media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other...
TRANSCRIPT
![Page 1: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/1.jpg)
High resolution images and required photo
credits are available upon request
Media Contact:
770.518.1000 ext. 213
www.feeneyinc.com
![Page 2: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/2.jpg)
Company Overview
Press Releases
- DesignRail® Top Rail in Wood Finishes
- DesignRail® Express Program
- Stainless Steel Picket Kits
- VisualBuilder Deck & Railing Design Tool
Backgrounders
- Awning Kits
- DesignRail® Panel Infill
- DesignRail® Aluminum Railing Kits
- DesignRail® LED Rail Lighting
- DesignRail® Express Yourself Colors
- CableRail
- CableRail Conceal Kit
Case Studies
- 1440 Multiversity
- Boat House
Images
![Page 3: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/3.jpg)
Feeney, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of high quality cable railing assemblies, aluminum railings,
and other architectural solutions for residential and commercial projects, as well as wire rope and
rigging products for industrial applications. The family-owned and operated business has offices
in Oakland, California; Eugene, Oregon; Beaverton, Oregon; Watertown, Massachusetts; and
Holbrook, New York.
Residential and commercial builders, architects, and property owners have welcomed Feeney’s
stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions.
Popular lines include CableRail railing infill cables, DesignRail® aluminum railing systems and
Trellis Collection freestanding and wall-mounted cable and rod trellis kits. The company also
offers a line of stainless steel Architectural Rods. In 2019, Feeney has introduced DesignRail®
Panel Infill along with a collection of Stationary Awnings with beautiful, durable powder-coated
aluminum frames and polycarbonate panels.
Feeney is proud of its heritage, which is rich in innovation, quality craftsmanship, and customer
service. In 1948, Jim Feeney opened the doors of Feeney Wire Rope & Rigging in an old soap
factory building located on the edge of San Francisco Bay in Berkeley, Calif. The post-War, San
Francisco Bay Area was booming with military, maritime, and construction businesses, and
Feeney quickly gained a solid reputation as a company that provided quality rigging products and
superior service. With hard work, a dedicated staff, and an expanding list of satisfied customers,
Feeney soon grew to become one of the leading suppliers of custom rigging and hardware in the
region, and this position still holds true today.
In 1979, the Ralston family purchased the company. With an eye toward the future and an
enthusiastic, forward-thinking approach to business, the Ralstons were able to incorporate new
ideas and new products into the company’s offerings that allowed them to expand into new
markets beyond traditional industrial rigging.
![Page 4: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/4.jpg)
The CableRail line of architectural cables and fittings was first introduced in 1988 in response
to a growing interest by architects and builders for modern, unobtrusive railing infill products.
The following year, Feeney simplified the product line by introducing CableRail Standard
Assemblies. These prefabricated cable assemblies are designed to be sold in standardized
lengths that can be trimmed to exact size in the field, incorporating Feeney’s patented,
automatic-locking Quick-Connect® fittings.
These assemblies are easy-to-use, economical, and beautiful. Practically invisible by design, this
approach to railing infill is ideally suited for projects with a view, and its popularity continues to
grow as the product line evolves to meet market needs.
Almost a decade later, Feeney expanded its operations and opened a facility in Eugene, Oregon
to develop a new addition to the Feeney architectural line, aluminum railing frame systems. In
addition to CableRail cables, the company was now able to offer a complete railing system with
cable, glass panels, or picket infill options. The railings were initially introduced under the
CableRail brand but are now marketed under the DesignRail® name.
Today, Feeney, Inc. continues its commitment to delivering high quality products and superior
service. Its newest manufacturing facility features a state-of-the-art, fully automated,
computerized machining center that can operate 24/7. This technology helps the company
control quality, manage inventories, improve production, and develop new products.
