This Week’s D.C. Deal Sheet: First Buildings Open At 2.2M SF North Bethesda Development

JULY 12, 2024 | Written by Emily Wishingrad | BISNOW

The first residential buildings at Strathmore Square, a huge transit-oriented development in North Bethesda, have opened.

Royale, one of a pair of new apartment buildings at Strathmore Square.

Ravel and Royale — twin “biophilic-designed and musically-inspired” apartment communities totaling 220 units — opened this month. Fivesquares Development partnered with Apartment Investment and Management Co. on the projects.

Fivesquares and WMATA are the joint developers on Strathmore Square, a 2.2M SF primarily residential development at the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro station.

“At Ravel and Royale, residents can escape the bustle of city life through nature that flows into the building,” AIMCO Senior Vice President of Development Matt Hopkins said in a statement. “With lush green spaces, natural art installations, and artistic elements thoughtfully integrated throughout, these residences offer a unique living experience that fosters inspiration and tranquility.”

Ravel rises nine stories and houses 49 units while Royale is 10 stories with 171 units. Royale holds the majority of the shared amenity spaces, including a Scandinavian dry sauna, two wellness rooms, a pool pet spa and a 5,500 SF CityDance performing arts center coming to the building’s ground floor.