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A Tale of Two Cities: Moving From New York to Chicago

There’s a reason New York and downtown Chicago are world renowned cities. Moving from New York to Chicago? Here are some of the biggest similarities and differences you need to know between the two.

Moving from New York City to downtown Chicago

The Chicago River runs through the heart of the city

Biggest Similarity

One thing New Yorkers and Chicagoans alike appreciate about their cities is the vibrant and distinct culture of each neighborhood. If you like the elegant brownstones of The Village, take a stroll down Dearborn Street in the Gold Coast or down Sheffield in Lincoln Park.

Moving from New York City to downtown Chicago

Chicago’s Gold Coast and Lincoln Park neighborhoods are home to stunning brownstones, much like the ones you’d find in The Village

If SoHo is your vibe, check out the chic brick and timber lofts, galleries, and world-renowned restaurants of Fulton Market. Is Brooklyn more your scene? Head to Logan Square, Wicker Park, and West Town for a vibrant hipster artist scene mixed with tree-lined residential streets, coffee shops, and farmers markets. Another thing Chi City and the Big Apple have in common– both sure made great use of their waterfronts! If you’re seeking Cooney Island vibes, head to Navy Pier for boat cruises, carnival rides, the Ferris wheel, dining, fireworks, and incredible live events. When you’ve gotten your fix of the pier, stroll to North Avenue or Oak Street beaches for a fun round of volleyball or relaxing water-side yoga class.

Moving from New York to Chicago

Navy Pier is home to Chicago’s famous Ferris wheel, first designed to host the World’s Fair in the late 1800s!

Biggest Difference

Although Chicago streets feel quite bustling to Chicagoans, New Yorkers always marvel at how “little traffic” there is on both streets and sidewalks compared to downtown Manhattan. Chicago streets can get a little backed up during rush hour but for the most part, it’s easy to breeze between neighborhoods. New Yorkers also appreciate how easy it is to go for a run on the sidewalks compared to Manhattan and how many additional running and biking trails there are. From the 606 trail that runs through the western neighborhoods,  the Lakefront trail that runs through the eastern neighborhoods, and the Riverwalk that runs through the center of the city, to the smaller paths through any number of spacious local parks, like the two mile loop around Humboldt Park or the 5.5 mile loop through and around Lincoln Park, there are plenty of places to be in nature and unwind in the heart of downtown.

Moving from New York to Chicago

Many smaller lakes and ponds with running paths are scattered throughout Chicago’s neighborhoods

Moving from New York to Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to guide you in your search and answer your questions. We are also offering both virtual and in person apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials including free rent concessions!

Halloween Activities Near Downtown Chicago

With Halloween activities galore, it’s no mystery why Chicago was rated one of the top 10 Halloween cities in the country. There are so many options in each neighborhood, the hardest part of choosing your Halloween plans will be narrowing down the list. Here are some ideas!

Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade

If you’re looking for Halloween activities and festive fall things to do near Lakeview or Lincoln Park, Haunted Halsted is the place to be. The event will include a parade, live music, fire performers, and a costume contest starting at 6pm on Halloween, followed by an afterparty.

Looking for things to do near Lakeview and Lincoln Park in Chicago's north side this weekend?

Night of 1000 Jack-O-Lanterns

Meander through the stunning landscapes at the Chicago Botanic Garden as over a thousand hand carved pumpkins light up the path. The evening will also include live carving demos, costumed entertainers, and seasonal fare for purchase. Be sure to get your tickets ahead of time online!

Arts in the Dark

On Hallowseve-eve (October 30th) head to State Street in the Loop for Arts in the Dark. Arts in the Dark is a parade and showcase of Chicago’s vibrant and diverse cultural and creative scenes. There is no charge to attend and the event will run 6-8pm.

Halloween activities near you in Chicago!

Chicago Ghost Tour Pub Crawl

Tour Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood and all its most haunted places on the Chicago Ghost Tour Pub Crawl. With stops at festive bars and spooky stories along the way, this tour is a great way to spend Halloween! You can also reserve a private tour with your group.

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours.

741 N Wells New River North Development

A new River North development by Antunovich Associates is underway at 741 N Wells. The new 21 story tower  is expected to be 255 feet upon completion and will include 9,400 square feet of retail space and 178 apartments, comprised of 70 studios, 68 one bedrooms, 40 two bedrooms, and penthouses. 741 N Wells is also expected to have state of the art amenities across multiple amenity levels.

Luxury apartments for rent near 741 N Wells

A rendering courtesy of Antunovich Associates. Shout out to the DAC office, visible in the lower left-hand corner!

The second and third levels will house parking with additional bicycle parking for up to 150 bikes as well as a dog run and dog spa. Fourth floor amenities include a rooftop deck, a fitness center, and outdoor fitness space, as well as private terraces for select units. Select units on other floors will have traditional balconies. The top floor amenity level will include even more fitness space, a club room, and outdoor pool deck, and ample work from home space.

Luxury apartments for rent near 741 N Wells

Some of the outdoor amenity spaces are visible from this arial view rendering courtesy of Antunovich Associates

The exterior will be a contemporary loft style, featuring floor to ceiling glass and metal accents, consistent with the style of the surrounding Gallery District portion of River North.  The existing structure at 755 N Wells and nearby Brehon Pub will not be affected.

741 N Wells is still in early stages, so we’ll keep you posted on any new “developments” with this River North development!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago’s River North neighborhood on Wells Street? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours.

Guide To Living In West Loop

Imagine living somewhere so interesting and exciting that people come from all over the world to experience it, and all you need to do to enjoy the lifestyle is step outside your door. That’s what life is like in the West Loop neighborhood, Chicago’s vibrant home to unique restaurants, unparalleled shopping and family-friendly events.

Iconic Location Near Downtown

Downtown Chicago has been home to the city’s business district ever since the first cable cars transported people to the area in 1882. When the Union elevated railroad was built in 1895, it circled the business district in a railway loop, and the area’s nickname stuck.

As its name implies, the West Loop is the neighborhood immediately to the west of Chicago’s downtown. Whereas the Loop’s office buildings are glass and steel, many structures in West Loop are former warehouses that once supported Chicago’s meat-packing businesses of the 19th century. The sturdy brick buildings were designed for practicality and still boast their industrial integrity. Today, however, rather than factories, the pragmatic warehouse spaces are home to boutique hotels, interesting galleries and hip hangouts. New, luxurious apartments are completing the picture.

Enjoy Unique Dining

Foodies rejoice! West Loop is home to delicious dining experiences. Visit Restaurant Row, the group of restaurants located on Randolph between Halsted Street and Ogden Avenue, for a selection of unique cuisine.

The Fulton Market warehouse district food hall — which stretches several blocks along Fulton Market Street — is home to 18 bars and eateries. Check out the bakery goods from Beatrix (834 W. Fulton Market), the locally sourced ingredients at Fulton Market Kitchen (311 N. Sangamon St.) or the rock-‘n-roll burgers from Kuma’s Corner (852 W. Fulton Market).

Chicago French Market, located at 131 North Clinton between Washington and Randolph, is a food hall featuring dining from more than two dozen local restaurateurs.