![Page 5: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/5.jpg)
New finishes offer beauty of wood without ongoing maintenance requirements
OAKLAND, Calif. – Feeney, Inc., a leading manufacturer of high quality stainless steel and
aluminum railing systems, is unveiling at the 2020 International Builders Show new Wood Grain
finishes for its DesignRail® Top Rail. Available as a DesignRail® custom option, the powder coat
finishes come in three realistic wood grains – Weathered Gray, Walnut and Cherry.
Well-suited for both interior and exterior applications, the durable, fade-resistant finishes offer the
organic look of wood without the ongoing maintenance requirements.
“It’s undeniable that natural wood railings are
beautiful,” said Brad Adsit, director of product
development for Feeney. “But, they require
vigilance and regular upkeep to remain looking
good. Our new Wood Grain Top Rail will allow
our customers to experience the aesthetic
qualities of wood while significantly reducing
maintenance and providing the peace of mind
that the railings will maintain their beauty for
many years to come.”
Like all of Feeney’s powder coat finishes, the Wood Grain finishes adhere to AAMA 2604 coating
specifications for superior impact and weather resistance, and color retention. The Wood Grain
Top Rail can be mixed with any DesignRail® frame color, including a range of standard or custom
colors, and matched to the wood used on a deck to create a seamless look.
Added Adsit, “We are always looking for ways to expand our customers’ design options, and this
latest introduction to our DesignRail® line continues our legacy of delivering railing solutions with
exceptional aesthetics, performance and versatility.”
The Wood Grain Top Rail will be available from Feeney authorized dealers beginning in late
Q1 2020.
Link to high res images: bit.ly/2FBKyp2
To learn more about all of Feeney’s products, visit www.feeneyinc.com.
![Page 6: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/6.jpg)
Custom aluminum railings ship in 5-7 business days
OAKLAND, Calif. – Feeney, Inc., a leading manufacturer of high quality stainless steel and
aluminum railing systems, is launching at the 2020 International Builders Show a new program for
its DesignRail® Aluminum Railing System. The DesignRail® Express Program will enable customers
with residential railing projects of 200 linear feet or less to order a custom DesignRail® system that
ships within 5-7 business days.
Developed with ease of installation in mind, the program pairs CableRail stainless steel infill with a
DesignRail® Top Rail and frame in a choice of durable, weather-resistant AAMA 2604 powder coat
finishes. Top rails are also available in Feeney’s new Wood Grain finish (Series 200 for level and
Series 150 for stairs only).
“We understand that many of our customers are looking
for a customized railing solution, but don’t want to wait
three to six weeks to receive their railing,” said Andrew
Toimil, chief product officer for Feeney. “So our team
went to work to create a solution that would provide
the same beauty and performance as our DesignRail®
Create Your Own program but with a significantly faster
turnaround time.”
Crafted of 6000 series aluminum for a strong, safe frame, the railings are available in 36-inch and
42-inch heights, and in four distinctive top rail styles. Base-mounted posts come with a choice of
stainless steel lag screws, thru-bolts, or expansion anchors, and stair posts are pre-drilled to make it
easy to install CableRail infill.
The DesignRail® Express Program supports Feeney’s commitment to providing its customers with a
growing range of personalization options. Added Toimil, “Feeney is focused on thoughtful
innovation and delivering solutions that stay one step ahead of our customers’ needs. Our latest
custom program delivers on that promise, further demonstrating why Feeney is setting the
standard for the industry.”
The DesignRail® Express Program is available for Feeney Series 200, 300, 350 and 450 level
railings, and Series 150 stair railings. Orders can be placed via Feeney authorized dealers beginning
in Q2 2020.
To learn more about all of Feeney’s products, visit www.feeneyinc.com.
![Page 7: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/7.jpg)
OAKLAND, Calif. – Feeney, a leading manufacturer of high quality stainless steel and aluminum
railing systems, will introduce at the 2020 International Builders Show Stainless Steel Picket Kits for
CableRail in wood frames. Leveraging the sleek appearance and durability of stainless steel, the kits
preserve an open railing aesthetic while maintaining cable spacing and minimizing deflection.
