Lofthouse Construction Group

Tennis Court Construction: The Ultimate Guide for Luxury Home Owners

A tennis court is a perfect addition to any luxury property, providing both recreation and value enhancement.

Tennis courts require careful planning and expert construction to ensure they complement your home’s aesthetic.

At Lofthouse Construction Group, we understand that a well-designed tennis court can become the centerpiece of your outdoor space.

Planning Permission for Tennis Courts

Before breaking ground on your tennis court, understanding planning requirements is essential. Most tennis courts don’t require planning permission when built within the grounds of a private residence. However, there are several important exceptions that luxury homeowners should be aware of.

When Planning Permission Is Required

Planning permission is typically needed in these situations:

  • If your property is a listed building
  • If permitted development rights have been removed from your property
  • If your home is in an area of outstanding natural beauty or national park
  • If significant earth-moving works are required
  • If the court would take up more than 50% of your garden
  • If you’re building the court on land that isn’t classified as part of your garden (such as agricultural land)

The perimeter fencing around tennis courts is usually 2.75 metres high, which exceeds the 2-metre limit for structures near property boundaries. This means you’ll likely need planning permission for the fencing element of your project.

Floodlighting Considerations

If you plan to include floodlights with your tennis court, you will almost certainly need planning permission. Lighting systems can affect neighbours and the surrounding environment, so local authorities typically review these applications carefully.

Tennis Court Dimensions and Space Requirements

Planning the perfect tennis court starts with understanding the space needed. The dimensions of a tennis court haven’t changed since the game was regulated in 1875.

Standard Tennis Court Size

A standard tennis court requires:

  • Total court area: between 108 feet by 54 feet and 120 feet by 60 feet
  • Singles-only court width: 45 feet
  • Orientation: north-south alignment is recommended to avoid players facing into the sun

The space needed extends beyond just the playing area. You’ll need to account for fencing, access paths, and sufficient space around the court for player movement and safety.

Types of Tennis Court Surfaces

Choosing the right surface for your luxury tennis court is crucial for both aesthetics and playability. Each surface offers different characteristics and maintenance requirements.

Grass Courts

Grass courts provide the classic Wimbledon experience and blend beautifully with luxury garden landscapes. They are the fastest type of court and offer elegant aesthetics, but require the most intensive maintenance.

Clay Courts

Clay courts (made from crushed shale, stone or brick) offer a traditional European playing experience. They’re slower than grass courts and more forgiving on the body. Clay courts can be installed outdoors and indoors if underground watering systems are present.

Hard Courts (Acrylic and Synthetic)

These versatile courts are suitable for both indoor and outdoor installation. Hard courts are the most common choice for luxury properties because they:

  • Require less maintenance than grass or clay
  • Offer consistent play year-round
  • Can be customised with colours to complement your property’s aesthetic

Carpet Courts

These are removable coverings typically used for indoor courts. They provide a comfortable playing surface and can be installed as part of a multi-purpose recreational space.

The Tennis Court Construction Process

Creating a premium tennis court involves several critical stages. The construction process must be meticulously planned and executed to ensure a long-lasting, high-performance court.

Site Preparation

The foundation of an excellent tennis court begins with proper site preparation. This includes:

  • Topographical survey to assess drainage needs
  • Removal of vegetation and topsoil
  • Excavation to the required depth
  • Installation of drainage systems to prevent water pooling

A well-prepared site ensures your court will remain flat and playable for many years. Proper drainage is particularly important in the British climate to allow quick recovery after rainfall.

Base Construction

The sublayer beneath your tennis court is crucial for long-term stability. This typically includes:

  • Crushed stone base for drainage
  • Precisely levelled foundation
  • Geotextile membranes to prevent weed growth
  • Compacted layers to create a stable platform

Advanced laser-guided equipment ensures perfect levelling during this critical phase.

