Woodbury Park Apartments
Arlington, VA
planning for the surprises
Built in the 1940s, the Woodbury Park Apartment complex was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004. It is one of few affordable garden-style apartment communities in Arlington that is within walking distance of public transportation, shopping, and employment. The community features AHC’s award-winning Resident Services program, providing educational opportunities to children, teens, and young adults through after school tutoring and summer camps.
The comprehensive renovation consisted of the demolition and rehabilitation of 364 units in seven garden-style buildings. The exterior renovations included restoring a mix of red and blonde brick masonry, asphalt shingles, standing seam metal roofing, porticoes at the buildings’ entrances, new windows, site improvements, and landscaping. The interior renovations included light gauge metal framing, drywall, replacing major building systems, new finishes, flooring, and kitchen appliances.
An under-utilized space was turned into a leasing office and a community center, which includes an exercise room and gathering area with a large TV, game table, and seating.
How Harkins Made a Difference
- We knew this renovation would bring surprises, so early on we did a comprehensive survey to identify the unique differences from apartment to apartment and make recommendations. For example, people had made changes to their kitchens over the years, so there were many differences from apartment to apartment. We saved a lot of time and money because we identified issues early and get them resolved early.
- Through an aggressive buy-out we were able to give the owner a contingency to spend on the property to help with any issues or upgrades.
- We set up temporary “concert barriers” during our work in the community to keep residents separate from the work and safe.