Looking for a railing that complements your aesthetic but doesn't upstage your space or your view? Look no further than cable railings! You may be thinking, "Cable railings are for modern homes." They are, but they can pair wonderfully with most any other home style, too. And we're here to prove it!
These stylishly understated railings come in both vertical and horizontal designs, perfect for accentuating lines in your architecture—or your view—in a subtle way that achieves a feeling of effortless harmony. Add that to their unobtrusive nature that encourages you and your guests to look through and beyond the railings and you're probably beginning to appreciate the potential of cable already.
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If, like many homes, yours blends features of multiple styles (or is a style not highlighted here), just apply the principles we cover below and you're sure to see how cable railings could be right at home at your home, too.
Time to get inspired!
Cape Cod
The Cape Cod style
The Cape Cod home style is known for its simple and symmetrical design, typically featuring a steep pitched roof with gables on either side, clapboard or shingle siding, and a central chimney. The front door is usually centered and flanked by two multi-paned windows, and a small dormer window may be located on the roof. The overall effect is cozy and understated, reflecting the practicality and resourcefulness of the New England homes that inspired this style.
Why cable railing works well with Cape Cod homes
Cable railing is an excellent addition to a Cape Cod home, complementing the classic and charming architectural elements of the style. Cable railing creates a sleek look that pairs well with the traditional and symmetrical design of Cape Cod homes. The thin, clean lines of the railing add a contemporary touch, while the use of stainless steel evokes the home's coastal roots.
Cable railing is also ideal for showcasing the beautiful views of Cape Cods nestled on hills or coastlines, but wherever your home is located, you'll appreciate the unobstructed sightlines cables provide. And the view works both ways: Looking towards the home, the railing's simple yet sophisticated design works well with the shake shingle siding common to this home style, allowing its texture and character to shine through. In a similar way, any small Cape Cod can benefit from railings that don't visually clutter its modest footprint.
Cape Cod home example with cable railings
This modified Cape Cod with cable railing shows off the traditional and timeless look of the dimensional shake shingles beautifully while simultaneously providing a sleek and modern contrast that updates the home's overall aesthetic. The white posts echo the trim, helping to further emphasizes the interesting roofline, unique windows, and generous double doors. The choice of crisp white with the steel cable gives a nod to the maritime influence of this home style, making the railing a natural fit.
Atlantis Nautilus Cable Railing
Cable railing ideas for your Cape Cod home
Use a cable railing on your:
- Deck for a sleek touch that adds visual interest to the exterior without overwhelming its scale.
- Staircase leading up to the second floor to create an open, airy feel while also showcasing the central chimney.
- Front porch with white posts to complement the classic New England look while also adding contemporary flair.
- Waterfront stairs to mimic the look of nautical rigging, blending seamlessly with the coastal atmosphere.
Coastal
The Coastal style
Coastal homes with their proximity to the water and beach incorporate design elements that reflect their natural environment and focus on light, air, and space. Large windows, open floor plans, and a palette of neutral colors are some of the characteristics of the coastal home. Above all, this style creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Why cable railing works well with Coastal homes
Cable railing is an ideal choice for Coastal homes. Most importantly, cable railing offers unobstructed views of the breathtaking ocean and surrounding landscape and lets the golden sunlight pour through. Horizontal cables also harmoniously mirror the horizon as you look out across the expansive water for a pleasing effect. Moreover, cable railing's sleek linear design complements this home style with a streamlined look that blends well with its clean lines and simple materials.
On the practical side, stainless steel cables are highly durable and resistant to saltwater and corrosive salt air, making them well-suited to coastal environments (be sure to check recommendations for individual products). And with no crevices where sand can accumulate, a cable railing system stays tidy, even if sand is blown or tracked into your deck area.
Coastal home example with cable ralings
Here, the harbor view is the main attraction and the horizontal cables let it shine whether you're relaxing on the deck or looking out from the large windows lining the private waterfront walkway. While the cable all but disappears against the water when focusing on the comings and going of the harbor or gazing into the distance, the white posts together with the marine-grade stainless steel cable produce a decidedly nautical note, amplifying the Coastal style of this waterfront home.