Surface Installation

The final playing surface is applied once the base is properly prepared. This process varies depending on the chosen surface:

  • Grass courts require specialized turf installation and establishment period
  • Clay courts need multiple layers of crushed materials and proper compaction
  • Hard courts require asphalt or concrete bases with acrylic coating systems
  • Synthetic surfaces involve precise installation of manufactured materials

Additional Features

The finishing touches set apart a luxury tennis court:

  • Fencing options include elegant mesh nets for residential settings or vinyl-coated chain link for more robust requirements
  • Court lighting systems using high-quality LED technology for evening play
  • Custom colour schemes to complement your property’s aesthetic
  • Premium quality nets, posts and line markings

Maintenance Requirements for Tennis Courts

Different court surfaces require varying levels of maintenance to keep them in optimal playing condition. Understanding these requirements helps you choose the right surface for your lifestyle.

Grass Court Maintenance

Grass courts require the most intensive upkeep:

  • Daily mowing during the playing season
  • Regular fertilisation and weed control
  • Annual renovation and reseeding
  • Professional groundskeeping expertise

Clay Court Maintenance

Clay courts need consistent attention:

  • Daily brushing and rolling
  • Regular watering to maintain moisture levels
  • Seasonal renovation to replace material
  • Line remarking as needed

Hard Court Maintenance

Hard courts offer more straightforward maintenance:

  • Regular cleaning to remove debris
  • Periodic pressure washing
  • Repainting and resurfacing every 4-7 years
  • Crack repair as needed

Benefits of Tennis Courts for Luxury Properties

Adding a tennis court to your luxury property offers numerous advantages beyond just having a place to play tennis.

Enhanced Property Value

A professionally constructed tennis court can significantly increase your property’s market value. Luxury property buyers often view tennis courts as desirable amenities that justify premium pricing.

Lifestyle and Health Benefits

Tennis courts promote active, healthy living right at home. They provide:

  • Convenient access to exercise and recreation
  • A venue for social gatherings and family bonding
  • A private space for improving tennis skills without club memberships

Entertainment and Social Space

Your tennis court becomes more than just a sporting venue:

  • Host friendly competitions and tennis parties
  • Create memorable family experiences
  • Provide entertainment options for guests of all ages

For the ultimate luxury experience, consider creating a complete wellness area around your tennis court with relaxation zones and viewing areas.

Working with Luxury Tennis Court Specialists

Building a tennis court for your luxury property requires expert knowledge and execution. The right construction partner makes all the difference in achieving exceptional results.

Choosing the Right Construction Partner

Look for a construction company with:

  • Experience in luxury residential projects
  • Understanding of premium materials and techniques
  • Attention to detail and quality craftsmanship
  • Ability to integrate the court with your property’s overall design

At Lofthouse Construction Group, we specialise in creating bespoke luxury properties with premium amenities like tennis courts. Our team works closely with you to design and build a tennis court that perfectly complements your home.

The Consultation Process

A thorough consultation ensures your tennis court meets your expectations:

  • Site evaluation to determine optimal location and orientation
  • Discussion of surface options and their benefits
  • Presentation of design concepts and material choices
  • Planning for additional features like lighting and fencing

Our approach focuses on understanding your vision and requirements to create a tennis court that enhances your lifestyle and property.

Conclusion

A tennis court is more than just a recreational facility—it’s an investment in your property and lifestyle. With proper planning, expert construction, and quality materials, your tennis court can become a centrepiece of your luxury home for years to come.

At Lofthouse Construction Group, we pride ourselves on creating exceptional spaces that add value and enjoyment to luxury properties. Our expertise in high-end construction ensures that your tennis court will meet the highest standards of quality and design.

For more information about adding a tennis court to your luxury property, or to discuss your custom home project, contact our team today.

Lofthouse Construction05

Lofthouse Construction Group

At Lofthouse, whether you choose one of our signature development properties or commission a bespoke luxury home tailored to your vision, you can expect exceptional results.

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Richard Faulkner

Technical Manager

With over 20 years of experience in the construction and housebuilding industry, Richard has led Technical, Planning, and Design teams for construction and PLC housebuilders. Having assisted in the delivery of key developments such as Kew Riverside and Grosvenor Dock in Chelsea, and managing projects ranging from 50 to 750 homes, complete with schools, sports facilities, and retail units.

His experience spans bespoke high-end homes, retail and commercial schemes. He has also contributed to innovative projects like the Northstowe new town near Cambridge and is a strong advocate for modern construction methods.

