More Than Just a Facelift

By Santana Vicencio-Labarre • Photos Supplied

Nestled in the heart of downtown Lake Placid, Generations Tap & Grill has been a beloved lakeside-dining destination for decades. Known for its inviting atmosphere, commitment to fresh, locally inspired cuisine and strong community ties, this sunny restaurant has long been a cherished gathering spot. Over time, however, the harsh North Country winters had taken a toll on its facade. Seizing an opportunity for renewal, owner Peter Holderied envisioned a chance not only to enhance the restaurant’s curb appeal but also to create an entrance that better served both locals and visitors alike.

Enter Beardsley Architects + Engineers, a team of visionary professionals tasked with transforming the restaurant’s front entrance into a striking, functional and welcoming focal venue.

Today, a beautifully reimagined entrance that effortlessly blends modern elegance with rustic Adirondack charm greets guests. This new structure not only enhances visibility and accessibility, but also solidifies the restaurant’s place as a key gathering point. More than just an aesthetic upgrade, the renovation symbolizes a deep commitment to the community and the economic vitality of the region.

The Vision

For Natasha Holderied Rand, General Manager, and Andrea Holderied, Operations Manager, daughters of Peter Holderied, the transformation was about much more than a simple business upgrade—it was a heartfelt passion project. Drawn back to the North Country by their love for the family business and its legacy, the sisters saw an opportunity to enhance the customer experience while contributing to the broader revitalization efforts benefiting both tourists and year-round residents.

Before the renovation the restaurant’s entrance, though familiar, had become outdated. The space felt underutilized, with untapped potential to create a more dynamic experience for guests. Natasha and Andrea saw the redesign as a way to improve the guest experience and bring a more vibrant energy to the space.

“The entire face of our building has changed; the overall vibe is so much more positive now,” said Natasha. “It’s more inviting and we can offer a better experience, with more space for everything from live music to Wing Night—every Wednesday and Locals Day—every Tuesday!”

Recognizing the power of first impressions, the team enlisted Beardsley Architects + Engineers to bring their vision to life. Project architect, Jace Brown, worked closely with Peter to ensure the transformation was both seamless and impactful. Thanks to Peter’s meticulous planning and Brown’s expert team the front-of-house renovation was completed in just two months—a testament to efficiency and artisanship.

“The continuous communication, depth of knowledge, interactive design process, and the team at Beardsley were spectacular from start to finish,” Peter reflected.

A Certified Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE)

Generations Tap & Grill proudly holds the certification of a Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE), underscoring its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion within the hospitality industry. This certification reflects the restaurant’s ongoing efforts to foster an inclusive work environment and support economic opportunities for women and minority entrepreneurs.

As a family-run business, led by a team of women, Generations Tap & Grill has long championed strong leadership and community involvement. The MWBE designation further cements its role as a key player in the local economy, ensuring that the restaurant remains a welcoming space for all.

Strengthening Community through Global Connections

Generations Tap & Grill has always been more than just a restaurant—it is a place where people from all walks of life come together. Whether it is longtime locals catching up over a pint or first-time visitors taking in the scenic views, the restaurant fosters a sense of belonging. A significant part of this inclusivity is its long-standing participation in the J-1 College program, which the restaurant hosts twice a year.

For the past two decades, the program has helped fill essential positions within the family-run business, while infusing the community with fresh energy and cultural diversity. Generations Tap & Grill has proudly welcomed students from around the world, providing them with valuable work experience and giving patrons the opportunity to enjoy a global perspective through shared conversations.

The recent renovations were about more than just aesthetics—they aimed to create a space where every guest feels welcome. While the improvements undeniably benefit the business, their impact reaches far beyond. The redesigned entrance has fostered a more inviting atmosphere, offering an enhanced setting where people can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of upstate New York while forming lasting connections.

The Experts Behind the Transformation

Beardsley Architects + Engineers is a team of creative problem solvers dedicated to designing sustainable, functional and inspiring spaces. With a rich history and passion for innovation, they offer a wide range of services, including architecture, full-service engineering and landscape architecture.

From revitalizing historic buildings to creating modern, energy-efficient structures Beardsley works across industries such as education, commercial development, housing, and government. Their projects are designed not just for today but also for the future—blending thoughtful design with technical expertise to strengthen communities.

What truly sets Beardsley apart is its commitment to collaboration and relationship building. They take the time to understand each client’s needs, ensuring that every project is not only visually stunning, but also highly functional. Whether it is a new campus building, a sustainable housing development or a community park, Beardsley approaches each challenge with creativity and care.

A New Chapter

With its newly transformed entrance, Generations Tap & Grill is ready to welcome guests with even greater warmth and charm. This renovation is more than just a facelift—it is a renewed commitment to the community, ensuring that this beloved establishment remains a cornerstone of Lake Placid for years to come. Whether you are a longtime local returning to your favorite spot or a visitor discovering the magic of downtown, the new entrance to Generations Tap & Grill invites you to experience something truly special.

Generations Tap & Grill

2543 Main Street

Lake Placid, NY 12946

518 837-5052

Beardsley Architects + Engineers

320 West Main Street #2

Malone, NY 12953

518 483-1585

www.beardsley.com