Studio MBM deploys “dynamic contrasts” at nightclub in Williamsburg skyscraper

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This Brooklyn nightclub designed by New York-based Studio MBM features two distinct areas: a 1970s-influenced lounge and a futuristic dance floor.

The 5,200-square-foot (483-square-metre) space is located in the basement of The William Vale hotel in Williamsburg and opened in February 2025.

Bar and lounge area with burl wood veneer panelling — Burl wood veneer swoops down and over the bar in the lounge area at Unveiled

Named Unveiled, the subterranean club and lounge was designed by Studio MBM to offer different experiences for those who want to relax or party.

“Envisioned as an immersive spatial experience, the project unfolds across two distinct yet interconnected areas, each with its own custom seating component,” said Studio MBM, founded by Maurizio Bianchi Mattioli.

Custom velvet-upholstered seats linked together in groups of five — Custom velvet-upholstered seats are linked together in groups of five

In the lounge area, the predominant material is burl wood veneer, which wraps the walls and curves over onto the ceiling to create a 1970s-influenced vibe.

The veneer also swoops down and over the bar that’s made from dark green stone and contrasts the warm wood tones.

Dark green stone bar with burl wood veneer panelling above and around — The dark green stone used for the bar contrasts the warm tones of the veneer panelling

A series of cushioned, velvet-upholstered seating nooks are linked together in groups of five and all curve to face outward.

Mirrors are used on the end walls to make the space appear larger, while columns are sheathed in gently rippled metal.

Threshold between lounge area and dance floor — The lounge area is connected to the dance floor via a low threshold

The adjacent dance floor offers an open area with niches along each side, featuring tube-like leather seating and small tables.

A semi-circular VIP area behind the DJ booth continues the same seating in an arc around the back of the metal-faced stand.

Textured hammered metal covers many of the vertical surfaces, while the ceiling is fitted with lighting and sound equipment.

Acoustic panelling is installed in the niches and around the back of the VIP area to help improve the sound quality in the space.

Open dance floor surrounded by seating niches and hammered metal walls — The open dance floor is surrounded by seating niches and hammered metal walls

“With an emphasis on material richness and dynamic contrasts, the design weaves together bold colours, tactile surfaces, and shifting ceiling heights to establish a layered spatial composition,” Studio MBM said.

“These carefully orchestrated elements create a sense of rhythm and fluidity, subtly guiding guests through varying degrees of intimacy and interaction.”

Tubular leather seats fill a niches and wrap in an arc behind a DJ booth — Tubular leather seats fill the niches and wrap in an arc behind the DJ booth

With partygoers constantly searching for ever-more unique experiences, architects and designers are getting experimental with nightclub interiors.

Others with elevated decor around the world include a techno club in Spain intended to look and feel like the inside of an oven, and an OMA-designed venue in Bali with optimised acoustics and a sprung dance floor.

The photography is by Sean Davidson.

Project credits:

Client: Full Life Hospitality and Laker Capital Group
Design and creative direction: Studio MBM and Yakka Studio
Architect of record: Concept Design Studios
Branding: Sized.ltd
MEP: Concept Design Studios
Lighting design: Carlos Garcia
Theatrical lighting: Kawa Lighting
Audio design: Phonic Technologies