Part of the second phase of The Yards, a sustainable mixed-use community in Washington, D.C.’s Navy Yard neighborhood, Vela delivers 379 mixed-income residences and 16,000 square feet of retail space. This is just one component of the master plan that ultimately will include 3,400 units, 500,000 square feet, a hotel, 1.8 million square feet of office space, and an award-winning waterfront park on the Anacostia River.
Project Details
Location: Washington, D.C.
Developer: Brookfield Properties
Architect: Perkins Eastman
Builder: HITT Contracting
Interior Designer: Arrowstreet
Opened: April 2024
Number of Units: 379
Unit Mix: One- to three-bedrooms
Rents: $1,350 to $6,200
Vela offers residents a range of homes from one- and two-bedroom apartments to penthouses and townhome-style residences. The townhomes feature double-height living areas, first-floor powder rooms, and terraces for those who want extra space. In addition, 76 units are available for residents earning up to 50% of the area median income.
The design focuses on holistic wellness for residents and draws inspiration from the Danish concept of “hygge,” a cozy quality that provides a feeling of contentment. The building amenities center around a lifestyle that promotes tranquility and connection. The Fjord fitness center is a double-height bridge that spans between the residential wings with access to premium equipment and a workout studio. The rooftop pool deck features a lap pool, lounge chairs, and resort-inspired cabanas with views of the skyline. Adjacent to the pool are grilling stations, fireside seating, and communal dining. Vela also includes a rooftop clubroom and game lounge a well as individual work pods with sit-to-stand desks and a group room for meetings.
Andrew Rugge, ©Perkins Eastman
“Vela sets a new benchmark for mixed-income living in a dynamic urban setting. As the first multifamily project in the second phase of The Yards, a 48-acre riverfront redevelopment in D.C.—it exemplifies thoughtful design, holistic wellness, and architectural distinction,” says Brett Swiatocha, associate principal at architect Perkins Eastman. “From its floating fitness bridge to its courtyard oasis, Vela brings light, dignity, and innovation to every resident experience, whether affordable or market-rate.”