“We are continually looking for ways to simplify the
railing purchase and installation process,” said Brad Adsit,
director of product development for Feeney. “Our
Stainless Steel Picket Kits offer the convenience of a
pre-packaged solution while providing additional cable
support between main posts and a more open look than
is possible with other picket options.”
Available in three configurations (36” Level, 42” Level
and Universal Stair), the Stainless Steel Picket Kits
include everything needed to quickly and cleanly install intermediate pickets for Feeney CableRail
systems, including sockets/sleeves, shoulder nuts, hanger bolts and screws.
The 5/8” diameter 316 stainless steel tubes in each kit come pre-drilled for 1/8” diameter cable at
three-inch spacing. The tubes can be used on frames with or without a bottom rail, are field-
trimmable (using a stainless steel pipe cutter) and have no visible fasteners for a clean, unobtrusive
look. Available accessories include a fascia mount kit, stainless steel tubing cutter and a deburring
tool for cleaner cuts.
Link to high res images: bit.ly/3aftlzR
For more information about Feeney, visit the company’s website at www.feeneyinc.com.
![Page 8: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/8.jpg)
New online visualizer simplifies the process of designing a deck and specifying railings
OAKLAND, Calif. – Feeney, a leading manufacturer of high quality stainless steel and aluminum
railing systems, has launched VisualBuilder, an interactive visualization tool that allows homeowners,
design-build professionals, and retailers to design a deck complete with Feeney railings.
Available for desktop and mobile applications, the visualizer offers an easy-to-navigate interface
that enables users to create their own deck from scratch or use one of seven pre-built templates.
The deck can then be customized to fit the user’s specifications via an array of design options.
“When building a deck, the number of available design
choices can seem overwhelming,” said Jennifer Wilde,
digital marketing director for Feeney. “Using our new
tool, professionals and consumers can visualize how a
deck with Feeney railings will appear when installed at
a residence or commercial site, which helps to take
the guesswork out of the project. It’s also a great way
to explore a variety of different looks and then narrow
down the options.”
Decks can be viewed in either 2D or 3D representations, and intuitive features such as click-and-
drag sizing tools and “smart” icons make it easy to change dimensions, add stairs and additional tiers,
and modify the shape of the deck. Users can choose from a variety of deck materials and add walls,
windows and doors to replicate the facade of a home or commercial building.
In addition, Feeney railings can be customized according to design preference, including options to
specify railing and infill type, post mounting, top and bottom rail type, railing height, color and
lighting (for DesignRail® aluminum railings). A choice of scenic views and the ability to add an array
of outdoor accessories allows users to finish the look for a realistic replication of the deck.
Added Wilde, “Our new VisualBuilder showcases the large variety of configurations that can be
achieved with Feeney railings, from residential projects to commercial environments, further
delivering on the ‘Feeney makes it easy’ brand promise.”
A short video tutorial guides first-time users through the online deck design process. In addition,
users can take snapshots of their completed deck project and save, edit and share the designs.
To build a deck using Feeney’s VisualBuilder, visit www.feeneyinc.com/VisualBuilder.
Link to images: bit.ly/2QXXuMk
![Page 9: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/9.jpg)
Stationary awnings offer stylish protection from the elements
Constructed of powder-coated aluminum and strong polycarbonate panels for long-lasting
durability and defense from the weather, Feeney’s stationary Awning Kits provide protection in a
wide variety of climates and settings.
The awnings are available in two styles: Icon,
a streamlined design with clean lines and
curves, and Era, a classical design with a
more ornate look and feel. A modular
approach simplifies installation and enables
selection of components based on project
and design preferences. Customers simply
choose a style, and then select the desired
polycarbonate panel option, frame color and
any extension kits.
Suitable for a broad range of climates, the awnings are Class 4 impact rated and have been
engineered to withstand snow/wind loads up to 35.5 psf. Built-in rain gutters at the front edge
direct runoff to the sides.
