"Industrial-modern Fulton Market, at a human scale."
Ratings Breakdown
Upper Level's exclusive rating for Chicago winter survivability — indoor parking, pedway access, CTA proximity, and wind exposure.
The Rundown
The Mason opened in 2019 as Marquette Companies' interpretation of Fulton Market's industrial heritage — exposed concrete ceilings, wood-imprinted finishes, and a design that nods to the brick masons who defined the neighborhood before the restaurants arrived. At 14 floors and 263 units, it's deliberately mid-rise in a neighborhood increasingly dominated by 25–30 story towers.
The building was designed by Brininstool + Lynch (now Park Fowler Plus) and built by Power Construction. The result is a building that feels grounded and authentic in a way that some of the newer glass towers don't. Soft loft-style finishes, exposed structural elements, and premium locally-manufactured custom cabinetry throughout.
In September 2025, Waterton acquired The Mason from Marquette for $89.5 million — a management change that's fresh enough to be worth watching. Waterton is a respected national operator, but any ownership transition brings a period of adjustment.
Who Lives Here
A mix of young professionals and couples who want Fulton Market access without the noise of the main corridor. People who appreciate design — the exposed concrete ceilings and industrial aesthetic attract residents who care how their space feels. More settled than the newest towers, less scene-y than The Dylan.
The Neighborhood
180 N Ada is in the quieter, more residential pocket of Fulton Market — close enough to Morgan Street to walk to everything, far enough from Randolph to avoid the weekend restaurant crowds. It's the same "party-adjacent" advantage that 166 N Aberdeen and The Parker offer, but at a lower price point.
What You Get
Elevator Experience
Upper Level Intel
New Ownership: Waterton Acquired in Sept 2025
Waterton purchased The Mason from Marquette Companies in September 2025 for $89.5 million. Waterton is a well-regarded national operator with a strong track record in Chicago (they also manage The Mason's neighbor, 166 N Aberdeen). The transition is recent enough that residents are still adjusting to the new management team and policies. Worth asking about during a tour.
The Good & The Not-So-Good
Wins
- ✓Industrial-modern design with genuine character
- ✓Exposed concrete ceilings and soft loft finishes
- ✓Quieter Ada Street location vs. Randolph/Fulton corridor
- ✓2019 construction — relatively new
- ✓More affordable than the newest Fulton Market towers
- ✓Waterton management (nationally respected operator)
Watch Out
- ✗14 floors — no dramatic views
- ✗Waterton ownership is new (Sept 2025) — management transition period
- ✗Smaller amenity package than The Row or The Dylan
- ✗Units on the smaller side for the price point
The Verdict
The Mason is the best value play in Fulton Market for renters who want genuine design character without paying for the newest tower. The industrial-modern aesthetic is the real thing — not a glass box with an exposed-brick accent wall. The 14-floor height means no dramatic views, but the Ada Street location is quieter than the main Fulton Market corridor. The Waterton acquisition is worth watching.
Getting Out of Chicago
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