Welcome To THE
City In A Garden

Based on the inspiration of James Rouse and the modern principles of a city, Merriweather District is an ecosystem brimming with fresh possibilities and a bright future. It’s a new type of destination for the way we do business and life today.

Merriweather District is a fresh take on a city, with all the food, events, and dining you’d find in a city, but without the hassle. More green. More space for living. James Rouse said, “Whatever ought to be can be.” That’s what you’ll find here.

Columbia is consistently ranked as one of the “Best Cities to Live in America” and one of the “Best U.S. Cities for Jobs.” And we have our fair share of impressive rankings from top publications, including WalletHub, MarketWatch, and Niche.

Graphic that reads how Columbia was founded by James Rouse and originally called "Next America."
Graphic that reads 1963-64, Rouse Company acquires 14,000 acres in Howard County, Maryland.
1966: Architect Frank Gehry is hired for construction, building Rouse Company HQ and Merriweather Post Pavilion, among other buildings.
1970-90: Nine villages and amenities are built to surround downtown Columbia.
Graphic that reads: 2010: The Downtown Columbia plan is adopted.
2014: The original Frank Gehry building is reused for Whole Foods in Columbia, Maryland.
Merriweather District timeline graphic: "2020-22: Juniper and Marlow apartments are delivered."
Merriweather District timeline graphic: "2022-23: Work on lakefront kicks off with the development of a premier medical office building—10285 Lakefront."
Text reads: "Up Next: Merriweather District comes to life with more residential, retail, and community events."

Born From An Innovative Urban Design

The original vision for Columbia: Create a city in a garden where people and ideas could thrive and grow. As the nation’s leading master-planned community developer, Howard Hughes is evolving that vision with Merriweather District – and adding value for generations to come. Community, culture and sustainability are at the core of all we do. More than planning developments, we shape communities with heart and soul.

Howard Hughes believes in fostering vibrant, inclusive environments where individuals and ideas thrive through thoughtfully designed spaces that inspire connections, encourage innovation, and prioritize the well-being of residents, tenants and visitors alike.

Howard Hughes