Construction of The Astrid, a new development at 5159 Pooks Hill Road in Bethesda, has been advancing at an increasingly-rapid pace over the last few months. The photos below are in chronological order. One factor that has speeded construction is the use of prefabricated steel for the floors above the ground level. It is trucked in (as seen in photo at top), and quickly assembled into place. Neighbors report some traffic back-ups during brief street closures, but that the project is otherwise proceeding smoothly.
The Astrid is niche-marketing itself as a hygge-inspired building, referring to the Scandanavian principle of contentment and pleasure derived from comfortable or cozy environments, which has become a hyped lifestyle fad in America in recent years. "The Danish call it Hygge. We call it The Astrid," the development's website says. The Astrid's developer is EQT Exeter, and the property will be managed by Bozzuto. A fall 2023 delivery is anticipated.
