Charleston Embraces Pickleball Craze: Pickleball, the sport that’s capturing hearts across the nation, is making waves in Charleston, South Carolina. From trendy pickleball bars to luxury homes with built-in courts, the pickleball phenomenon shows no signs of slowing down.
In Summerville, The Pickle Bar invites enthusiasts to “paddle till you drop” with its nine courts, food, and drinks. Meanwhile, pickleball fans can look forward to Pickle Palooza in September in Mount Pleasant. This all-day event features live music, food, and a pickle-eating contest.
For those with a taste for luxury, a unique property on Sullivan’s Island offers a dream home for pickleball lovers. Priced at $11.9 million, the historic 1714 Middle St. features a full-sized pickleball court on the first floor. Originally built in 1906 as the Fort Moultrie Post Exchange, this military hall-turned-residence combines historic charm with modern amenities.
Bill Sandvig and his wife Sher purchased the property for $2.8 million in May 2022. Since then, they’ve invested $2.5 million to restore the structure, including transforming a recreation hall into a versatile space with a regulation pickleball court. “With pickleball being such the rage, we were excited to offer enough space for a full regulation court,” Sandvig said.
This indoor court, boasting a two-story high ceiling with original tin and windows, adds a unique touch. The space can also function as a half basketball court, volleyball practice facility, dance studio, or even a movie theater with a 13-foot screen.
The Sandvigs’ home reflects the area’s growing need for pickleball facilities. Charleston currently has only three public courts designated for pickleball across two parks, with most play areas being temporarily reconfigured tennis courts.
The house’s history adds to its allure. After serving as a recreation site for soldiers, it became a residence mid-century, undergoing various renovations. Now, the Sandvigs are ready to pass this historic home to its fifth owner.
With the pickleball community expanding, Charleston residents and visitors alike can look forward to more events and venues dedicated to this beloved sport.
News in Brief: Charleston Embraces Pickleball Craze
Pickleball’s popularity is surging in Charleston, South Carolina, with venues like The Pickle Bar in Summerville offering nine courts and a lively atmosphere. The upcoming Pickle Palooza in Mount Pleasant promises live music, food, and a pickle-eating contest. A luxurious $11.9 million home on Sullivan’s Island, owned by Bill and Sher Sandvig, features a full-sized indoor pickleball court. This historic 1714 Middle St. property, originally built in 1906, has been restored with modern amenities. With limited public courts in Charleston, the Sandvigs’ unique residence highlights the growing demand for pickleball facilities in the area.
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