The Columbia Residences has a unique story to tell. The popular mixed-used condominium community in the West End neighborhood was formerly known as the Columbia Hospital for Women. Founded during the Civil War era, the fledgling health care facility served women in Washington, DC during a time when their healthcare options were sorely lacking. Originally located in Thomas Circle, the small hospital moved to the Tench Ringgold House in the West End in 1870 and was eventually rebuilt on a much grander scale with an Italianate design from architect Nathan C. Wyeth. As one of the nation’s leading pediatric and maternity hospitals, the Columbia delivered over 275,000 babies over its lengthy tenure. After closing its doors in 2002, the campus was redeveloped, reopening four years later as a highly sought-after condo community, complete with an onsite Trader Joe’s.
There were no new listings in November at the Columbia, but there are still some available opportunities. A case in point is Unit #217 with an asking price of $519,900. This sophisticated main level condo has 729 square feet of living space including a large bedroom with two closets, and an ensuite bath. The main living, dining and cooking area is open, with lovely hardwood floors and a Juliet balcony. The gourmet kitchen has granite counters, Shaker cabinets, and Viking and Sub-Zero appliances. There is also an in-unit washer and dryer, one parking space, and extra storage.
Unit #730 is a top-level residence that was reduced in November from $1,500,000 down to $1,425,000. This showcase condo has two bedrooms, two baths, and a 1,405 square foot layout. A handsome gallery serves as the introduction to the main living areas, with richly stained hardwood floors matching the open gourmet kitchen and its espresso cabinetry and dark granite counters. The roomy 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 a deep soaking tub.
Unit #328 has also been reduced, from $830,000 to $820,000. The 955 square foot apartment is listed as two bedrooms with one bath but could also be described as a one-bedroom with a bonus loft den that can serve equally well a work-from-home office or an additional sleeping space. The linear main living area includes an open gourmet kitchen with dark granite counters, and stainless steel Sub-Zero and Viking appliances. The handsome bath has a twin-sink vanity and large frameless shower.
There was quite a bit of sales activity in November. Unit #302 listed in October for $1,589,000, was subsequently reduced down to $1,545,000 and is now pending. The two-bedroom corner flat has two baths and a 1,442 square foot layout. The 30-foot living room boasts south and east exposures, as well as a lovely balcony with treetop views. Other notables include extra-wide plank floors, a wonderful open gourmet kitchen, and a terrific primary bedroom suite with a glamorous bath that includes a steam shower, heated floors, and a Toto bidet.
Unit #936 is now in Active Under Contract status, meaning that it is pending with contingencies and can still be shown for backup offers. Priced at $1,399,000, the unique penthouse duplex boasts 1,779 square feet of sublime living space including two bedrooms and two baths. Floating spiral stairs lead up to a huge family/entertainment room with a built-in wet bar, and a wall of sliding glass doors that open out to a private roof level terrace with trellises.
Also in A/C status is Unit #612. The two-bedroom, two-bath residence is listed at $1,190,000 and features an organic 1,156 square foot floorplan that places the two bedroom suites at opposite ends for maximum privacy. There is an appealing central open living and dining area, with a gourmet kitchen that is nicely equipped with Viking, Sub-Zero, and Kitchenaid appliances. Of additional note is the expansive private terrace that is perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation.
There was one closing in November, with Unit #314 selling for $1.4 million. This impressive 1,520 square foot condo has two bedrooms, two baths, and a bonus den. Located in one of the former hospital’s historic front wings, this lovely condo enjoys hardwood floors, high ceilings, and an incredible dining room and adjoining den/library with massive window walls on three sides, lending the feel of a sunroom.
Those choosing to live at the Columbia will enjoy a full slate of amenities. It starts with a staffed lobby with concierge service, and then moves on to a swimming pool and lounge area, a club room with billiards, a state-of-the-art fitness center, secure parking, and three furnished suites for guests. There is also the convenience of the on-site Trader Joe’s, as well as the Shops at Columbia, and the Uptowner Café. Also notable is the nearby Rock Creek Trail, the Francis Dog Park, the new West End Library, and numerous restaurants.
To learn more about Jeff Wilson and his passionate approach to real estate view JeffWilsonStory.com or click the image below.
