The Westchester | Luxury Cooperatives | Cathedral Heights
Located at 4000 Cathedral Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
Truly one of the most impressive structures in Washington, DC, the Westchester is also one of the largest luxury cooperative communities in the area. Designed by Harvey Warwick for developer Gustave Ring, the imposing eight-story brick and limestone complex is located in the desirable Cathedral Heights neighborhood. It was built in 1931 and is reminiscent of a castle or English fortress of old with a Neo-Gothic exterior surrounded by acres of lush grounds.
There are over 500 residences at the prominent property which is featured in James Goode’s well-known coffee table book “Best Addresses,” about the most notable grand apartment buildings in Washington. The co-op floorplans are especially varied, all the way from studios to four bedrooms, and from roughly 575 to over 3,8000 square feet of living space. The largest residence in the building is the result of combining four units into one. There is also an onsite restaurant, a salon, and even a small grocery store for the convenience of residents. Other well-known co-op communities in Washington, DC include the Presidential in Dupont Circle, 2101 Connecticut in Kalorama, and the mid-century modern Watergate in Foggy Bottom.
The Westchester Coop Inventory for Sale
A Full-Service Lifestyle at the Westchester
The Westchester is quite large with multiple buildings and wings, a long drive and a grand Main Lobby that not only is fully staffed but also hosts small concerts featuring professional musicians. During its early development stage in 1929, there were hopes of the community being as large as 1,000 apartment residences. However, the Great Depression threw a monkey wrench into the works and the plan was scaled back to 556 units. The combining of some apartments over the years has reduced that number further. The layouts are quite intriguing and are sometimes very faithful to their origins with vintage parquet floors, charming nooks and crannies, lovely millwork, and interior archways. However, you’ll often also find substantially remodeled residences with modern features such as gourmet kitchens that have been opened up to the adjacent living areas, and bathrooms that combine original details with new features. The most envied units are likely to be three select penthouses with their own private roof terraces.
Residents at the Westchester enjoy numerous amenities. The building’s lobby, staff, sitting rooms, and library are an attraction all by themselves. But there are also huge expanses of grassy lawns, picturesque fountains, and a sunken, terraced garden. You can also add a large fitness center, valet service, a dry cleaners, a salon for women, and a barbershop for men. Don’t forget the Westchester’s very own grocery store with gourmet food items than can be delivered to residents, as well as the onsite DeCarlo’s Restaurant. There is also onsite surface parking but not an underground garage. One potential drawback for animal lovers: the Westchester does not permit pets. Location plays a part in the appeal, right next to Glover Archbold Park, and also close to Cathedral Commons. This certainly isn’t a busy urban neighborhood, but it is a place for those who enjoy some peace and serenity. The Washington National Cathedral is nearby, as is the Naval Observatory, and numerous embassies. There’s a Trader Joe’s and a Wegman’s in the area, and Georgetown is just minutes away via Wisconsin Avenue.
To learn more about co-ops for sale at the Westchester, please call Andre Perez at District Partners at Compass, 202-798-3600.
The Westchester Co-ops, District of Columbia FAQs
Q: Can residents have washers and dryers in their individual units at the Westchester?
A: Yes, unlike some co-op buildings, washers and dryers are allowed at this building.
Q: How large is the Westchester?
A: The Westchester community covers 10 acres of ground and includes five buildings, two of which are the main residential buildings.
Q: What is the parking situation at the Westchester?
A: The building’s website states that there is ample onsite parking.
Q: When did the Westchester become a cooperative?
A: The project was initially delivered as a luxury apartment rental community in 1931, before becoming a cooperative in 1954.