Experience Interesting Activities 

Feel like climbing the walls? At Brooklyn Boulders, you can! The West Loop rock climbing facility provides challenging adventures for advanced climbers and classes for beginners.

Bad Axe Throwing is the place to go if you’ve always wanted to throw hatchets at wooden targets. Be prepared to give your arms a workout.


Celebrate Chicago’s Roots

Old St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, located at 700 West Adams Street, dates to 1846. It survived Chicago’s Great Fire of 1871 and has been described as a cornerstone of Chicago’s Irish heritage and culture.

Don’t miss Greektown, located at Halsted Street between Van Buran and Madison Streets. A celebration of Chicago’s Greek community, Greektown is home to traditional Greek restaurants, delis and bakeries, as well as the National Hellenic Museum, a center dedicated to Greek culture and the Greek American immigrant experience.

Experience Street and Music Festivals

Chicago Beer Festival at the nearby Field Museum is a celebration of what ales you! The October event features dozens of brews, beers and ales. Tickets required.

Summertime Movies in the Park are free and family friendly. Locations rotate through Fulton River Park, Heritage Green Park, Mary Bartleme Park, Skinner Park and Union Park.

Pitchfork Music Festival occurs in September in Union Park. The three-day music fest features national touring acts with local musicians and bands. 

Randolph Street Market takes place at Plumbers Hall (1350 W Washington Blvd).

Taste of Randolph, at 900 W Randolph St. in June, donates proceeds to the West Loop Community Organization.

Taste of Greektown occurs in August at 300 S. Halsted St. and features Greek food, music and dancing.

Take Advantage of Easy Transportation 

Like many parts of Chicago, the West Loop is a walkable area, where you can get dinner or do a little shopping on foot or by bike. You’re connected to the rest of Chicago by the CTA’s (Chicago Transit Authority) Pink and Green rail lines at the Morgan Street station, or via the Blue Line at the UIC-Halsted Street station.

Plus, the West Loop is home to Union Station (225 South Canal Street), which opened in 1925. The iconic train station is the transportation hub for the Metra commuter rail (if you need a ride to the suburbs) and Amtrak trains (if you’re traveling by rail across the country). Union Station is so photogenic, it has even been featured in Hollywood movies, including The Untouchables, starring Kevin Costner.

Enjoy Nearby Theatre 

Residents of West Loop are just blocks away from live performances by the Joffrey Ballet, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Broadway plays, the latest films and major touring musical acts. Some of Chicago’s finest theatre experiences are located just one neighborhood away, in the Loop, and include:

  • Auditorium Theatre (50 East Ida B. Wells Drive)
  • Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W Randolph St.)
  • Chicago Theatre (175 N. State St.)
  • Gene Siskel Film Center (165 N. State)
  • Goodman Theatre (170 N Dearborn St.)
  • James M. Nederlander Theatre (24 W. Randolph St.)

Don’t Miss Your Opportunity to Have a West Loop Lifestyle 

Bring your walking shoes, appetite and love of exploration. Living in the West Loop is for anyone who enjoys a lifestyle of luxury, delicious dining and unique experiences. Visit Downtown Apartment Company’s current apartment listings in Chicago’s West Loop to find your new home.

Hugo River North Apartments

Two new luxury buildings, known as HUGO, are underway at 411 W Chicago and 751 N Hudson. HUGO (a blend of “Hudson” and “Chicago”) is expected to take about 18 months to complete and, between the two 10 story buildings, will feature a total of 227 luxury rental units, retail space, and amenities upon completion.

Each of the two buildings at HUGO will feature its own amenities. Both 751 N Hudson and 411 W Chicago will be equipped with dog runs, bike rooms, work from home pods, conference rooms, multiple common outdoor terraces, outdoor kitchens will grilling stations, 10th floor skyline amenity decks, and of course, state of the art fitness centers in each building. Additionally, each building will also feature its own unique outdoor spaces, with a 2nd floor outdoor pool deck, cabanas, and fire pits in 751 N Hudson and an extra large, landscaped sun deck with lounge chairs in 411 W Chicago. HUGO will also feature a total of over 18,000 square feet of ground level retail, although the specific commercial tenants have not been announced.

Luxury apartments for rent near Groupon and Brown Line in River North Chicago and Hudson

Rendering of Hugo, with Onni’s The Hudson visible in the background. Courtesy of LG and NORR.

This western portion of River North, bordered by Chicago Ave to the north, Grand to the south, Orleans to the east, and the river to the west,  has gained tremendous popularity in recent years. The immediately surrounding area was home to lavish mansions and privately owned condos, but didn’t have much by the way of managed rental buildings until Onni Group’s successful lease up of The Hudson, at 750 N Hudson adjacent to the site of HUGO. With the Groupon headquarters just a few blocks away as well a multitude of other new offices that have recently moved into the area, there has been increased demand for luxury rentals from those who want to live a hop and skip from work. This part of River North is also popular because it has a more quiet, tree-lined, residential neighborhood feel than you would get in the other more lively parts of River North further east. Although quieter, this area still offers the best of River North with excellent restaurants, parks, salons, and coffee shops tucked between each quaint street. It’s no mystery why so many people are eager to call this area home!

HUGO Chicago Hudson Luxury Pet Friendly Apartments with a Dog Run in River North

Arial view of the two HUGO buildings with each amenity deck visible. Rendering courtesy of LG and NORR.

Looking for luxury apartments near River North? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours.

One Central South Loop Development by Landmark

Megadevelopments, or grand-scale developments combining residential, commercial, and public use amenity components, have been the trend as of late. One Central is one such megadevelopment in the pipeline with a transit-based focus.

Under current plans from developer, Landmark, One Central will transform about 32 acres of rail yards between the McCormick Place Convention Center and the Museum Campus on the Near South Side into a new neighborhood. According to the Chicago Department of Planning and Development, this “new neighborhood” will consist of high rises totaling 9,050 residential units, 1.5 million square feet of retail space, 9.45 million square feet of office space, 1.5 million square feet of hotel space, 350,000 square feet of event space, and parking, all anchored by a new multi-modal transit hub.

Soldier Field One Central Chicago Landmark Development

Rendering courtesy of Gensler Architects

In an interview with the Sun Times, Bob Dunn, president of Landmark development, says he looks at the transit hub as “being transformative for the next generation”. He explained that the 3.8 billion dollar transit project would be a game changer in Chicago transportation by connecting the Metra (which mostly services Chicagoland suburban commuters), the CTA (which services neighborhoods of Chicago proper), the Amtrak (which services neighboring suburbs as well as other states), and a new fourth transit line that would connect McCormick Place convention center directly to downtown. Dunn projects this new hub where the four transit lines would converge would eventually serve twice as many people as Union Station currently does and went on to frame One Central as “a civic project” because of all the people it would serve.

South Loop apartments for rent near downtown Chicago Union Station and Soldier Field

Rendering courtesy of Gensler and Landmark Development

A new factor in the equation of One Central is the Chicago Bears’ decision to move their stadium to suburban Arlington Heights from their current stadium at Soldier Field, adjacent to the site of One Central. Although there is hardly any concrete information on what’s to become of Soldier Field, given Dunn’s existing plans for the surrounding area, one can speculate he’ll have a vision for the space.

