Bonhams has officially opened its new United States headquarters at 111 West 57th Street in Manhattan, marking a significant move from its previous location on Madison Avenue. This new space, set in the historic Steinway Hall, is a blend of cultural heritage and modern design, aimed at enhancing the auction house’s engagement with collectors and art enthusiasts.
The newly launched headquarters features a total area of 42,000 square feet, integrating the renowned Steinway Rotunda with an impressive 80-foot glass atrium. This design not only showcases the artwork but also creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages interaction and exploration. The flagship includes two state-of-the-art auction rooms, a triple-height gallery, and various on-site facilities, including studios, storage, and office spaces. Key architectural elements, such as a grand staircase and the restored Steinway Hall, provide a stunning backdrop for exhibitions and events.
Inaugural Exhibitions Celebrate Artistic Legacy
To commemorate the opening, Bonhams is hosting a series of inaugural exhibitions that highlight the intersection of art and music. The main exhibition, titled Striking a Chord, draws inspiration from the musical and artistic legacy of Steinway Hall. It features works from renowned artists such as John Chamberlain, Francis Bacon, Banksy, and Constantin Brancusi. This showcase aims to explore how art transcends visual boundaries, delving into themes of sound, space, and emotion.
Among the highlights in the Rotunda is the 1919 Steinway & Sons Model B Grand Piano, famously played by Elton John during the recording of his 1974 album Caribou. This piano will be central to the opening festivities, featuring live guest performances before being auctioned in the upcoming Masters of Pop sale scheduled for April.
On the upper floors, the exhibition Modern Cuban Painters from Havana to New York pays homage to a landmark 1944 exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art. This collection includes significant works by artists such as Wifredo Lam, Mario Carreño, Cundo Bermúdez, Mariano Rodríguez, and Amelia Peláez, providing a glimpse into the vibrant New York gallery scene of the 1940s.
A New Era for Bonhams
The opening of the new headquarters represents a transformative moment for Bonhams, which has been a key player in the auction industry for over 230 years. Lilly Chan, the house’s US Managing Director, emphasized the significance of this move. “Opening our new US flagship marks a defining moment for Bonhams,” Chan stated. “This building enables a more experiential approach to the way we engage with collectors, audiences, and partners – bringing together exhibitions, auctions, and public programming in a far more expansive and meaningful way.”
The headquarters not only aims to enhance Bonhams’ auction capabilities but also seeks to establish a cultural destination for art lovers from various backgrounds. With its strategic location in the heart of Manhattan’s “Billionaire’s Row,” Bonhams is poised to attract a diverse audience and redefine the collector experience in the art world.
As Bonhams begins this new chapter, the combination of its historic roots and contemporary vision promises to engage and inspire art enthusiasts for years to come.
