It is rare for anyone to choose to live at a former hospital but for that matter, it’s rare for such a place to become a condominium. Home to 225 residential units in various shapes and layouts, the Columbia Residences in the West End neighborhood was once known as the Columbia Hospital for Women. Founded towards the end of the Civil War, the original facility was located inside a home in Thomas Circle before moving to the Tench Ringgold House in the West End in 1870. The hospital was rebuilt on a much grander scale in 1918, featuring an Italianate design from architect Nathan C. Wyeth who also designed the Oval Office at the White House. The Columbia would go on to become one of the nation’s most advanced pediatric and maternity hospitals, delivering over 275,000 babies over its tenure. But after facing financial difficulties in the early 2000s, the campus was closed and subsequently redeveloped, retaining its unique character as one of the most in-demand condominium communities in Washington, complete with an onsite Trader Joe’s.
March was a busy month at the Columbia with a slew of new listings. This is notable as availabilities were few and far between over the winter months. But with Spring in the air, things are heating up!
Unit #424 popped up in March with an asking price of $775,000. The one-bedroom, one-bath condo has a fun loft-style layout along with a large and open main living and dining area. The chef-inspired kitchen features white hardwood cabinetry, quartz countertops, and high-end stainless steel appliances. Wood floors run throughout the main living areas with cream carpet in the large, lofted bedroom with its own private balcony and courtyard views.
Unit #211 is also new to the market in March. Listed at $775,000, the 855 square foot residence has one bedroom, a bonus den, and one bath. Richly hued hardwood floors run throughout the entire apartment, and there are floor-to-ceiling sliders leading out to the patio. The kitchen is exceptionally well presented with brushed steel counters and backsplash, hanging pendant lights, and Viking and Sub-Zero appliances. The bathroom has been fully renovated and there is also a washer and dryer.
Unit #217 is another new listing, with the competitive asking price of $525,000. The super attractive and very airy one-bedroom, one-bath apartment with 729 square feet of living space boasts 10-foot ceilings, adding to the feeling of space. Blonde hardwood floors and an open gourmet kitchen with Viking and Sub-Zero appliances are complemented by oversized windows and a private Juliet balcony. A washer/dryer stack tucks neatly into a closet, and garage parking is included.
Still available is a true showcase residence with Unit #730 and its asking price of $1,425,000. This penthouse features two bedrooms including a large primary suite, two baths, and 1,405 square feet of living space. A front foyer leads into a Great Room concept with oversized windows on two sides. Beautiful cherry floors in the main living areas combine with cream carpet in the private quarters. The open gourmet kitchen has dark granite counters, espresso toned cabinetry, and upscale stainless stee appliances.
Listed at $775,000, Unit #328 is a 955 square foot residence with one bedroom, one bath, and a bonus loft den that can serve equally well as a work-from-home office or even a second bedroom. A long and open main living and dining area includes a gourmet kitchen that tucks neatly into a corner with dark granite counters, stainless steel Sub-Zero and Viking appliances, and hanging pendant lights. The handsome bath has a twin-sink vanity and large frameless shower.
Unit #506 came to market in March and received an accepted offer after just seven days. The two-bedroom, two-bath condo with a wonderful 1,278 square foot layout had been listed at $1,249,000. It is now in A/C status which means that it is pending with contingencies. New bamboo floors are in the main living and dining areas and the kitchen has been upgraded with quartz counters. There is also a 40-foot private terrace with terrific views, plus garage parking.
Unit #530 also listed in March, going under contract in nine days. The two-bedroom, two-bath residence with 1,220 square feet of space had been priced at $949,000. It is now pending and due to close in early April. Beautiful classic hardwood floors, a private terrace, a washer and dryer, and a delightful Euro-style gourmet kitchen that fits flush against one wall, are all part of the considerable allure.
There were two closings in March, beginning with Unit #706. The two-bedroom residence with two full baths and a 1,270 square foot layout sold for $1,225,000. A significant remodel included ceramic tile floors and stylish modern bathrooms with dark tiling and floating vanities. The open gourmet kitchen features Viking and Sub-Zero appliances along with Poggenpohl cabinetry, and there is a generous private terrace off the living area. You can also take the elevator directly down to Trader Joe’s without leaving the building. Parking and extra storage are included.
Unit #532 sold for $955,000 after listing for $969,000. The two-bedroom, two-bath residence has an airy 1,250 square foot appeal with the bedrooms at opposite ends for enhanced privacy. Lovely hardwood floors run throughout the entire condo, and the kitchen, living area and dining room are encompassed in one large and open central portion. The kitchen is equipped with high-end stainless steel appliances and stone counters, and there is also a private terrace.
This former women’s hospital has become one of Washington’s favorite condominiums, with a friendly front staff, concierge service, and furnished suites for guest stayovers. There is also a swimming pool and lounge area, a well-equipped fitness center, and a club room with billiards. The downstairs Trader Joe’s is a huge convenience, along with the Uptowner Café and the Shops at Columbia. The pet-friendly community is close to Francis Dog Park, George Washington University, and local restaurants like Colonnade, Blue Duck Tavern, Mercy Me, and Chef Geoff’s.
To learn more about Jeff Wilson and his passionate approach to real estate view JeffWilsonStory.com or click the image below.
