The Tania Ivey Real Estate Team Inc.

Crystal City: Into the Future 

Crystal City is one of the “Urban Villages” of Arlington County, Virginia. Construction began in 1963, and the first building was called the “Crystal House,” after its large crystal chandelier. Subsequent buildings were named Crystal this or that, and “Crystal City” was born. A self-contained network of office buildings, retail establishments and residential spaces, Crystal City is the ultimate location for convenience. The Crystal City Business Improvement District is currently planning a major expansion and renovation of the area, which is expected to grow by 30% over the next ten years. The time is ripe to for investing in Crystal City real estate.  

Vertical Integration of Business, Retail and Residential

Crystal City began as a high density housing area for federal workers commuting to Washington, D.C., and working in the Patent and Trade Office in Crystal City. When construction began, the modern practice of vertical integration of business, retail and residential living was a new concept for the D.C. area. Washington, D.C. limits have construction height limits of 13 stories, so that they are not taller than the Capitol Building. The height limits added during the 20^th century were put in place so that modern skyscrapers could not overshadow the National Mall. Crystal City was born as an answer to the space issues.  

Crystal City contains over thirty office building complexes, thirty residential complexes and over twenty retail complexes. All real estate spaces are connected by a vast underground network of tunnels, handy for quick access during crowded times on the streets, and comfortable passing during inclement weather. 

Crystal City Planning and Growth

The Crystal City Business Improvement District began in 2006, and is a public-private partnership of businesses, both retail and commercial, residential properties and other interested parties. The BID has embarked on a planning process to increase business, retail and residential real estate availability over the next 30 years.  

The development plan for Arlington County calls for high-density development around business and transportation hubs, and preservation of single-family home neighborhoods away from the hubs. The expansion and renovation plan for Crystal City includes additional parks, supermarkets, alternative transportation methods, bike lanes and other amenities for residents. Arlington County, Virginia has been one of the most successful urban counties to manage development to retain neighborly, resident-friendly working and living spaces. The “Urban Villages” of Arlington County maintain a close-knit, small-town community feel, while providing access to amenities across the river in Washington, D.C. and right inside the villages.  

Crystal Green is a sub-program of the BID that focuses on eco-friendly initiatives throughout Crystal City. Crystal Green’s three core principles include 1) Energy Efficiency 2) Environmental Quality and 3)Recycling and Reuse. The Crystal Green task force works with the planning process to ensure that new development is eco-friendly, but is also assisting in cleaning and retrofitting existing structures, parks and open spaces.  

Arts and Entertainment

Residents of Crystal City can work, live and relax right in their own backyard, or balcony. Entertainment opportunities abound. Mondays during the summer, an outdoor Film Festival attracts people of all ages. The summer of 2008 festival will showcase all of the James Bond films, and will feature related activities. The Community Cycling Ride, including a 23 mile tour of the city and an 8 mile family fun ride, is a non-competitive ride to encourage families to see the sights on two wheels and stay active. Crystal city has hosted the Marine Corps Marathon for over 30 years. Residents gather along the streets to encourage and cheer on the runners. Music festivals and free concerts rock the city throughout the summer, making Crystal City a great place for young professionals to live and work.  

Shopping and Dining

Crystal City has many national chain stores, as well as unique boutiques stocked with interesting clothing and gifts from around the world. Restaurants of every international cuisine are available. The development plan also calls for an expansion of shopping and dining opportunities. For die-hard spenders, the Fashion Centre at Pentagon is a short Metro ride away, providing thousands of shopping opportunities.  

Crystal City: Convenience and Community

Crystal City is one of the most convenient places to live in the D.C. area. It is home to Regan National Airport, for easy flight access. It is a short Metro ride from downtown Washington, D.C., making it an ideal spot for commuters. Its integration of business, retail and residences provide many recreational and employment opportunities right at home. Its thriving community arts organizations and the Business Improvement District make Crystal City a perfect place to call home.