WATERSHED ROAD EQUESTRIAN CENTER

Location: Morganton, NC

Structural Engineer: Scalene Design

Overview

The Watershed Road Equestrian Center is a purpose-built equine retreat located on a scenic 20-acre site in Burke County, North Carolina, just outside South Mountains State Park. Designed to serve both horses and their riders, the center integrates hospitality, functionality, and regional character to support a unique backcountry experience.

Context & Setting

Positioned near one of North Carolina’s most rugged and expansive state parks, the center offers direct access to a vast network of horseback riding trails winding through mountainous terrain, waterfalls, and forested slopes. The natural landscape plays a central role in shaping both the site design and the visitor experience, with buildings strategically sited to frame views, follow the topography, and preserve open spaces.

Architecture & Design Approach

The main barn, serving as the heart of the equestrian center, is designed with a blend of traditional agricultural form and refined, durable materials. A broad covered porch wraps the structure, creating a welcoming outdoor space for riders and guests. Natural wood siding, stone piers, and a ventilated hay loft pay homage to regional barn typologies while accommodating modern needs.

Inside, the barn includes spacious stalls, support areas for feeding and grooming, and flexible space for operations and hospitality. A generous central aisle opens vertically to a lofted ceiling, bringing daylight into the building’s core and offering a visual connection between levels. Ventilation is supported through clerestory windows and cupolas, creating a healthy and comfortable environment for both animals and people.

Guest Experience

In addition to boarding facilities, the center includes guest accommodations in the form of private cabins situated along the ridge. These allow visitors to stay on-site with their horses, enabling seamless access to the trails and fostering a more immersive equestrian experience. The layout of the buildings emphasizes privacy, scenic views, and ease of movement between the barn, paddocks, and trailheads.

A Place of Connection

The Watershed Road Equestrian Center is more than a barn—it’s a place where riders connect with the land, with each other, and with the animals in their care. Whether staying for a weekend or a season, visitors experience a facility that is both grounded in its Appalachian setting and carefully tailored for the rhythms of equestrian life.