Wood-look aluminum separates
space, sunlight, and sound at Electric Pickle

by hanna_kowal | July 28, 2026 3:24 pm

[1]Three metal shade structures reimagine the experiences of players and passersby while defining outdoor areas at Electric Pickle[2] in Tempe, Ariz. This integrated pickleball and entertainment venue provides indoor and outdoor areas for dining, lounging, and sports.

The material aesthetic palette for this comfortable recreation space called for the look of wood; however, the pergolas needed to withstand long-term wear and tear consistent with a high-traffic venue. To meet these demands, lightweight extruded aluminum with a wood-look coating is central to the design of the covered outdoor lounge area surrounding the pickleball courts.

Vertical wood-look spindle accents are present on the facility’s main structure, and the material used in the shades creates visual continuity throughout the design with its finish and profile.

To evoke the look of finished carpentry, the shade systems include 6 x 6 in. (152.4 x 152.4 mm) and 2 x 8 in. (50.8 x 203.2 mm) columns with internal clip concealed fasteners. Because they are concealed, the fasteners have less direct exposure to weather, which supports long-term durability. The pergola system is also modular, allowing for maintenance and replacement over time without requiring a rebuild.[3]

The shade structures create physical separation, allowing groups to enjoy a private experience. They also allow sunlight to filter through the structure in a controlled, comfortable way. Varied spacing between the wood-look 2.5 in. and 4 in. (63.5 mm and 101.6 mm) slats controls exposure to the harsh Arizona sun and protects the integrated heaters, televisions, and furniture beneath the structures.

Beyond creating private pickleball areas, the metal outdoor systems have crucial acoustical functions. From balls hitting paddles to the natural excitement and conversation that comes with a friendly game, pickleball is loud. At the Electric Pickle venue, multiple games and groups often play on different courts at the same time. Separated by a parking lot, local businesses populate the surrounding area.[4]

Further, David Carmack, product manager at Parallel Architectural Products, explains that a central “large, covered rain shade space provides additional acoustic amplification.”

With these considerations in mind, for players and neighbors alike, one of the project’s key design goals was acoustic mitigation.

In the project, the pergolas “break up the sound and diffuse the sound as it projects across the lot,” explains Carmack.

While the specific materials used are not acoustically rated, Carmack reports that they effectively mitigate sound. Nearby businesses are not bothered by noise from the venue, and pickleball players have more privacy.

Electric Pickle’s wood-look aluminum pergolas add a warm aesthetic to outdoor courts, creating comfortable areas for people and play.

—with files from Parallel Architectural Products

Source URL: https://www.metalarchitecture.com/projects/wood-look-electric-pickle/

---