TimberTech CableRailCable railing ideas for your Coastal home
Use a cable railing on your:
- Beachfront deck to embrace the connection between your home and the natural environment of the coast.
- Balcony or porch overlooking the ocean to preserve the view while creating a sleek, modern look.
- Stairs leading down to the beach to create a functional and stylish design element, reflecting the unfussy minimalism of contemporary coastal architecture.
- Interior staircase for an open and airy feel that complements the light and bright atmosphere of your home.
- Front entryway to add a contemporary touch while creating an inviting entrance.
Colonial
The Colonial style
The Colonial style of home is a classic and enduring American architectural tradition that originated in the 1600s. Colonial homes are typically characterized by their balanced and symmetrical design, with a rectangular or square shape, and a steeply pitched roof with one or more gables. They often have clapboard or brick exteriors, multi-paned windows, chimneys, and a centrally located front door. This style reflects the early settlers' emphasis on practicality and order.
Why cable railing works well with Colonial homes
Cable railing can be the perfect option for Colonial homeowners. The minimalist design of cable railing blends seamlessly with the classic style of the home, creating a cohesive look that is both timeless and elegant. Slender, vertical railing cables can provide a nuanced contrast to the home's horizontal elements, such as a long, uninterrupted roofline, while a horizontal cable can be used to quietly accentuate those same features. Additionally, cable railing can create an open and airy feel, which can be particularly desirable for smaller in-town Colonial homes that may have limited or more enclosed outdoor spaces.
Colonial home example with cable railings
The clean lines of the cable railing complement the classic design of the home below. In this case, slender vertical cables subtlly plays against the horizontal siding while also playing into the home's vertical features—porch columns, window frames and second-story dormers—and drawing the eye naturally upwards. The unobstructed view provided by the cables not only offers prime viewing from the front porch seating, it also allows an uncluttered and welcoming approach into the home itself.
Key-Link American Vertical Cable Railing
Cable railing ideas for your Colonial home
Use a cable railing on your:
- Front steps with black posts to complement the traditional elements of your home while also adding a modern touch.
- Porch to provide unobstructed views and harmonize with your home's symmetrical facade.
- Interior balcony overlooking the grand foyer to showcase the impressive height of the entryway of your Colonial Revival.
- Terrace or patio with a cable railing to provide unobstructed views of the backyard.
Cottage
The Cottage style
Cottage homes are charming and homey, often featuring design elements inspired by the English countryside. Typically modest in size and emphasizing simplicity and functionality, they often incorporate natural materials such as wood and stone and feature a variety of exterior finishes, including stucco, brick, and clapboard or board-and-batten siding. A steep gable roof with a prominent peak is a common feature that contributes to the cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Cottage homes are known for their casual and relaxed feel.
Why cable railing works well with Cottage homes
Cable railing is a great pick for Cottage style homes. It provides an unobstructed view of the natural surroundings, highlighting the home's connection to its environment while lending a sleek look to stylishly contrast with the traditional and rustic features. The thin cables of the railing create a sense of enclosure without blocking light or views, enhancing the cozy and intimate feeling of the home. Cable railing's minimal design can also work well with a variety of materials commonly used in this style, such as wood, stone, and brick, creating a cohesive and harmonious look.
Cottage home example with cable railings
In this contemporary Cottage example, the horizontal cable works well with the simplicity of the style, keeping the entry and landing neat and streamlined while the black intermediate pickets tie in well with other black accents on the home, like the downspout, window grills, and door awning. The wide top rail conveys a gracious feeling that's a perfect welcome to the comfortable home while also introducing a wood tone that blends beautifully with the natural stone, decking, and steps. The same horizontal cable is used atop the retaining wall for a safety feature that also keeps the wooded view accessible and brings additional style and harmony to the property overall.
Key-Link Chesapeake Series Horizontal Cable
Cable railing ideas for your Craftsman home
Use a cable railing on your:
- Front porch to accentuate the clean lines and simplicity of the home, creating a welcoming entrance to your home.
- Backyard deck to maintain a natural feel while adding a touch of modernity and openness to the space.
- Staircase or loft to create a focal point while keeping the space open and airy.
- Waterfront deck for unobstructed views of the water and surrounding natural environment.
Craftsman
The Craftsman style
The Craftsman style emerged in the late 19th century and became popular in the early 20th century. It is characterized by its use of natural materials, such as wood, stone, and brick, and its focus on simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship. Craftsman homes often feature low-pitched roofs with wide eaves, front porches, exposed rafters and beams, and large windows. Overall, the Craftsman style home emphasizes the beauty of simplicity and the importance of skilled craftsmanship.
Why cable railing works well with Craftsman homes
Cable railing complements the clean lines and simple shapes of Craftsman style homes. The transparency of cable railing allows for unobstructed views of the home's surroundings, a hallmark of Craftsman homes that often incorporate nature and the outdoors into their design, making it an excellent choice for taking in the scenery.
When paired with the natural materials and warm tones of a Craftsman style home, cable railing can help highlight these elements without detracting from their beauty. At the same time, it adds a light, contemporary touch that blends effortless with the home's style.
Craftsman home example with cable railings
In this Craftsman example, the cable railing is framed by natural wood rails posts that coordinate with the decking boards of the wrap-around porch. The effect enhances the warm and inviting feeling of the home, preserving its aesthetic. The transparency of the cables affords not only a great view of the picturesque property from the porch, but also respects the stone chimney feature which delivers big on rustic charm and visual interest from an exterior vantage point.
Feeney CableRail | Photo: Kent M., Aptos, CA
Cable railing ideas for your Craftsman home
Use a cable railing on your:
- Deck for an unobstructed view that complements the emphasis on nature and the outdoors, creating a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor living spaces.
- Staircase to provide a contemporary touch, while still highlighting your home's hand-crafted features.
- Balcony overlooking a backyard garden, highlighting the natural beauty of both the home and its surroundings.
- Rooftop terrace to create a modern and sophisticated vibe, while still staying true to the simplicity and functionality of the Contemporary Craftsman.
Greek Revival
The Greek Revival style
Greek Revival homes feature design elements that emphasize symmetry, proportion, and grandeur. This style emerged in the United States in the late 18th century and became popular throughout the 19th century, particularly in the South. Greek Revival homes are known for their columns as well as their use of classical motifs such as fluting, leaves, and rosettes. With their focus on classical beauty and order, Greek Revival homes exude a sense of elegance and timelessness.
Why cable railing works well with Greek Revival homes
Cable railing is a great option for Greek Revival homes, as it enhances the classical beauty and symmetry of the architecture. The clean, elegant design of cable railing blends seamlessly with the clean lines of Greek Revival style, creating a sense of openness and space that allows the home's grandeur to shine while adding a subdued, modern touch.
Cable also allows for unobstructed views, highlighting the home's natural surroundings and offering a beautiful backdrop to the architecture that integrates indoor and outdoor living with features such as sweeping balconies and double-decker porches.
Greek Revival home example with cable railings
The use of vertical cables in the Neo-Greek Revival style below creates a repeating pattern that mimics the verticality of columns, further emphasizing these streamlined classical elements and adding to the overall cohesiveness of the design. The cables also create a connectedness with what lies beyond, ideal for the porches that overlook an inviting pool area.
Key-Link American Series Vertical Cable
Cable railing ideas for your Greek Revival home
Use a cable railing on your:
- Deck to provide unobstructed views of the home's surroundings and create a sense of modernity and spaciousness.
- Grand staircase to enhance your home's sense of grandeur and emphasize its clean lines and symmetry.
- Second-story balcony to create a sense of flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, while highlighting the home's classical details.
