Thursday, September 24, 2026 Location: PKL Boston, 64 C Street, South Boston, MA
Teams are up to 4 players each. Sign up your team today!
This high-energy afternoon brings together architects, designers, industry partners, and friends of the profession for some friendly competition, an open bar, great food, and even better company. Whether you’re playing for bragging rights, networking with colleagues, or simply supporting a cause you care about, every match helps create new opportunities for young people to discover the power of architecture and design.
All proceeds support Architecture in Common’s K–12 Design Education programs, which connect Boston-area students with the skills, confidence, and experiences to imagine and shape the future of their communities.
Architecture in Common’s K-12 Design Education programs empower students ages 5–18 to engage with architecture, design, and the built environment through hands-on learning experiences. Last year, more than 2,500 students participated in free workshops, events, and educational programs across Greater Boston.
A two-part classroom experience, hands-on design project, and public exhibition designed to introduce local kindergarten students to design thinking and the built environment.
In 2026, 1,500+ students, from 80+ classrooms and 48 schools, participated in this year’s design prompt from the Mayor.
An annual design challenge and community celebration inviting local students and families to dive into the design process and imagine a city from the ground up.
In 2026, 880 students and caregivers, alongside 120 volunteers, participated through the two-day event and related classroom workshop series.
A year-round program, offering custom workshops, career exploration, and paid summer internships to gain exposure to architecture/design careers.
In 2026, 133 students from 42 schools participated in workshops, with 13 students placed in summer internships with 6 local firms.
Architecture is for everyone.
Yet for many young people, especially those who have historically been underrepresented in the profession, opportunities to engage with architecture and design remain limited.
We believe every student deserves the chance to see themselves as a designer, problem-solver, and community leader. Design education builds more than creative skills—it helps young people develop confidence, critical thinking, and a sense of agency in shaping the world around them.
By expanding access to architecture and design education, we’re helping create a profession that better reflects the communities it serves and a future where more people can participate in shaping Boston’s built environment.
DinkA soft, controlled shot that just clears the net, landing in the kitchen (non-volley zone). More than cute, it’s strategic!
KitchenThe non-volley zone near the net, where players can’t smash the ball in the air.
Get Out of the Kitchen!A common shout when someone forgets and volleys while standing in the no-go zone.
VolleyHitting the ball in the air before it bounces. Fun fact: you can’t volley while standing in the kitchen.
PickledWhen a team loses 11–0. Ouch. Let’s just say… better luck next game!
FalafelA shot that falls flat due to lack of power, basically a pickleball flop.
Paddle TapThe friendly end-of-game gesture, like a handshake, but with paddles. Good game, good vibes.
Learn how to become a sponsor of the tournament.
Your sponsorship, participation, and donations directly support Architecture in Common’s K–12 Design Education programs. Together, we’re providing free learning opportunities for thousands of students each year, strengthening partnerships with schools and community organizations, and expanding access to architecture and design education across Greater Boston. Every sponsorship helps ensure that more young people can discover the possibilities of design, connect with mentors, and imagine a future for themselves in architecture and related fields.
Architecture in Common is a 501(c)⑶ charitable organization; donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Not able to join us in person? You can support the cause with a donation — we're grateful for every bit of it!
Thank you to our event partners and sponsors!
September 24, 2026
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
What are you looking for?