Few condominium communities have as unusual backstory, or as stellar a reputation as the Columbia Residences. With 225 residences and an on-site Trader Joe’s, the West End address was formerly known as the Columbia Hospital for Women, with origins dating back to the Civil War era. The pioneering women’s healthcare facility was founded in Thomas Circle in 1866, moving to the larger Tench Ringold House at its present location in 1871. The hospital was rebuilt on a march larger and grander scale in 1916 with a notable design by architect Nathan C. Wyeth. Unfortunately, the esteemed medical center found itself caught up in a financial crunch during the modern era, ultimately closing its doors in 2002. It was subsequently redeveloped as an upscale condo development in 2010.
Due to its popularity and desirability, the Columbia has seen very little turnover this summer. There were no available condos as of this report, and the most recent sale was in June, with Unit #735 selling as a private transaction for $650,000. The one bedroom, one-bath apartment with approximately 800 square feet of living space had just one owner since the development’s completion and was subsequently renovated with new hardwood floors and 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.
The month of May also produced one sale, with Unit #628, a penthouse level residence. The one-bedroom condo has one bath, a den, and 1,000 square feet of luxe living space. The listing received an accepted offer soon after listing, selling at its 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 closings in March, starting with Unit #441. The 1,405 square foot corner condo has two bedrooms and two full baths and sold for $1,225,000. Wide-plank hardwood floors run throughout the apartment. A spacious owners’ suite includes a custom walk-in closet and a marble ensuite bath, while the second bedroom has a custom Murphy bed complemented by large built-in closets, and plantation shutters. The open gourmet kitchen features white cabinetry, white stone counters, and high-end stainless steel appliances.
The other March sale was Unit #233. With one bedroom, one bath, and a bonus den, this 805 square foot residence captured the top list-to-sales price for Washington, DC condos that 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 and open living area with 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 allure of living at the Columbia lies in nicely conceptualized residences, the unique backstory and classic architecture, and a downstairs Trader Joe’s. Residents also enjoy an attentive front desk staff, 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. 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.
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