The polycarbonate panels come in a choice of clear, textured and gray tint, and awning frames are
available in 14 standard colors, including Feeney’s vibrant Express Yourself hues, along with
custom colors.
Optional extension kits can be added to extend awning coverage on straight sections and
around corners.
Link to high res images: bit.ly/AwningKits
To learn more about all of Feeney’s products, visit www.feeneyinc.com.
![Page 10: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/10.jpg)
Infills significantly expand railing design options
DesignRail® Panel Infill is a trend forward line of alternative infills for both interior and exterior
railing applications. The infills are offered in a variety of standard materials and styles, and can also
be customized to meet almost any residential or commercial design specification.
Styles include stainless steel wire mesh and laser
cut aluminum panels with powder-coated finishes
for interior or exterior applications along with resin
panels with embedded materials such as rice grass
and leaves for use in interior settings.
Available for 36- and 42-inch railing heights, the
infills can be mixed-and-matched with Feeney’s
other DesignRail® infill options – including
CableRail, glass, vertical cable and pickets – and are
compatible with all DesignRail® top rail styles and with Feeney Post Accent Lights. The laser cut
aluminum panel infills can be powder-coated in any DesignRail® or custom color, providing even
more design flexibility.
Simple to install, the infills fit easily into the pre-engineered DesignRail® frame and are fully
surrounded on all four sides with a low-profile aluminum channel, providing an aesthetically clean
appearance with minimal transition from panel to frame. For the stainless steel wire mesh styles,
all components are fully isolated to prevent contact among dissimilar metals, which is critical in
harsh environments.
Link to high res images: bit.ly/DesignRailPanelInfill
To learn more about all of Feeney’s products, visit www.feeneyinc.com.
![Page 11: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/11.jpg)
— NEW FOR 2020: Available in Textured Black
Kits include all components to build a complete railing system with CableRail
Feeney’s pre-packaged DesignRail® Aluminum Railing Kits were created to offer a fast and easy
way to install exterior or interior aluminum railings with Feeney CableRail.
The railing kits have been engineered using components that snap and screw together for ease of
installation, and feature high quality 6000 series aluminum extrusions with AAMA-2604 powder
coated finishes for durable, long lasting beauty. In addition, all post kits are pre-drilled to make
cable installation simple.
Available in 36-inch and 42-inch level railings, and 36-inch
stair railings, the kits are designed to be installed in three
simple steps: install posts, assemble and attach the top and
bottom rail kits, and install CableRail cables. Feeney also
offers accessories to supplement the kits, including base
plate covers, isolation pads and bushings for harsher
environments, and touch-up paint.
All materials required for installation – including posts, rails,
CableRail and accessories – are stocked at Feeney
authorized dealers. The kits are available in stock with a Black Matte finish; other colors are
available through special order.
To learn more about all of Feeney’s products, visit www.feeneyinc.com.
![Page 12: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/12.jpg)
Pairs the sleek look of DesignRail® railings with the brilliance of LED lighting
Functional as both an outdoor lighting accent and a visual aid for low-light areas, Feeney’s LED
Rail Lighting expands the company’s popular DesignRail® line.
The LED Rail Lighting is available in a 21-inch length
and a 32-inch length, providing fuller light distribution
than systems using smaller lighting components.
Power Kits (required for installation) include 35, 60, or
96 watt 24 volt drivers.
An optional inline LED Dimmer Kit includes a remote
controlled and easy-to-install dimmer to control
lighting level. Utilizing the latest LED technology,
Feeney LED Rail Lighting enhances the ambiance in
outdoor living environments and improves lighting at
stairs and railings. Benefits include longer lamp life and
lower energy consumption when compared to
traditional lighting sources. In addition, LED lamps contain no hazardous substances, making
them an eco-friendly option for those who prefer sustainable products.
The warm white LED light is designed to recess into the underside of the top and bottom rails
of the DesignRail® railing system, while the snap-on frosted lens evenly diffuses light over
outdoor porch and deck areas. The lights are easy to install in either new or existing
DesignRail® installations.