One Central Chicago South Loop

A rendering showing context for the site of One Central, courtesy of Landmark Development

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours!

Union: Onni Group’s Fulton Market Apartments

Onni Group brought its first development to Chicago less than 5 years ago and has already taken the city by storm. From the wildly successful lease up of their first development, The Hudson, in River North, this year’s River North delivery, 369 Grand, and of course the multi-phase three tower development at Old Town Park, it seems that Onni has cracked the code in terms of giving Chicago renters exactly what they want. Hallmarks of Onni’s developments include top tier condo grade finishes and some of the highest quality appliances on the market in every unit, thoughtful amenities like ample work-from-home areas, pet amenities, and 24/7 package receiving, and extra touches of luxury, like spa inspired Himalayan salt saunas, oversized hot tubs, basketball courts, music rooms, sparkling water on tap, grand lobby spaces, herb and produce gardens for residents, and having multiple outdoor pools in a single building so residents can find their own poolside “vibe”.

With all these successful lease ups, Onni is not slowing down anytime soon and has multiple projects in the pipeline. One project that has garnered recent attention is Union, at 354 Union Avenue in Fulton Market. Upon completion, Union will be approximately 400 feet and will offer 373 luxury rentals as well as 143 parking spots. Union is being designed by architecture firm, Pappageorge Haymes.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the West Loop and Fulton Market?

A rendering of 354 N Union Avenue courtesy of Pappageorge Haymes

The development at 354 N Union Ave broke ground this past April and is expected to take two years to complete. Early sketches and renderings suggest Union will have a host of state of the art amenity spaces, including an expansive outdoor pool deck. The finished high rise is expected to have a sleek, glassy exterior with aluminum balconies and metal accents.

Pet friendly apartments for rent in Fulton Market near downtown Chicago

Sketch of third floor amenity space courtesy of Pappageorge Haymes

Like neighboring building, K2 Apartments, Union will have a pedestrian bridge providing direct access to the adjacent Jewel Osco supermarket as well as several other shops in the same plaza including a pet supply store, nail salon, dry cleaner, bank, and more.

In addition to convenient grocery store access, Union will be in an incredibly convenient location overall. With both the highway entrance and the CTA blue line to O’Hare and downtown just two blocks away, lively Fulton Market street just one block away for Chicago’s best dining and nightlife, and ample coffee shops, parks, and boutique fitness studios, the location doesn’t get much better than this.

Fulton Market has been a popular destination for Chicagoans and visitors alike for several years because of its high density of world renowned restaurants, nightlife, and the charming neighborhood feel created by its cobblestone road, low rise brick lofts, and artful nods to its meat packing district roots. However, the past three years have also seen a significant boom in Fulton Market office space development. With numerous high-end office buildings popping up on what seems to be a monthly basis, it makes sense that the demand for residential development has grown in tandem. Between the hot location and Onni’s stellar track record, Union is sure to be a hit!

Looking for luxury new construction apartments for rent in Fulton Market? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours.

Evo and Parq Fulton Apartments

The west end of Fulton Market has been booming. Since the successful lease up of The Mason, the area nearest Union Park has been in increasingly high demand. Marquette Development has been leading the charge with two new luxury high rises underway in the 1400 block of West Randolph as well as another development in the works at 140 N. Ashland. If you’re looking to live along Union Park steps to the heart of Fulton Market, you’ll want to check out Parq Fulton and Evo luxury apartments.

Fulton Market luxury apartments for rent at 1400 W Randolph St

Parq Fulton – Courtesy of Marquette

Parq Fulton, at 1400 W. Randolph, and Evo, at 1454 W. Randolph, are bringing 520 luxury apartments as well as over 10,000 square feet of commercial space to Fulton Market’s west end. The buildings will have a strong focus on wellness, with features and amenities like multiple state of the art fitness centers and a yoga studio. Another stand out amenity at Parq Fulton is the resident dog park, which takes the typical on site dog run to the next level with a full on dog play area. Between the two buildings, the units will be a composition of studio, convertible, one, two, and three bedroom apartments. The majority will have private balconies.

Both Evo and Parq Fulton are slated for completion in February 2022 with pre-leasing already underway.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago's West Loop? Now leasing!

Evo – Courtesy of Marquette

Both towers are adjacent to Union Park, a 13 acre park where W. Randolph ends. The park offers tennis courts, basketball courts, a trail, and plenty of open green space. With the green line CTA station just a block west of the park and the bustling Fulton Market and Restaurant Row strips just a few blocks to the east, the location is hard to beat. The United Center is also just a five minute walk from Union Park.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the West Loop’s Fulton Market? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials including free rent concessions!

Guide To Living In Old Town Chicago

Originally a cabbage patch developed by German immigrants before the Civil War, Old Town carries a certain disheveled charm that dates to its formative years. St. Michael’s Church was one of the city’s few buildings to survive the Great Chicago Fire, contributing to the decision to maintain the area’s byzantine street layout while the rest of the city went to a simple north-south grid pattern after the 1871 blaze.

Ever since, the Old Town neighborhood has thrived as a quirky, Bohemian base. Gothic and Victorian touches abound on narrow, meandering one-way streets and main thoroughfares alike.

Here’s why living in Old Town gives you everything you’d want from big city living.

It’s Close to Everything

Wrigley Field and the heart of the Loop business district are less than 3 miles away. Closer than that is the burgeoning restaurant scene on Randolph Street. Closer still is River North and the Chicago Riverwalk, and North Avenue Beach is an easy stroll. If you really want to get away, you’re 20 minutes from O’Hare Airport. Three public train lines stopping in the neighborhood can carry you to points all around the city.

It’s a Dining Delight

There are a couple of great rib spots in Old Town. The area tends toward boisterous, divey destinations where character is always a star on the menu — but don’t let the lack of pretension fool you.

  • Topo Gigio Ristorante has been serving modern Tuscan cuisine in the heart of Old Town for more than a quarter-century and has a terrific outdoor space.
  • Kamehachi (“eight turtles” in Japanese) is the city’s first sushi restaurant. Its expansive menu options range from traditional to inventive.
  • Adobo Grill is in its third decade, serving table-side guacamole and establishing itself as one of the most authentic Mexican dining spots in the city.
  • Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern and the Fireplace Inn are venerable spots for ribs, with tons of fans, so they’re great places to start.

Making History

In 1924, the first gay rights organization in the United States was established in a home on North Crilly Court that is now a National Historic Landmark. In the 1960s, Old Town was the Midwest epicenter of the hippie counterculture. Now, The Second City comedy troupe stars.

It’s All About the Hangouts

  • Old Town Pour House is a vast and upscale spot to celebrate your inner beer geek, with 90-plus varieties on tap.
  • This should not be confused with the Old Town Ale House, which bills itself as “the best dive bar in Chicago” and gets few arguments.
  • Benchmark is a classic sports bar with the plus of a “convertible” beer garden in addition to all the TVs and bar food you could want on game day.
  • It’s really all about The Second City, the world-wide leader in improv comedy and the training ground for comic talents ranging from Alan Alda to Mike Myers, Stephen Colbert to Steve Carrell.

