For the Tron-like Josefine/Roxy nightclub, Brazilian architect Fred Mafra found inspiration from, he says, “the structural forms of a cathedral”—in particular, Renaissance-style arches. After taking these cues, Mafra then added a contemporary twist: hexagonal, honeycomb-like LED ceiling displays. Composed of two dance floors, three bars, four private VIP areas, and two smoking lounges (each with its own retractable roof), the club is a 10,700-square-foot temple of neon and sound. Developing such an ambitious interior came from years of practice. Mafra had designed a previous club in the same space in 2007, and this go-round allowed him to experiment more with light and form. Says Mafra: “It teases you to leave reality behind.”

Fred Mafra Architect
Photos: Courtesy Fred Mafra