Created in 2003 by Bartabas within the Royal Stables, the National Equestrian Academy of Versailles is a unique “corps de ballet” in the world.

In close collaboration with the Palace of Versailles and the French equivalent of the National Trust, Bartabas entrusted the restoration of the Royal Stables to Patrick Bouchain, with whom he has built up a close working relationship over the years.

The Arena has been designed like a theatre décor, a showcase of untreated wood positioned on a layer of stone. Murano glass chandeliers and mirrors, in which horses and riders are reflected ad infinitum, make reference to the Hall of Mirrors. The simplicity of the materials and the assemblage of beams and planks recall the ephemeral constructions of the Versailles of yesteryear. The Farnese Theatre in Parma inspired the lights and the mobile architecture. 

The stables have been designed to take into account the harmony of the volumes and the constraints linked to the purpose of the academy as well as Bartabas’ demands linked to the horses’ wellbeing. Boxes have replaced the old stalls: very simple, elegant and spacious; and topped with vertical coiled lighting, a modern reference to unicorns.

All of these facilities have given back these buildings their first vocation, which is equestrian activity, whilst preserving the beauty of the historical site built by Jules Hardouin-Mansart at the end of the 17th century to house the prestigious royal cavalry.