In a city known for unique and historic condominium conversions, the Columbia Residences stands firmly on its own. The West End community with 225 luxurious condos and an onsite Trader Joe’s was formerly the Columbia Hospital for Women. Founded at the tail end of the Civil War in the Thomas Circle neighborhood, the small hospital moved to the Tench Ringgold House in the West End in 1870 and was rebuilt on a much larger scale in 1916. It was one of the nation’s leading pediatric, maternity, research and women’s health facilities, with over 275,000 babies delivered over the years. But the hospital finally closed its doors in 2002, after which it was purchased and renovated. The property reopened in its present state in 2006.
We previewed Unit #730 as “Coming Soon” in July and it became active in August. Offered at $1,500,000, this two-bedroom, two-bath residence is handsome and roomy with 1,405 square feet of living space. A generous front foyer segues into the main living areas, with richly stained hardwood floors that match nicely with the open gourmet kitchen and its espresso cabinetry and dark granite counters. The large primary suite includes a custom walk-in closet with organizers, as well as a spa-like ensuite bath with a twin-sink vanity, frameless shower, and separate deep soaking tub. One parking space and additional storage are included.
After hitting the market in July, Unit #314 remains up for grabs. Priced at $1,475,000, the two-bedroom, two-bath condo has a bonus den, and a superb 1,520 square foot layout. Nicely positioned in one of the former hospital’s historic front wings, this lovely residence enjoys hardwood floors, high ceilings, and an incredible dining room and adjoining den with massive window walls on three sides. Other features include a terrific open chef’s kitchen with dark granite counters, upgraded cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances. The primary suite features a spa-inspired ensuite bath with dual vanities, frameless shower, and separate soaking tub. Two garage parking spaces are included.
Unit #524 also listed in July and is still available for $1,049,000. The stunning corner apartment with south-facing views has two bedrooms, 1.5 baths, and 1,050 square feet of living space. With 10-foot ceilings, this residence exemplifies the marriage of old and new elements, from its tall and deep-set windows to its open main living, dining, and cooking area. The chef’s kitchen features stone counters, Poggenpohl cabinetry, and Viking and Sub-Zero stainless steel appliances. Stairs lead up to a wide, private terrace. New hardwood floors and carpet were installed in 2021. There’s also an in-unit washer and dryer as well as an underground garage parking space and a storage locker.
Priced at $799,999, Unit #324 is yet another listing from July, which was the busiest month for new offerings at the Columbia in many months. This is a 816 square foot condo with a wonderful layout that features a loft bedroom and a large bath with a big walk-in frameless shower. Classic blonde hardwood floors run throughout, along with high ceilings, and huge windows overlooking a courtyard. The completely open gourmet kitchen features black granite counters and dining/prep island, custom cabinetry, and upscale stainless steel appliances. The loft bedroom boasts recently installed California Closets. There’s also a terrific bathroom with a frameless shower, a front-loading Bosch stacked washer and dryer, secure parking, and additional storage.
Unit #241 is a new “Coming Soon” property that may be active by the time this report publishes. With an anticipated price tag of $1,295,000, the 1,409 square foot floorplan includes two bedrooms and two full baths. This is a ground level residence, with large French doors opening up to a patio adjoining the courtyard. The primary bedroom with is ensuite spa bath also has its own private patio. From the striking wide-plank floors to an incredible chef-inspired kitchen, dining area, and spacious living room, this is an intriguing property. Secure parking and extra storage are included.
There were no sales in August, with the closest previous closing occurring on the very last day of July. Unit #536 with its two bedrooms, two baths, and 1,354 square of living space was bid up quickly once it hit the market in July. The final sales price was $1,390,000 which was $21,000 over asking. Lovely cherry hardwood floors in the living areas, an airy open space layout, a gourmet kitchen, a private balcony, spacious bedrooms, marble baths, and secure parking are all part of the package.
Those lucky enough to score a condo at a former hospital and noted landmark, enjoy lots of amenities. It all starts with the convenience of an on-site Trader Joe’s, as well as the Shops at Columbia, and the Uptowner Café. There is also a a staffed lobby, concierge service, an outdoor swimming pool and lounge area, a club room with billiards, a state-of-the-art fitness center, three furnished suites for guests, and secure parking. The West End location is also terrific, with the nearby Rock Creek Trail, the Francis Dog Park, the new West End Library, the West End Cinema, and numerous restaurants.
To learn more about Jeff Wilson and his passionate approach to real estate view JeffWilsonStory.com or click the image below.
