You will rarely find a condominium development with a more unique history than the Columbia Residences in Washington, DC’s West End neighborhood. The origin story dates back to the Civil War, when the Columbia Hospital for Women was founded in Thomas Circle. The pioneering healthcare facility moved to its present address five years later and went through a major expansion and redesign in 1916 under the guidance of architect Nathan Wyeth. The hospital closed its doors in 2002 and was renovated as luxury condos in 2010, complete with an onsite Trader Joe’s market.
The perennial popularity of the Columbia typically results in a dearth of available listings. There was only one condo that came to market in March, and it is the only one available as of this writing. Unit #628 is a penthouse level apartment with one bedroom, one bath, and a den. Offered at $929,900, the 1,000 square foot residence with 13-foot ceilings features dramatic arched windows throughout, and gleaming hardwood floors in the open living, dining, and cooking area. 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.
Unit #441 closed in March after going under contract the prior month. The two-bedroom residence with two full baths and 1,405 square feet of living space sold for $1,225,000. Wide-plank hardwood floors run throughout the corner condo with its open space design and sunny exposures on two sides A large private terrace adds another appealing element. The gourmet kitchen is completely open, fitting unobtrusively into the corner of the main living and dining area. The primary bedroom suite features a lovely marble ensuite bath as well as a huge walk-in closet with custom organizers. One garage parking space is included.
Also selling in March was Unit #233. The one-bedroom, one-bath flat with a bonus den and 805 square feet of living space was one of the most competitively priced units at the Columbia in recent memory at $500,000. That resulted in an over-asking offer of $550,000 after just three days on the market. The Great Room concept features an open living, dining, and kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counters. The large open den makes a perfect work-from-home space, while a private balcony off the living area is great for morning coffee. The bedroom has plantation shutters and a big walk-in closet. A marble bath, in-unit washers and dryer, and reserved garage parking and extra storage adds to the allure.
The Columbia is known for numerous luxury full service amenities, in addition to its own Trader Joe’s. There is a fully staffed front desk with concierge service, three furnished guest suites for visitors, a swimming pool and lounge, billiards and club room, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The West End is a very walkable neighborhood and there are several restaurants near the Columbia, including Raskia, Blue Duck Tavern, Marcel’s by Robert Wiedmaier, Ris, Imperfecto, and Uptowner Café.
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