Feelnets

Dock & Waterfront Netting: The Missing Piece for Lake Houses and Cottage Living

There's a particular kind of property where a deck, a dock, and open water all meet — and where the space in between is usually wasted. Lake houses, cottages, and waterfront resorts pour money into the dock itself and the shoreline landscaping, but the zone that connects them is often left as bare boards or, worse, empty air over the water. That's exactly the space a custom dock net is built to claim.

What Is Dock Netting, Exactly?

Dock netting is a marine-grade net suspended between dock posts, pilings, or a dedicated frame, creating a stable surface — or a soft, hammock-like one — directly over the water. Depending on how it's installed, it can serve two very different purposes: a taut, walkable net that turns unused space beside or beneath a dock into a lounging platform, or a looser, cradle-style net designed purely for relaxing above the water's surface.

Feelnets builds both versions to measure, using the same marine-grade mesh developed for our catamaran trampoline nets — material that's already proven itself against sun, salt, and constant moisture on boats sailed year-round.

Why It's the Upgrade Most Waterfront Properties Are Missing

1. It Turns Dead Space Into the Best Seat on the Property

The stretch of water beside a dock, under a boathouse, or off the end of a pier is rarely used for anything. A net installed there becomes the spot everyone ends up — close enough to the water to dangle a hand in it, comfortable enough to stay for hours. It's usable square footage that doesn't require a single extra board of decking.

2. It Adds a Real Safety Barrier

For families with young children or pets, open water at the edge of a dock is a constant, low-level worry. A properly tensioned net around a swim platform or between dock sections acts as a physical barrier without blocking the view or the breeze — a very different solution from a rigid rail, and one that suits the relaxed character of a lake property.

3. It's a Signature Feature for Rental and Resort Properties

For cottage owners renting on Airbnb or VRBO, and for lakeside or coastal resorts competing for bookings, a net suspended over the water is the kind of feature that photographs itself. It reads as considered, high-end design rather than standard dock furniture — the same effect Feelnets nets have already created for boutique hotels working with overwater and terrace installations.

4. It's Engineered for Water, Not Just Weather

A garden hammock or a generic outdoor net isn't built for constant proximity to water — freshwater algae, fluctuating humidity, and in coastal settings, salt spray all shorten the life of ordinary materials fast. Dock netting needs the same resistance profile as marine rigging: UV-stabilized, rot-proof, and tensioned to handle the movement of a structure that's partially over water.

5. It Complements Everything Already on the Water

Unlike a deck extension or a permanent structure, a net installation works with an existing dock rather than requiring you to rebuild it. It can be fitted around ladders, cleats, and boat slips, and it's just as suited to a quiet freshwater lake dock as it is to a busy coastal marina frontage.

Built for the Property, Not Off a Shelf

Every dock is different — different piling spacing, different heights above the waterline, different exposure to wind and current. That's precisely why standard, pre-cut netting rarely fits well over water. A made-to-measure net, sized and tensioned for the specific structure it's attached to, is what actually holds up season after season.

Feelnets has spent over a decade making marine-grade nets for boats sailed in open water worldwide — the same expertise now shapes our dock and waterfront netting for homes, cottages, and resorts.

Dock & Waterfront Netting Contact us to receive a custom quote

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Stargazer Net Beds: Why Suspended Loungers Are the Next Big Thing in Boutique Hospitality

A few years ago, the feature guests photographed most at a boutique hotel was the pool. Today, it's increasingly likely to be a net — suspended over a cliff edge, a pool deck, or the open air between two trees, with nothing but woven mesh and open sky between the guest and the view. The stargazer net bed has quietly become one of the most shared, most requested features in high-end hospitality design, and it's a natural next step for any property that has already discovered what a suspended net can do for a terrace or lounge area.

What Is a Stargazer Net Bed?

A stargazer net bed is a custom-made net installed specifically for lying down and looking up — typically positioned over a dramatic view, a pool, water, or open landscape, and often built with a slight cradle shape rather than a flat tension for extra comfort. Unlike a hammock, it holds multiple guests at once, is open on all sides, and disappears visually into its surroundings rather than dominating them. Positioned well, it turns an ordinary evening into the kind of moment a guest remembers the stay by.