Feeney LED Rail Lighting is fully weatherproof and includes the LED light strip, connectors,
Feeney Light Lens Diffuser, grommets and terminator caps. The Feeney Power Kit is also fully
waterproof, containing a 35, 60 or 96 watt 24 volt driver, extension cables, two-way splitter,
wire nuts and connectors. Feeney LED Lighting is available by special order from retailers who
currently offer Feeney, Inc. DesignRail® products.
To learn more about all of Feeney’s products, visit www.feeneyinc.com.
![Page 13: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/13.jpg)
Distinctive weather-tough railing infill alternative fits the bill for architects, builders and homeowners
Feeney’s CableRail cable assemblies are the perfect railing infill option for settings with a view
as well as dramatic stairways. The Feeney line of standard and custom fabricated stainless steel
cable assemblies is made of durable, weather-resistant 316-grade stainless steel with more than
70 percent recycled content. Feeney cables and components are suited to residential and
commercial railing applications and offer a low maintenance, environmentally friendly, and
visually unobtrusive alternative to commonly used wooden or metal picket infill.
CableRail Standard Assemblies are Feeney’s most popular
cable product and may be installed on new or existing wood or
metal railing frames. They feature special field-installed Quick-
Connect® cable fittings with patented automatic-locking jaws
that make installations fast and easy.
These standard assemblies are available in pre-cut lengths
from 5 feet to 70 feet for easy ordering and come in three
cable sizes. The pre-cut lengths save time by eliminating the
need to take precise railing measurements. Installers simply
select assemblies that are longer than needed and trim any
excess in the field during construction.
With its simple, clean-lined design, ease of installation and low maintenance, the CableRail
cable system creates an appealing design aesthetic wherever it is used. CableRail assemblies are
perfect for applications where the view is all important. The clean, finished look of these strong
but slender cables is enhanced by special end fittings that are easily concealed into wood or
metal posts.
To learn more about all of Feeney’s products, visit www.feeneyinc.com.
![Page 14: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/14.jpg)
Kit adds low-profile option to brand’s popular CableRail product line
The CableRail Conceal Kit was developed to provide a solution for customers seeking a more
streamlined cable railing aesthetic. The end caps on the outside of the railing posts are thinner,
and the fittings are shorter in length so they can be completely concealed inside the post for a
sleeker look.
Engineered for easy installation, the CableRail
Conceal Kit features a specially-designed tension
fitting on one end and an automatic-locking
Feeney Quick-Connect® fitting on the other end.
The kit is available in pre-fabricated assembly
lengths ranging from 5 feet to 50 feet (in 5 foot
increments) that can be trimmed to exact length
in the field.
Product accessories, including isolation bushings for harsher environments and decorative
stainless or colored end caps, are also available and sold separately.
For more information on all of Feeney’s offerings, visit www.feeneyinc.com.
![Page 15: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/15.jpg)
From abandoned university campus to wellness retreat
Founded by former Silicon Valley executive Scott Kriens and his wife Joanie, 1440 Multiversity is a
non-profit immersive learning center and corporate retreat created with a mission to help people
build stronger connections in the world and grow in relationship, spirit and wellness. Guests are able
to participate in curated personal development programs and spend time renewing and recharging
while enjoying farm-to-table food, wellness classes and a host of amenities and personalized
experiences.
The Kriens teamed up with architect Jerry Yates and South Bay Construction (SBC) to construct the
learning center, which is located in Scotts Valley, California on a 75-acre site nestled in the Santa
Cruz Mountains and surrounded by towering redwoods.
Instead of starting from scratch and building a
new development on open land, the Kriens
decided to revive an abandoned college
campus – what was once Bethany University.
Spanning the course of several years, the
Kriens, Yates and SBC worked together to take
the vision of Multiversity from dream to reality.
