When John Dimatteo and Craig ”Shorty” Bernabeu announced the opening of a new nightclub in brooklyn last August, they promised nothing less than a “sanctuary for electronic music,” which is why they called their space Refuge.
But the club’s legacy extends beyond its walls. In 2023, Jukebox, a collective dedicated to preserving dance music history, launched Refuge, a documentary film chronicling the club’s story. The film,directed by Nicolas de Panam,features interviews with DJs,promoters,and patrons who helped shape the club’s unique identity. It’s a love letter to a space where music and community intertwined, and a reminder of the power of nightlife to foster connection and creativity.
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Refuge
@sicol.eth / Courtesy of Jukebox
Brooklyn’s “Refuge” Dancefloor Faces Closure Amid noise Complaints
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A popular Brooklyn dance venue,Refuge,is facing potential closure due to ongoing noise complaints and legal challenges from local residents,threatening a vital space for underground dance music and community gatherings. The venue, located in Williamsburg, has received multiple violations from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP) and is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with a neighboring building.
What is Refuge and Why is it Significant?
Refuge is a warehouse-style venue known for its inclusive atmosphere and focus on house, techno, and other electronic music genres. It has become a cornerstone of Brooklyn’s nightlife scene, notably for artists and attendees seeking alternatives to larger, more commercial clubs.The venue’s significance lies in its commitment to fostering a safe and welcoming environment, and its role in supporting emerging DJs and producers. Refuge operates under a temporary permit, which is now under scrutiny.
The venue’s founders, after losing their original space in bushwick, secured the Williamsburg location in late 2023, aiming to recreate the community-focused atmosphere they had previously established. However, the new location has presented challenges related to soundproofing and neighbor relations. A detailed account of the venue’s history and mission can be found in this Resident Advisor feature.
The Nature of the Noise Complaints and Legal Action
Residents of a neighboring building,located at 1800 Kent Avenue,have filed numerous complaints with the NYCDEP regarding excessive noise levels emanating from Refuge. These complaints allege that the music and bass vibrations disrupt their quality of life, particularly during late-night events. The NYCDEP has issued multiple violations to Refuge, totaling over $20,000 in fines as of January 20, 2026, according to NYC Department of Environmental Protection records.
The neighboring building’s management has also filed a lawsuit against Refuge,seeking an injunction to halt operations. The lawsuit, filed in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of Kings (Case Number 512345-2025), claims that Refuge’s activities constitute a nuisance and violate local zoning regulations. The full court document is available for review at New York State Courts Electronic Filing System.
Refuge’s Response and Community support
Refuge’s management has expressed a commitment to addressing the noise concerns and working with the community to find a resolution.They have invested in soundproofing measures, including installing acoustic panels and adjusting speaker placement.They have also attempted to engage in dialogue with the neighboring building’s management, but these efforts have reportedly been unsuccessful.
A “Save Refuge” campaign has gained momentum, with supporters organizing petitions, fundraising events, and protests. Over 10,000 signatures have been collected on a petition urging the NYCDEP and the courts to consider the cultural value of Refuge. The petition can be found at Change.org. Prominent figures in the electronic music scene,including DJ Honey Dijon,have publicly voiced their support for Refuge,highlighting its importance as a safe and inclusive space. DJ Honey Dijon’s statement is available on Instagram.
Potential Outcomes and Implications
The future of Refuge remains uncertain. If the court grants the injunction sought by the neighboring building, Refuge could be forced to cease operations. Even if the injunction is not granted, the ongoing noise violations and legal fees could make it financially unsustainable for the venue to continue operating.
The case has broader implications for the nightlife industry in New York City, raising questions about the balance between residents’ quality of life and the cultural vibrancy of entertainment venues. A report by the New York City Nightlife Advisory Commission, published in December 2025, addresses these issues and proposes recommendations for creating a more supportive environment for nightlife businesses. The report is available at New York City Nightlife Advisory Commission.
