Have you ever wondered what it’s like to step inside the home of a tennis legend? Brad Gilbert’s house isn’t just a residence—it’s a masterpiece that tells the story of a champion’s journey from the courts to comfortable living. This stunning property has captured the imagination of design enthusiasts and tennis fans alike, offering a rare glimpse into how sporting excellence translates into architectural brilliance.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Brad Gilbert |
| Date of Birth | August 9, 1961 |
| Place of Birth | Oakland, California, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Family Background | Jewish family; father Barry Gilbert was a history teacher and real estate firm owner |
| Education | Piedmont High School; Foothill College |
| Career Highlights | Former professional tennis player; Coach to top players like Andre Agassi and Coco Gauff; ESPN commentator |
| Net Worth | Estimated around $25 million (as of 2024-2025) |
| Residence | Malibu, California, United States |
| Spouse | Kim Gilbert |
| Children | Zach, Julian, and Zoe |
You’ll discover how Gilbert’s personality shines through each design choice, from the grand entrance to the intimate family spaces. Whether you’re a real estate professional, a home decor enthusiast, or simply curious about celebrity lifestyles, this inside look at Brad Gilbert’s house will inspire your own house design journey.
Who Is Brad Gilbert?
Brad Gilbert stands as one of tennis’s most fascinating figures. Born in 1961, he carved out an impressive career that saw him reach a career-high ranking of World No. 4 in 1990. But Gilbert’s impact on tennis extends far beyond his playing days.
As a player, Gilbert was known for his strategic mind and competitive spirit. He won 20 singles titles during his professional career, including the bronze medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. His approach to the game was cerebral—he famously wrote “Winning Ugly,” a book that revealed his tactical genius and became a tennis strategy bible.
After retiring from professional play, Gilbert transformed into one of the sport’s most successful coaches. He guided Andre Agassi back to the world No. 1 ranking and helped Andy Roddick capture his first Grand Slam title. His coaching philosophy mirrors his playing Style: witty, strategic, and always thinking three moves ahead.
This strategic mindset permeates every aspect of Gilbert’s life, including his approach to home design. His residence reflects the same attention to detail and purposeful planning that made him a tennis champion. Every room, every piece of furniture, and every architectural element serves a specific purpose while maintaining an aesthetic that’s both sophisticated and welcoming.
The Concept Behind Brad Gilbert’s House Design
The story behind Brad Gilbert’s house design begins with a vision. Gilbert wanted more than just a luxurious home—he sought a space that would reflect his journey, accommodate his lifestyle, and provide a sanctuary for his family.
| Specification/Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Approximately 7,923 to 8,000 square feet |
| Bedrooms and Bathrooms | 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms |
| Additional Features | Guest house, artist studio, legendary clay tennis court |
| Architecture Design | Originally built in 1904, extensively renovated; located on a hill with views from bay to Mount Tamalpais (Marin County, Northern California) |
| Worth | Sold in December 2017 for $4.5 million (listed previously for just under $7 million) |
| Address | Former residence in San Rafael, Marin County, California |
| History | The mansion was Brad Gilbert’s primary residence for many years; originally built early 20th century and modernized extensively |
| Location Advantage | Positioned on three acres, offering privacy and expansive scenic views |
Working with renowned architect Michael Kovac, Gilbert approached the project like a tennis match: strategically and with clear objectives. The collaboration resulted in a design that seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with practical functionality. Kovac, known for his work with sports personalities, understood the unique requirements of an athlete’s home.
The design philosophy centred on three core principles:
- Flow and Movement – Just as Gilbert analysed court positioning, the house layout promotes natural movement between spaces.
- Balance – Mixing public entertainment areas with private family retreats
- Adaptability – Spaces that can transform based on different needs and occasions
One of the most innovative aspects of the design is its commitment to sustainability. Solar panels discreetly integrated into the house roof design provide clean energy. The house features a sophisticated water recycling system that irrigates the extensive gardens. These eco-friendly elements weren’t afterthoughts—they were fundamental to the original concept.
The use of natural materials throughout the property creates a connection with the surrounding California landscape. Local stone, reclaimed wood, and expansive glass panels blur the lines between indoor and outdoor house living. This design choice reflects Gilbert’s love for nature and his desire to create a home that feels grounded and authentic.
