Otto Valley Farm

A family’s thoughtfully designed equestrian oasis located in Foothills, Alberta, Canada

Photos: Kiera Schussler Photography & Dina Sutherland of Creativity in Action

Looking for barn design inspiration? This beautiful barn was meticulously crafted in February 2021 by Denco West. Dennis Martin and his 3 sons (Darcy, Nolan & Durrell). The idyllic equine environment is home to three lucky horses, Winston (aka Pinkie), Helios (aka Hugo) and Banana.

The barn’s inspiration was taken from a horse shopping trip to the Netherlands and a family vacation to the Kentucky Derby in 2019. In both places, we visited several beautiful barns and brought home great ideas for our future home dream barn.

Dennis & his sons from Denco West were definitely the right fit for the job, as they pride themselves on craftsmanship & prefer wood siding over metal. The barn is crafted with Douglas Fir tongue & groove inside and out. The interior we whitewashed for that “old barn” charm feel. The sons crafted and built the two cupolas that sit proudly on top of the copper color metal roof.

Barn features:

5 (12′ x 12′) stalls custom crafted. Each is equipped with back Dutch doors and automatic waterers.
Seamless interlocking rubber mats through the barn.
In-floor heating on 3 separate zones. Stalls are kept cool and the tack room /lounge at a comfortable temperature during cold winter months.
The tack room/lounge is complete with a sink, wine fridge, and comfortable seating for “apre” ride or barn chores.
The feed room features a washroom, washer & dryer
Family antiques and paintings line the walls
Two sunshine garage doors at each end of the barn, bring in the natural light.
Security camera system, set up to view each stall. Easily check on horses 24/7 from cellphones.
Sound system speakers throughout the barn inside and out.
Outdoor riding arena (180’ x 110’) located steps away in front of the barn.
Chandeliers and lighting inside and out are all on dimmers, adjusting to different levels and moods.