Making the Most of Mountain Views

Nestled in the Colorado Rockies within a national forest, the Moss Rock home in Evergreen, Colorado is truly a “home with a view.” To optimize the expansive vistas from the property, which sits at an elevation of 8,500 feet, architect John Newcomer decided to design a curved, cantilevered deck that would circle the home.

With his design concept in place, Newcomer set out to find a simple, unobtrusive railing solution that would showcase the clear, wide open views of the mountains in the distance and provide the homeowners and their guests with a dramatic ‘wow’ impression whenever they stepped out onto the deck. At the same time, the railing system needed to complement the rustic mountain home aesthetic.

Newcomer chose Feeney’s DesignRail® aluminum railing system with stainless steel CableRail infill to bring his vision to life. Says Newcomer, “I was looking for a streamlined railing option that would encourage a connection to nature and promote a sense of spaciousness. Feeney’s railings accomplish that and more. The railings are not only attractive, but were also easy to install and created a clean, finished look.”

It was also important to newcomer to create a feeling of space and openness inside the home. To create a cohesive feel between the indoors and outdoors, he installed DesignRail® on the interior stairs. The result was an airy, unimpeded view from the second floor to the space below – and to the striking exterior views that surround the home.

In addition to its aesthetic qualities, the following are some additional reasons why cable railing systems are ideally suited for mountain residences:

Durability. Feeney’s DesignRail® is crafted from 6000 series aluminum, with an AAMA-2604 powder-coated finish, which provides strong protection against the elements. CableRail and its accompanying fittings are made with 316 stainless steel. Often called ‘marine grade’ stainless steel, this hardy material is recognized for its corrosion resistance and ability to withstand the elements in harsh environments.

Ease of Maintenance. Traditional steel railings are susceptible to corrosion and typically have to be repainted every few years, while wood railings can rot from exposure to moisture. In contrast, powder coated aluminum railings and stainless steel cables requires minimal care. A simple cleaning every few months with a specially-designed cleaner and protectant will help protect the railing and maintain its sheen.

It’s clear that, when it comes to preserving the view in mountain settings, cable railing offers distinct advantages – both in terms of form and functionality.