In a real estate marketplace known for unusual historic condominium conversions, the Columbia Residences certainly stands alone—it was formerly known as the Columbia Hospital for Women. The West End condo community is also incredibly popular, so much so that despite its 225 units, there are rarely any available listings. Founded in Thomas Circle in 1866, the fledgling facility served women in need during a time when their healthcare options were woefully lacking. The small hospital relocated to the Tench Ringgold House in the West End in 1870 and was later expanded and rebuilt with a dramatic design by architect Nathan Wyeth.

The Columbia Hospital soon established itself as one of the nation’s leading pediatric, maternity and women’s care facilities. But the eventual arrival of the modern era brought financial shortfalls. The innovative healthcare facility closed its doors in 2002. The campus was subsequently purchased, renovated, and expanded, reopening in 2006 as a luxury condo community. With its timeless architecture, modernized interiors, and an on-site Trader Joe’s, the Columbia is one of the capital city’s most sought after condominiums, with a story to tell and a terrific location as well.

Unit #528 came to market in May and received an accepted offer just four days later. The two-bedroom, south-facing condo is now in Active Under Contract status, meaning it is pending with contingencies and can still be viewed for backup offers. Priced at $839,000, this is a lovely residence with soaring ceilings and steps leading up to a loft den which can also be considered a second bedroom. Renovated vintage details such as tall, deep-set windows are complemented by modern amenities such as the open gourmet kitchen with stone counters, pendant lighting over the dining bar, and Viking and Sub-Zero appliances. Hardwood floors are in the main living, dining, and cooking areas, with cream carpets in the bedroom and den. One garage parking space plus extra storage is included.

There was one other listing in May, and it apparently went under contract the same day. Unit #839 is a three-bedroom, 3.5-bath showcase with 2,724 square feet of living space, and one of the largest residences at the Columbia. The asking price was $2,700,000. The large living and dining area with its beautifully designed fireplace also includes an open gourmet kitchen with top of the line appliances, and huge floor-to-ceiling windows invite the natural sunshine right indoors. There’s a bonus entertainment room for media, and a huge outdoor private terrace for dinner parties and other social events. Three garage parking spaces are included, as well as multiple storage units. A closing is scheduled for late June.

Still pending is Unit #315, a two-bedroom, two-bath condo that had listed at $1,650,000. Located in one of the original front wings, the handsome unit has soaring ceilings, a bonus den, a private outdoor terrace, and a unique dining room wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows for a sunroom ambience. An adjacent corner room with even more wraparound windows is perfect for use as a library or office. Also worth noting is the beautifully appointed gourmet kitchen boasts stone counters, hanging pendant lighting over the breakfast bar, a wine refrigerator, and Viking and Sub-Zero stainless steel appliances.

The most recent closing at the Columbia was in March, with Unit #333 selling for its full list price of $609,900. The one-bedroom, one-bath apartment has two entries, a bonus den, and 781 square feet of living space. With its open and airy feel, the unit features hardwood floors, high ceilings, and a large private terrace that is perfect for dining outside. The chef’s style kitchen has dark granite counters, Viking and Sub-Zero appliances, and a nook that is large enough for a breakfast table. The bedroom suite has its own inner hallway lined with closets, and a marble bath with a Poggenpohl vanity.

Residents at the pet-friendly Columbia enjoy a wealth of perks, including the incredibly convenient on-site Trader Joe’s. The front desk staff, including concierge is known for its friendly and accommodating service. There’s also an outdoor swimming pool and lounge area, a club room with billiards, a state-of-the-art fitness center, three furnished suites for guests, and secure parking. Also on the property are the Shops at Columbia, and the Uptowner Café. The neighborhood is another large part of the appeal, with the nearby Rock Creek Trail, the Francis Dog Park, the new West End Library, the West End Cinema, and numerous restaurants.

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