Maximizing Horse Barn Potential with Sheds, Cabins and Saltboxes
Our podcast series with Steed Read Horseman’s Classifieds featuring Dana Stillwell, the Publisher of Steed Read, and Craig Froh, the Director of Sales for Post and Beam Barns by Country Carpenters, continues with a look at how Small Buildings, Sheds and Saltboxes can be adapted into ideal horse barns.
With custom features and flexible designs, these buildings provide an excellent solution for horse owners looking for both practicality and style.
Sheds and Cabins for Small Animals and Horses
Sheds and Cabins offer a customizable and spacious solution for smaller animals like ponies or goats, or even medium-sized horses. Froh explains that a 12’ x 20’ Country Cabin can comfortably lodge a couple of small horses or multiple smaller animals. What makes the Post and Beam Barns buildings stand out is the option to reconfigure them to meet your specific needs. For instance, you can add lean-tos to expand floor space, or remove the porch and replace the standard doors with Dutch doors—perfect for animal enclosures.
For larger animals, the interior of the shed can be altered by removing the loft, creating more head room. As Froh demonstrated, a loft offers storage for equipment, but if you have bigger horses, it can easily be removed to allow for full ceiling height. “If your animals are smaller, the loft would make a great place for storage,” said Froh.
Whether you’re looking for a simple setup or a fully equipped animal barn, our Sheds and Cabins provide flexibility.
Saltboxes for Large Animals and Multi-Use Spaces
Saltbox designs, with their distinct rooflines, are another great option for horse barns. Their spacious interiors can accommodate larger animals or equipment, making them ideal for more extensive operations. Froh shared how the Saltbox’s open layout is perfect for a horse run-in at the front, with stalls at the back. The structure also has the versatility to house farm equipment, tractors, or trucks, allowing you to keep your entire operation under one roof.
One of the standout features of the Saltbox models like the Barrett I and Barrett II is their wide, open floor space without center posts, which is perfect for keeping multiple horses.
Froh pointed out that the model they were exploring was 22×30 feet, featuring two 12-foot bays and a 6-foot bay. However, these buildings can be expanded in six-foot increments, offering you endless possibilities in how you configure the space.
Door Options for Horse Barns
Post and Beam Barns by Country Carpenters offers a variety of door options for horse barn owners. This is a great way to get creative with your barn and add your own unique touch.
Every New England style horse barn comes with a traditional board & batten walk-out door featuring a Z-brace, combining functionality with authentic craftsmanship. However, clients can further personalize their barn by choosing from a variety of custom door options. These handmade selections include double swing-out utility doors, garage doors, loft doors, and Dutch doors for horses and livestock.
“Dutch doors are a great choice because you can close the lower half of the door to keep the horse secure in the barn. The top half can be left open allowing the horse to get fresh air and not feel so confined, “ said Froh.
For those who value convenience, we offer single or double sliding doors that save space, and even an electric overhead door that maintains the classic barn style with the push of a button.
Built with premium materials, our doors ensure long-lasting stability and durability, and we offer insulation options for those seeking an extra layer of protection. Each door kit includes everything needed for installation, from traditional pintle hinges to our signature sliding oak latch, ensuring both rugged reliability and the timeless charm of early New England barns.
Why Choose Country Carpenters’ Post and Beam Construction?
The real appeal of Shed, Cabin or and Saltbox from Country Carpenters lies in the post and beam construction. As Froh emphasized, these buildings are made from solid, rough-sawn timbers, offering unmatched durability and aesthetic appeal. Unlike conventional barns framed with two-by-fours, our barns are entirely made of real wood—no particle board. The rugged construction not only adds to the building’s lifespan but also enhances the beauty and authenticity of your property.
Custom Options to Fit Your Needs
All of the Sheds, Country Cabins and Saltboxes come with various customizable options. You can add Dutch doors, garage doors, or even small sliders on the gable ends. These options allow you to create a barn that perfectly fits your functional needs and aesthetic preferences. Whether you’re setting up stalls for multiple horses or adding extra storage space, the design can be tailored to your exact requirements.
Start Building Your Dream Horse Barn with Post & Beam Barns
We’re here to help make your post and beam barn dreams come true. Contact one of our Client Advisors to start building your dream barn. Whether you’re envisioning a cozy retreat for your horses or a larger commercial barn, our team is dedicated to bringing your vision to life with precision and care.
And if you’re in Connecticut or feel like taking a road trip, stop by our village of models at 326 Gilead Street in Hebron. Here, you can experience firsthand the quality and craftsmanship that Post & Beam Barns by Country Carpenters is known for, and gather inspiration for your own project. Let’s turn your dreams into reality, one beam at a time.
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- – Monday: 8am-4:30pm
- – Tuesday: 8am-4:30pm
- – Wednesday: 8am-4:30pm
- – Thursday: 8am-4:30pm
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- – Saturday: 9am-2pm
- – Sunday: Closed