Feelnets designs these to measure, using the same UV- and weather-resistant marine mesh developed for our catamaran and outdoor nets, engineered to stay comfortable and safe under constant sun and night exposure.

Why It's Resonating With Hospitality Design Right Now

It Matches Where Hospitality Design Is Heading

2026's hospitality trends are leaning hard into multisensory, experience-first design — spaces built around how a guest feels, not just how a room looks on a floor plan. A net bed delivers exactly that: the sensation of floating, the sound of the wind, an unobstructed view of the sky. It's a feature no amount of furniture can replicate.

It's Inherently, Effortlessly Photogenic

Unlike a lot of hotel amenities, a net bed doesn't need styling to look extraordinary — golden hour light through a suspended mesh, a couple lying beneath the stars, a single lounger cantilevered over a pool. It's the kind of image that gets shared without being asked to be shared, generating the organic visibility that hospitality marketing teams pay agencies to manufacture.

It Works in Places Nothing Else Can

A rooftop, a cliffside terrace, the space above a pool, the gap between two trees on a resort's grounds — a lot of the most dramatic real estate at a property is unusable by conventional furniture. A tensioned net can be installed almost anywhere there are two solid anchor points, turning previously "dead" or purely scenic space into a bookable experience.

It Signals a Property Has Been Designed, Not Just Decorated

The properties earning attention in 2026 are the ones treating design as storytelling — distinctive, site-specific features rather than generic luxury signifiers. A net bed built for one exact location, one exact view, can't be replicated at the property down the road. That specificity is precisely what differentiates a design feature from a design cliché.

It's a Lower-Cost, Faster Build Than It Looks

Compared to a permanent structure — a gazebo, an overwater bungalow extension, a built-in daybed — a custom net installation is comparatively fast to install and doesn't require the same structural investment. For hotels and resorts moving quickly on a seasonal refresh or a single standout feature, it's an outsized visual impact for a contained project.

Designed Around the View, Not the Other Way Around

The best stargazer net beds aren't off-the-shelf products bolted onto a random corner of a property — they're designed around a specific view, a specific structure, and the exact way a hotel wants a guest to experience that moment. That's a made-to-measure problem, not a catalog one.

Feelnets works with hotels and resorts worldwide to design nets built for their exact setting, from the mesh color and mounting hardware to the shape of the net itself.

Stargazer Net Beds Contact us to receive a custom quote

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Net vs. Glass Balustrade: Cost, Safety, and Design Comparison

When it comes to securing a staircase, mezzanine, or balcony, glass balustrades have long been the default choice for homeowners and architects seeking a modern, open look. But a growing number of design-conscious homeowners are choosing a different solution: custom-made rope and net balustrades.

Both options can meet safety requirements and create a clean, contemporary look — but they differ significantly in cost, maintenance, design flexibility, and feel. Here's how they compare, so you can choose the right solution for your project.

Safety: Two Different Approaches, Similar Protection

Glass balustrades work by creating a rigid, transparent barrier. They're strong, stable, and, when installed correctly with tempered or laminated safety glass, meet building safety standards for fall protection.

Net balustrades work differently: rather than a rigid barrier, a tensioned mesh of rope or cord absorbs impact and flexes slightly under pressure, while still preventing falls. This makes net balustrades a particularly popular choice for households with young children, since the mesh eliminates the hard edges and impact risk that glass panels can present. Unlike glass, a net balustrade also can't shatter, which some homeowners see as an added peace of mind, particularly in high-traffic family homes.

Both solutions, when properly designed and installed by professionals, provide reliable protection for stairs, mezzanines, and balconies. The right choice comes down to which type of protection best suits your household and design goals.

Design and Visual Impact

This is where the two options diverge most. Glass balustrades offer a minimalist, fully transparent look that lets light pass through uninterrupted — a popular choice in contemporary architecture where visual openness is a priority.

Net balustrades, by contrast, introduce texture, warmth, and a distinct architectural character that glass simply can't replicate. A rope balustrade on a designer staircase, for example, adds a tactile, almost nautical or organic quality to a space, and can be customized in a range of colors and mesh sizes to complement any interior style — from rustic and industrial to refined and minimalist.

