The masterplan for Arc Polo Farm is informed by the Japanese concept of “shakkei” or “borrowed scenery”, and aims to frame views of the existing landscape with an arc-shaped route around the central polo field.
At the centre of the route is the clubhouse, a single-storey structure that draws from the barns on the site. It has a gabled, spruce-framed structure clad in wooden shingles that have been charred using the Japanese technique of Shou Sugi Ban. The arc-shaped route is framed by two oak trees on the site, one next to the existing stables to the east and the other at the edge of the open fields to the west, where there is a paved patio with an outdoor kitchen. The northern facade of the clubhouse is gently curved to hug the arc-shaped path, with a wood-decked veranda providing space for spectators to watch games on the polo field.
Inside, the glue-laminated timber (glulam) structure is left exposed. Spruce beams and oak panelling contrast an end wall of veined stone that frames a fireplace.
To maintain and irrigate the surrounding fields at Arc Polo Farm, the clubhouse funnels rainwater into collection pits that lead into a nearby lake.
In the existing barns, a gym and workout space for riders has been added, alongside improvements to drainage, water management and thermal performance.