Seeking to incorporate a design style that was
endemic to California, Yates suggested a
modified Craftsmen style inspired by the
designs of 20th century architects Greene and Greene, who married the Arts & Craft aesthetic with
Japanese design. The Kriens appreciated the design direction – and its connection to California – and
gave Yates the green light.
While the design itself was straightforward, significant improvements had to be made to the existing
campus and its surroundings to ensure a cohesive look throughout the site. It was important that the
old growth redwoods and tranquil streams were preserved, as maintaining natural environmental
elements and native species was a key focus of the project. Due to the age of the campus, and the
land it sits on, the infrastructure also had to be updated to support the daily use of its facilities.
Among the buildings on the site are the Lodge, which serves as the welcome center and a gathering
space; the Healing Arts Center, which offers massage rooms, steam rooms and an infinity edge hot
tub; and the state-of-the-art Redwood Auditorium, which seats 800 people. Other structures include
an amphitheater, sanctuary, fitness center and classrooms, along with a communal eatery, cafe and
guest lodging.
![Page 16: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/16.jpg)
“Nearly two thirds of the buildings had to be remodeled,” said Yates. “The original structures weren’t
well-built and were lacking in aesthetic appeal. So, we had to bring those buildings up to a level that
was compatible with the new architecture.”
In addition, because the property is in the mountains, the terrain
made ADA-compliance challenging. Since the buildings were spread
out over the site’s 75 acres, the team had to connect all of the
buildings with accessible public thoroughfares, wherever possible.
Shuttle service was designated for the areas that couldn’t be
completely accommodated.
Yates and the SBC team transformed the campus and buildings into a
functional oasis, sourcing natural materials locally and internationally.
This included cedar planks for columns and trusses, redwood for a
wooden pedestrian bridge, more than 1,400 tons of stone, and slate
for the roofs. Copper gutters and downspouts were also incorporated
to give the buildings a refined finish and ensure longevity.
The project involved a significant amount of stonework, including bridges, walls, bollards and the
exterior of the buildings. Noted Yates, “Our design philosophy was based upon creating harmony
between the architecture, landscape and the existing setting. It was important to showcase the
location’s inherent beauty and to evoke a feeling of serenity and well-being. The use of natural
materials reinforced the sense of connection to nature.”
When it came to railings for the project, Yates choose railing solutions from Feeney. The company’s
DesignRail® aluminum railings with CableRail infill had been used on the interior in one the first
buildings in the project – an interior dorm – and Yates liked the streamlined appearance of the railings
and how they complemented the Craftsman aesthetic. He ultimately specified DesignRail® with
CableRail infill for the multiple balconies of the site’s four story hotel-like building. The top rails were
crafted of Ipe, which harmonized with the redwoods and the site’s organic look and feel.
“The combination of aluminum railings with cable infill not only provided a durable and low
maintenance solution, but also really accentuated the architecture while preserving the beautiful
views,” commented Yates. “The Feeney team was very easy to work with and made the entire process
seamless, which we appreciated.”
The renovation and remodel successfully transformed the former university into a rejuvenating
learning center that inspires individuals and communities through holistic activities and workshops.
On any given weekend, it is not unusual to catch one of the leading luminaries on health and well-
being – Deepak Chopra, Elizabeth Gilbert, and Neale Donald Walsh come to mind – strolling along
one of the inviting redwood-lined pathways.
![Page 17: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/17.jpg)
Aluminum railings with stainless steel cable infill highlight multiple decks on distinctive waterfront residence
With its sleek, streamlined appearance, cable railing is sometimes thought best-suited for homes with a
contemporary aesthetic. However, cable railing can work equally well with more traditional and formal
architectural styles. Consider, for instance, a unique home built on a 60-foot bluff overlooking the
Niantic River in Waterford, Connecticut. Perched atop the mile-wide river, the eye-catching home
resembles a steamship from the 1920s.
Looking for someone who could take his vision for the home to the finish
line, the owner approached long-time contractor Jonathan Laschever and
asked if he would be interested in completing the design and build out of
the home. The owner had previously worked with an architect to develop a
design with a timeless, nautical aesthetic, but – unable to come to a
consensus on the details – they had amicably parted ways. Laschever
welcomed the opportunity to bring the “boat house” to life.
