Exclusive Interview with Raquel Lynn

Dream Barns & Equestrian Style Insights

At Equestroom, we have a passion for the finer things in the equestrian world, and few embody that passion better than Raquel Lynn, author of Stable Style: Barn Inspiration for Equestrians I & II. Her books and stunning imagery of exquisite barns capture the essence of luxury stable aesthetics and dream barn design.

With decades of experience blogging and writing about equestrian design, dream barns, and luxury stable aesthetics, Raquel has turned her expertise into two remarkable books that resonate deeply with our love for elegant equestrian spaces. We had the pleasure of speaking with Raquel to gain insight into her favorite barn design trends, and concepts, and an exclusive sneak peek into her top dream barns...

Q&A with Raquel Lynn

1. What Inspired You to Create Stable Style?

Ever since I was a little girl, I have been captivated by intricate architecture, meticulous landscaping, and thoughtful design. My mom would bring me to the local library, where I would eagerly flip through old issues of Architectural Digest, losing myself in each page despite having homework to complete.

Growing up on a farm, I remember the humble charm of our simple cinderblock barn with its mason jar lights and faded paint. While my dad believed the barn was perfectly functional, I couldn’t help but dream of ways to beautify it — fresh paint, pristine sliding stall doors, a tidy tack room with brass saddle racks, and statement lighting. I spent countless hours in that barn caring for my horses, cleaning, reorganizing, and ensuring the concrete aisle was always immaculately swept and the stalls were spotless. I carried buckets of hot water down from the house during the frigid winters to provide warm water for the horses because our hydrant would always freeze.

Our barn may not have been fancy, but inside it was a sanctuary that allowed me to escape and clear my mind. Looking back, I realize that my lifelong love of barns, design, and horses has shaped the path that led me to create Stable Style. My online platform and subsequent printed volumes I and II showcase beautiful barns from around the world. I am privileged to chat with architects, builders, and owners about their special places. Each new barn or renovation captured through a photo shoot becomes a place to make cherished memories — from quiet groomings to the sounds of munching hay and eager whinnies. A barn is much more than just a home for our horses; it is a place where we can slow down and find a sense of peace.

Stable Style began with an Instagram account and a blog, which has grown to include a line of candles, matches, and two coffee table books. It’s a resource for many readers, who dream of having their barns showcased there one day.

Equestrian style at home is timeless. Select pieces you love from bookends to lamps, and throw pillows.

2. What Are the Key Elements of a Dream Barn?

Every barn should have ample lighting, (multiple sources of light and switches for nighttime, along with as much natural light as possible during the day), wide aisles, spacious stalls with mats and cushions, and a thoughtful layout. Once those elements are achieved, building materials need to be considered for the climate, aisle materials, stall front designs, hardware, and remaining fixtures come into play.

3. What Are Your Thoughts on Modern vs Rustic Barn Styles?

I love both! For me, I think the climate and surroundings sometimes dictate the style. It’s all about personal preference.

4. How Do You Balance Aesthetics and Functionality in Barn Design?

Select materials that are durable, strong, and easy to clean.

If you have the money to splurge on built-in cabinets and storage, this helps. A place for everything eliminates having clutter and unnecessary messes.

Select your design aesthetic, a color theme and make a vision board for your ideas first. Think about how these materials translate to day to day use.