Smash Pickleball Signs 25K SF Lease in LA

Later this year, pickleball enthusiasts in Los Angeles will have a new destination to enjoy their favorite sport. The California Smash Pickleball and Social Club is set to open a new facility in El Segundo, having signed a lease for a 25,300-square-foot space at 815 North Nash Street. This lease agreement was facilitated by JLL representatives Gary Horwitz, Caroline Bethel, and Kamil Agha, while Gateway Business Properties’ Jim Sullivan and Andrew Hardin represented the landlord, Gretchen B. Farrell Trust.

A Hub for Community and Competition

The founder of California Smash, Brett Drogmund, expressed that the aim of the new facility is to cater to the growing popularity of pickleball, while also offering a space for social interaction and entertainment. The venue is envisioned as a clubhouse where people can come together for conversation, competition, and camaraderie. The complex will include ten padded indoor pickleball courts, alongside a full-service bar, restaurant, and a dance floor.

Enhancing El Segundo's Sports Landscape

El Segundo City Councilman Lance Giroux highlighted the positive impact of the new facility on the city’s vibrant sports and entertainment scene. He noted that the development is part of the city’s efforts to adapt to changes in the commercial real estate market by supporting innovative uses for vacant or underutilized spaces.

The Rise of Pickleball in the U.S.

Pickleball has seen a significant surge in popularity across the United States, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Association of Pickleball Players, nearly 37 million people were playing the sport nationwide by the end of last year. The Sports & Fitness Industry Association also reported that pickleball has been the fastest-growing sport in the country for three consecutive years.

Pickleball and Commercial Real Estate

The growing number of pickleball players has led to a demand for dedicated courts, making it a significant factor in commercial real estate development. This trend includes various projects converting former industrial or retail spaces into pickleball facilities. Recent examples include a 35,500-square-foot lease in Bethesda, Maryland, and the purchase of a 5-acre site in Greenacres, Florida.