One of Washington’s most unusual condominium backstories belongs to The Columbia Residences in the West End neighborhood. The popular property was formerly known as the Columbia Hospital for Women. Founded toward the end of the Civil War when women’s healthcare in the area was woefully lacking, the fledgling facility was first located within a mansion in Thomas Circle, moving a few years later to the West End. The hospital was rebuilt on a much grander scale in 1916 with a distinctive Italianate design. It became one of the nation’s premiere pediatric and maternity hospitals but ultimately closed in the early 2000s. A meticulous renovation process led to the reopening of the campus as an upscale condominium, along with an on-site Trader Joe’s.
Unit #431 returned to the market in October with a new and lower price, along with newly sanded cherry floors. Now offered at $1,149,500, the 1,427 square foot residence with two beds and two baths has a large central living room and an adjacent open kitchen with premium stainless steel appliances including a Viking oven range, a Sub-Zero fridge, a new microwave, and a recently replaced washer and dryer. What once was a den has been transformed into an elegant dining room. There is also a private terrace.
Also new in October is Unit #620 with an asking price of $739,900. This attractive top floor residence in the historic main wing boasts high ceilings, with one bedroom, one bath, and a loft den that can be used for multiple purposes. The 809 square foot condo is sunny and bright with huge windows and gorgeous hardwood floors. The remodeled kitchen is completely open, with white Carrera marble counters, light colored Poggenpohl cabinetry, a Sub-Zero fridge and a brand-new Wolf range.
Still active with an asking price of $1,300,000, Unit #730 is a showcase penthouse with 1,405 square feet of living space. The corner unit has two bedrooms, two full baths, and a huge and open main living area with cherry hardwood floors and windows wrapping around two sides. It’s the perfect place for hosting dinner parties. Also worth noting is the sleek chef-inspired kitchen with its dark granite counters, a dining/prep island with pendant lighting, espresso toned cabinetry, and upscale stainless steel appliances.
Offered at $899,000, Unit #210 is a two-bedroom, two-bath residence with a unique 1,375 square foot floorplan. The foyer opens into an oversized living and dining area, with a large and open adjacent gourmet kitchen that has been remodeled with wraparound brick tile backsplashes that extend to a partial accent wall. A balcony is the ideal place to enjoy morning coffee. The expansive primary bedroom suite has its own adjoining desk area.
Still active after listing in September is Unit #211 with an asking price of $745,000. This one-bedroom apartment with one bath and an 855 square foot layout has been nicely updated, including a stunning chef’s kitchen that has been remodeled with stainless steel counters and backsplashes. The resulting look with a long eating counter is akin to an upscale diner. The condo also has striking Art Deco-style window shades and an outdoor patio.
Located on the upper level of the main historic building, Unit #520 is listed at $749,000. This terrific one-bedroom, one-bath condo also has a bonus loft den that can be used as a work-from-home space or a guest bedroom. The primary bedroom has a charming barn-style sliding door. Lovely wood floors run throughout the living areas, and there is a private outdoor terrace that is accessible from both the living room and the primary bedroom.
Unit #234 has now been reduced for the third month in a row. The handsome one-bedroom condo with one bath and an open den originally listed for $700,000 but it now available for $650,000 making it the most competitively priced unit on the property. The bedroom is ensuite with tons of closet space and a lovely bathroom. The kitchen features granite counters, Poggenpohl cabinetry, and Viking and Sub-Zero appliances. One garage parking space is included.
There was one closing in October. Unit #205 listed in September at $950,000 and quickly went under contract, ultimately selling for $940,000. The two-bedroom, two-bath condo with 1,385 square feet of living space has an expansive main living area and a beautifully remodeled open chef’s kitchen. Both bedrooms have large walk-in closets. One parking space was included.
The pet-friendly Residences at Columbia is nicely located near the Francis Park and its accompanying fenced dog park, as well as the recently built West End Library and numerous top restaurants and bakeries. Condo owners enjoy a nice selection of full service amenities including a staffed front desk with friendly concierge service, an outdoor swimming pool and lounge area, a state-of-the-art fitness center, furnished guest suites, and a club room with billiards. And of course, the onsite Trader Joe’s is a huge advantage.
To learn more about Jeff Wilson and his passionate approach to real estate view JeffWilsonStory.com or click the image below.
