Pickleball has quietly grown from a niche pastime into one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and Seattle is right at the center of that momentum. A new SoDo venue called Picklewood shows just how far the sport has come and why it is starting to influence the way we think about community spaces, adaptive reuse, and lifestyle-driven real estate.

Picklewood is housed in a former liquor warehouse that has been fully transformed into a pickleball-focused social club. The 25,000 square foot space features seven indoor courts and four outdoor courts, creating a setting that feels less like a gym and more like an entertainment destination. The concept has been compared to Topgolf, but instead of driving ranges, guests book pickleball courts and enjoy food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere alongside the games.

What makes Picklewood especially interesting from a real estate perspective is how intentionally the space was designed. Pickleball may look casual, but the logistics are anything but simple. Significant investment went into soundproofing to manage the noise from multiple games happening at once, and the ceiling design was carefully planned so players can easily track the ball. These thoughtful design choices highlight how specialized sports uses can successfully adapt older industrial buildings into modern, high-value spaces.

The venue also reflects the growing expectation that recreational spaces offer more than just the activity itself. Court rentals range from $40 to $80 per hour, and on weekend evenings the club becomes a 21-and-over destination. Competitive play and events are planned, along with lessons, group workouts, and even the potential addition of padel courts in the future. It is clear that pickleball is being treated as both a sport and a social experience.

Adding to that experience is an on-site restaurant created in partnership with chef Ethan Stowell, who is also an investor in the project. The menu leans into classic clubhouse comfort food with a playful twist, offering items like chicken club sandwiches, crab rolls, and pickle-inspired flavors. The restaurant reinforces the idea that Picklewood is as much about gathering and staying awhile as it is about playing a match.

The overall aesthetic is intentionally lighthearted. Inspired by the golf comedy Caddyshack, the decor includes retro preppy details, subtle movie references, and a sense of humor that makes the space feel welcoming rather than exclusive. While it borrows the idea of a country club, Picklewood does not require a membership, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. Outdoor firepits, a mezzanine with games, and kid-friendly areas add to its versatility, positioning it as a go-to spot for everything from family outings to corporate events.

From a broader lens, Picklewood is a great example of how lifestyle trends influence real estate development. As pickleball continues to grow into a billion-dollar industry, demand is increasing for thoughtfully designed venues that can support both play and community. Repurposing underused industrial spaces for experiences like this helps breathe new life into urban neighborhoods while meeting changing consumer expectations.

Pickleball may have a playful reputation, but projects like Picklewood show that behind the paddles and pop culture references, there is serious planning, investment, and opportunity. For cities like Seattle, it is another reminder that the future of real estate often lies in flexibility, creativity, and understanding how people want to live, play, and connect.

This post was based on information found on Seattle Met.