Welcome to our 4-part deep dive on “Game Court Construction: How It’s Built.”
Part 1: Design & Layout
Part 2: Concrete Pad
Part 3: Surfacing
Part 4: Accessories
Designing a game court, whether for personal, community, or commercial use, is an exciting process that requires thoughtful planning and attention to detail. With the right design, a game court can serve as an inviting, functional, and versatile space that brings people together.
Define Your Purpose. The first step in designing any game court is to clarify the purpose of the space. Courts can vary significantly based on intended activities. Think about the primary user base. Is this court for children, casual players, or serious athletes? This will help you determine the size, layout, and features of the court. Single use courts have specific requirements and material considerations. Multi-purpose courts accommodate various activities, with a popular combination being pickleball and half court basketball.
Site Location and Orientation. Selecting an appropriate location and orienting the court correctly is key to maximizing usability and comfort. Ideally, courts should be oriented north to south to minimize sun glare during morning and evening play. Additionally, proper drainage prevents water pooling, which can cause damage over time. Installing a slight slope of 1% will allow water to drain off the surface naturally.
Size and Markings. A key aspect of court design is dimensions and markings for the intended sport(s). Pickleball courts measure 20×44 feet, but additional space around the playing area enhances safety. This additional space also allows for more basketball functionality, e.g., a full three point line. The pickleball and half court basketball example above works well because the lines interact nicely and don’t overlap confusingly. At Casa Courts, we pride ourselves on our attention to detail and being thoughtful about design.
Designing a game court requires balancing functionality, durability, and aesthetics. With careful planning, a well-designed court can be a long-lasting asset that provides enjoyment, fitness, and community connection for years. Whether you’re building a backyard basketball half court or a community multi-sport complex, focus on creating a safe, accessible, and enjoyable space that fits the needs of its users. Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate!