OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s $27 Million Home in San Francisco, California

Sam Altman, the visionary CEO of OpenAI, resides in one of San Francisco’s most luxurious homes.

Nestled in the heart of the city, this estate is a testament to modern luxury and innovative design.

Surrounded by breathtaking views and lush gardens, it provides a serene oasis amidst the urban landscape.

A Charming Urban Retreat

This historic property, located in the Russian Hill neighborhood, spans approximately 0.36 acres.

It comprises two homes set on a lush plateau, featuring one of San Francisco’s largest private gardens.

The estate boasts level lawns, towering redwoods, olive trees, and Japanese maples, all sheltered from the wind and sequestered from the streets by vine-draped walls.

The Main Residence and Cottage

The main residence, designed by the renowned architect Willis Polk, features a striking architectural style and offers luxurious living spaces.

Adjacent to the primary home is a charming one-bedroom cottage that includes a sauna, spa, and pool, enhancing the property’s appeal.

The expansive grounds extend from Lombard Street to Chestnut Street, providing a private and serene retreat in the heart of San Francisco.

Renovations

Originally built around 1907, the main house has undergone extensive renovations.

The principal architect, Babac Doane of Ken Linsteadt Architects, along with developer Troon Pacific, transformed the property while preserving its historic significance.

Notable renovations include the addition of a concrete lower level, a four-car garage, and a cantilevered pool that offers sweeping views of the Bay.

Troon Pacific, known for its commitment to design, innovation, and sustainability, also ensured that the home embodies luxury and functionality.

Featuring an open-concept design, the residence includes internal rooms that connect to the surrounding gardens and offer panoramic city and bay views.

Natural light streams through a luxury glass elevator with a skylight and custom floating stairs.

A Unique Living Experience

Each room in the house is adorned with luxury materials, such as Calcutta Oro marble kitchen countertops and Black Raven Granite in the guest bathrooms.

A custom-designed bar by Jonathan Browning highlights the ground floor, perfect for entertaining.

Moreover, the spacious two-story art gallery adds to the grandeur of the home, making it a true masterpiece.

The design philosophy behind this residence ensures flexibility and adaptability for future homeowners.

According to Gregory Malin, CEO of Troon Pacific, the mission was to create a dream home that offers the most sought-after amenities and remains understated from the street, yet reveals an unparalleled level of luxury and openness.

Construction Issues and Legal Troubles

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has faced significant challenges with his luxurious San Francisco home.

Despite its impressive design and amenities, the property has been plagued by construction defects and costly repairs.

The most dramatic issue arose when the home’s infinity pool flooded the lower levels, causing extensive damage.

Flooding from the 40-foot infinity pool caused chlorinated water to damage the home gym and other areas, with repair costs estimated to exceed $4 million.

In a lawsuit filed in the Superior Court of San Francisco, Altman’s legal team highlighted numerous problems, including raw sewage leaks and improperly installed skylights.

The lawsuit also detailed clogged drains in the decking around the pool, leading to standing water and further complications.

Additionally, disgruntled subcontractors reportedly sabotaged the plumbing, further exacerbating the issues.

Despite its initial promise as a “beautiful, luxury home,” Altman’s residence has proven to be a “lemon,” requiring significant remediation efforts and ongoing legal battles.

Photos of the Home

The rooftop terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay, complemented by a sleek infinity pool and sophisticated outdoor lounging areas.

Twilight casts a magical glow over the estate, highlighting the harmonious integration of the residence with its surrounding landscaped gardens and cityscape.

The gated entrance, adorned with modern design elements and verdant landscaping, provides an elegant and secure entryway to the property.

An inviting outdoor seating area, designed for relaxation and social gatherings, features plush orange cushions and vibrant greenery.

The sprawling lawn, framed by meticulously maintained gardens and city views, offers a tranquil escape in the heart of San Francisco.

Equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and a wood-fired pizza oven, the state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen ensures an unparalleled alfresco dining experience.

The living room, designed for both comfort and style, offers spectacular city views through its expansive windows, creating an inviting space for entertainment and relaxation.

Featuring sleek cabinetry, a spacious marble island, and minimalist pendant lighting, the modern kitchen epitomizes luxury and functionality.

A cozy bedroom offers stunning views of a historic tower and the Bay, with large windows and a comfortable bed enhancing the serene atmosphere.

Another bedroom showcases panoramic city views, complete with a private balcony and plush furnishings, creating a luxurious and tranquil retreat.

The expansive art gallery, featuring a double-height ceiling and modern lighting, provides an elegant space for displaying and appreciating fine art.

Sunlight streams into the contemporary sauna room, which features floor-to-ceiling glass walls, wooden benches, and serene garden views.

The luxurious bathroom, adorned with marble walls and floors, includes a glass-enclosed shower and a freestanding bathtub, epitomizing spa-like relaxation and elegance. ​