Historic St. Cornelius Church Completes Transformation into 'Church Club' Pickleball Venue in Jefferson Park
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Jefferson Park ·
Jefferson Park residents now have a unique new recreational space as the former St. Cornelius Church at 5430 W. Foster Avenue has completed its transformation into 'Church Club,' a distinctive indoor pickleball facility. The renovated space maintains its historic character with original stained glass windows and midcentury modern chandeliers while housing pickleball courts, locker rooms, billiards and darts rooms, and even a commercial kitchen.
Owner Chris Petrick, CEO of Franklin Park-based Bretford Manufacturing, has created what he describes as a "fun and funky" venue with a '60s vintage atmosphere. "Think David Bowie meets midcentury-modern church," said Petrick of the design aesthetic. The club features bright orange spinning chairs and olive-green mushroom lamps, preserving the building's architectural heritage while giving it new purpose. The facility is expected to be fully operational by early 2026 with approximately 50 members.
Beyond serving its members, Church Club will offer space for community gatherings. "That's something we definitely have in the plans," Petrick noted. The renovation includes a 15,000-square-foot public event space with a stage and beverage center that will be available to the community by reservation. Jefferson Park residents interested in learning more about membership options or community event scheduling are encouraged to visit the facility's website for details about this innovative addition to the neighborhood's recreational landscape.
Sources:
1. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/old-church-building-chicago-northwest-side-pickleball-club/
2. https://www.preservationchicago.org/win-former-st-cornelius-church-to-be-adaptively-reused-for-pickleball-courts-2/
3. https://www.chicagobusiness.com/commercial-real-estate/former-st-cornelius-church-be-pickleball-court-and-club