It’s Living Your Best Life

Nestled between the tonier Lincoln Park and Gold Coast enclaves, Old Town is the perfect, unassuming and thoughtful neighbor. It has two signature events — the annually concurrent and peacefully coexisting Old Town Art Fair in the Old Town Triangle and the Wells Street Art Festival just blocks away.

Tap into that friendliness with your own place in Old Town. Downtown Apartment Company can help you find it. Browse our latest Old Town listings here.

Elevate Lincoln Park Luxury Apartments

If you’re looking for luxury apartments in the heart of Lincoln Park that are spacious, modern, and pet friendly, look no further! Elevate has it all!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park in downtown Chicago?

Each luxury apartment at Elevate Lincoln Park features soaring nine foot ceilings, luxury wide plank flooring, built-in solar roller shades, custom closet systems, and individually controlled heat and AC. Kitchens boast Grohe fixtures, under cabinet lighting, Kitchen Aid Pro Stainless Steel appliances, and soft-close drawers and doors. Spa inspired bathrooms feature elegant Terrazzo base showers with frameless glass enclosures and premium wood cabinetry. Most units also come equipped with private outdoor spaces as well!

Now leasing Elevate luxury apartments

Rain or shine, there are amenities galore to enjoy at Elevate Lincoln Park. Year round, head to the 24 hour fitness center, complete with state-of-the-art cardio and weight equipment, a yoga studio with class streaming technology, and a dedicated sunrise rooftop yoga space.

Now leasing Elevate luxury apartments

In the warmer months, there’s plenty of outdoor space. Lounge at the spacious third level courtyard, artfully designed with lush landscaping, communal grills and fire pit, dining and seating areas, an audio system, and hip mood lighting. If you want to soak up the sun and the views, check out the rooftop space where you can enjoy the outdoor pool, private cabanas, more grills and fire pits, a wraparound sun deck with lounge furniture, and of course, sweeping skyline views.

Now leasing Elevate luxury apartments

You can also relax or entertain in the indoor rooftop community space, complete with a demonstration kitchen, dining tables, soft seating, and multiple large screen TVs. For added convenience, Elevate Lincoln Park offers 24 hour concierge and door staff service, video security system, reserved indoor parking, a coffee station, on site valet dry-cleaning, package receiving with electronic notifications, keyless entry via smart phone, 1Gig wifi throughout all common spaces, and ample work-from-home space, as well as pet amenities including an outdoor dog run and indoor pet spa.

Now leasing Elevate luxury apartments

Looking for luxury pet friendly apartments for rent near Lincoln Park? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials, including any available free rent concessions!

Sentral Michigan Avenue

Sentral Michigan Avenue, formerly known as Essex on the Park, offers luxury apartments for rent in Chicago’s South Loop. This 479 unit rental building features spectacular amenities, thoughtful layouts, and modern interior finishes.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago in the South Loop? Pet friendly! Dog friendly apartments near you available now!

Entertain and relax at the outdoor patio, equipped with grilling stations, or the four-story indoor lounge with a pool overlooking the South Loop’s Grant Park.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago in the South Loop? Pet friendly! Dog friendly apartments near you available now!

Work from home in one of multiple co-working spaces at Sentral, including a private conference room and plenty of common space to spread out.

South Loop rentals at Sentral on Michigan Avenue Essex on the Park

Sentral Michigan Avenue also offers a state of the art fitness center, complete with a private training and yoga studio. Additionally, Sentral was designed with a focus on wellness and includes technology to provide cleaner air and water and reduce light and noise pollution.

Sentral Michigan Avenue South Loop 2 beds 2 bedroom apartments for rent now leasing near you!

The South Loop is a booming neighborhood and given that its a cultural hub of Chicago, it’s no mystery why it’s been in such high demand. Museum Campus is located in the South Loop and is home to some of the country’s greatest museums, including the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Adler Planetarium. Catch a Bears game or concert at Soldier Field or check out Buddy Guy’s Legends for some more live music. The Lakefront trail, parts of the Chicago River, Grant Park, Grant “Bark” dog park, Fred Anderson dog park, and Roosevelt Park are all located in the South Loop as well!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent in downtown Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to guide you in your search and answer your questions! We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in specials, including free rent concessions!

How to Spot Great Deals in the Summer

It’s no secret that apartments lease quickly in the summer and specials can change at a moment’s notice. Here’s your guide to spotting good deals on apartments during the busy summer season!

Great deals on Chicago apartments near you for rent!

Have a Move Timeframe Rather Than a Move Date

It’s most common you’ll find concessions (like “1 month free” or “$1000 signing bonus”) for the current month or the following. Picking a June 30th move date over a July 1st move date can help you get June concessions that don’t apply to July move dates, just by starting your lease one day earlier. While choosing a June 30th date instead of July 1st is an easy decision, choosing June 30th over July 15th may take a little more consideration. Know how much flexibility you have in your move timeframe to maximize the concessions you’ll be able to find…and remember, you don’t have to physically move in on your lease start date!

Know What You’re Looking For

Pricing and availability change quickly in any season, but that’s especially the case in the summer. If you see a good deal, the odds are it won’t be available for long. Knowing what you’re looking for before you start seeing apartments will help you act quickly when you spot a deal.

Play Around With Lease Length

Many managed buildings like to stagger lease expirations so they aren’t faced with too many leases expiring all at the same time. Therefore, a 12 month lease isn’t always the best price. Sometimes opting for a 10, 13, or 16 month lease can significantly reduce your monthly cost, even if the building isn’t offering any additional concessions.

Looking for great deals on luxury apartments in downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in specials!

The Aberdeen West Loop

If you’re looking for a homey feel and tree lined street without having to compromise on central location, look no further! The Aberdeen has it all, with one, two, and three bedroom apartments available in the heart of the vibrant West Loop!

Pet friendly west loop 2 bed apartments

Spacious layouts, quality finishes, and overall boutique style building make these units feel like homes. These elegant apartments come equipped with in unit washers and dryers, soaring 10 foot ceilings, floor to ceiling windows, and bamboo hardwood flooring throughout.

The Aberdeen West Loop Apartments

Kitchens are equipped with premium finishes and state of the art appliances including gas ranges, dishwashers, granite countertops, and stainless steel Bosch appliances available, with a choice between classic dark or modern white cabinetry. All units offer ample storage space and most offer private balconies or expansive patios.

The Aberdeen West Loop Apartments

For added convenience, The Aberdeen offers attached, heated parking and also has 24/7 secured entry as well as both an on site coffee shop and spa. Humans and dogs alike can enjoy the close proximity to Mary Bartelme and Skinner parks just blocks away. The CTA blue and green line trains, Metra and Amtrak trains, and Mariano’s, Whole Foods, and Target are all within blocks of The Aberdeen. In addition to close proximity to all these conveniences, The Aberdeen is located just blocks from the West Loop’s lively nightlife and dining scenes, from local ice cream parlors, taverns, boutiques, diners, and live music venues like City Winery, to the world renowned and Michelin Starred restaurants that line Randolph and Fulton Market streets, like Girl and the Goat.

Pet friendly rentals 2 bed apartments in the West Loop

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and help you in your search. We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials, including free rent concessions!

Arrive Streeterville

Arrive Streeterville (formerly McClurg Court Apartments) offers spacious apartments in a stellar location with outstanding amenities!

