Mohonk Mountain Resort, a 19th-century historic landmark nestled in the Hudson Valley of New York, is a stunning Victorian castle with a rich history. Over the years, maintaining the resort’s luxurious charm has been a labor-intensive endeavor. Recently, they embarked on a project to revamp more than 100 balconies, replacing decades-old concrete with Jatoba wood decking, also known as Brazilian Cherry. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this choice and the remarkable results it has yielded.
ON THE NATIONAL HISTORIC REGISTRY Established in 1869 by the enterprising Smiley twins, Mohonk Mountain House has a rich history. Initially, it began as a small tavern with just a handful of rooms, serving intrepid travelers who made the arduous trek up the mountain. However, the Smiley brothers recognized its potential and transformed it into the iconic Victorian castle we know today.
In 1986, Mohonk Mountain House received the prestigious designation of being a National Historic Landmark. With this recognition, the resort takes its commitment to meticulous maintenance seriously. Regular restoration and renovation are part of a carefully planned schedule, with more than 100 guest rooms, including their balconies, currently undergoing restoration.
BALCONY DECKING RENOVATIONS The decision to replace the balcony decking led to the selection of Mataverde Jatoba hardwood, popularly known as Brazilian Cherry. Project Manager Matthew Cline and installer Pete Humphrey spearheaded the project, replacing 63 concrete balconies in the first tower.
The decades-old concrete, poured over 35-40 years ago, had seen better days. The project criteria demanded the replacement be durable, aesthetically pleasing, compliant with local fire codes, and cost-effective. Initially, poured concrete and Ipe hardwood were considered, but the focus eventually shifted towards Jatoba wood decking.
Why Choose Jatoba Wood Decking? The decision to choose Jatoba (Brazilian Cherry) was influenced by several factors. Firstly, its ease of installation, repair, and maintenance made it a practical choice. The price of Jatoba wood was comparable to concrete, making it a budget-friendly option. Its appearance, resembling local cedar, black locust, and mahogany lumber historically used in the region’s resorts, contributed to the decision.
Jatoba is known for its striking red-brown colors, ranging from a pink-tinged light brown to a darker reddish brown. This rich and unique appearance added to its appeal.
Easier Deck Maintenance Jatoba wood offers not only durability but also minimal maintenance. Its high density provides natural resistance to rot, mold, insect damage, warping, and checking, reducing the need for repairs. Furthermore, Jatoba’s unique feature is its ability to darken in sunlight over time, giving it a luxurious and dynamic look. An oil-based UV protectant is recommended for maintenance.
Brazilian Cherry versus Poured Concrete One of the primary reasons for choosing Jatoba over concrete was its durability and ease of maintenance. Unlike concrete, Jatoba does not easily chip or crack, making it an ideal choice for the resort. Any damage can be addressed by sanding out scratches or replacing individual boards, minimizing downtime.
Affordability, Availability, Sustainability Sustainability was a crucial consideration in the selection process. Jatoba wood proved to be an eco-friendly and cost-effective option, readily available for this time-sensitive project. Its affordability, visual appeal, and longevity made it the ideal choice for the resort’s balcony renovation.
In conclusion, the decision to replace concrete with Jatoba wood decking at Mohonk Mountain House has been a resounding success. The choice was driven by practicality, cost-effectiveness, and a commitment to preserving the resort’s historic charm. The stunning transformation of these balconies showcases the unique beauty and durability of Jatoba wood.
