Little Rock Athletic Club (LRAC) recently unveiled its latest pickleball offering — a cutting-edge indoor and outdoor pickleball facility, in partnership with Fennell Purifoy as the lead architect. This new space in Little Rock, Arkansas, raises the bar for pickleball facilities, combining high functionality with luxurious design elements.
Phil Purifoy, a principal at Fennell Purifoy Architects, shared key design insights and tips for building a state-of-the-art pickleball facility that can serve as a guide for others looking to develop a top-notch location of their own. Here’s what we learned:
Consider the Sun and Ceiling Height
A crucial aspect of designing outdoor pickleball courts is the orientation relative to the sun, which can significantly affect visibility during play. For the indoor courts at LRAC, Purifoy emphasized the importance of ceiling height — raising it from the standard 16 feet to 18 feet. This adjustment not only enhances the play area but also helps mitigate noise, creating a more enjoyable environment.
Lighting and Wall Colors Matter
The facility employs indirect lighting with up-lighting on the ceiling to avoid direct glare on the courts — a common issue in many sports facilities that can impair an athlete’s vision and performance. Additionally, exterior walls are dark gray to provide a stark contrast with the pickleball, making it easier for players to track the ball during fast-paced games.
Functional Design Elements
Every aspect of the facility’s design was carefully considered to enhance functionality and player experience. For instance:
- A spine running down the middle of the structure houses ductwork, keeping it out of sight and minimizing obstructions.
- Viewing areas include conveniences like a high top for players to place drinks and charging stations for mobile devices.
Player and Spectator Experience
Beyond the courts, the facility boasts areas designed for social interaction, allowing players and spectators to mingle comfortably. The inclusion of a pro shop and lounge space adds a layer of convenience and luxury, making the club not just a place to play, but also to relax and socialize.
Efficient Design and Wayfinding
One of Purifoy’s critical pieces of advice is to think about wayfinding within the facility. Efficient movement on and off the courts is essential to prevent disruptions during play. The layout at LRAC is described as highly efficient without unnecessary elements — every design choice is made with a purpose.
In conclusion, when building a state-of-the-art pickleball facility, the details matter. Be sure to take into consideration things like light, ceiling height, wayfinding, space and player convenience and comfort.
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With over a decade spent covering the business side of sports and fitness, Rachel Chonko brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for active communities to Peake Media. As Editor-in-Chief, she’s focused on helping pickleball clubs and fitness facilities thrive, from guiding growth strategies to showcasing the latest industry trends. Rachel also hosts the Club Solutions Magazine Podcast, where she interviews leaders in fitness and pickleball to share insights and success stories with the wider community to give her listeners a competitive edge.
After taking up pickleball herself, Rachel has come to appreciate the sport’s unique blend of social connection and active living — a mix that’s perfectly in line with her editorial philosophy. Connect with her on LinkedIn, or check out her articles below for a deep dive into the energy and culture driving pickleball’s rapid rise.
