"The newest rental in Lakeshore East — built for the modern renter."
Ratings Breakdown
Upper Level's exclusive rating for Chicago winter survivability — indoor parking, pedway access, CTA proximity, and wind exposure.
The Rundown
Cascade is the newest rental building in Lakeshore East, completed in 2021 alongside Cirrus as the final phase of the Magellan master plan. The 37-story crystalline tower by bKL Architecture has 503 units and a modern amenity stack designed for the post-pandemic renter.
The building's rooftop pool, yoga studio, coworking space, and pet spa reflect a contemporary amenity philosophy. New construction quality throughout — finishes are fresh, systems are new, and the building hasn't accumulated the wear of older Lakeshore East rentals.
Cascade is the rental counterpart to Cirrus — both completed in 2021, both by bKL Architecture, both representing the final phase of the neighborhood. If you want new construction rental in Lakeshore East, these are your two options.
Who Lives Here
Young professionals in their late 20s and 30s who want new construction and Lakeshore East's quality of life. Tech, finance, consulting. Some couples. People who specifically chose Lakeshore East over the West Loop or River North.
The Neighborhood
Waterside Drive at the southern end of the Lakeshore East cluster — harbor views, quiet address, easy access to the Riverwalk and lakefront. The park is a short walk. The Loop is close.
What You Get
Elevator Experience
Upper Level Intel
Negotiate — Magellan Offers Concessions
Magellan Residential is known to offer free months, reduced deposits, and parking deals on longer leases. Never take the first offer, especially in winter.
New Construction Quality
As a 2021 building, everything is new — appliances, systems, finishes. You won't be dealing with aging HVAC or dated kitchens for years. That's worth something in a neighborhood with a lot of 2000s-era buildings.
The Good & The Not-So-Good
Wins
- ✓Newest rental building in Lakeshore East — new construction quality
- ✓Rooftop pool with harbor views
- ✓Modern amenity stack (yoga, coworking, pet spa)
- ✓Quiet Waterside Drive address
- ✓Responsive Magellan Residential management
Watch Out
- ✗Pricing is at the top of the Lakeshore East rental market
- ✗No pedway access
- ✗High unit count (503) means less intimate community
The Verdict
Cascade is the best new-construction rental option in Lakeshore East. The finishes, amenities, and location all deliver. It's priced at the top of the market, but for renters who want the newest building in one of Chicago's best neighborhoods, it's the right choice.
Getting Out of Chicago
Ask Upper Level
Add to the Record
Know something we don't?
Residents, former residents, and people who toured Cascade: your intel makes this review more accurate for everyone. Anonymous. No account needed.
Compare this building
See how Cascade stacks up against similar buildings side by side.
Compare BuildingsYou Might Also Like
Aqua Tower
The most photographed building in Chicago — and the residential experience mostly lives up to the hype.
St. Regis Chicago
Chicago's tallest residential tower — and it earns the superlative.
The Shoreham
Lakeshore East's best value — great location, solid building, reasonable prices.