seeing pictures of beloved past designs in the equestrian community. Stunning photos at Shamrock Counselling Services by the talented Irina Beletskaya Photography & Graphic Design

We know horse farms can be some of the most exquisite places here on earthfor more reasons than one. Incorporating European design using full-shingled siding, the approach to this facility was understated and timeless. Careful planning went into the relation of each of the four structures on this property and their purpose within the whole. This groundwork was essential for efficient operations on the farm and, well, beauty from all angles.

Autumn was in full swing in Calgary, showing off this property’s views. We lucked out with the wonderfully warm temperatures this year in AB. Remind us to always visit Calgary just as the leaves are turning gold. Wishing everyone a great long weekend here in Canada. Happy Thanksgiving, from the team at Quinis!

We spy a Quinis barn going up... Soon to be a smart four-stall stable in a beautiful location. Thanks to Coastal Equestrian Build for the very first photos of this build!

Though photos of this property aren’t entirely finished (nor do they do it justice), we couldn’t resist sharing a peek at its new addition. The vision for designs completed on this property intend to complement the rugged character of its surrounding Albertan landscape. We were very pleased to play a part in the identity this project holds, and to be trusted with these developments over the years.

We have been blessed to work closely with Tundra Developments Inc. on many memorable projects in the past and present throughout the lower mainland. So, when they asked us to design their office space, we were honoured to take on the task. The initial vision for the project was for a traditional ‘barn’ design with a gambrel style roof. The building holds a shop space in front and an office space behind for their team to work out of.

Is there anything better than a freshly groomed arena? Considering the importance an arena is to a riding facility, it is equally important to weigh the many options available. Arenas come in all shapes, sizes, materials, and prices, and what is best for one facility or location might not be ideal for the next. Our design development process helps you determine and achieve the right arena for your situation.

We’re just a little excited to make the trek out to beautiful Alberta this week and visit this property. We were thrilled to attend a housewarming for this home last year, and are looking forward to seeing the barn addition, which is recently completed. If you are following along with us and have wondered about where we work, here it is! Quinis Equestrian Design is located in beautiful British Columbia, Canada . The majority of our designs are located in BC and AB, however, we operate throughout North America.

Everyone loves a good design comparison, right? Swipe through to see recent progress on the Bay Acres tack-up area, and to see some bonus image renderings to help visualize the final look. This space will be the main equine entrance to the arena, housing a tack-up area. A counter with shelves will stand in between the two grooming stalls, providing additional storage. Keeping with the theme in the arena, plenty of natural light will pour in by way of large windows and skylights. Project built with Coastal Equestrian Build

Let there be light

At Quinis Design Works we approach each design beginning with its function. We understand that, just as the horse and rider are connected, so is the facility to operations. This is the nexus, or central connection, to equestrian life. Want to learn more about our approach to barn design? Head over to our website, www.quinis.net or to send us a direct message.

We’re starting out the week with this elegant aerial view. With such care and forethought involved, we wonder why rooftop shots aren’t more common.

We took a few detail photos during our site visit to Bay Acres, and we are glad we did! The sun was out and showing off it’s newly installed windows, and a blended sand footing has been delivered. Swipe through to see a jump storage compartment, built within the arena kickwall.... Coastal Equestrian Build

As Pietro Belluschi said, We never could design a building as beautiful as the trees. But oh how they give our buildings beauty; an unmatched authenticity.

The options available for equine-related amenities, such as hay and bedding storage, are extensive! We review and discuss these options and their benefits during the design development stages of a project. This example of a three-stall barn features a sealed space for shavings, which are blown in through a small hatch for months of use. Long-term hay is stored on the second floor, with a chute to a short-term hay room below. We strive for these decisions, simple as they are, to be focused on functional preference, accessibility and convenience with the future in mind.

As we near the end of summer and enter into fall, we are anticipating the beginning construction of new Quinis designs; the fruition of many months of hard work and planning. There is much to look forward to this year. For nowwelcome, weekend. ... #equestrianlife #equestrian #barndesign #horsebarn #horsestable #fortheloveofhorses #facilitydesign #equestrianfacility #projectmanagement #designexcellence #processperfect

You might notice this shot from the Bay Acres design. While a windowed wall between the viewing area and arena was essential to maintain natural light coming in, it was important to give viewers the opportunity of open-air access to the arena. The large, garage-style windows are opened in this image rendering’s view, with a guard. Construction is currently well underway on this project with Coastal Equestrian Build. We can’t wait to see this view in reality!... #ridingarena #indoorarena #dressagearena #rendering3d #equestrianfacility #equestrianarchitecture #equestriandesign #equestrian #equestrianstyle #stablestyle #horsestable

One of the many reasons we love custom design is the amount of opportunity that each project gives. Simply because something has been done for 30 years does not mean it will work for every equestrian. There is meaning with every feature, choice, and innovation. Behind every design is an even better story. #equestriandesign #equestrianarchitecture #horsebarn #horsestable #stablestyle #barndesign #designexcellence #equestrianfacility #projectmanagement #fortheloveofhorses

At Quinis Design Works, our objective with each client is to match our services with their needs. This is why we offer various levels of of involvement, from design-only contracts to full-service management. We know there are many complex factors involved to determine the form, function and budget of a new facility, and the importance of these working together. Being a custom design firm, we provide clients with not only a design to match them, but a tailored plan to make it happen.

