Historic Beaux-Arts gem at the heart of vibrant DC
The Balfour, a distinguished Beaux-Arts condominium, stands proudly at the intersection of 16th and U Streets NW in Washington, DC. Completed in 1900, this six-story architectural masterpiece houses 53 units, offering residents a blend of historic charm and modern urban living. The building's prime location places it at the epicenter of the Adams Morgan, U Street Corridor, and Dupont Circle neighborhoods, providing easy access to the city's diverse cultural offerings, dining scenes, and entertainment venues. With its restored marble-clad lobby and elegant façade, The Balfour serves as a testament to the enduring allure of early 20th-century design while catering to the needs of contemporary city dwellers.
Spacious layouts with period details and modern updates
The Balfour offers a range of floor plans to suit various lifestyles, from cozy one-bedroom units to more spacious two-bedroom homes. One-bedroom layouts span from 464 to 854 square feet, with prices ranging from $384,900 to $489,900. These units typically feature one bathroom and are ideal for singles or couples seeking a stylish urban abode. For those requiring more space, two-bedroom units range from 731 to 910 square feet, with two bathrooms, and are priced between $581,100 and $605,000.
Many units in The Balfour boast period details that harken back to the building's historic roots, such as high ceilings, hardwood floors, and elegant moldings. Large, arched windows are a common feature, flooding the spaces with natural light and offering picturesque views of the surrounding cityscape. Some units on higher floors provide stunning vistas of the Washington Monument, allowing residents to enjoy both sunrise and sunset over the iconic landmark.
Kitchens in The Balfour have been thoughtfully updated to meet modern standards. Many feature granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and subway tile backsplashes, creating a perfect blend of classic and contemporary aesthetics. Bathrooms have also received attention, with some units boasting marble walls and floors, frameless glass shower doors, and high-end fixtures.
Storage is ample in most units, with many featuring built-in shelving and spacious closets. For added convenience, in-unit washers and dryers are standard, eliminating the need for trips to a communal laundry facility.
Monthly HOA fees range from $500 to $700, covering common area maintenance, custodial services, exterior building maintenance, insurance, lawn care, water, and sewer. These fees contribute to the upkeep of the building's historic charm while ensuring modern comforts for all residents.
Classic comforts with modern conveniences
The Balfour offers a blend of classic amenities and modern conveniences that cater to the needs of its residents. The building's restored marble-clad lobby serves as a grand entrance, setting the tone for the elegant living experience within. For those who prefer two-wheeled transportation, a bike storage room is available, providing a secure space for residents to store their bicycles.
The building is equipped with an elevator, ensuring easy access to all floors for residents and their guests. Additional storage units are available for those who need extra space beyond their apartments, allowing residents to keep their living areas clutter-free.
The Balfour is a pet-friendly community, welcoming furry companions and adding to the warm, homey atmosphere of the building. This policy reflects the building's commitment to accommodating diverse lifestyles and preferences.
While The Balfour may not boast an extensive list of luxury amenities, it compensates with its prime location and well-maintained historic character. The building management is reportedly considering the addition of a rooftop deck in the future, which would provide residents with an outdoor space to relax and enjoy views of the city.
For fitness enthusiasts, while the building itself doesn't have a gym, the nearby VIDA Fitness on U Street is just a short walk away, offering state-of-the-art equipment and classes for those looking to maintain an active lifestyle.
A vibrant tapestry of culture, cuisine, and urban charm
The Balfour's location at the intersection of Adams Morgan, U Street Corridor, and Dupont Circle places residents at the heart of one of Washington DC's most dynamic and diverse neighborhoods. This area is renowned for its eclectic mix of historic rowhouses, trendy boutiques, and an ever-evolving culinary scene that reflects the city's multicultural fabric.
Just steps from The Balfour, residents can explore the bustling 14th Street corridor, home to some of DC's most sought-after dining establishments. Le Diplomate, a beloved French brasserie, offers an authentic Parisian dining experience, while Busboys and Poets serves as a community hub, combining a bookstore, restaurant, and event space. For music lovers, the iconic 9:30 Club and Black Cat are nearby, hosting an impressive lineup of local and international acts throughout the year.
