Urban style Basketball courts are not only functional spaces to shoot some hoops, they're also works of art.
Here are 4 iconic outdoor basketball courts to inspire your own design. From The Pudding’s feature on US basketball courts.
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1. Venice Beach Basketball Courts, California
Size and Layout: Regulation-sized courts with plenty of room to stand around and take in the views.
Colours: Blues and yellow hues reflecting the beach.
Surface Material: High-quality concrete with anti-slip coating.
Unique Features: Courts are right next to the ocean so it’s a beachy outdoor space that attracts local community and visitors.
2. The Tenement Court, Manila, Philippines
Size and Layout: Large court in an inner-city tenement site
Colours: Artwork and murals change every few months to reflect cultural interest
Surface Material: Concrete, repainted for durability.
Unique Features: The iconic court is beloved by the community with time and money invested in it to keep it thriving.
3. Pigalle Duperré, Paris
Size and Layout: Small court between two buildings in a dense area.
Colours: Gradient of pinks and purples to blue.
Surface Material: Treated concrete for all weather.
Unique Features: Designed as a piece of art, this court combines basketball and urban art, beautiful for players and spectators.
4. Stanton Street Courts, New York City
Size and Layout: Full-sized courts for high-intensity pick-up games.
Colours: Dark base with pops of colour in line markings.
Surface Material: Concrete with a hard-wearing coating.
Unique Features: Famous for its gritty urban atmosphere and streetball culture.
Essential Elements of an Outdoor Basketball Court
When designing an outdoor court, consider the following:
- Court Size: A full basketball court is 28m x15m, but can be adapted to suit your space.
- Surface Material: Concrete is the classic choice for a basketball court but many designers are looking at modern surfaces like modular sport court flooring tiles that can withstand the elements and improve game performance without the cost or excavation.
- Line Markings: Clear and durable lines are a must so using reflective or high contrast paint for visibility is important. Pre-lined sports courts are also available where the markings are designed and painted onto the court surface tiles before installation.
- Colour Scheme: Choose colours that stand out and match the surrounding environment or community style.
- Hoop and Backboard: Choose weather-proof materials and secure installations to handle all weather and heavy use.
- Amenities: Seating, lighting, and fencing to make the court safe and accessible.
Considerations when Choosing a Basketball Court Surface
A large element of a Basketball court is the chosen surface. Here are the most important aspects when choosing a Basketball court surface finish.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want to make a bold statement or create a community feel, designing an outdoor court is all about balancing functional design with creativity. For more inspiration check out The Pudding’s feature on courts around the world here.
Browse Basketball Court flooring for some more design inspiration.