For homeowners looking to make a design statement rather than simply meet code requirements, a custom net balustrade often stands out precisely because it's less commonly seen than glass — and because every net is made to measure for the specific staircase or mezzanine, rather than cut from standard panel sizes.

Cost Considerations

Glass balustrades typically involve higher material and installation costs, particularly for tempered safety glass, custom cuts around curved staircases, and the metal framing required to hold panels securely in place. Glass is also heavier, which can add structural requirements and installation complexity, especially in renovation projects.

Net balustrades are generally more cost-effective, both in materials and installation. Because the netting is lightweight, tensioned, and fitted using straightforward fastening systems, installation is typically faster and less invasive — an important advantage for renovation projects where minimizing structural work matters.

Maintenance and Durability

Glass requires regular cleaning to stay looking its best, as fingerprints, smudges, and water spots show easily on a transparent surface. It's also, despite being "safety glass," susceptible to chipping or cracking from impact over time.

A well-made net balustrade, particularly one manufactured from high-performance polyester mesh, is designed to resist UV exposure, moisture, and daily wear with minimal upkeep. There's no glass to clean or risk of shattering, making it a practical option for busy households or properties where low-maintenance materials are a priority.

Which Should You Choose?

• Choose glass if your priority is maximum transparency, a strictly minimalist look, and you're comfortable with higher upfront cost and ongoing cleaning.
• Choose a net balustrade if you want a distinctive, textured design feature, added flexibility for households with children, lower installation complexity, and a more cost-effective solution that's easy to maintain.

Ultimately, both options can deliver a safe, code-compliant staircase or mezzanine railing — the decision comes down to the look, feel, and practicality you want for your home.

Custom-Made Net Balustrades, Designed for Your Staircase

At Feelnets, every balustrade net is made in France to the exact dimensions of your staircase, mezzanine, or balcony, with a choice of mesh sizes, rope colors, and finishes to match your interior. Our team handles the project from design through to delivery, with a personalized quote provided in under three hours.

Considering a net balustrade for your home? Get your free, personalized quote today and discover how a custom net can transform your staircase or mezzanine.

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The "Invisible Floor": Why Mezzanine Nets are the Ultimate Solution for Tiny House & Small Apartment Living

In the world of urban architecture, the battle for square footage is constant. As we lean into the "Tiny House" movement and micro-apartment living, the challenge remains: how do you add living space without sacrificing the airy, open feel of a home?

Enter the "Invisible Floor." Mezzanine nets (or indoor hammock floors) are rapidly shifting from high-end architectural curiosities to functional necessities for anyone looking to hack a small space.

Breaking the "Box" Effect

When you’re working with a footprint of 400 square feet or less, every horizontal surface counts. Traditionally, adding a mezzanine meant building a solid wooden or steel platform. While functional, these structures often create a "boxed-in" feeling, cutting off airflow and—most importantly—killing the light.

A mezzanine net solves this by providing a high-tension, weight-bearing surface that remains transparent. It allows natural light to flow from skylights or upper-level windows down to the ground floor, keeping the entire unit feeling expansive rather than claustrophobic.

Key Benefits for Small Space Hacks:

Maximize Natural Light: Unlike solid lofts, nets don't cast heavy shadows.
Air Circulation: In tiny homes, heat rises. Nets allow for better ventilation and temperature regulation than solid floors.
Visual Weightlessness: The "invisible" nature of the mesh keeps the sightlines open, making a room appear twice as large.

From Loft Bed Alternatives to Relaxation Zones

While many use mezzanine nets as loft bed alternatives, their utility extends far beyond just a place to sleep. They serve as a multi-functional "third space" that many small apartments lack.

Imagine a dedicated reading nook suspended over your living room, or a meditation zone that doesn't require moving furniture. Because these nets are engineered to hold significant weight—often upwards of 175kg per square meter (175kg/m2)—they are as safe as they are stylish.

"A mezzanine net isn't just about adding square footage; it's about reclaiming the vertical volume of a room that usually goes to waste."