A common request in barn design is skylightsand for good reason! The advantages of sufficient natural light and ventilation where horses are sheltered are many. At Quinis we understand the importance of maintaining an indoor environment’s temperature, light and ventilation to prevent condensation and damp spaces. This, in turn, will prevent the spread of bacteria and give your horses a comfortable, dry space. When choosing a ridge-line skylight, Quinis encourages using a ven...ted double-pane with a heavier frame for longevity and quality. Consider using translucent panes to diffuse the light coming into your horse’s environment. While skylights are a fantastic way to increase natural light in your barn, they can be costly. There are many elements and building practices available to ensure the indoor environment for your horses is natural and healthy. See more

Side by side update progress from the Bay Acres personal equestrian facility! The structure is a ridgeline steel building, the exterior will consist of opening ...windows and doors covered in a Hardi plank board and batten exterior. The inside will hold a 65ft x 131ft riding surface with an attached elevated viewing platform and two tack up areas. Do you have big dreams for your own equine facility? Contact us today! Renderings provided by Quinis Design Works

Traditional, modern, large or smallwe adore them all. But there is something about a classic timber monitor barn that will capture any equestrian’s heart. Learn about the inspiration for this barn design and all the heart that went into it at www.quinis.net under ‘Private Barn’ within our portfolio. #timbercladding #timberbarn #barnlove #reclaimedwood #monitorbarn #custombarn #equestrianstyle #equestriandesign #equestrianarchitecture #horsebarns #horsestable #barndesign #designexcellence #projectmanagement

Another great example from our residential division, Envision Design Works, showing the advantages of viewing a design from all perspectives. Take a look!

It’s a happy Monday indeed! The Bay Acres arena is boasting some new developments. Solar panels are installed for this off-the-grid location, and it’s concrete board-form retaining walls and columns are set. These will support a spacious observation area looking into the arena. Check out the last picture to see a personal touch added to the concrete, which our client requested! Partnered with Coastal Equestrian Build.

Arena focus Especially with large training facilities, it is quite common to place a covered arena attached to the stables. In this design, the arena is attached by breezeway, allowing close and efficient access from interior tack-up areas. The light-filled vaulted arena will be equipped with large, openable windows, as well as tractor doors on either end.... Project: Lone Tree Arabians, depicted using image renderings.

Completed in 2016 in Calgary Alberta, this barn is more than what meets the eye. The multi-function cutting horse barn includes 4 stalls, a wash bay and a spacious lounge with tack room. The building features in-floor heating, one-of-a-kind materials and a gorgeously rusted Corten roof. We designed the structure to have a classic, minimal form, accentuating it’s uniform farm-and-ranch style of design. #cortensteel #farmandranch #ranchstyle #equestriandesign #equestrianlife #horsebarn #horsestable #stabledesign #barndesign #timberbarn

One of the benefits of digitally modelling a project in 3D is getting to experiment with how sunlight patterns, shadows and interior lighting interact with the design. Not only does this process help clients visualize the area, this assists accurate decision making and allows us to see what we might not when viewing in 2D. Here you can see various angles, lighting and different times of day shown with this 26-stall project.

Exciting moments in the process of a build. Natural light is the name of the game in this room. #buildprogress #architectureanddesign #designexcellence #naturallight #windowlight #windows #equestriandesign #equestrianarchitecture #equestrianstyle #residentialdesign

No matter how large or small the project, our goal is the same. Each Quinis design, being centred on the comfort and safety of the horse, receives careful planning to achieve balance in form, function and budget. We take time with each design to ensure these points are aligned to achieve its purpose. #rendering3d #equinedesign #equestriandesign #projectmanagement #customdesign #designexcellence #barndesign #horsestable #horsebarns #stabledesign

Some of the first topics we cover with our clients is simply to understand their discipline and what purpose a new space will have. With this in mind, custom design makes it possible to achieve a plan ever more accurate to these needs. With such commitment devoted to all facets of the equine sport, it would be remiss if anything less was dedicated to the facilities which house them. #fortheloveofhorses #equestriansport #arenadesign #indoorridingarena #ridingarena #equestrianfacility #equestriandesign #equestrianarchitecture #propertydesign #equestrian

We’re sending some tack room inspiration this Thursday. Natural materials and reclaimed timber in warm tones make this room ever so welcoming. What does your dream tack room look like? With many options to consider, our design team at Quinis can help. By offering a full range of design services within Quinis, each project is a cohesive and functional spacethoughtfully curated for the purpose it is designed for.... #tackroom #tackroomorganization #tackroomgoals #equestrian #equestriandesign #equestrianstyle #stablestyle #equestriandecor #horsebarn #horsestable

Part of seeing a design unfold is getting to create a depiction of what it will look like for our clients. This service has quickly become part of our design process over the years, both with residential and equestrian design. Apart from this being a very useful visual tool helping decide specific components and materials, it is also just plain fun to see what is to come!

Opening up the week with this sophisticated 4-stall beauty, one of the newest arrivals to our design boards. Along with its function-driven, spacious layout, this barn will be a place to sit down and relax while close to the horses.

In the business of fulfilling dreams and building legacies. #fortheloveofhorses #cupola #weathervane #horsebarn #equestriandesign #horsestable #stablestyle #equestrianlife #equestrianstyle #barndesign