Exterior Features of Brad Gilbert’s House
The first glimpse of Brad Gilbert’s house reveals a striking modern Mediterranean design that commands attention without being ostentatious. The architecture speaks to understated luxury—a quality that mirrors Gilbert’s approach to both tennis and life.
The facade combines warm stucco walls with natural stone accents, creating texture and visual interest. Large windows punctuate the exterior, their dark frames providing a contemporary contrast to the lighter walls. The roofline features varying heights and angles, adding dynamism to the overall composition while maintaining harmony with the surrounding landscape.
The entrance makes a powerful first impression. Double doors crafted from solid walnut open to reveal glimpses of the house interior courtyard. This transitional space serves as both a welcome and a preview of the design philosophy within. Mature olive trees frame the entrance, their silvery leaves catching the California sunlight.
Landscaping plays a crucial role in the property’s appeal. The front yard showcases drought-resistant plants native to California, arranged in geometric patterns that complement the home’s clean lines. Decomposed granite pathways wind through the gardens, leading visitors on a journey of discovery. Each plant selection was deliberate—chosen not just for beauty but for sustainability and low maintenance requirements.
The driveway curves gracefully toward a three-car garage, hidden from the main view by strategic landscaping. This design choice maintains the home’s aesthetic appeal while providing practical parking solutions. Security features blend seamlessly into the landscape design, with cameras and sensors discreetly positioned to ensure privacy without creating a fortress-like atmosphere.
Outdoor living spaces extend the home’s footprint significantly. A sprawling terrace wraps around the back of the house, featuring multiple seating areas designed for different times of day. The morning coffee spot catches the early sun, while the evening entertainment area provides shade and comfort as the day winds down.
Interior Design Highlights
Step inside Brad Gilbert’s house, and you’re immediately struck by the sense of space and light. The interior design philosophy builds on the exterior’s promise, delivering rooms that feel both grand and intimate.
The living room serves as the home’s heart. Soaring ceilings create volume, while carefully placed furniture grounds the space in comfort. A custom sectional sofa in soft grey provides ample seating for family gatherings. The focal point? A stunning floor-to-ceiling fireplace clad in book-matched marble that resembles a work of art.
Art plays a significant role throughout the home. Gilbert’s collection includes contemporary pieces from emerging California artists alongside sports memorabilia tastefully displayed in custom cases. Rather than creating a shrine to his tennis career, these pieces integrate naturally into the overall design scheme.
The kitchen represents the perfect marriage of form and function. Professional-grade appliances hide behind custom cabinetry that matches the home’s modern aesthetic. A massive island topped with Calacatta marble provides both workspace and casual dining. The backsplash features hand-glazed tiles in subtle blue tones—a nod to tennis court colours without being literal.
Main Suite: A Private Retreat
The main bedroom exemplifies thoughtful luxury. Positioned to capture morning light and evening breezes, the room features a sitting area, private balcony, and spa-like bathroom. The colour palette remains neutral—whites, greys, and natural wood tones—creating a calming atmosphere conducive to rest.
The main bathroom rivals any five-star hotel. A freestanding tub positioned near a window offers garden views during relaxing soaks. The walk-in shower features multiple heads and a built-in bench. Dual vanities provide personal space, while a separate water closet ensures privacy.
Smart Home Integration
Technology enhances rather than dominates the living experience. A sophisticated home automation system controls lighting, climate, security, and entertainment through intuitive interfaces. Voice commands or smartphone apps adjust settings throughout the house. The system learns patterns and preferences, automatically adjusting environments based on time of day and occupancy.
Lifestyle Reflections in the House Design
Brad Gilbert’s house perfectly captures his multifaceted lifestyle. Every space tells a story about how a former professional athlete has transitioned into a successful coach, commentator, and family man.
The home office exemplifies this evolution. Located away from the main living areas, it provides a quiet sanctuary for Gilbert’s broadcasting work and coaching consultations. Built-in bookshelves house his extensive tennis library, while multiple monitors allow him to analyse matches and communicate with players worldwide. The space feels professional yet personal, with family photos and tennis memorabilia creating a warm atmosphere.
Entertainment takes centre stage in several areas. The game room features a professional pool table, vintage arcade games, and a fully stocked bar. This space transforms easily from a family fun zone to an adult entertainment area. Large sliding doors open to the pool area, creating an indoor-outdoor entertainment complex perfect for California living.