Mezzanine Nets, a Design-Forward Solution for Urban Dwellers

For the design-conscious demographic, aesthetic is just as important as utility. Mezzanine floor ideas have evolved; you can now choose between different mesh sizes and colors (black, white, or grey) to match a "Scandi-industrial" or "Boho-chic" interior.

Installing a net is often more cost-effective and less invasive than traditional construction. It requires heavy-duty fixings into load-bearing walls or beams, but once tensioned, it creates a sleek, modern finish that turns a cramped loft into a high-design feature.

Is a Mezzanine Net Right for You?

If you are currently struggling with a cramped floor plan, consider looking up. If you have a ceiling height of at least 14 feet (4.2 meters), you have enough vertical clearance to install a net. It’s the ultimate way to maximize your footprint without losing the soul of your space.

Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to lounge or a clever way to add a guest "room" in a studio, the mezzanine net is the most versatile tool in the modern dweller's kit. It’s time to stop thinking about floors as solid objects and start seeing the potential in the air.

Contact us to receive your custom quote. 

by Feelnets

Dyneema netting: Exclusive to Feelnets for your custom catamaran netting

The choice of catamaran netting is essential to guarantee comfort and safety on board. But not all materials are created equal. With Dyneema® 22x22 mm, Feelnets offers an exclusive, top-of-the-range solution designed for demanding owners. This tailor-made net combines performance, durability and exceptional comfort.

Dyneema®: a revolutionary material for catamaran netting

Dyneema® is one of the world's highest-performance fibers. It offers exceptional strength while remaining very light. This makes it a natural choice for catamaran netting.

Unlike conventional materials, it hardly deforms at all. In fact, its elongation rate is extremely low. This means your net remains perfectly taut over time.

What's more, this material is highly resistant to marine stresses. It withstands UV, salt and repeated rubbing. As a result, it guarantees a much longer service life than standard nets.

Tangle-free structure for optimum comfort

Feelnets offers innovative knotless technology. This design greatly enhances user comfort.

Firstly, the surface is flat and even. So you can walk barefoot without discomfort. Secondly, it avoids unpleasant pressure points.

The net becomes a real relaxation area. It transforms the bow of the catamaran into a comfortable resting area.

This structure also enhances overall strength. Braiding ensures better load distribution. This improves safety on board.

Exceptional dimensional stability

The main advantage of Dyneema® is its stability. Unlike polyester or nylon, it hardly relaxes at all.

Once installed, the net retains its initial tension. This eliminates the need for frequent adjustments. This saves you a lot of time.

What's more, this stability enhances safety. A well-tensioned net reduces the risk of falling or becoming unstable.

This means you benefit from long-term equipment reliability.

Extreme strength for maximum safety

This Dyneema® net has a breaking strength of up to 3,000 kg. That's a very high level.

In spite of this, the wire diameter remains slim. It measures just 1.95 mm. This reduces windage.

As a result, the boat maintains better performance. This is an important advantage when sailing.

What's more, this resistance means that several people can be accommodated without risk. The net becomes a safe living space.

Enhanced durability thanks to coated finish

The net benefits from a special protective coating. This treatment further enhances its resistance.

On the one hand, it protects against UV rays. On the other, it reduces wear and tear due to friction.

In this way, the net maintains its performance over time. It remains attractive and functional for longer.

This makes it an ideal choice for intensive use in marine environments.

Why choose Feelnets custom mesh?

Feelnets designs every catamaran net to order. This guarantees a perfect fit for your boat.

What's more, the company controls the entire process. It selects materials and optimizes manufacturing.

So you benefit from a reliable, long-lasting product. Every project is carefully studied.

Moreover, this top-of-the-range positioning meets the expectations of modern yachtsmen. Comfort is becoming as important as performance.

A lasting investment for your catamaran

Choosing a Dyneema® net means investing in quality. The initial cost is higher. However, life expectancy more than compensates for this investment.

You reduce the need for frequent replacements. You also reduce the need for maintenance.

As a result, this customized net becomes a cost-effective solution over the long term.

Conclusion

Dyneema® 22x22 mm is today's best choice for a high-performance catamaran net. It combines strength, comfort and durability.

Thanks to its knotless design and exceptional stability, it transforms your on-board experience. Feelnets offers an exclusive solution designed to last.

by Feelnets