Bendheim Glass Sparkles in Met Opera Renovation

Our custom bronze reflective glass accentuates a dramatic revitalization in one of New York City’s most iconic cultural landmarks, the former Eleanor Belmont Room at the Metropolitan Opera.

GACHOT worked alongside Elle Décor to reimagine the Belmont Room, originally designed by renowned decorator Billy Baldwin. Now officially renamed the Keebler J. Straz Lounge, the space has been transformed into a warm and welcoming environment that respects its historical significance while appealing to contemporary audiences. “We wanted to get the space feeling more like a living room as it had when Billy Baldwin first designed it,” said Christine Gachot, co-founder of GACHOT.

Keebler J. Straz Lounge at the The Metropolitan Opera, New York, NY by Gachot. Photo by William Jess Laird.

Our reflective bronze glass serves as a stunning backdrop behind the bar. This bespoke glass contributes a sense of elegance and honors Baldwin’s thoughtful design principles, creating a sense of depth and luminosity reminiscent of the Met’s gilded ceilings and rich color palette.

A vintage Rolex clock, strategically positioned on the wall of the gently reflective bronze glass, adds a layer of agelessness to the space. Its placement creates an illusion the clock is floating, bridging past and present. This interplay of old and new enriches the lounge’s atmosphere, inviting patrons to relax and socialize in style. The venerable Met Opera building opened in 1966 and is in Lincoln Center.

The design process began with our design team working closely with GACHOT to create a range of custom glass types that met the design intent. They were followed by additional detailed renderings that received approval from the designers. We provided additional details making installation quick and efficient.

“Bendheim was one of our easiest collaborators and we were so pleased that they were immediate willing participants when approached for the opportunity,” Gachot noted. “The team’s professionalism and effectiveness were deeply appreciated.”

Keebler J. Straz Lounge at the The Metropolitan Opera, New York, NY by Gachot. Photo by William Jess Laird.

Our glass was installed throughout the space. The classic hues of these reflective glass types are ideal for hospitality and commercial spaces, including lobby walls and elevator interiors. The glass is available in large sheet sizes and is extremely maintenance-friendly.

Baldwin, whose projects included decorating the White House for President John F. Kennedy and many celebrities, originally shaped the aesthetic of the Belmont Room. His blend of classic elegance and practical comfort created intimate seating arrangements that fostered conversation. Baldwin famously encouraged clients to be faithful to their own taste, a philosophy that resonates in the lounge’s refreshed design.

Gachot said her team drew inspiration from The Met lobby and auditorium in the new furnishings. “The palette of the lounge has similar rich tones of red, gold and bronze, and warm white,” she explained. “The bar remained in its place and for the layout of furniture, we referenced Billy Baldwin’s original layout.”

The transformation directed by GACHOT has created a warm and welcoming environment that respects the room’s historical significance while appealing to contemporary audiences.

Keebler J. Straz Lounge at the The Metropolitan Opera, New York, NY by Gachot. Photo by William Jess Laird.

The Keebler J. Straz Lounge now serves as a vibrant gathering place for Met patrons, board members and VIP guests. They seek to engage a new generation with the arts while celebrating the rich history shaping this esteemed institution. The thoughtful design pays tribute to Baldwin’s work.  The defined seating areas foster intimacy and conversation, making the lounge an integral part of the opera experience.

“We were honored to be invited to collaborate on this project,’’ Bendheim Partner Steven Jayson said. “The Met Opera is well-known throughout the region, and having the opportunity to be included is a testament to the craftsmanship and beauty of our architectural glass products.”