The home theatre showcases Gilbert’s love for both films and match analysis. Twelve leather recliners face a massive screen equipped with the latest projection technology. The sound system rivals commercial theatres, while acoustic treatments ensure perfect audio without disturbing other areas of the house. Gilbert often uses this space to review matches with players he coaches, making it both a luxury amenity and a professional tool.
Family-Centric Design
Despite the luxury appointments, family comfort remains paramount. The informal dining area adjacent to the kitchen serves as the family’s daily gathering spot. A large farmhouse table accommodates both intimate family dinners and larger gatherings. The nearby family room features comfortable seating arranged to encourage conversation rather than just television viewing.
Children and grandchildren have dedicated spaces too. A playroom filled with educational toys and games provides a safe environment for young visitors. The backyard includes a sport court that converts between tennis and basketball—a practical choice that reflects Gilbert’s sporting heritage while accommodating diverse interests.
Guest accommodations deserve special mention. Two guest suites offer hotel-like comfort with private bathrooms and sitting areas. These spaces provide privacy for visitors while maintaining connection to the main house. Each suite features unique decor that complements the overall design while expressing individual character.
Brad Gilbert House: A Symbol of Success and Personality
The true genius of Brad Gilbert’s house lies not in its individual elements but in how they combine to create a cohesive statement about success, family, and personal values. This isn’t just a trophy house—it’s a carefully crafted environment that supports and enhances daily life.
The house makes several powerful statements:
- Success doesn’t require ostentation
- Family comfort trumps showiness
- Sustainability and luxury can coexist
- Personal history deserves celebration without dominating
Compared to other celebrity homes, Gilbert’s residence stands out for its livability. While some sports stars opt for museum-like spaces that photograph well but feel cold, Gilbert chose warmth and functionality. Every design decision supports actual living rather than just impressing visitors.
The property value extends beyond monetary worth. It represents a life well-lived, achievements celebrated appropriately, and priorities properly ordered. The house serves as both a reward for past success and a foundation for future endeavours.
Architectural Innovation
Several design elements deserve recognition for their innovation. The central courtyard concept, borrowed from traditional Spanish architecture but executed with modern materials, creates a private outdoor room. This space, invisible from the street, provides a tranquil centre around which the house revolves.
The integration of indoor and outdoor spaces sets new standards. Rather than treating the garden as separate from the house, the design creates a continuous flow. Matching flooring materials inside and out, consistent colour palettes, and aligned sightlines make the property feel larger and more cohesive.
Practical Lessons from Brad Gilbert’s House Design
What can we learn from Brad Gilbert’s house that applies to our own homes? The lessons extend far beyond budget considerations to fundamental design principles anyone can implement.
Start with lifestyle, not trends. Gilbert’s home works because it reflects how he actually lives. Before making design decisions, honestly assess your daily routines, entertainment Style, and family needs. A beautiful space that doesn’t support your lifestyle will never feel like home.
Invest in quality where it matters. Not every element in Gilbert’s house costs a fortune. The design team allocated budget strategically, splurging on items used daily while finding creative solutions elsewhere. Your kitchen cabinets might deserve more investment than a rarely-used formal dining room.
Affordable Adaptations
You don’t need a celebrity budget to incorporate Gilbert’s design principles:
High-End Feature Affordable Alternative
Custom-built-in shelving , Modular shelving systems styled cohesively
Professional kitchen appliances , Quality consumer brands with professional styling
Smart home system : Individual smart devices are added gradually
Designer furniture : Mix of investment pieces and budget finds
Original artwork , Local artist prints, and personal photography
Create zones within open spaces. Gilbert’s house uses furniture placement, lighting, and subtle level changes to define areas within larger rooms. This technique works in any size space, making rooms feel larger while maintaining intimacy.
Embrace natural light. The extensive use of windows and skylights in Gilbert’s house creates an ambience no amount of house artificial lighting can match. Consider adding mirrors, choosing lighter colours, and removing heavy window treatments to maximise available light.
Personal Style Development
The most important lesson from Gilbert’s house? Develop and trust your personal Style. His home succeeds because it authentically reflects his personality rather than following every trend. Start collecting images of spaces you love, identify common elements, and build your design vocabulary gradually.
Where Does Brad Gilbert’s Currently Live?
Brad Gilbert currently lives in Malibu, California. He resides there with his wife, Kim Gilbert, and their three children. Gilbert also owns a tennis shop in Greenbrae, California, but his primary residence is in Malibu, a location known for its high property values and coastal lifestyle.
