#United States #Brooklyn #Dance Club #Refuge

Introducing Refuge: A New High-Definition Dance Club in Brooklyn

As the city that never sleeps continues to evolve, New York's renowned underground music scene is set to welcome a groundbreaking addition this fall: Refuge, a high-definition dance club conceived by the musical visionaries John Dimatteo and Craig 'Shorty' Bernabeu. Situated on the vibrant border between East Williamsburg and Bushwick, this venue aims to deliver an unparalleled audio experience that resonates deeply with every visitor's soul.

The Visionaries Behind Refuge

John Dimatteo, a seasoned event producer with over three decades in the dance music industry, and Craig 'Shorty' Bernabeu, an acclaimed audio engineer known for his work at iconic venues like Nowadays and Stereo Montreal, have collaborated to create a sanctuary where sound reigns supreme. Their backgrounds are rich and illustrious, with Dimatteo producing thousands of shows across the US and Bernabeu specializing in crafting pristine audio systems.

A Venue Like No Other

Refuge is nestled in a historic industrial complex dating back to the 1800s, and its transformation into a state-of-the-art music venue has been meticulous. The space boasts a staggering 16,000 square feet, with a 3,200 square-foot club that will accommodate up to 500 guests for an intimate experience. The sound system, crafted by Shorty himself, employs a custom analog REX system, ensuring that every beat resonates with clarity and impact.

“We built the nightclub around the sound system, not the other way around,” says Dimatteo, highlighting their commitment to audio excellence.

Designed for the Ultimate Experience

At Refuge, sound is the cornerstone of the experience. Each component of the sound system is hand-built, and the venue has been acoustically optimized to provide exceptional auditory enjoyment. Shorty believes that “every sound system has a voice,” and at Refuge, it’s designed to uplift and energize attendees, transforming their moods the moment they step inside.

The venue’s bespoke DJ booth will host some of electronic music’s most revered artists, complete with custom rotary mixers and hand-built filters. Additionally, the floating wood dancefloor has been engineered to absorb impact and retain energy, enabling guests to dance comfortably for hours.

More Than Just a Club

More than just a dancing hub, Refuge is envisioned as a haven for creativity. It welcomes seasoned party-goers and newcomers alike, fostering a connection not only through music but also through an expansive art program that prioritizes innovative creativity over mainstream trends. “Create a club and experience that I want to DJ at, attend, and be proud to invite my peers to,” Dimatteo remarks, encapsulating the ethos behind Refuge.

With a calendar full of carefully curated events and an impressive lineup of dance music artists, Refuge aims to keep the vibes authentic and immersive. The club underlines the essence of community, where phones are discouraged to cultivate active presence rather than a voyeuristic performance.

The Future of Nightlife in NYC

Refuge's programming will embrace a variety of experiences, from day parties to intimate late-night sessions and dedicated Sundays for classic house music, catering to all aspects of the dance music culture. The venue's inaugural season is set to kick off in September 2025, and additional expansion phases are planned for early 2026, promising even more experiences within the Refuge compound.

As the countdown to Refuge's opening continues, the anticipation builds for a venue that celebrates the heartbeat of New York's nightlife—crafted with passion and precision by those who understand the profound impact of music in people's lives.

Location: 360 Ten Eyck Street, Brooklyn, NY, 11206
For further details on Refuge, visit refuge.nyc or follow on Instagram @Refuge.NYC.

Whether you’re a dance music aficionado or a curious newcomer, Refuge promises to be a cornerstone of Brooklyn's cultural landscape—a transformative space resonating with high-fidelity sound and electrifying energy.