The transformation of an office tower in Bethesda, Maryland, into a modern workplace with up-to-date amenities and sustainability features turned an aging 15-story building into one that offers an elevated tenant experience.
A $25 million redevelopment of the complex at 2 Bethesda Metro Center by its owner, the Chevy Chase Land Co., wrapped up early last year.
The main components of the refurbishment involved relocating the main entrance, adding a fitness center and conference facility, and creating a new amenity pavilion.
The successful completion of the renovation earned the project a 2025 CoStar Impact Award for redevelopment of the year in the Washington, D.C., market, as judged by real estate professionals familiar with the market.
Close to the Bethesda Metro station, tenants in the more than 315,000-square-foot building include professional services firm Citrin Cooperman and Cushman & Wakefield, according to CoStar data.
The Peruvian restaurant Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar is expected to open on the ground floor in the spring.
About the project: Also included in the reimagined property, originally built in the late 1990s, is a plant wall, a lounge, a yoga room, an outdoor terrace, refurbished common space and a day-care center on site. The new amenity pavilion stands in place of 3,500 square feet of underutilized retail space.
What the judges said: “Positive influence on Bethesda metro area with new entry, ground scape and new retail. Great transformation,” Cushman & Wakefield Executive Managing Director Gary Helminski said.
They made it happen: Chevy Chase Land Co.’s John Ziegenhein, Jason Winans, Alex O'Brien and Dana Welsch were involved in the project. Property management has been handled by Pillar Development's Julia Wright as well as CBRE’s David Forster and Rick Emelio. Leasing has been handled by Cushman & Wakefield’s Peter Rosan, Katie Gormley and Kevin McGloon.
Senior market manager Nina Thilert contributed.