Columbia Residences
Where Historic Grandeur Meets Modern Living Through Thoughtful Landscaping
In the heart of Washington, D.C.’s prestigious West End neighborhood stands Columbia Residences, a testament to the city’s ability to honor its past while embracing its future. This special residential community holds a big piece of history for the city. Initially, The Columbia Hospital for Women, the facility and grounds were built in 1866 as a healthcare facility for wives and widows of Civil War soldiers. It was the birthplace of the vast majority of all persons born in the District of Columbia during the 20th century.
The hospital was the primary maternity facility in the city and the birthplace of about 275,000 individuals—the vast majority of all persons born in the District of Columbia during the 20th century. Among the notable figures born at Columbia Hospital for Women were Duke Ellington, Al Gore, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, and Katherine Heigl.
The architectural heritage of Columbia Residences reflects its storied past. American architect Nathan Wyeth designed the brick structure; construction began in 1913, and the building opened its doors in 1916. After serving the community for over a century, the facility closed in 2002, and the building was converted into a condominium, The Columbia Residences.
The Guardians of Green: Community Landscape Services
The preservation and enhancement of Columbia Residences’ historic grounds has been entrusted to Community Landscape Services, a company with deep roots in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. Since 1993, Community Landscape Services has been the premier commercial landscape management firm in the D.C. metro region. We combine the elements of experience and passion with sustainable and regenerative techniques to create inviting, well-maintained common spaces.
Community Landscape Services is proud to be the caretaker of the historic grounds of this iconic property. This partnership represents more than just routine maintenance; it embodies a commitment to preserving the park-like setting that has been integral to the property’s character for over 150 years.
We used both the landscaping and irrigation services of Community Landscape to landscape our new home’s yard. They coordinated the plant beds and the irrigation system so that the lawn was only dug up once, and sprinklers were placed to provide good coverage for both the plants and the turf. It’s nice only to have to deal with one company to complete the entire project. They did a nice job on both the plantings and the sprinkler system. They planted a nice variety of trees, shrubs and flowering perennials. The sprinklers are great—no more hauling around heavy hoses. Tommy, the irrigation manager, is easy to work with and accessible if a problem, concern or question arises. A text, phone call or email is answered promptly. Since this was our first time having an irrigation system, it was very important to us. We have had many nice compliments from neighbors and friends about how nice our yard looks. We’re glad we chose to use an established and reputable company.
– Alyce K L.
Community Landcape Manager
Key Landscaping Features at The Columbia Residences
The landscaping at Columbia Residences represents a thoughtful blend of historical preservation and modern residential amenities. Under the expert care of Community Landscape Services, the grounds maintain their original “park-like setting” that has characterized this property since its establishment in 1866, while providing contemporary outdoor spaces that enhance the luxury living experience for residents.
The expertly maintained landscaping at Columbia Residences serves as more than just attractive surroundings—it creates an environment where residents can enjoy the best of urban living while being surrounded by beautifully preserved green spaces. This commitment to landscape excellence, combined with the property’s rich history and prime West End location, continues to make Columbia Residences one of Washington D.C.’s most distinguished residential communities.
