Chinatown Condominiums
Immediately recognizable by its colorful Friendship Archway, Chinatown is a small urban neighborhood in Washington, DC that is home to several notable condominiums. Like many Chinatown communities across the country, this one has evolved over time. It is a popular visitor destination and the picturesque archway itself which spans H Street is considered to be one of the largest of its kind. Residents of Chinatown enjoy a terrific location, a close proximity to DC’s political halls of power, and convenient public transportation thanks to the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro Station.
There’s plenty to see and do in Chinatown, and not only when it comes to local culture. Capitol One Arena (formerly the Verizon Center) is a popular concert venue and is also home to the NBA’s Washington Wizards. There are also nearby museums, shopping malls, and an incredible number of bakeries, bars, and restaurants. The neighborhood has also seen an uptick in new housing in recent years, whether through redevelopment of existing structures or ground-up construction. A few of the popular condo projects include the Residences at Gallery Square, and Mather Studios, as well as buildings that are sometimes considered to be in next-door communities, such 555 Mass Ave and The Cosmopolitan (both of which are also associated with Penn Quarter).
More About Chinatown Condominiums, Washington, DC
Although historic in nature, Washington, DC’s Chinatown is not as large as it once was, nor is it even in its original location. The community was originally along Pennsylvania Avenue but was relocated by the government and city planners in 1929 in order to make way for what was then known as the Federal Triangle Project. Chinatown as we know it today roughly encompasses a two square block area in Downtown DC, bordered by Massachusetts Ave, 5th Ave NW, G Street NW, and Mount Vernon Square. That said, there are numerous other interpretations of the neighborhood’s outlines, including the delineation between Chinatown, Penn Quarter, and Mount Vernon Square.
Shifting timelines and maps aside, Chinatown has clearly become more than just a place for visitors and photo ops. Housing has become a critical need as the nation’s capital continues to grow, and the downtown area has become a focus for expanded development. This is true for Capitol Hill, Mount Vernon Triangle, the H Street Corridor, Penn Quarter, and Chinatown itself. The number of Metro stations, the nearby I-395, and all of the government and private sector office buildings makes this part of DC an ideal location for those who prefer shorter, rather than longer commutes. Plus, there are so many amenities, from top restaurants to live entertainment, theaters, shopping, the National Mall and an incredible collection of both national and private museums.
To learn more about condos for sale in Chinatown, please call Andre Perez at District Partners at Compass, 202-400-3040.
Chinatown, District of Columbia FAQs
Q: Is there an open air market in Chinatown for produce and other grocery items?
A: There isn’t the type of open air market often associated with other Chinatowns. However, there are nearby farmers markets in the Mount Vernon Triangle neighborhood, as well as City Center, and the USDA Farmers Market on the National Mall.
Q: How far is it from Chinatown to the White House?
A: The distance is almost exactly one mile, along H Street and I Street.
Q: Are there any historic buildings in Chinatown that have become transformed into condominiums?
A: Yes, Mather Studios is a Gothic Revival building that was first constructed in 1917 but is now home to both artist spaces and loft-style condos.
Q: Is Chinatown a safe place to live?
A: As with any densely populated urban environment in a downtown city area, there is some level of crime. You should do your own independent research, including an in-person visit, before committing to a move.
