SERV

SERV is a dynamic and multifaceted space that seamlessly blends the energy of pickleball with a vibrant social atmosphere. As one of Kansas City’s most popular pickleball destinations, SERV features eight interior courts and two exterior courts, offering both recreational and competitive players a place to gather and play year-round. The design concept focuses on integrating industrial elements with the lively, community-driven nature of the venue, drawing inspiration from the adjacent exterior courtyard, which is composed of repurposed shipping containers. This influence is immediately apparent as guests are greeted by a large, suspended shipping container at the interior, setting the tone for the space’s unique architectural character.

The interior bar and dining areas were carved out of shipping containers, providing a cohesive link between the indoors and the exterior courtyard, where eight food truck concepts surround a spacious green lawn. This lawn serves as the heart of SERV’s outdoor experience, featuring a stage for live music and communal gathering. The juxtaposition of industrial materials like magnesium brick, concrete, and hot-rolled steel with warmer, more inviting elements like wood finishes and colorful fabrics creates a balanced environment. The industrial aesthetic is softened by these touches, ensuring the space feels welcoming while maintaining an edgy, urban vibe.

For the dining room, the design team strategically placed it adjacent to the interior pickleball courts, allowing diners to enjoy their meals while watching the game action unfold. This design decision enhances the communal aspect of SERV, where eating, drinking, and playing coexist in a harmonious flow. Nods to pickleball are cleverly sprinkled throughout the interior, from the circular-patterned upholstery on the booths and banquettes that mimic the form of pickleballs, to the large globe lights that subtly evoke the sport’s iconic shape.

A custom-designed Kansas City mural spans the main feature wall, paying homage to the local community and adding a vibrant, artistic touch to the space. In the private event space, the design team further integrated pickleball-inspired elements, including custom wallcoverings that celebrate the sport and create a unique visual identity for the room. This private space, complete with its own patio, offers an intimate yet connected experience, perfect for hosting parties or events with a view of the surrounding activity.

Wayfinding throughout SERV is both functional and visually striking, with custom illuminated neon signage guiding guests toward the interior courts. This playful use of neon lighting adds a modern touch to the space, ensuring that the layout is intuitive and easy to navigate, even during the busiest times. The overall design of SERV is a celebration of the sport and the community, with every detail thoughtfully curated to enhance the experience of both players and spectators.

SERV’s design encapsulates the spirit of pickleball and social gathering through a masterful blend of industrial architecture, vibrant décor, and clever thematic elements. The space is not just a venue for playing pickleball; it’s a hub for community, food, music, and shared experiences, all thoughtfully brought to life by its distinctive design.

Design: Clockwork Architecture + Design
Photography: courtesy of Clockwork