The Columbia Residences is an upscale mixed-use condominium community in Washington’s West End neighborhood with a unique story to tell. The origins date back to the Civil War era, when the fledgling Columbia Hospital for Women was founded in Thomas Circle. The small hospital moved to its current West End location in 1871 and was completely rebuilt on a much larger scale in 1916. The Italianate design from architect Nathan C. Wyeth is quite distinctive. The pioneering women’s healthcare facility was one of the most celebrated in the country, ultimately closing its doors in 2002. It was converted to luxury condos in 2010, complete with an on-site Trader Joe’s.
Although there are some 225 condo residences at the Columbia in a variety of sizes and floorplans, new available resale listings can be scarce. Such was the case in June with no active listings as of this post. In fact, there have only been a handful of listings in 2023.
There was one closing in June. Unit #735 is a one bedroom, one-bath apartment with a bonus den that didn’t hit the open market, selling instead as a private transaction for $650,000. The 797 square foot residence had been remodeled by the original owner, with new hardwood floors throughout, as well as an updated gourmet kitchen with pale wood cabinetry, granite counters, and Viking and Sub-Zero appliances. The bathroom has also been improved with new cabinetry. An open floorplan, custom closets, built-in pantry, and private balcony further add to the picture.
Unit #628 was the sole closing in May. The penthouse level apartment with one bedroom, one bath, a den, and a spacious 1,000 square foot layout went under contract 12 days after hitting the market. It sold for the full asking price of $929,000. The open and airy residence has high ceilings, dramatic arched windows throughout, and hardwood floors. The large bathroom has a new Grohe SPA frameless shower, and an extended twin sink vanity with Grohe fixtures. The gourmet kitchen features SubZero and Viking stainless steel appliances. There’s an in-unit washer and dryer, and the den can serve nicely as a work-from-home space, or guest sleeping.
There were two sales in March, starting with Unit #441. The sunny and open condo has two bedrooms, two baths, and 1,405 square feet of interior space. It sold for $1,225,000. Wide-plank hardwood floors run throughout the corner condo. A large owners’ suite includes a walk-in closet with custom organizers, and a marble ensuite bath, while the second bedroom has a custom Murphy bed complemented by custom built-in closets, and plantation shutters. The open chef-inspired kitchen features white cabinetry, white stone counters, and high-end stainless steel appliances. Also notable is the large private terrace, perfect for outdoor meals.
The other March sale was Unit #233. This one-bedroom, one-bath condo with a bonus den, claimed the top list-to-sales price for the month. The competitively priced listing attracted immediate attention at $500,000 and was bid up to $550,000 (110 percent of asking) in just three days’ time. The layout includes a large main living space that includes a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counters. A spacious den is perfect for an office, or an additional bedroom. A charming balcony off the living area is great for morning coffee. The primary bedroom suite has plantation shutters and a big walk-in closet.
Those fortunate enough to own a condo at the Columbia enjoy a great location and a slew of amenities. The front desk staff are known for attentive and friendly service. There is also a swimming pool and deck lounge, a club room with billiards, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and three furnished guest suites for visitors. And of course, there’s the popular on-site Trader Joe’s market, providing the ultimate food shopping convenience. The West End neighborhood is also part of the appeal, with plenty of coffee shops and restaurants within easy walking distance, as well as the new West End Library.
To learn more about Jeff Wilson and his passionate approach to real estate view JeffWilsonStory.com or click the image below.
