On January 23, 2026, construction officially began on The Geneva, a monumental office-to-residential conversion project that is set to become the largest of its kind in Washington, D.C. history. This ambitious project involves the transformation of two former office buildings in the heart of the Dupont Circle district into a 15-story mixed-use complex, featuring 532 residential units and ground-level commercial space. As the D.C. real estate market continues to evolve in response to changing work patterns and the demand for more housing, The Geneva project stands as a key step toward revitalizing downtown while adapting to modern needs.
The Geneva is being developed by Post Brothers, a well-established real estate firm, with significant backing from the D.C. government in the form of tax incentives and financing programs. These incentives are designed to make the conversion of vacant office spaces into residential units financially viable and appealing to developers. Among the 532 new apartment units, 60 will be designated as affordable housing, which reflects a growing focus on addressing the housing shortage in Washington, D.C. and creating more inclusive living options within the city.
This project comes at a time when office vacancy rates in major cities, including Washington, D.C., are higher than usual due to the shift to remote and hybrid work models, which became widespread during the COVID-19 pandemic. The need for office spaces has diminished, leaving many commercial properties underutilized. In response, D.C. officials have championed office-to-residential conversions as a solution to repurpose these vacant spaces while also providing much-needed housing in the city’s urban core.
The Geneva is expected to be a model for future conversions in Washington, D.C., as city officials and developers continue to explore innovative ways to meet the rising demand for housing while addressing the excess of empty office spaces. Since 2024, nearly 2,000 residential units and additional hotel rooms have been created through similar office-to-residential projects across the city, underscoring the growing importance of this type of development strategy. These conversions not only contribute to the city’s housing supply but also breathe new life into downtown areas, making them more vibrant and dynamic for residents and businesses alike.
Industry stakeholders agree that such conversions are becoming an essential part of urban property strategies in cities across the country. They represent a pragmatic solution to the challenges posed by remote work, economic shifts, and the evolving needs of modern cities. By repurposing underused office buildings, developers can create sustainable, mixed-use spaces that combine residential, commercial, and community-oriented elements. The Geneva, with its blend of market-rate and affordable housing, is a prime example of how cities can balance multiple demands in their development plans.
The D.C. government’s role in supporting projects like The Geneva with tax incentives and financing options is critical in ensuring the success of these conversions. The incentives help offset the costs of transforming commercial spaces into livable areas, which can be a complex and expensive process. As more cities face the dual challenges of vacant office buildings and growing housing demands, this type of public-private partnership could serve as a model for other urban areas looking to tackle similar issues.
When completed, The Geneva will provide much-needed housing in a desirable location, just steps away from Dupont Circle’s shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It will contribute to the ongoing revitalization of D.C.’s downtown area, which has experienced a shift in both its residential and commercial makeup in recent years. The project also highlights the city’s commitment to sustainability and urban renewal, as it transforms vacant spaces into high-quality residential units and integrates commercial elements that will help sustain the local economy.
In conclusion, The Geneva represents a significant milestone in Washington, D.C.’s ongoing efforts to adapt to new urban realities. The conversion of office buildings into residential units is becoming a crucial strategy for meeting the city’s housing needs while revitalizing underutilized parts of the urban core. With its mix of market-rate and affordable housing, as well as its potential to contribute to the broader downtown revitalization, The Geneva stands as an example of how cities can creatively address modern challenges and build more sustainable, livable urban environments. As construction progresses, this project will continue to set the stage for similar developments in Washington, D.C. and other cities looking to repurpose commercial real estate to meet the needs of today’s residents.