Kevin Smith

Office Administrator, Lofthouse Construction Group

With over 25 years of experience in finance and office management across sectors including healthcare, logistics, and construction services, Carole has overseen full finance functions for organisations ranging from SMEs to multi-site charities. She has managed payroll for over 130 employees, implemented credit control procedures, and prepared management accounts through to trial balance.

Her experience spans both strategic financial oversight and hands-on administration, including bank reconciliations, pension submissions, budget management, and diary coordination. A proficient user of payroll and accounting software, she has also liaised with external accountants to ensure smooth year-end processes and compliance with tax regulations.

Carole is a highly adaptable professional, with a strong background in credit control, payroll, and office operations, and is valued for her attention to detail, reliability, and ability to streamline processes in fast-paced environments.

Kevin Smith

Contracts Manager, LPCS

With over 30 years of experience in the construction industry, Kevin is a seasoned Contracts Manager specialising in RC concrete frames and groundworks. Starting his career on-site and progressing through roles in both construction and contracts management, he brings a deep understanding of every phase of project delivery.

Notable high-profile projects that he has worked on include Battersea Power Station and the O2 Arena, where he played a key role as a construction manager. In addition to commercial landmarks, Kevin has also contributed extensively to residential construction, overseeing the groundworks and installation of superstructures for private bespoke homes.  

His dedication to quality, safety, and efficiency continues to drive excellence across all aspects of his work.

Ryan Bourke

Engineering and Operations Manager

After graduating from Cardiff University, Ryan joined Walsh Associates as a structural design engineer, focusing on high-rise reinforced concrete structures in London.

He later became a project engineer, managing key developments like Lombard Square (1,750 units) for Berkeley Homes and Ballymore. His role involved liaising with contractors, ensuring design information met project deadlines.

Now transitioning to the contractor side, Ryan aims to leverage his consultancy experience to bring a fresh perspective and enhance efficiency in the fast-paced construction industry.

Jayne Sykes

Director

Jayne brings extensive business expertise to Lofthouse Construction Group, having successfully founded, expanded, sold, and integrated businesses in her role as Chief Operating Officer.

She led key functions—including Finance, IT, Marketing, HR, Legal, Administration, and Project Management—driving innovation and operational excellence.

At Lofthouse Construction Group, she is focused on implementing structured processes, systems, and disciplined approaches to support the company’s rapid growth and exceptional team.

Paul Elliott

Project Manager

Paul is a Senior Site Manager with 15+ years in construction.  

Starting as a bricklayer, he effectively coordinates trades on-site with his hands-on experience.  

Committed to health & safety, he has successfully built over 200 homes including student housing and care homes, demonstrating his ability to deliver diverse projects efficiently.

Steve Ross

Project Manager (Groundworks)

Steve brings 35+ years of experience in the construction industry, specialising in grounds, basements, and concrete frames of up to 14 stories.  

He has successfully managed numerous multimillion-pound projects for leading companies such as Balfour Beatty, Kier, Wates and Taylor Wimpey, overseeing teams with 110 personnel.

Gary Higgins

Senior Buyer, Procurement Manager

He has 35+ years in property development, specialising in bespoke projects like luxury apartments.  

His roles at Antler Homes and Millgate Developments have refined his expertise in procuring high-end materials.  

As Procurement Manager, he ensures superior quality and value across all projects, enhancing client satisfaction.

James Mason

Marketing Director

Intuitive, pragmatic, and process-oriented, James has worked across the entire brand and marketing mix in both agency and client-side senior roles, spanning over 25 years.

Representing a broad mix of global brands such as Barclays, IMG, and Hewlett Packard Enterprises, through to highly ambitious start-ups and SME brands, James has led high-impact, brand-led marketing campaigns that drive commercial growth and build long-term customer retention.

In his role as Marketing Director, James has instigated class-leading marketing strategies that deliver long-term customer value and drive the business forward.

Lindsay Reid

Client & Interiors Manager

Lindsay has extensive experience in relationship, client, and project management from investment banking.

As Client and Interiors Manager, she delivers our premier concierge service, transforming client visions into reality.

A British Institute of Interior Design member, Lindsay enhances the customer experience in luxury interior services.

