We’ve noted most of these stores have closed. But I always keep my eyes peeled for paper to cover the windows because that means work is being done and it won’t be left vacant. So stay tuned for lots of development. Above of course is located just south of U St.

Paper just went up on the Swann Cleaners across from Black Cat on 14th.

Paper has also gone up at the other laundry near 14th and Q has paper up. Of course paper doesn’t guarantee that movement will be rapid but it is an encouraging first step.

And after the jump there is also movement at one spot on Connecticut Ave north of Dupont Circle. (more…)


Thanks to a reader for the heads up. When I took the above photo I actually ran into the new owner. The property was just purchased by Lock 7 Development. They will be building a 4 unit condo on this property located on 10th Street, NW just north of V. Here’s a rendering:

View larger image here – 10th Street Rendering

I’ll be sure to update with photos as the building develops. The owner expects it to be completed in roughly 6 months.


Thanks to a reader for the heads up. LZ Middle East Restaurant closed back in early Jan.. Pica Taco has a current location at 1629 Columbia Road NW. We looked at it back in June ’09. When I walked by there was still a bit of construction going on at the Florida Ave location.

Think the new spot will thrive given it’s somewhat tough location for a restaurant?


We learned back in July that 903 U Street, NW a former art gallery was going to turn into Dickson Wine Bar. I’m happy to report that they are having a soft opening tonight and hope to open to the public over the weekend or early next week. I took a peek inside and the place def. looks ready to roll. I was able to snap one photo of the third floor:

Sweet, yeah?

The space will take up all three floors. The bar will be on the second floor with seating on all three floors. As you can tell the space isn’t huge though it looks super cool. I’d say it could probably fit about 10-20 people per floor with maybe a bit more on the second floor. In addition to wine, while they won’t have a full restaurant, you’ll be able to get cheese and charcuterie as well as some other small plates.

I’ll be sure to announce the official opening date as soon as it becomes available.


Obviously the building above still has a ways to go before it is finished but I thought is was wild how large the expansion is. You can see the size of the original building in blue. Hard to predict at the moment but do you think this large an expansion/Pop up and out is gonna work? It is located on 11th Street, NW just south of Florida Ave.

And a couple blocks further south on 11th you’ll find this building that we’ve been tracking. Honestly, I keep changing my mind on this one, sometimes I dig it sometimes not so much. It is interesting to note how this section of 11th some surrounding streets have attracted so many modern designs.


This home is located at 2236 11th Street, NW:


View Larger Map

The flier says:

“Rare Opportunity in Logan/U Street. Bright and open detached two bedroom, open Den, two and a half bath townehome. Updated table space kitchen with stainless steel and granite, Oak hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, oversized windows, central air, large basement suitable for storage, rear deck/yard with 2 car parking. Just minutes Metro Green line, U street corridor, cafes and much more.”

You can find more info here and a virtual tour here.

I walk by this house all the time and have really been looking forward to getting to check it out (virtually). What do you think of the reno? Do you think $539,000 sounds reasonable for this 2 bed/2.5 bath? I think it may be important to note that there is also a vacant lot next door also for sale…


Thanks to a reader for sending the news from NBC Washington:

“I don’t think this is a termination offense,” [MPD Chief] Lanier said.

She was more critical in December, calling the detective’s actions “totally inappropriate” and saying the incident tarnished the department’s otherwise excellent handling of the storm. That prompted the D.C. police union to question whether Baylor would get a fair investigation.

Fair enough, it seems.

“As soon as this whole process wraps up, he’ll be put back to duty,” Lanier said.

You can find MPD’s original response here.


When we judged nearby Ethiopian restaurant, Etete, a commenter mentioned Axum, a few storefronts south at 1934 9th Street, NW. I thought it was worth mentioning that the space was recently completely renovated. It’s looking really good.


This condo is located at 2001 12th Street, NW:


View Larger Map

The flier says:

“Bright & spacious 2BR/2BA unit facing courtyard, no city noise! Maple hardwood flrs throughout, gas fireplace in living area, upgraded gourmet kitchen w/ granite counters & GE Profile SS appliances, 2 master suites w/ upgraded baths. Fitness ctr, party rm, roofdeck w/ great views, pet friendly, FHA Approved, includes pkg! Perfect location, less than a block to U ST metro, shops!”

You can find more info and photos here.

I do think this is a phenomenal location. Do you think $459,000 sounds reasonable for this 2 bedroom/2 bathroom? A 1 bedroom/1.5 bath just went under contract a floor below ( Unit 208) for $405,000.


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