If you’re looking to really find a great value on square footage with ample closet and storage space, Arrive Streeterville could be the place for you! These rental apartments offer expansive layouts flooded with natural light. Kitchens feature dishwashers, microwaves, cooking ranges, refrigerators, and ceiling fans. Each unit comes equipped with high speed internet access, individually controlled heat and air conditioning, and windows treatments, with hardwood floor and modern finish upgrades in select units.

Looking for studio and 2 bed apartments for rent near northwestern medical hospital campus in streeterville?

The community amenities at Arrive Streeterville include both indoor and outdoor spaces as well as conveniences to make everyday life a little easier. Work from home from the on site co-working space or business center. With a club quality fitness center, a group exercise studio, a sauna, spa, expansive pool with sun deck, and tennis courts, you’ll be able to enjoy with luxuries of a top notch health club, rain or shine, without having to leave home  (and without any added cost)! Having company? Entertain outside around the fire pit or enjoy a game of foosball or billiards in the game room! Arrive Streeterville also offers on site management and maintenance, door staff, additional storage, package receiving, guest rooms for out of town visitors, and the attached garage for added convenience. Arrive Streeterville is also a pet friendly building and offers flexible and shorter lease terms!

Looking for studio and 2 bed apartments for rent near northwestern medical hospital campus in streeterville?

Full sized tennis courts at Arrive in Streeterville

Arrive Streeterville is located just two blocks from the Northwestern University Medical campus and Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, as well as steps from Loyola Law School’s campus. Since Arrive offers six and nine month lease terms, it’s a perfect place if you’re looking for accommodations during a medical rotation or semester. With easy access to public transportation, Whole Foods and the lakefront just steps away, close proximity to the Gold Coast, Lakeshore Drive, and the Loop, and all the coffee shops and dining nestled in the Streeterville neighborhood, Arrive is a great place to call home!

Looking for studio and 2 bed apartments for rent near northwestern medical hospital campus in streeterville?

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Streeterville in downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Trending 2 Beds

Lots of new market trends emerged from the pandemic. From increased puppy adoption to Peloton purchases, many products and industries saw a boost this year. One key market trend in the rental market has been absorption of 2 beds. In addition to expected 2 bedroom absorption, here are some reasons explaining where the increased demand came from over this past year.

Looking for pet friendly 2 beds for rent near you in downtown Chicago?

2 Bed at DAC Property 79 in Streeterville

One Place for All Needs

In 2020, home needed to serve as the office, gym, and recreation space. For many, having their home office and “chill space” be in the same area felt exhausting. Even occupants who lived alone felt a need for 2 beds to have an additional bedroom to serve as a designated office or personal space to create a sense of work-life separation.

Companionship and Additional Occupants

The pandemic highlighted the importance of quarantine companionship. For some people that meant moving in with another occupant and for others that meant adopting a pet. Either way, many renters have been looking for more space to accommodate the fact that they are no longer living alone.

Decreased Travel

Many renters with travel based jobs, like consultants, leased studio apartments thinking they would only be home on weekends. However, with decreased travel, some of those same renters are opting for more living space.

Looking for  luxury 2 beds for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, virtual, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials, including available free rent concessions!

Moving From Los Angeles to Chicago

There’s the east coast and the west coast, but Chicago is called the “Third Coast” for a reason. Located on Lake Michigan with miles of sprawling (underrated) beaches, vibrant culture, and pretty great cuisine, Chicago offers much of the same appeal as New York and LA but in many ways, is much more livable. If you’re moving from Los Angeles to Chicago, here are some of the key differences you may appreciate!

Moving from Los Angeles to Chicago and looking for apartments for rent near you?

Walkability

Unlike Los Angeles where each neighborhood is spread out, Chicago neighborhoods change by the block. Shops, restaurants, museums, and parks densely line the streets, making strolling between neighborhoods seamlessly enjoyable.

Pricing

Chicago offers more bang for your buck than Los Angeles, with pricing for luxury apartments with in-unit laundry hovering between $2200-$2800. Chicago also offers great values on properties if you’re looking to buy! Chicago is also conveniently located in the middle of the country which means its easier to transport goods to Chicago than the west coast from most distributors. In turn, this keeps cost of living, from gas prices to cocktails, lower in Chicago.

Transit

You can get within a few blocks of pretty much anywhere with the Chicago transit system. The subway (referred to as the “L” by Chicagoans) has lines running from the Loop (the city’s central business district and epicenter) out in every direction. Bus lines run regularly down most main streets as well. The blue line subway train will take you directly from downtown to inside the terminal if you’re traveling to O’Hare International Airport and want to avoid rush hour traffic (which still pales in comparison to LA traffic).

Moving from LA to Chicago available now transit system

Are you moving to Chicago from Los Angeles and looking for more information on neighborhoods, Chicago living, and luxury apartments for rent? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in concessions, including free rent specials.

Doggie Daycare in the West Loop

The West Loop is one of the most dog friendly neighborhoods with dog parks, doggie daycare facilities, pet friendly apartment buildings, pet stores, and pet friendly restaurants galore! Here are some of the most popular doggie daycare facilities in the West Loop!

Tucker Pups Pet Resort

Tucker Pups offers ample outdoor play space, spacious nap time suites, playground equipment, and a swimming pool! If your dog is feeling shy or nervous about their first time away from home, they also offer solo play for an additional cost. Tucker Pups is a neighborhood favorite for doggie daycare, so their daycare is currently on a waitlist. However, you can still book with Tucker Pups for grooming and boarding!

Pet Care Plus

If you want to keep an eye on your furry friend while they’re at doggie daycare, check out Pet Care Plus! They offer live feed video so you can see what your pups are up to! Pet Care Plus is also known for having a stellar pool and convenient pickup and drop-off services.

Happy Trails and Tails

For lower maintenance dogs who just want to run around, Happy Trails and Tails could be the place! They offer a huge outdoor play space and unscheduled play time for the duration of doggie daycare, so if your pup has lots of energy, they’ll have a chance to burn it all off before they come home. There are also open crates and corners in the play space for your dog to retreat to when they want a little break. Happy Trails and Tails is located just off of Fulton Market.

Pooch Hotel

From multiple play spaces, playground equipment, and swimming pools, to webcams and optional nap and snack time breaks, Pooch Hotel really seems to have it all.  If you’re boarding your dog, they offer multiple upgrades, with the top tier boarding suite being a human sized bed complete with a framed picture of the owners on a nightstand. Pooch Hotel is also one of the only facilities to offer 24/7 pickup, so you can access your dog anytime!

Pooch Hotel is located on Monroe, just a few blocks east of Skinner dog park.

West Loop pet friendly apartments for rent

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago’s West Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials including free rent concessions!

 

*The above list is not an endorsement or recommendation of any of these facilities.

Triangle Square Luxury Apartments for Rent!

Triangle Square is a new luxury apartment building on the border of the west Lincoln Park and east Bucktown neighborhoods, offering studio, one, two, and three bedroom apartments for rent as well as state of the art on-site amenities.

Triangle Square luxury apartments for rent! Now leasing!

