WHAT MAKES A PICKLEBALL HOME SPECIAL?
The owners of 5263 had a special connection to the roots of pickleball friends with one of the sport’s original enthusiasts from Bainbridge, they embraced the game long before it became a national obsession.
Rain or shine, they played outdoors without worrying about a soggy ball, driven by a love of movement and a zest for life. Their home was designed for both play and connection, creating a space where adults and kids could take turns enjoying the good things in life.
Pick up a paddle and play a quick game of pickleball.
Sip a cocktail and savor the moment.
Gather on a level deck that seamlessly transforms into a dance floor or a dartboard— though preferably not at the same time!
This home isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place to celebrate life in all its dynamic, slightly mischievous, and endlessly entertaining glory.
Built around 1985, this regulation-size pickleball court became a hub for friendly matches, often including some of the original Bainbridge players. In 2024, the owners refreshed the court with new fencing and lights because a game shouldn’t have to end just because the sun goes down.
Pickleball offered a longer playing season than tennis, thanks to its smaller court and a plastic ball that didn’t mind a little moisture. Over the decades, the sport evolved from a niche pastime to a national phenomenon:
1965–2010s: Pickleball remained an under-theradar sport, mostly played at parks and community centers.
2010s: The Pacific Northwest became a hotspot for the sport’s rapid growth, inspiring some Mercer Island homeowners to repurpose tennis courts or install custom-built pickleball courts. 2020–2023 (Pandemic Boom): The COVID-19 pandemic fueled a surge in home improvement projects, with backyard pickleball courts rising in popularity as families sought outdoor activities. Contractors saw a spike in private court installations.
2024–2025: One of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., pickleball has firmly cemented itself as both a pastime and a lifestyle.
At 5263, the love for the game wasn’t just about competition it was about creating a space for movement, connection, and the simple joy of play.
