DISTRICTDIRECT™
NEWS

Brookland is DC’s “Little Rome”

Brookland is a suburb in Northeast Washington D.C. It is nicknamed “The Little Rome” as it boasts a large number of Catholic institutions, including the Franciscan Monastery, the National Shrine of Immaculate Conception and the massive Catholic University which houses more than 10,000 students. In recent years, the area has enjoyed particular popularity in the eyes of tourists and people in search of the urban lifestyle in D.C..

A Neighborhood Reinvented

The once quaint and quite unremarkable Brookland has gone through quite impactful development processes over the last few years. With new residential units, retail space, restaurants and entertainment hubs, the neighborhood has reinvented itself with a fresh new character, and more reasons to visit it than ever.

The Monroe Street Market project, delivered 57,000 square feet of retail space with prominent tenants including Barnes & Noble, Bus Boys and Poets and others. The pedestrianized Arts Walk now boasts a number of art studios and gathering places, and it is home to a weekly farmer’s market. 12th Street, the main shopping drag, is now home to new restaurants, as well as a number of bars and shops, including the Yes! Organic Market, providing residents with the much sought-after retail and entertainment options.

Mixing Up the Market

Along with a mixed-use town center and new homes adjacent to the Brookland-CUA metro station. Farther from the metro station, a number of family home developments and apartment buildings were constructed.

As a result, the real estate market of Brookland is more diverse than ever. It is also relatively affordable! A selection of historic single-family Colonials, Tudors and Victorians are available for under $800,000, offering a rather quiet and spacious living very close to the Capitol. At the same time, the new projects fill the gap for modern low-maintenance housing options, offering a wide range of apartments and family homes.

Brookland is a mixture of two worlds. One cherishes the laid-back suburban lifestyle in historic townhomes, while the other embraces the urban lifestyle of arts, culture and entertainment. It’s the perfect symbiosis of both that brings together the residents, making Brookland one of the most diverse and eclectic neighborhoods in D.C. Whether you’re a hipster, a vegan, an artist or a young professional looking for an interesting place to live in, you are certain to find your place in Little Rome.