Carl F. West Estates: Building a Legacy of Connection & Care In Senior Living
A New Model for Home & Family
At the corner of 14th and Harvard Streets in Northwest DC, a new chapter in community development is taking shape. The delivery of Carl F. West Estates marks not only the completion of a remarkable construction journey but also the beginning of a brighter future for hundreds of residents in the District.
Delivered under the New Communities Initiative in partnership with the DC Housing Authority (DCHA) and HUD, Carl F. West Estates is an 11-story, 208,000 SF affordable senior housing redevelopment that redefines intergenerational living. The community includes 179 independent senior units, 36 of which are grand-family units— thoughtfully designed for grandparents raising their grandchildren. As the first development of its kind in Washington, DC, the project introduces a new model for connection, care, and shared family support.
Large-Scale Design with Purpose
As one of CWC’s most significant multifamily projects to date, the development combines thoughtful design with technical precision. Designed by Wiencek + Associates and built by Coakley & Williams Construction, the 11-story structure offers high-quality, affordable housing for seniors while strengthening neighborhood fabric in the heart of Columbia Heights.
Residents will enjoy a range of amenities including a welcoming front desk and community support services, salon, lounges, wellness center, computer and business center, library, fitness center, game and activity room, outdoor patio, and playground— all created to promote health, independence, and community.
Behind the scenes, the project presented complex site and structural challenges that highlight CWC’s expertise in large-scale urban construction. The work involved deep excavation with contaminated soils, underpinning of an occupied nine-story building, and micropile-supported transformer vaults to establish new permanent power. With dual-street access, zero-lot-line constraints, and tight urban logistics, daily coordination was essential to maintaining momentum— and the project ultimately finished three months ahead of schedule.
“We have a great working relationship with CWC. The project is exceptionally built with thoughtful attention to details. Throughout the entire project cycle, we have been able to communicate effectively, resolve issues together, and work through challenges that occurred. The Company takes pride in its work and is delivering a well-constructed building.”
Collaboration that Builds Community
From groundbreaking to completion, collaboration was at the heart of every milestone. The project team worked closely with neighborhood residents, city agencies, and environmental consultants to ensure safety, transparency, and minimal disruption. Through early envelope mockups and DC Green compliance inspections, sustainability was prioritized from the start.
Hear from Dan, Superintendent at Carl F. West Estates, as he talks about bringing the project to life.
As the community prepares to open its doors this November, Carl F. West Estates stands as a testament to what’s possible when collaboration, compassion, and craftsmanship come together. It’s more than a building— it’s a landmark of connection, care, and the kind of large-scale, mission-driven development that defines CWC’s multifamily expertise.