All renderings courtesy of Triangle Square

Each luxury apartment at Triangle Square features pebble oak flooring, roller shades, an in unit front loading washer and dryer, and industrial modern finishes throughout. Kitchens come equipped with Whirlpool stainless steel appliances with gas range, grey matte cabinetry with black hardware, Essex quartz countertops, and Allure matte white backsplash. Spa inspired bathrooms feature tiled showers with Moen fixtures in matte black. Triangle Square is a new construction property so you’d be the first to live in your unit. However, each apartment is still deep cleaned and undergoes an electrostatic sanitation before each and every move in. Most units feature balconies and private terraces.

Triangle Square luxury apartments for rent! Now leasing!

Triangle Square offers ample common space and thoughtful amenities. Work from home in one of many on-site co-working spaces or out on the private resident lawn, complete with walkways and outdoor seating.

Studio and 3 bed apartments for rent at Triangle Square Lincoln Park in Chicago

Entertain in the club lounge, game parlor, entertaining bar, at the grilling stations, or on the pool deck, or head to the fitness center or yoga studio to squeeze in a workout without leaving the building!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago Lincoln Park or Bucktown?

Click here for a virtual tour of the Triangle Square interiors!

Looking for luxury apartment for rent near Lincoln Park or east Bucktown? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, virtual, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials including free rent concessions!

Medical District Apartments at The Duncan

The Duncan features spacious studio and 1 bedroom apartments featuring modern interiors, useful amenities, and a convenient Medical District location.

Looking for luxury Medical District apartments for rent?

All images courtesy of The Duncan

Each sleek kitchen comes equipped with custom cabinetry, a subway tile backsplash, gas range, and stainless steel appliances. Units at The Duncan also feature oversized windows, high ceilings, and glass-enclosed rain showers. Each luxury loft apartment is equipped with an in unit washer and dryer as well as dishwasher. Exposed brick walls and soft loft accents create a refined aesthetic.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent?

Between the ample indoor and outdoor amenities, The Duncan offers many opportunities to stay active and entertained year round. From the indoor pool, basketball court, running track, and both wet and dry saunas, to the lavish gym which includes fitness classes, a boxing ring, and ample equipment for all types of training, there’s always something to do. 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent?

The Duncan also offers many conveniences. Work from home, entertain, or just soak up some sun at one of three rooftop terraces, complete with gas grills and sweeping views of the city and Medical District with comfortable lounge seating. The Duncan also features an on-site cafe and residents only dog run.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent?

The Duncan’s unparalleled location in the heart of the Medical District is just steps from Rush University Medical Center, the CTA blue and green line trains, and minutes from the heart of the lively West Loop neighborhood.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Illinois Medical District or Rush University? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to guide you in your search and answer your questions. We are now offering self guided, in person, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials, including free rent concessions!

Living In Lincoln Park

At 1,200-plus acres, Lincoln Park is Chicago’s largest public park and the second most-visited park in the United States, behind New York’s Central Park.

Lincoln Park is the neighborhood that stretches along seven miles of Lake Michigan frontage, west of the Chicago River. High-rises with stunning views of the park, its history-rich landscape architecture, and the great lake beyond meld seamlessly with intimate, tree-lined streets thick with single-family Victorians, brownstone flats, and tidy shopping districts.

Here’s what makes Lincoln Park the perfect spot, with the best Chicago has to offer.

Legendary Location

First and foremost, there’s the park — effectively the center of Chicago’s unparalleled public lakefront. Then, you have the neighborhood itself, which puts you within 20 minutes of every pro sports team in the city, plus most of the area’s major concert venues. If you want to escape, O’Hare Airport is a half-hour by car, and neighborhood stops for the CTA’s Brown, Red and, Purple Lines — plus numerous bus routes — make driving less than a necessity.

Top-Tier Dining

From cheap eats for the college kids around the DePaul University campus to some of the finest dining in the world, the Lincoln Park neighborhood covers all the gastronomic bases.

Alinea is routinely rated among the best restaurants in the country, and chef Grant Achatz is a certified culinary superstar. Seamless service delivers beautiful bites, plated and presented in a way that makes a meal — 10 courses? 18? — a bucket list event.

Pequod’s Pizza didn’t climb to the top of the charts for Chicago’s deep dish pizza lovers by accident. Its signature caramelized cheese edge tops the crust like salt on a margarita glass.

North Pond has what might be the most beautiful setting in the city for dining. An arts and crafts stunner that began life in 1912 as a warming shelter for ice skaters, North Pond offers skyline views filtered through the lens of Lincoln Park’s lushest gardens. Commitment to seasonal, locally sourced food of the highest caliber makes this a destination for those special dinners.

Opportunities Abound

Lincoln Park embraces every facet of city life: It’s close enough to the Loop for the nine-to-fivers; offers plenty of housing stock for families and singles alike, and it’s sandwiched between fun and funky Boystown and Old Town. Plus, aside from DePaul lending an academic bent to the area, Lincoln Park High School and nearby Walter Payton College Prep routinely rank among the top 10 public high schools in the state.

After Hours

The venerable Kingston Mines has been dishing up world-class blues since 1968 — making it the longest continuously operating blues club in a city known for electrifying the blues.

Steppenwolf is one of the city’s best-loved theater companies and calls Lincoln Park it’s home.

If you can overlook the fact that it’s a home-away-from-home for fans of all sports Michigan State and Detroit, the Tin Lizzie is a raucously great sports bar.

Plus, if you can get a seat, the J. Parker offers fine cocktails, small plates, and amazing views from the rooftop of the Hotel Lincoln.

Living the Lincoln Park Life

Lincoln Park draws you outdoors — whether it’s to enjoy the park, Lincoln Park Zoo, nearby beaches, or its eminently walkable commercial districts. It’s a neighborhood in which you participate as much as you live, whether your style is a quiet morning walk or dancing the night away.

Downtown Apartment Company can help you find the perfect base camp from which to launch your exploration. Browse our latest Lincoln Park listings here.

Memorial Day Weekend in Downtown Chicago

The weather is getting warmer and Chicago’s COVID restrictions are getting looser, which means this Memorial Day Weekend is the perfect time to jump back into the summer activities you’ve missed over the past year. If you’re looking for things to do this weekend, here’s some inspiration!

Looking for things to do for this weekend in downtown Chicago near Streeterville?

Cubs or Sox Game

This week, Guaranteed Rate and Wrigley fields will increase their fan capacity to 60%, up from just 20% on opening day, with additional seating areas for people who are fully vaccinated. Whether you’re a north side or south side baseball fan, you’ll be able to catch your team playing this weekend!

Looking for things to do for memorial day weekend near downtown Chicago in Streeterville?

Lakefront Water Rentals

Nothing says summertime in Chicago like a day on the lakefront. Rent motorized boats, kayaks, jet skis, and even windsurfing gear at one of Chicago’s many beaches, like North Avenue beach.

If you’d rather just sit back and enjoy the water rather than playing captain for a day, enjoy one of many chartered or guided boat tours. Switch up the typical architectural river boat tour with a lakefront speedboat tour with Seadog.

Looking for things to do for memorial day weekend near downtown Chicago in Streeterville?

