Florence’s historic Space Club reopens on Friday, October 16, following a summer renovation that brings a new sound system, revamped interiors and an expanded programme of international DJs and local collaborations. The launch of the 2026/2027 season marks a fresh investment in via Palazzuolo’s nightlife, while reconnecting the venue with its experimental roots as Space Electronic, founded in 1969 by the radical architecture collective Gruppo 9999.
“When rethinking Space, we asked ourselves how people experience the club, from those spending the evening on the dance floor to those looking for a moment to talk and spend time together,” says owner Andrea Bolognesi, son of Mario Bolognesi, one of the founders of Space Electronic. “That led us to rethink the layout, the connections between different areas, the sound and the visual elements. These are practical choices that shape how people listen to music and share the evening.”
Recent line-ups have featured international house and electronic acts including HUGEL, Vanco, Bontan, Marten Hørger and Paloma Le Friant, daughter of French DJ Bob Sinclar. Italian dance music pioneer Benny Benassi and DJ-producer duo Merk & Kremont have also taken to the decks, while appearances by rappers Tyga and Rich The Kid have extended the programme into international hip hop.
The next phase will continue to bring together different musical styles, with each night developing its own identity. A new generation of promoters connected to Florence’s local scene will play a central role, drawing on networks that extend to Milan, London, Paris and other European capitals.
“The history of Space Electronic is a point of reference that encourages us to approach contemporary music with curiosity,” Bolognesi says. “We want to combine established formats with emerging sounds and new collaborations. Young promoters bring their ideas and sensibilities, while Space provides the venue, expertise and resources to turn them into projects.”
The aim, he adds, is to develop events beyond the usual nightclub hours, working with other local organizations to maintain a year-round relationship with the public.
Historic images, inside Space Electronic Vegetable Garden and Parachute © Gruppo 9999, courtesy of press office
Historic images, project technology at Space Electronic © Gruppo 9999 courtesy of press office
Historic images, inside Space Electronic in the 1970s © Gruppo 9999, courtesy of press office
Historic images, inside Space Electronic Garden © Gruppo 9999, courtesy of press office
That forward-looking approach builds on an unusually rich cultural legacy. Space Electronic opened in 1969 through the work of Gruppo 9999, a Florentine collective associated with the radical architecture movement. Its experimental approach brought together music, images, performance and spatial design, challenging conventional ideas about artistic production and social gathering.
The club’s origins remain central to its identity, offering a historical reference point rather than a repetitive formula. This connection will also feature in the visual narrative of the new season, with excerpts from Radical Landscapes, a documentary by Elettra Fiumi, daughter of Gruppo 9999 co-founder Fabrizio Fiumi. Archival footage of Space Electronic will be juxtaposed with images of the venue’s contemporary transformation.
The season opens with Mamacita, which will also become a regular Friday night fixture. Created through the experience of Radio 105’s Max Brigante, the format brings together hip hop, reggaeton and urban culture, complementing the club’s electronic music programme.
Doors open at 11.30pm on Friday, October 16.
For updates and programme details, follow @spaceclubfirenze on Instagram.
