"The newest condo in Lakeshore East — and the most ambitious."
Ratings Breakdown
Upper Level's exclusive rating for Chicago winter survivability — indoor parking, pedway access, CTA proximity, and wind exposure.
The Rundown
Cirrus is the newest and most premium condo building in Lakeshore East, completed in 2021 by bKL Architecture for Magellan Development Group and Lendlease. At 47 floors with 350 units, it represents the final phase of the Lakeshore East master plan — and it shows in the finishes, amenities, and design.
The building's amenity stack is the best in the neighborhood: both an outdoor infinity pool and an indoor pool, a full fitness center with yoga studio, private dining, a resident lounge with bar, coworking space, and a theater room. The finishes are new-construction quality throughout. Harbor Drive puts you at the eastern edge of the neighborhood with direct harbor views.
Cirrus is priced at the top of the Lakeshore East market — both purchase price and HOA fees reflect the new-construction premium. For buyers who want the newest, most amenity-rich building in the neighborhood, it's the clear choice.
Who Lives Here
Buyers who specifically want new construction and are willing to pay for it. Mix of professionals in their 30s–50s, some empty nesters, and a handful of investors. People who've done their research and decided Lakeshore East is where they want to be — and want the best version of it.
The Neighborhood
Harbor Drive is the quietest and most residential address in Lakeshore East — you're at the eastern edge of the neighborhood, with harbor views and direct access to the lakefront path. The park is right there. The Loop is a 10-minute walk or a short L ride.
What You Get
Elevator Experience
Upper Level Intel
Dual Pool Setup
Cirrus has both an outdoor infinity pool and an indoor pool — the only building in Lakeshore East with both. The outdoor pool has harbor views. In summer, it's genuinely spectacular.
New HOA — Reserve Fund Building
As a 2021 building, the HOA reserve fund is still being established. Request the current reserve study and budget before buying. New buildings can have unexpected first-year expenses as systems settle.
Harbor Views vs. Park Views
East-facing units get harbor and lake views. West-facing units get the park and skyline. Both are excellent — know which you prefer before choosing a unit.
The Good & The Not-So-Good
Wins
- ✓Newest building in Lakeshore East — new construction quality throughout
- ✓Best amenity stack in the neighborhood (dual pools, yoga, coworking, theater)
- ✓Harbor views from many units
- ✓Quiet Harbor Drive address
- ✓Strong HOA from day one
Watch Out
- ✗Most expensive building in Lakeshore East — both purchase price and HOA
- ✗No pedway access
- ✗New HOA — reserve fund still being established
- ✗Parking is additional ($300/mo)
The Verdict
Cirrus is the best new-construction condo in Lakeshore East and one of the best in Chicago. The amenities, finishes, and location are all at the top of the market. The price reflects it. If you want the newest, most complete building in the neighborhood and can absorb the premium, Cirrus is the answer.
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