ST. LOUIS, Mo. – A. J. Brown has completed construction of Padel + Pickle, the world’s largest indoor padel and pickleball facility. Located in Olivette, Missouri, A. J. Brown converted the former whiskey distillery and manufacturing facility into a 42,116-square-foot, championship- level facility equipped with six European-style panoramic padel courts and eight-cushion Master II pickleball courts, bar with lounge areas and big-screen televisions, locker rooms with shower facilities and a pro shop. Padel + Pickle offers clinics, private lessons, leagues, court rentals, open play and tournaments for all skill levels.

“In our pursuit of creating the world’s largest indoor Padel and Pickleball facility, our vision was twofold: to introduce these thrilling racket sports to our community and to provide a hub for enthusiasts to come together, connect, and elevate their passion for the game,” said Padel + Pickle Founder Mike Puertas.

A. J. Brown led all work to renovate the building including new HVAC systems, lighting, fire systems and plumbing for the interior build-out of the new facility. The elaborate configuration in the bar allows for a large number of people to huddle around. The bar top is constructed of solid surface material and television monitors surround the bar allowing for viewing at nearly all angles. Private restrooms are equipped with showers and changing rooms for members. Finishes include large format tile in the showers and luxury vinyl tile flooring. The locker area features cubbies to accommodate member items in a secure environment. The pro shop was built larger than average given the lack of area retail locations that sell specialty gear including paddles and balls. The architect was Linea Design, Inc. and Fixture Contracting completed the bar casework.

The primary project challenge originated from the facility not falling within typical code enforcement groupings.  Along with the architect and owner, A. J. Brown worked with the city of Olivette to adopt the team’s “use group” placement for general code compliance as the actual occupancy levels are greatly less than expected for such a large space.

A. J. Brown has developed a niche in athletic facilities over the past 15 years through building and renovating gymnasiums, squash courts, fitness centers including for Orange Theory, athletic fields, natatoriums and Ultimate Fighting Championship training facilities.

The European game of padel is a mix between tennis and squash based on strategy rather than strength. Pickleball, a mix between tennis and badminton, is fast-growing as a sport in the United States.