- Patio for a sleek and modern contrast to the traditional design, while still complementing its classical beauty.
Lodge
The Lodge style
The Lodge style often characterized by the use of natural materials such as wood, stone, and brick to create a cozy, cabin-like feel. Rustic and Lodge-style homes often feature large windows that let in plenty of natural light and take advantage of scenic views. Natural wood shingles or planks, stone or brick accents, and stucco finishes featuring earthy or warm colors add to the natural and organic feel of the home.
Why cable railing works well with Lodge homes
Cable railing can complement the natural materials and textures commonly found in Lodge-inspired homes, such as wood, stone, and metal. The use of stainless steel cables provides a sleek touch that contrasts beautifully with the rustic elements of the style.
Cables offer unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape that is so integral to Lodge homes nestled in scenic mountain or lake settings, enhancing the connection between the interior and exterior spaces of the home. Cable railing is also highly durable and requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for woodsy homes that may be used as vacation getaways or rentals.
Lodge home example with cable railings
In this home, cable railing lets the beautiful cedar shake siding show through from the exterior, while also offering a great view of the lake from the balcony. The cable railing adds a touch of modernity and sophistication to this traditional Lodge style, while the fascia-mount posts and a top rail in natural wood keep it true to the rustic design, maintaining a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Atlantis RailEasy Cable Railing
Cable railing ideas for your Lodge-style home
Use a cable railing on your:
- Deck with views of the woods or mountains to highlight the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, so you can enjoy the peaceful scenery without any visual barriers.
- Balcony to play off the metal roof and rough-sawn siding and add an industrial edge.
- Staircase with wooden treads and rustic log posts to introduce a contemporary flair while respecting the natural elements of the traditional style.
- Front porch with exposed timber framing and stone accents for a subtle contrast to the natural materials and an inviting entryway for guests.
Minimalist / Scandinavian
The Minimalist / Scandinavian style:
Scandinavian and Minimalist home styles share an emphasis on simplicity, functionality, and clean design, as well as a preference for natural materials, neutral colors, and a less-is-more approach to decor and furnishings. Wood, stone, and other natural elements are common in this design style, which is known for its warm and inviting feel that creates calm, peaceful living spaces.
Why cable railing works well with Minimalist / Scandinavian homes
Cable railing is an outstanding selection for homeowners with Minimalist or Scandinavian homes. The sleek and contemporary appearance of cable railing is the perfect complement to the clean lines, natural materials, and minimalist design, adding a stylish and cohesive touch to the overall look and feel of the home. Additionally, cable railing provides an unobstructed view, a hallmark of Scandinavian homes, while maintaining a secure barrier that doesn't block natural light or views. And, homeowners who prioritize low-maintenance design will appreciate the minimal upkeep of cable railing.
Minimalist / Scandinavian home example with cable railings
The clean lines and understated design of the cable railing below allows the stunning natural surroundings to take center stage, while the simple yet elegant black metal posts and metallic cables provide a modern accent that complements the overall design of this home. The result is a harmonious blend of form and function that creates an inviting and inspiring space, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Key-Link American Cable Railing
Cable railing ideas for your Minimalist / Scandinavian home
Use a cable railing on your:
- Wooden deck or balcony to highlight the natural beauty of the decking and create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Staircase with a light-colored wooden top rail to emphasize the clean lines and simple design of the space.
- Loft or mezzanine area to add a modern touch while maintaining the minimalist aesthetic of the home.
- Balcony or porch to enhance the sense of openness and lightness of your home's style.
- Rooftop terrace for unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
Modern
The Modern style
The Modern home style emerged in the early to mid-20th century and is known for clean lines, simple shapes, and minimal ornamentation. This style often features large windows, open floor plans, and a connection to the outdoors through the use of materials such as glass, concrete, and steel that blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. Other key features may include flat or low-pitched roofs, asymmetrical shapes, and a monochromatic color palette. This style focuses on simplicity, functionality, and sleek design.