Stuart Hills

Innovation Director

Imaginative, energetic and ingenious, Stuart has originated brand, advertising, digital and marketing creative for a diverse array of global titans such as Disney/Pixar, Oxford University and Sir Robert McAlpine.

Diversified and adjacent roles and consultancies have included Chief Innovation Officer in structural insurance to working with Tier 1 contractors and suppliers in the built environment on digital strategy, app development, data management and analysis.

Stuart's role as Innovation Director involves extensive research, development and implementation of new ideas promoting modern working methods, utilising cutting-edge materials, products, processes and technology.

Eva Simon

Finance Manager

Eva is a skilled Finance Manager with 10+ years in accounting and financial management in the residential sector.

With a degree in International Economics, she combines financial expertise with a passion for property.

Having specialised in diplomacy during her university studies, Eva’s analytical skills support sustainable growth and drive financial performance.

Daniel Sheppard

Projects Director

He has over 35 years of experience in construction, specialising in Carpentry and Joinery.

As Projects Director, he has worked on luxury developments for high-profile clients, including royalty and celebrities.

His commitment to quality craftsmanship ensures projects meet the highest standards, driving client satisfaction.

Jason Nightingale

Developments Director

Jason brings 30+ years in the luxury residential market, managing premier projects with exceptional attention to detail.

His background includes roles at Royalton, Finesse Construction, and Phoenix Park Developments.

Known for delivering excellence, Jason’s leadership enhances the company’s reputation in high-end real estate.

Ann Lofthouse

HR & Operations Manager

Sharp, with an inquiring mind and prodigious attention to detail, Ann's successful career started in the world of banking, with roles in financial advice and management.

This expertise was put to excellent use, enabling a move into high-level finance and accounting recruitment for investment behemoths such as Citibank, Deutsche Bank, Merrill Lynch and technology giant NTL.

After taking a career break, she played a significant role in developing two bespoke, accessible homes while raising two beautiful children.

Ann's focus is now on talent acquisition, retention, and systems management in the demanding Lofthouse Residences HR & Operations Manager role.

Steve Carmichael

Commercial Director

He has 30+ years of experience in construction.

As Commercial Director (QS), he oversees project stages from acquisition to completion.

Previously, he was Senior QS at Millgate Homes and Partner at Quantum Merit Associates.

His expertise drives profitability and operational efficiency for sustainable growth.

James Bourke

Partner (Lofthouse Premier Construction Services)

James Bourke brings 30+ years of experience in the construction industry, managing groundworks projects exceeding £100 million. As London Regional Director at O’Keefe Construction, he scaled the business unit from £12 million to £60 million in turnover. At Deep Contractors, he launched a business unit generating £20 million in profit.

His portfolio includes prestigious developments such as:

  • Wembley Regeneration
  • O2 Arena Renovations
  • Wimbledon Court 2
  • Battersea Power Station (Phase 1)
  • A 21-storey RC frame for modular apartments, utilising Europe’s tallest freestanding crane

James’s leadership has been instrumental in driving growth for clients such as Vastint, Barratt, and Berkeley Homes.

Paul Beaney

Strategic Director

Paul Beaney has 30+ years of experience in the construction industry, beginning his career at Berkeley Homes before becoming Managing Director at Millgate Homes.

During his tenure, he contributed to the rapid growth of the company, overseeing the construction of over 1,200 homes, which ultimately led to Millgate Homes' acquisition by Countryside.

Currently, as Strategic Director at Lofthouse Residences, Paul leverages his extensive network of suppliers, subcontractors, architects, and land agents to shape the company’s long-term vision.

His strategic insights and industry expertise are vital for driving continued success and ensuring robust growth in a competitive market.

David Lofthouse

Founder

David Lofthouse brings 20+ years of investment banking experience to the construction industry, seamlessly transitioning his financial expertise into luxury property development.

After successfully creating two bespoke luxury homes, he founded Lofthouse Residences, driven by a vision to transform the sector.

David leverages his strategic insight to establish a business that offers concierge-level service, setting new benchmarks for innovation, creativity, cost-efficiency, and quality.

His commitment to excellence and ability to navigate complex financial landscapes position Lofthouse Residences as a leader in the luxury market, ensuring sustained growth and exceptional value for stakeholders.