Upgrading an Off‑Grid Lakeside Cabin with Cable Railing

Tyler and Todd are an unconventional off‑grid couple who traded city life for a self‑sufficient lifestyle. Combining their passion for video and storytelling with a goal of producing their own resources, they show that off‑grid living can be stylish and comfortable — with more freedom and fewer monthly bills.

During their off‑grid years, Tyler and Todd spent two years in a Geodesic Dome they built themselves. While it was generally comfortable, Canadian winters proved challenging. With those experiences in mind, they bought a lakeside cabin in Nova Scotia surrounded by forest — a quiet, picturesque place to live in.

Improving Safety Without Blocking the View

They had many renovation projects underway at the cabin, but one key project still needed to be tackled: upgrading the railings. Two main issues stood out:

• No stair railing – The main staircase had no proper guardrail, making daily use unsafe.
• Low second‑floor railing – The original wooden railing upstairs was too low, creating a safety risk.

But it wasn’t just about safety. Tyler and Todd wanted the inside of the cabin to feel open and connected to the stunning forest views, to let in as much light as possible, and to keep the space feeling airy. Traditional wooden railings felt heavy and blocked both light and sightlines — exactly what they wanted to avoid.

Their goal was to find a railing system that could:

• Provide safety without sacrificing aesthetics
• Keep the cabin feeling open and airy
• Allow light to flow freely between levels
• Work well with a DIY‑friendly installation approach
• Stay within a reasonable budget

They explored their options, weighing the pros and cons of both glass and cable railing, but in the end, cable railing came out on top. 

Finding the Right Fit

Being hands‑on DIY builders, Tyler and Todd researched their options carefully. Cable railing checked all the boxes: clean lines, unobstructed views, and the safety they needed.
That’s when they found Muzata’s cable railing system. It stood out for two big reasons:

1. DIY‑friendly design — The package includes everything needed for installation, along with clear instructions.
2. Great value — The cost was about one‑tenth of similar systems from other brands.

“I think it’s worth a shot,” Tyler said.

With help from their friend Dumpy, a skilled handyman, they installed the stair railing in about an hour and quickly completed the second-floor railing the next day. The process was straightforward, and the results exceeded their expectations.

So pleased with the outcome, they decided to use the same solution for another project — installing cable railing at their DIY container home.

Perfect Timing for the Christmas

The new railing was installed just in time for the Christmas. With a safe staircase and secure second‑floor loft, the cabin was ready for Christmas.

Tyler and Todd ran warm string lights along the cable lines, creating a subtle glow that complemented the railing’s clean look. The open design allowed the lights to cast a warm, welcoming light throughout the space.

They and their pets — one cat and three dogs — could now move safely between the stairs and loft. Watching the animals explore the loft while snow fell outside and the lights twinkled inside was exactly the kind of cozy winter scene they’d imagined when they bought the cabin.

The Results: Safety and Style in Balance

The Muzata cable railing system delivered on every point:

• Better safety – The staircase and second‑floor loft now meet proper safety standards, giving peace of mind for everyday living.
• Open feel – Light still flows freely, and views remain wide open.
• Budget‑friendly – Professional‑looking results without the high price tag.
• Built for DIY – A manageable project that fits their hands‑on approach.
• Versatile design – Works year‑round and adapts easily to seasonal décor without compromising functionality.

Thinking About Your Own Upgrade?

Tyler and Todd’s experience shows that safety upgrades don’t have to come at the expense of style or budget. Cable railing offers a clean, modern solution that blends seamlessly into both rustic cabins and contemporary homes.

Whether you’re renovating a vacation property, updating your main residence, or building new, a well‑chosen cable railing system can help you create a space that’s both safe and inviting.