GACHOT Redesigns the Metropolitan Opera’s New Keebler J. Straz Lounge
Christine and John Gachot of GACHOT reimagine the iconic 1,500-square-foot VIP lounge
September 19, 2024
Who: The Metropolitan Opera, in collaboration with Christine and John Gachot.
What: The Metropolitan Opera has redesigned the newly minted Keebler J. Straz Lounge, formerly known as the Eleanor Belmont Room. The long-anticipated renovation project has been generously underwritten by Met Managing Director Keebler J. Straz, the youngest Managing Director on the Metropolitan Opera Board of Directors, in partnership with Elle Decor, who helped secure renovation materials, furniture, and other fixtures and fittings.
Designed by GACHOT, the space’s official unveiling took place on 17 September and will be available to Met Patrons and donors at performances and will also be a space to host private events for artists, board members, top donors and corporate patrons, Lincoln Center patrons, VIPs, and more.
The 1,500-square-foot VIP lounge, initially designed by legendary New York interior decorator Billy Baldwin, is an icon in itself. Located on the opera house’s Mercedes T. Bass Grand Tier, the space features dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows, ultra-high ceilings, and a centrally located bar. GACHOT’s new furniture layout draws inspiration from Baldwin’s thoughtful arrangement, with four lounge-seating groups. While selected for their specific placement in the space, all the furnishings allow for flexibility, as the lounge is used primarily for Patrons before performances and during intermissions, but also for meetings.
The new design employs screens to guide circulation upon entry, as well as visually conceal the back-of-house door. Past the brilliant custom-brass bar by Amuneal, complete with an ABC Stone countertop, hangs the original vintage gold Rolex clock. There is ample dining seating for Patrons, with custom carpet provided by Creative Matters. The walls feature a textured Champagne wallpaper by Élitis, with a slight shimmer and applied brass reveals. The Roche Bobois furniture includes plush seating and stone coffee tables. Minimal lighting from Hudson Valley Lighting Group lets the ceiling shine gold. Black-and-white photography from the Met Archives hangs on the walls, eliciting a celebratory mood of a magical night at the opera. The restroom and powder room have been made over as well, with new faucets, sinks, hardware, mirrors, accessories, and stone surfaces by Waterworks. Accessories by Artemest provide the final touch.
When: September 19, 2024
Where: Metropolitan Opera House, 30 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
About GACHOT:
GACHOT is a design studio and development consultancy with service at its core. Led by principals John and Christine Gachot, the team brings together diverse skills in brand development, interior design, hospitality, and real estate development to overcome the constraints of physical space and deliver thoughtful, project-specific results. Inspired by a modern sensibility with an eye toward livable comfort, GACHOT designs unique experiences with a refined aesthetic and a radical sense of place. Notable projects include Pendry Manhattan West, Shinola Hotel, 67 Vestry Residences in TriBeCa, Pebble Bar & Johnny’s, Glossier, Jac’s On Bond, and various private residential projects.