The neighborhood's commitment to green spaces is evident in the nearby Meridian Hill Park, a 12-acre urban oasis just a short walk from The Balfour. This historic park features cascading fountains, statues, and a popular Sunday drum circle that embodies the area's vibrant community spirit. For more intimate outdoor retreats, the S Street Dog Park and T Street Park offer nearby options for relaxation and recreation.
Grocery shopping is a breeze with several options within walking distance. Trader Joe's and Yes! Organic Market are just a few blocks away, while Whole Foods is a short trip for those seeking a wider selection of organic and specialty items.
The area's cultural offerings extend beyond food and entertainment. The African American Civil War Memorial and Museum, located nearby, provides insightful historical context to the neighborhood's rich heritage. Additionally, the diverse array of local businesses, from independent bookstores to vintage clothing shops, contributes to the area's unique character and charm.
With its prime location, residents of The Balfour find themselves at the nexus of DC's most vibrant neighborhoods, able to easily explore the distinct flavors and atmospheres of Adams Morgan, U Street, and Dupont Circle. This convergence of cultures and experiences creates a truly dynamic urban living environment, where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.
Effortless connectivity in a transit-rich urban core
The Balfour's location offers residents exceptional access to a variety of transportation options, making it easy to navigate the city and beyond. The area boasts an extensive network of bus lines, with several stops within a short walk from the building. The 16th Street NW & V Street NW bus stop, less than five minutes away, serves the 16th Street line, providing quick access to downtown DC and other key areas of the city.
For those preferring rail transit, the U Street Metro station is about a 10-minute walk from The Balfour. This station serves both the Green and Yellow lines, offering direct connections to popular destinations such as the National Mall, Navy Yard, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The Dupont Circle Metro station, serving the Red Line, is also within walking distance, expanding transit options for residents.
Cycling enthusiasts will appreciate the area's bike-friendly infrastructure. With numerous bike lanes and the proximity to popular cycling routes, getting around on two wheels is both convenient and enjoyable. Capital Bikeshare stations in the vicinity provide an additional option for short trips or leisurely rides.
For those who prefer to walk, the neighborhood's high density of amenities and attractions makes it easy to accomplish many daily tasks on foot. From grocery shopping to dining out, much of what residents need is within a comfortable walking distance.
When it comes to air travel, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is just a 15-minute drive away, while Washington Dulles International Airport can be reached in about 45 minutes by car. The area's robust public transportation system also provides convenient routes to both airports.
The Balfour's central location means that major thoroughfares like 16th Street NW and U Street NW are easily accessible, facilitating car travel throughout the city and to surrounding areas. However, with the wealth of public transportation options and the walkable nature of the neighborhood, many residents find that owning a car is optional rather than necessary.
This comprehensive mix of transportation options ensures that residents of The Balfour can easily navigate the city, whether they're commuting to work, exploring DC's attractions, or venturing beyond the city limits. The building's location truly exemplifies the convenience and connectivity that urban living can offer.
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Building Details
Recreation
Fitness Center
Amenities
Public Transportation
Bike Room
Community Storage Space
Parking
On-Street Parking
Pet Policy
Dogs and Cats Allowed
Condo Association
$690 Monthly HOA Fees
Monthly HOA Fees Range from $393 - $690
Association fees include water, common area maintenance, management, reserve funds, sewer, trash
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Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
Low Crime
Crime Score®
4/ 10
Biker's Paradise
Bike Score®
99/ 100
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
98/ 100
Excellent Transit
Transit Score®
85/ 100
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Powered by CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks. Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Environmental risk data is provided by First Street Foundation® and is designed to approximate risk and not intended to include all possible scenarios.
Parks in this Area
Ontario Road Playground
5 min walk
Picnic Area
Trails
Playground
Marie Reed Recreation Center
5 min walk
Basketball
Pool
Soccer
T Street Park
6 min walk
Picnic Area
Walking Paths
Meridian Hill Park
6 min walk
Picnic Area
Trails
S Street Dog Park
7 min walk
Dog Park
Harrison Recreation Center
8 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Playground
Unity Park
11 min walk
Trails
Events
Kalorama Park
11 min walk
Basketball
Playground
Stead Park
12 min walk
Schools
Source:
GreatSchools:
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View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Disclaimer: Please note that this building may not be in these schools' attendance zones.
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