Jonny Davis, a passionate landscape designer and avid tennis player, found inspiration in the rising popularity of padel. Recognizing the sport’s social appeal and versatility for all ages, he saw the potential to integrate padel courts into residential landscapes. These courts require 40 percent less space than traditional tennis courts and are usable year-round, offering a quieter alternative to pickleball due to a softer ball and glass enclosure. Davis’s approach uniquely blends technical precision with a refined aesthetic, ensuring each court complements its surrounding environment. Partnering with Padel Galis, the world-renowned Spanish manufacturer, Jonny brings this expertise to padel court construction in the U.S.
What inspired you to start building padel courts, and what sets your approach apart from others in the industry?
As a practicing landscape designer as well as a keen tennis player, I recognize the growing appeal of padel for homeowners. There is the social aspect of the sport, and it can be played by all ages. It also takes up a smaller footprint in the landscape than tennis (40 percent the size of a tennis court) and can be played throughout most of the year. And best of all, it doesn’t have the sound issue associated with Pickleball due to a softer ball and the glass enclosure.
What makes us different is an approach for each project that focuses on both the technical side of the build as well as the aesthetic, making the court blend seamlessly into the larger landscape. We are partnering with Padel Galis, the leading padel manufacturer in Spain, who have over 10,000 courts installed worldwide. This allows us to offer unmatched expertise in designing and installing padel courts.
Can you walk us through a custom padel court’s design and construction process?
There are several court options to choose from, including “portable kits” to top-of-the-line hurricane-proof installations. The process starts with a comprehensive site and zoning analysis to ensure the proposed location meets all local requirements. Having established an appropriate area, we develop a scaled plan that includes drainage recommendations, proposed retaining walls, steps, etc. Construction begins with excavation of the area, installation of the appropriate drainage, and the installation of the appropriate base, which is either porous asphalt or concrete slab. The site is now ready for the court itself, which includes securing the tempered glass walls, laying synthetic turf with the silica infill to hold it in place, and, last of all, the net.
What unique design elements or materials do you incorporate to create a top-tier padel court experience?
We think of the court as being an integral part of the larger landscape experience. The look and feel of the court from inside to out must match the standards of our clients’ homes. Our courts are made to the highest level of European manufacturing. For the site preparation, we can use a porous asphalt base that allows very rapid in-court drainage and permits play immediately after rain.
Padel has gained popularity rapidly. How has demand for padel courts changed in recent years?
The padel market in the United States has been experiencing remarkable growth, driven by increasing popularity, substantial investments, and the sport’s appeal as a social activity. Particularly in the residential sector, the construction of padel courts has surged, reflecting a broader trend of integrating this sport into community amenities.
The U.S. padel market is growing, and according to projections, there could be over 30,000 padel courts in America by 2030. This growth is fueled by a strong interest in recreational and competitive play, as well as celebrity endorsements that help raise the sport’s profile. Major cities such as Miami, Los Angeles, and New York are becoming central hubs for the sport, with significant investments leading to the establishment of new clubs and facilities.
Residential Padel Courts
The demand for residential padel courts is part of this larger market trend. Homeowners are increasingly prioritizing the inclusion of padel courts in their properties, recognizing the sport’s social and recreational benefits. Many homeowners do not have room for tennis courts. Incorporating a padel court into the landscape is a huge value added to their real estate. Developments such as luxury residential projects are integrating padel courts into their amenity offerings to attract potential buyers, thereby enhancing property value. In 2024, there is a notable increase in padel court construction in residential developments, with various projects underway across the country. This trend highlights how the sport’s accessibility and the desire for community-oriented leisure activities are influencing homeowner choices.
What trends are you seeing in padel court design, especially for backyard socialization?
There is a growing trend towards integrating padel courts into the overall landscape design, creating a seamless transition between the court and the surrounding environment. Clients are also requesting additional features such as shaded seating areas, an integrated audio system, and ambient lighting — enhancing both the playing and viewing experience. Other wellness elements such as saunas, outdoor showers, and plunge pools round out the full experience of this modern sporting experience.
Are there any notable differences between building courts for private residences vs. clubs or resorts?
In private residences, the focus is on customization and integration with the home’s aesthetic and landscape. In contrast, courts for clubs or resorts are designed to accommodate higher usage and may include additional amenities such as spectator seating and multiple courts to host tournaments. Also, the silica sand that rests on the playing surface is especially needed for high-use courts, so there may be a visual component that is different as well. Clubs tend to use concrete slabs as bases rather than the more complex porous asphalt base.
What are the most important factors to consider to ensure a durable, high-performance court?
Proper site preparation, including grading and drainage, is crucial to prevent water accumulation and ensure longevity. Using high-quality materials and adhering to precise construction standards are also essential to create a durable and high-performance court.
How do lighting, court surface, and enclosure impact the overall playing experience?
The court surface should provide good traction and cushioning to reduce injury risk. The enclosure, typically made of tempered glass, not only contains the ball but also allows for a 360-degree view, enhancing the spectator experience. The other benefit of these glass walls is sound abatement that ensures what happens on the court stays on the court only!
What challenges have you faced in building padel courts, especially in varying climates or locations?
Drainage is the most crucial part of building courts in the Hamptons. Heavy summer rains and deep winter freezes can wreak havoc on a technical surface that was not properly sited and installed.
Do clients usually request specific features, such as seating areas or landscaping, to complement their courts?
Many clients call requesting only the court itself. They have been to a friend’s house and seen what a focal point it is for the backyard from daytime to dusk. With a wealth of experience building outdoor spaces, we really enjoy suggesting ideas that will make the padel court as enjoyable and beautiful as it can possibly be.
Can you share a memorable story or project that reflects your commitment to building exceptional padel courts?
One memorable project involved integrating a padel court into a sunken tennis court, creating a unique and visually striking recreational area. The client was thrilled with the innovative design and the seamless integration with the existing landscape.
How do you see the future of padel impacting real estate and luxury amenities?
Padel is becoming a sought-after amenity, particularly in high-end residential areas. Its growing popularity is influencing real estate trends, with more homeowners seeking to include custom padel courts as part of their property to enhance both lifestyle and property value.
For further information, visit padelhamptonsinc.