Navy Pier

Although you can catch fireworks at Navy Pier on Wednesdays and Saturdays, this week will also feature a special Memorial Day firework display. Enjoy them from the pier, atop the iconic Ferris wheel, or from one of many local Streeterville rooftops. While you’re at it, grab some top notch cocktails and fresh seafood at Lirica, a new Central American inspired restaurant concept at Navy Pier.

Looking for things to do for memorial day weekend near downtown Chicago in Streeterville?

Looking for luxury apartments fro rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to guide you in your search and answer your questions. We are now offering self guided, in person, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials, including free rent concessions!

The Lofts at Gin Alley

If you’re looking to live in one of the most vibrant parts of Chicago’s West Loop, check out the Lofts at Gin Alley!

Loft apartments for rent in Fulton Market

All images courtesy of Reside

These luxury loft apartments at Gin Alley feature soaring ceilings, exposed brick and beam accents, and unique architectural design elements. Each loft apartment comes with hardwood floors and stunning interior finishes. Each designer kitchen features a gas stove, large, stainless steel appliances, and ample countertop and cabinet space. Bathrooms feature frameless glass showers, oversized vanities, and premium tile and lighting.

Lofts at Gin Alley West Loop

All images courtesy of Reside

Open layouts, great closet space, utility packages with 1 Gb WiFi included, and in unit laundry make these lofts convenient as well as homey.

Lofts at Gin Alley West Loop

All images courtesy of Reside

Building amenities at the Lofts at Gin Alley include a sky deck with stunning city views, fire pit, fitness center, concierge services, and 24 hour maintenance. The Lofts at Gin Alley are also pet friendly!

 

 

However, the best building feature of all is the location. The Lofts at Gin Alley are located on Green Street at Randolph Street, also known as Restaurant Row for its high density of critically acclaimed restaurants and vibrant nightlife scene. Boutiques, coffee shops, and galleries all line Randolph Street. Soho House, Parlor Pizza, Sawada Coffee, Green Street Smoked Meats, and Sushi Dokku are all located on the same one block stretch of Green Street as the lofts.

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago’s West Loop or Fulton Market neighborhoods? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, virtual, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials, including free rent concessions!

Alta Grand Central South Loop

Alta Grand Central is one of the South Loop’s newest and largest luxury apartment high rises. Its amenities are truly one of a kind!

Alta Grand Central has two towers of state of the art amenities. Each tower offers its own fitness center, complete with an additional semi-private studio and spin bikes as well as many conveniences including a bike shop and storage space, personal storage, electric car charging ports, package receiving, 24 hour door staff, and lobby seating with a transit screen which displays nearby transit schedules realtime. In the west tower, residents have access to valet dry-cleaning, an outdoor lounge equipped with eight grilling stations, an outdoor gaming deck, and an additional expansive rooftop deck. The west tower also hosts pet amenities wit an on site private dog park and pet spa complete with showers and a grooming station.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop?

All images courtesy of Alta Grand Central

The east tower hosts business amenities, including open co-working space, reservable micro-offices, a conference room, a printing station and the cafe and Stockwell vending in case you need a little coffee break. After your day of hard work, unwind in the east tower’s massage room, the outdoor spa, or by the pool, which offers stunning views of the city.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop?

The modern apartments at Alta Grand Central feature stunning interiors. Kitchens come equipped with stainless steel appliances, thermally fused soft close cabinets, and quartz countertops with large kitchen sinks. Each luxury apartment is equipped with a full sized washer and dryer and Nest thermostat. The penthouse units offer elevated finishes and wine coolers in each kitchen.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop?

Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the South Loop or more information on Alta Grand Central? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in specials including free rent concessions!

Aspire South Loop Apartments

Aspire is one of the newest luxury apartment buildings in the South Loop. These pet friendly residences feature modern interiors and state of the art amenities all steps to the lakefront, live music venues, great dining, Museum Campus, Soldier Field, McCormick Place, and more of South Loop’s vibrant culture and entertainment scene!

Aspire Residences South Loop luxury apartments for rent now leasing!

Images courtesy of Aspire Residences

Aspire offers modern apartments with modern finishes, thoughtful layouts, and premium appliances. Kitchens feature European two toned cabinetry, stone countertops, and stainless steel appliances, with frameless glass showers in each spa inspired bathroom. Each apartment comes equipped with a full sized washer and dryer as well as wide plank flooring, exposed concrete accent columns and ceilings, and keyless entry systems.

Aspire Residences South Loop luxury apartments for rent now leasing!

Aspire is a full amenity building. Whether you’re looking for entertainment, relaxation, or daily conveniences, Aspire has something for you! Residents enjoy access to the fully equipped fitness center and yoga room, complete with a virtual trainer, an indoor sports simulator room, a pub room and fireside lounge for unwinding alone or with friends, a gaming and arcade room, and an outdoor pool, complete with private cabanas, grilling stations, and fire pits. Aspire also features pet amenities including an on site outdoor dog park!

Aspire Residences South Loop luxury apartments for rent now leasing!

Residents also appreciate the many conveniences offered at Aspire. If you’re working from home, check out the conference room, one of the private work spaces, or the resident cyber lounge. If you feel like working al fresca and soaking up some sun, grab your laptop and head to the pool deck since wifi is offered throughout all of Aspire’s amenity spaces! If you have guests visiting, you can book the on site guest suite. The private garage offers charging stations for electric cars and the 24 hour lobby is also equipped with a Luxor package receiving room, bike storage, and valet dry cleaning lockers.

Now leasing in the South Loop

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago’s South Loop or more information about Aspire? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about available move in specials including free rent concessions!

Cascade Apartments – 45,000 Sq Ft of Amenities!

Cascade apartments in Lakeshore East will offer over 45,000 square feet of amenity space!

In the warmer months, enjoy Cascade’s outdoor splash pad and hydrotherapy pool. In the other seasons, you can still enjoy swimming at the 25 yard indoor lap pool. Cascade also offers incredible fitness amenities, from the fitness center which offers sweeping lakefront views and the strength studio for HIIT workouts, to the motion studio for yoga and spin classes.

Now leasing in Lakeshore East! Cascade dog friendly apartments!

Indoor year round conservatory. Images courtesy of Magellan and Cascade Apartments

Whether you’re looking to relax alone or entertain company, Cascade has amenities for you! Unwind in one of the steam rooms then reserve the massage treatment room or salon to receive services through third party vendors. Curl up with a book in the year round indoor conservatory which is lush with greenery 365 days a year or watch a movie in the screening room. You can also switch up your typical dinner party with a trip to the game room for a round of billiards or shuffleboard, to the golf and sports simulator room, or to the jam room which is completely outfitted for live music sessions! If you’re feeling “crafty” the Maker space offers room for your crafting activities as well as a shop table. Cascade also offers a kids club for indoor play space!

Cascade apartments also features pet amenities including an onsite private dog run and pet spa!

Now leasing in Lakeshore East! Cascade dog friendly apartments!

25 yard indoor lap pool

There’s truly something for everyone at Cascade apartments!

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood or more information on Cascade apartments? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! we are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in and lease up specials including free rent concessions!

