Website Design
When I completed the brand identity for Platz Beer Garden in Keene, New Hampshire, the natural next chapter was getting that brand onto the web. This project was a welcome return to a client and a visual world I know well, and the result is a website that feels every bit as distinctive as the space it represents.
One important note upfront: my role on this project was website design. The actual development and build of the site was handled expertly by Paragon Digital Marketing, and they deserve full credit for bringing the design to life in the browser. Great web projects are always a team effort, and this one was no exception.
Designing for a One-of-a-Kind Space
Platz Beer Garden isn’t a typical bar or restaurant, and its website shouldn’t look like one either. Located inside a beautifully restored historic church steps from Central Square in downtown Keene, Platz blends European beer hall energy with New England hospitality in a setting that has to be seen to be believed. The design challenge was capturing that atmosphere digitally and making someone feel the warmth and character of the space before they ever walk through the door.
The stained glass-inspired logo designed during the original branding project became the visual anchor for the entire site. The rich, dark color palette: deep blacks and greens offset by the warm golds of the brand gives the site an atmosphere that immediately sets it apart from the typical hospitality website. Every design decision was made in service of one goal: making the visitor feel like Platz is a place worth visiting.
What the Site Covers
The Platz website is organized to give visitors everything they need to understand the space, plan their visit, and get excited about coming in. The homepage leads with the brand story, what Platz is, what makes it unique, and the philosophy behind the name (“Platz” meaning place, square, a gathering point in German), before flowing into the offerings, upcoming events, private event hosting, and the intriguing Sacred Order of Hop & Vine membership program.
Key sections across the site include:
Menu — showcasing the roughly 20 rotating taps, curated wines, ready-to-drink cocktails, German-inspired fare, and non-alcoholic options that define the Platz experience.
Events — keeping the community informed about what’s always happening at Platz, from live music and beer tastings to seasonal festivals like Oktoberfest and Mardi Gras.
Private Events — highlighting the restored sanctuary and choir loft as a truly unique venue for corporate gatherings, rehearsal dinners, holiday parties, and more.
The Sacred Order of Hop & Vine — a membership program for Platz’s most devoted patrons, offering early access, exclusive gatherings, and special perks.
About & Visit — telling the full story of the space, including its history as a century-old church, its thoughtful sustainability-focused restoration, and its location at 34 Court Street in downtown Keene.
Responsive Across Every Device
As you can see in the portfolio image, the design was developed to perform beautifully across desktop, tablet, and mobile — ensuring that whether someone discovers Platz on their laptop or pulls up the site on their phone while walking downtown Keene, the experience is equally polished and inviting.
A Growing Creative Partnership
This website marks the latest chapter in what has become a genuinely rewarding creative relationship with the Platz team. From the initial blank-canvas branding project through the logo suite, brand guide, print materials, and now the website, it has been a privilege to be part of building this brand from the ground up. Watching it grow toward opening day and knowing the visual identity will be waiting on screens and signage when the doors finally open, is one of the most satisfying feelings in this line of work.
Keep an eye on platz.beer for opening announcements. This one is going to be worth the trip to Keene. Prost!