Laschever’s design process included significant research on luxury and
vintage boats. That diligence is reflected throughout the home in custom
elements such as porthole window casings and a pilot’s cabin, complete
with lights and functioning horns, located on the top floor of the home.
On the Rail(ings)
Because the home was to feature multiple decks, including a curved deck on the top level, railings were
an integral part of the overall design. The railings also needed to work with the theme of the home. At
the same time, it was important to maximize the river view and to utilize materials that could withstand
exposure to the elements found in a waterfront setting.
Knowing the home’s location would subject it to constant moisture, Laschever quickly rejected steel
railings because of the repainting that would be required over time. He ultimately selected the Feeney
DesignRail® aluminum railing system with stainless steel CableRail infill, which had been recommended
to him by a local lumber yard.
Feeney’s railings are made from 6000 series aluminum, with an AAMA-2604 powder-coated finish for
durability. Notes Laschever, “Feeney’s products are great for saltwater environments, and even better in
freshwater applications. They won’t rust, peel or require painting, which provides peace of mind.”
Laschever also appreciated the versatility of Feeney’s railing solutions. “I really liked the fact that the
cable railing could be installed on either wood or metal posts, and that the aluminum railings were
offered in a variety of colors. That design flexibility was an important consideration.”
![Page 18: Media ontact: credits are available upon ... · stainless steel cable assemblies and other attractive, durable, and easy-to-use design solutions. Popular lines include ableRail railing](https://reader033.vdocuments.mx/reader033/viewer/2022050115/5f4be708ec00e311773c96f1/html5/thumbnails/18.jpg)
Laschever ended up choosing silver railings, which best suited the home’s traditional steamship look.
The challenge he then faced was how to incorporate the railings in such a way that they
complemented the decks, which were to be finished using Ipe, a Brazilian hardwood similar to teak.
Getting It Right
Because of the uniqueness of the project, the deck and
railing design required complex calculations and “outside-
of-the-boat” thinking to achieve the desired aesthetic
while also meeting code requirements.
To create a seamless look, Laschever decided to go with a
wooden top rail that would match the decking. Ipe cap
rails were fabricated to cover the aluminum top rails.
While he found it easy to attach the railing posts to the
wooden deck using Feeney’s base mounting plate,
penetrating the PVC roofing membrane that covered the
parapet walls at the second and third floor decks was a challenge. Laschever didn’t want to fascia
mount or screw through the fascia and stucco siding on the home’s exterior and needed an
alternative option.
Laschever worked closely with the Feeney team to determine the best approach. The solution was
to use Feeney’s stanchion-mounted posts, which enabled short stanchion pieces to be base-
mounted directly to the substructure. To prevent leaking, 120 flashing boots were made from PVC.
The stanchion bases were mounted on top of the parapet wall by screwing through the PVC
membrane. The PVC boots were then placed over the mounting bases and the boots were welded
to the PVC membrane to create a watertight seal. As a final step, the finished posts were sleeved
over the exposed, sealed stanchions.
“What this did was allow us to have railing on top of the parapet walls,” Laschever explains. “On the
lower deck, we mounted the posts directly to the top of the wood deck using a base plate and four
lag screws. We did something similar on the roof-level parapet walls, except in those locations, PVC
covers the base plates and is welded to the rest of the membrane to keep leaks from occurring.”
The finishing touch was installing Feeney’s LED under-rail lighting on the railings, which would
accentuate the unique shape of the boat in the evenings while also suggesting the glamour of
passenger boats that once cruised up and down the country’s rivers.
Comments Laschever, “The under-rail lighting enabled us to achieve a look not possible with steel
pipe railings. The railings really transform at night as the light shines on the cable strands to provide
a stunning, louvered look. You can look back across the river from the harbor and the house glows.
It’s quite spectacular.”