Bridgeyard

I’ve been in the same apartment – a pied-à-terre – now for more than 13 years. The apartment suits me: it’s small (no separate bedroom; 320 square feet; walk-through closet) and easy to keep clean. My apartment is well above-ground and has a western exposure – it’s a lot like living in a tree house, with birds chattering as dawn breaks, and with awe-inspiring sunsets when the conditions are right. I’ve renewed my lease repeatedly over the years because management has consistently delivered first-rate residential services. The hallways, fitness center, laundry, and other common areas are cleaned daily, by a housekeeping staff whose members clearly take pride in their work. On the rare occasion that I need maintenance in the apartment (like recently, when my old doorknob finally gave up the ghost and needed to be replaced), the staff attends to the matter promptly and respectfully. The property is well-served by public transportation, with a Metro bus that starts at the apartment building (Line A12, Hunting Point to Ballston Station). From there it’s a 15-minute bus ride to Braddock Road Station, where WMATA’s Blue and Yellow Metro Rail lines make it easy to reach virtually any location in the DMV. Of particular importance to me is the easy access to Reagan National Airport: I can leave my apartment at 7:15 a.m. and can go through TSA’s check point before 8 a.m., for $2.25 ($1.10 for reduced fares for seniors (like me) and people with disabilities). Bridgeyard’s construction was not based on two by fours and wallboard – the walls, ceilings, and floors are cement-based, and are exceptionally noise-reducing. While individual units do not have heating thermostatic controls, my place has been super cozy during the winter – the floors offer radiant heat, which is amazing during even the coldest parts of the winter – the floors offer radiant heat, which is amazing during even the coldest parts of the winter.