At Sunview Builders, we know that your horses aren’t just animals — they’re family. And just like family, they deserve a comfortable, safe, and spacious place to call home. Choosing the right size for your horse barn isn’t just about building a shelter; it’s about creating a space where your horses can thrive, feel secure, and be protected from the unpredictable Texas weather.
With so many options available, figuring out the right barn size can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry — you’re not alone in this journey. Our team at Sunview Builders is here to help you make the best choice for your horses and your property.
In this Horse Barn Size Guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to consider to create the perfect barn setup for your herd.
Why Barn Size Matters for Your Horses
Your barn isn’t just a storage spot for hay and tack. It’s where your horses will spend a lot of their time — resting, escaping the elements, and relaxing. A poorly sized barn can lead to stress, injuries, and even health issues for your animals.
Having the right amount of space ensures:
Comfort: Horses have room to move, lie down, and feel at ease.
Safety: Enough space reduces the risk of injuries caused by crowding or tight quarters.
Functionality: You’ll have room to store supplies, move horses easily, and clean without hassle.
Future Growth: Planning for a few extra stalls can save you a lot of money and trouble if you decide to add to your herd later.
At Sunview Builders, we believe every horse deserves a barn designed with intention and care. It’s not just about having a barn; it’s about having the right barn.
How Many Horses Are You Housing?
This is the very first question to ask yourself. The number of horses you have (or plan to have) will largely determine the size of your barn. Here’s a simple breakdown:
One to Two Horses: A two-stall barn with a tack room works perfectly.
Three to Four Horses: A four-stall barn with extra storage space is ideal.
Five or More Horses: You’ll need a larger, custom-designed barn — typically six stalls or more with a wide aisle and extra storage rooms.
Remember, it’s not just about the horses you have now. Always think about your future needs too. Are you planning to expand your herd? Host guests’ horses? Add a foal or two? Planning ahead is key.
Stall Size Recommendations
At Sunview Builders, we generally recommend 12’ x 12’ stalls for standard-sized horses. This size gives them enough room to turn, lie down, and stand comfortably.
Here are some guidelines based on horse type:
Ponies and Miniatures: 8’ x 8’ stalls are sufficient.
Average Horses (Light Breeds): 10’ x 12’ or 12’ x 12’ stalls.
Large Breeds (Draft Horses): 12’ x 14’ or even 14’ x 16’ stalls.
The bigger the horse, the more space they’ll need to move safely and stay comfortable.
Aisle Width and Other Considerations
Aisles are just as important as stalls when it comes to barn design. You want them wide enough for safe passage — especially if you’re leading large horses.
We recommend:
A minimum of 10 feet wide for small operations.
12 to 14 feet wide for larger barns or if you plan to use tractors or equipment inside.
Also, don’t forget about:
Tack Rooms: Keep your equipment clean, organized, and secure.
Feed Rooms: Protect feed from pests and spoilage.
Wash Bays: Make grooming and bathing more convenient.
Lofts or Storage Areas: Especially useful for hay and bedding.
At Sunview Builders, our horse barns are thoughtfully designed to include these features so you can enjoy a barn that works as hard as you do.
Barn Layout Styles
Choosing the right layout for your horse barn is just as important as sizing it. Some popular options include:
Center Aisle Barns: Stalls on either side of a wide aisle; great for larger setups and easy access.
Shed Row Barns: Stalls lined up side-by-side; ideal for warm climates like Texas.
L-shaped or U-shaped Barns: Excellent for larger herds or facilities with separate areas for different uses.
Every property is different, and so is every horse owner’s vision. Our team can help you design a barn that fits your land, your needs, and your budget.
How Much Space Around the Barn?
When thinking about barn size, don’t just focus on the inside. You’ll also need:
Turnout Areas or Paddocks: Horses need space to stretch their legs outside.
Access Roads and Parking: For deliveries, trailers, and vet visits.
Drainage and Water Management: Essential for keeping your barn dry and safe.
A well-planned layout will save you hours of maintenance down the line and keep your horses healthier year-round.
Future-Proof Your Barn Design
One common regret we hear from horse owners is that they didn’t build bigger to begin with. Horses are like potato chips — it’s hard to have just one!
Building with the future in mind is smart. Here are some things to consider:
Extra stalls you can use later.
A modular barn design that can be expanded easily.
Ample hay and equipment storage.
Flexible spaces that can be adapted over time.
When you work with Sunview Builders, we help you think ahead so your investment continues to meet your needs for years to come.
Building a Horse Barn in Texas: What Makes Ours Different
Here at Sunview Builders, we don’t just build barns — we build dream spaces for horse owners across Central Texas. Our horse barns are crafted with:
Durable, weather-resistant materials that stand up to Texas heat, wind, and storms.
Custom options like doors, windows, cupolas, and lofts.
Designer metal siding for a sleek, modern look without sacrificing strength.
Each horse barn is built with the same care and craftsmanship that you put into caring for your horses.
When you choose Sunview Builders, you’re choosing a team that truly understands the horse world — and what it takes to build a barn that makes life easier, safer, and more beautiful for you and your horses.
Ready to Design Your Dream Horse Barn?
If you’re ready to bring your vision to life, don’t wait any longer!
At Sunview Builders, we make it easy with our free 3D Shed Builder. With just a few clicks, you can design your perfect barn from the comfort of your home — choosing everything from the layout to the siding colors.
Whether you’re building for one horse or an entire herd, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Need help or want a custom quote? Contact us today and let’s start building the barn your horses deserve!