The Lake House on Canandaigua, a luxury resort in New York’s Finger Lakes region, has transformed its lobby into a celebration of creativity and charm with an extraordinary gingerbread house display. Executive Pastry Chef John Bard and his team have recreated the resort’s iconic Event Barn, infusing the display with the whimsical warmth of the holidays.
Crafted with 80 pounds of gingerbread, 50 pounds of royal icing, and 150 Kit Kats, the display includes a candy cane arbor, frosting snowdrifts, and a smiling gingerbread couple under a sugary “wedding” scene. The display reflects both the architectural character of The Lake House and the festive imagination of the season.
“It’s a blend of precision and playfulness,” says Bard. “Our biggest challenge was balancing a realistic recreation of our barn with the whimsical charm of a classic gingerbread house. We wanted it to feel both authentic and magical.”
The project took 112 hours of work over two weeks, with 2-3 team members dedicated to the intricate process at any given time. “Planning was as much about imagination as logistics,” Bard shared. “We worked out proportions, tested materials, and ensured the structure could last through New Year’s Day.”
For other clubs or culinary teams looking to make an impact during the holidays, Bard offers this advice:
- Draw Inspiration from Your Surroundings: Bard’s team used The Lake House’s Event Barn and boardwalk as their creative foundation. “The boardwalk is where land and lake merge—it’s the perfect metaphor for connection,” he said.
- Focus on Storytelling: The display was about visuals and evoking emotions. “We included a gingerbread bride, groom, and wedding cake to make the display feel alive,” Bard noted.
- Engage Your Guests: The gingerbread house is part of the resort’s larger “Home for the Holidays” experience, including a tree lighting ceremony and themed décor inspired by It’s a Wonderful Life. “Guests’ reactions have been priceless,” Bard shared, recounting one child’s attempt to taste a buttercream pine tree.
- Embrace Challenges as Opportunities: Crafting a display this intricate comes with hurdles, but overcoming them can make the end result even more rewarding.
Bard sees the display as more than decoration. “It’s about creating something that sparks joy and leaves a lasting impression,” he says, “something guests will talk about long after the holidays are over.”
