It’s unique, historic, and a very popular place to live. Located in Washington’s West End neighborhood, the Columbia Residences was original known as the Columbia Hospital for Women with a backstory going all the way back to the Civil War era. Founded as a fledging women’s healthcare facility in Thomas Circle in 1866, the small hospital relocated to the Tench Ringgold House in the West End neighborhood in 1870. The campus was expanded and completely rebuilt in 1916, with a grand design by notable architect Nathan Wyeth that featured a dramatic central structure with radiating wings.
The hospital was one of the nation’s top facilities in the fields of obstetrics, gynecology, and pediatric care, well into the modern era. But the cost of doing business eventually became too steep, and the hospital closed its doors in 2002. The property was subsequently renovated and expanded, reopening in 2006 as a luxury condo community combining original architectural details with new modernity and numerous amenities including an on-site Trader Joe’s. If there is a downside, it is for hopeful buyers who find that available listings at the Columbia are often few and far between.
There was one new listing in February, but it didn’t last long. Unit #333 with one bedroom, one bath, and a bonus den, came to market with an asking price of $609,900. It received an accepted offer just seven days later and is currently in Active Under Contract status, another term for pending with contingencies. The 781 square foot condo has dual entries, hardwood floors in the main living, dining, and cooking spaces, and a large private outdoor terrace. The open layout and large windows add to the feeling of spaciousness. The kitchen has Viking and Sub-Zero appliances, and the marble bath has an oversized Poggenpohl vanity. One parking space conveys with the sale. This unit is scheduled to close at the end of March.
The nearest previous activity was in November of 2023 when Unit #337 listed at $1,150,000, The remodeled two-bedroom condo with two baths and 1,196 square feet of living space went under contract in just six days, ultimately closing at its full asking price. The apartment is sunny and spacious with an open layout, and a fireplace with a stone accent wall in the main living and dining area. Porcelain tile floors give a different appearance from the usual hardwoods, and the large primary bedroom is ensuite with a huge walk-in closet and an expansive marble bath. The full hallway bath is also marble. A private outdoor terrace adds another attractive dimension.
The other fall closing was Unit #808, a unique two-bedroom, two-bath penthouse that received an accepted offer three days after hitting the market. The 1,175 square foot residence closed at $1,285,000 in October, $10,000 over its original asking price. The penthouse had been completely renovated prior to listing, with an open Great Room concept and a gourmet kitchen with white stone counters set into a far corner. An immense wall of windows runs along one side and wraps around the end. Glass doors open out to a 700 square foot private roof deck, perfect for outdoor dining and entertaining.
Residents at the former hospital enjoy a convenient and enjoyable lifestyle in one of the District’s most vibrant neighborhoods. The ultimate perk is the downstairs Trader Joe’s, as well as the Shops at the Columbia, and the Uptowner Café for coffee, baked goods, and deli items. There’s a wealth of other amenities as well, including a staffed front desk and friendly concierge service, as well as a swimming pool, lounge area, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a club room with billiards, secure garage parking, and three furnished guest suites. The Rock Creek Trail and the Francis Dog Park are across the street, and there’s also the convenience of the nearby West End Library, the West End Cinema, and numerous great restaurants.
To learn more about Jeff Wilson and his passionate approach to real estate view JeffWilsonStory.com or click the image below.
