Vela stands as a pioneering mixed-income residential development in Washington’s dynamic and evolving Navy Yard neighborhood, offering both affordable and luxury apartments.

The 379-unit building combines one- and two-bedroom apartments, penthouses, and townhome-style lofts, with 76 units reserved for residents earning up to 50 percent of the area’s median income. The ground floor features 16,000 sf of retail space, enhancing the neighborhood experience.

Inspired by “hygge,” a Danish term for holistic wellness through thoughtful design, Vela offers many fitness- and wellness-driven amenities. The landmark Fjord Fitness Center, housed in a striking double-height bridge visible from the street, spans 100 feet across the courtyard with a rooftop pool deck overlooking Yards Place. A transparent glass-enclosed staircase connects communal spaces throughout the building, fostering community while maintaining visual connections.

At Vela’s heart lies a 15,000 sf planted courtyard that functions both as a biophilic retreat and an innovative stormwater management system. This space filters runoff through specialized bioretention soil where plants naturally process water, nutrients, and pollutants—significantly improving water quality before it enters municipal systems.

The development demonstrates climate resilience through forward-thinking design: the ground floor is strategically elevated above the 500-year floodplain, while critical utility infrastructure occupies the second level, protecting against sea-level rise and extreme weather events.

With its mix of affordability, sustainability, and standout design, Vela sets a high bar for future development in Navy Yard.