Why cable railing works well with Modern homes
Cable railings are a natural fit for the Modern home design aesthetic. Linear cables contribute to the overall clean or minimalist effect while complementing the purposeful lines integral to the home's design. And they don't block sightlines, making spaces feel more open and airy, which is ideal for homes that prioritize natural light and uncluttered views. Additionally, stainless steel cables add a modern and stylish touch to the design, seamlessly blending with the overall look of the Modern home.
Modern home example with cable railings
In this Modern home, you can see how the strong horizontal lines of the home itself are complemented by the horizontal cables in the railing, while the black posts mirror the bold black window trim and fascia. The cables allow you to see straight through to the windows that are central to this home's design, providing a seamless connection between the outdoors and indoors. The light and airy feel of the exterior living space is the perfect pairing with the open interior plan of this contemporary home.
Key-Link American Cable Railing
Bonus idea: If you have large windows like the home above, your patio doors reveal interior railings, or you just love a visually-cohesive experience throughout your living areas, extend your railing choice—whatever your style—to both your outdoor and indoor spaces.
Cable railing ideas for your Modern home
Use a cable railing on your:
- Rooftop deck to complement the clean lines and a flat roof.
- Staircase with an open riser design to create a floating effect.
- Loft balcony overlooking your modern living space for a cohesive design that reflects the minimalism of the home's interior.
- Front porch with a low roofline to accentuate the horizontal styling while also creating a welcoming entryway for guests.
Modern Farmhouse
The Modern Farmhouse style
Modern Farmhouse architecture style is a contemporary take on traditional farmhouse design, characterized by a combination of rustic and industrial elements with clean, modern lines. This style typically features a gabled roof, often with metal roofing, wood accents, and large windows that let in natural light. The style blends traditional and modern elements to create a warm and inviting space with a focus on functionality and comfort that feels both sophisticated and down-to-earth.
Why cable railing works well with Modern Farmhouse homes
Cable railing is a wonderful choice for Modern Farmhouse homes, as it complements the clean lines and unadorned simplicity of this style. The minimalist design of cable railing creates a pleasing contrast with the warm, natural materials often found in Modern Farmhouse homes, such as wood and stone.
Cable railing also maximizes views and natural light, which are key to this style. Plus, the low-maintenance and durability of cable railing make it a practical choice for busy families who want to enjoy their home with minimal upkeep concerns.
Modern Farmhouse home example with cable railings
The Modern Farmhouse below embraces its modern side with sleek cable railings and a wood top rail that coordinate with the other wood accents on the home. The vertical cables accentuate the lines elsewhere in the design, from the pronounced seaming of the metal roof to the panes of soaring floor-to-ceiling windows. And like those windows, the cables allow the light and the view to come through, making them an ideal complement to the home's styling.
Cable railing ideas for your Modern Farmhouse home
Use a cable railing on your:
- Wrap-around porch to provide an unobstructed view of the countryside.
- Second-story balcony to add a touch of industrial-chic into the mix with your metal roof and board-and-batten siding.
- Deck overlooking a wooded area to blend seamlessly with the home's natural surroundings and enhance the outdoor living space.
- Staircase with wood treads and black metal posts and top rail for a contemporary edge.
- Rooftop terrace to feel part of the expansive sky and surrounding landscape.
Cable railings: Always at home
Cable railings offer a sleek, minimalist solution that looks right at home with any house style, from traditional to contemporary and every style in between. By blending seamlessly with your home's architecture and surrounding environment, cables provide an unobtrusive and modern touch that enhances the aesthetic of any space. To effortlessly accentuate your home's lines, showcase breathtaking views, and create a harmonious design that complements your style, look to cable railings.
Now that you've seen the possibilities, take the next step and request your free railing quote from DIY Home Center. We make it easy for you to start planning a cable railing project for your own home.
If you have any cable railing questions, we're always ready to assist. Contact us via chat, email, or by phone for expert answers from our helpful team.
Be sure to check your local building codes before starting your railing project and follow all rules, regulations, and requirements.
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