Cascade Apartments: Residences

Cascade apartments, located at 455 E Waterside Drive, are now pre-leasing in downtown Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood! Luxury rentals at Cascade include studio, convertible, 1 bed, 2 bed, and 3 bedroom pet friendly apartments. Cascade is being developed by Magellan and Lendlease and designed by bKL Architecture. It will also include 45,000 square feet of amenity space as well as 32,000 square feet of outdoor green space!

Now leasing in Lakeshore East! Cascade dog friendly apartments!

Courtesy of Cascade and Magellan

Both the layouts and finishes at the apartments at Cascade in Lakeshore East make this building one of a kind. For instance, most of the 1 bedroom layouts are over 700 square feet, making them significantly larger than most 1 bed inventory in this price range. Wide plank hard-surface flooring, in unit laundry, modern subway tile kitchen backsplashes, Nest thermostats, quartz countertops, Snaidero cabinetry, walk in custom closet systems, and integrated Bosch appliances are featured in each apartment. Apartments also feature dimmable linear lighting over kitchen islands, USB outlets, and keyless entry accessible via smart phone.

Soaring 9 foot ceilings coupled with floor to ceiling windows create an open, airy feeling and offer stunning lake and river views. Bathrooms feature Daltile baths, Hansgrohe fixtures, chrome Kohler accessories, and frameless glass showers. Select units feature expansive private balconies as well.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East Chicago?

Courtesy of Cascade and Magellan

Cascade first broke ground in 2019. First move ins at Cascade apartments will be August 1st.

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood or more information on Cascade apartments? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! we are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in and lease up specials including free rent concessions!

Old Town Park Phase 3

Canada based developer, Onni Group, has made a mark on Chicago’s luxury rental market in recent years, namely with their three phase project, Old Town Park. Phases one and two promised to deliver top tier quality, condo-grade rentals, integrated appliances, excellent closet and storage space, and state of the art, resort inspired amenities, unlike any other inventory on the market. They did not disappoint. Therefore, it is no surprise that both towers leased up fairly quickly due to high demand. Fortunately, tower three’s delivery is just around the corner, and we can expect the same level of quality Onni has become known for, in addition to a few other exciting bells and whistles.

Town Home and Penthouse Dog friendly apartments at Old Town Park 3!

Old Town Park Phase 3 ranks as Chicago’s 20th tallest building. Floor plans are a composition of convertibles, 1 beds, 2 beds, 3 beds, penthouses, and townhomes. Old Town Park 3 will also be offering Onni’s signature “flex” layouts, which include an additional fully enclosed den in addition to the number of bedrooms in a unit. With the spike in people working from home, the flex layouts have only grown in popularity at Onni’s other properties, like towers 1 and 2 as well as The Hudson in River North.

Each tower has its own amenities. The amenities in Tower 3 will include an outdoor heated pool with a hot tub, loungers, and daybeds, an indoor spa, steam room, sauna, and oversized jacuzzi, fully landscaped outdoor spaces with fire pits, BBQ stations, and grills, indoor and outdoor multi-sport courts, and a bocce court. Tower 3 will also have its own state of the art fitness center, a yoga and spin studio, and complementary classes, as well as co-working space and a conference room. Additionally, other year round amenities for entertaining include a 2-lane bowling alley, arcade games like ping pong and skee gal, a private dining room and chef’s demonstration kitchen, and the 26h floor covered terrace complete with fireplaces and an outdoor bar.

1 bed den Dog friendly apartments at Old Town Park 3!

An arial view rendering of Tower 3’s amenity deck

Old Town Park Phase 3 is currently pre-leasing for June 21st move ins!

Dog friendly apartments at Old Town Park 3!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in specials including free rent promotions!

Now Leasing! Millennium on Lasalle!

Millennium on Lasalle is bringing luxury apartments for rent to the heart of downtown Chicago’s Financial District. The 13-story historical building was converted from office suites into 216 apartments with premium amenities and an additional 7000 square feet of retail space.

Millennium on Lasalle Chicago Loop Apartments for Rent Pet Friendly

All images courtesy of Millennium on Lasalle

Millennium on Lasalle offers studio, one bed, and two bedroom apartments with modern finishes. Each apartment comes equipped with in unit laundry, marble tiled bathroom floors, air conditioning, hard surface flooring throughout the living spaces, and ample storage space. The modern kitchens feature stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, tile backsplashes, premium Italian cabinetry, and dishwashers.

Millennium on Lasalle Chicago Loop Apartments for Rent Pet Friendly

Millennium on Lasalle is complete with useful amenity spaces. Check out the state of the art fitness center and indoor multi-sport court. Entertain in the theatre room, poker room, at the demonstration kitchen, or on the rooftop, complete with a pool, poolside lounge, and grilling stations. Residents can also enjoy two video gaming rooms, musical practice space, and coffee lounge.

This pet friendly building also features pet amenities! Take your four legged friends to the private dog run or pet spa! Other on-site conveniences at Millennium on Lasalle include 24 hour maintenance, on-site storage, dry cleaning service, bike storage, an option to have units furnished for an additional cost, and co-working spaces equipped with wifi.

Millennium on Lasalle Chicago Loop Apartments for Rent Pet Friendly

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Financial District in downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, virtual, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move-in specials including free rent!

Gioia West Loop

Gioia Ristorante and Pastificio is one of the newest restaurants opening on Restaurant Row in the West Loop at 1133 W. Randolph St.

Looking for italian restaurants near Randolph Street West Loop in Chicago?

Gioia will serve 12 to 15 pastas made fresh daily, featuring both modern, innovative dishes as well as classic regional favorites. The chef for Gioia, Federico Comacchio, got his “chops” at Michelin Starred restaurant, Ristorante Sadler in Milan, as well as the time he spent as the executive chef at Phil Stefani’s Coco Pazzo and 437 Rush. According to a spokesperson for Gioia, Italian native, Comacchio has been visiting Italy regularly and wants to serve what he’s learned back home.

Looking for italian restaurants near Randolph Street West Loop in Chicago?

Handmade pasta at Coco Pazzo where Comacchio served as executive chef. Courtesy of Coco Pazzo.

Gioia was slated to open its doors in spring of 2020, but for obvious reasons, that didn’t happen. Signage on their storefront says they expect to open in the coming weeks. Given how great their menu sounds, we can only hope it’s not much longer!

Randolph Street is known locally and internationally for its high density of top notch restaurants. From Michelin Starred culinary experiences to “the best burger ever”, you can find it all on Randolph Street.

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s West Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer any questions and guide you in your search! We are currently offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Halsted Point: Goose Island Proposal from Onni Group

Canada based developer, Onni Group, has quickly dominated the Chicago luxury rental market. Between the successful lease ups of The Hudson in River North, three phase project at Old Town Park, and this year’s delivery at 369 Grand, Onni Group has become known for having the features in their buildings that everyone wishes they thought of. For instance, condo grade finishes in all their rentals, one bed floor plans that include fully enclosed dens and second bathrooms, convertibles that have balconies, divisible common co-working space before it was cool, and hot tubs that are big enough for multiple people to enjoy comfortably at the same time.

Onni Group Halsted Point

Rendering of Halsted Point, all images courtesy of Onni Group

Under the current proposal Halsted Point would bring five towers for a total of 2650 new apartments, hotel rooms, office space, retail, and even a grocery store, to a stretch of Halsted that has, until now, been primarily industrial.

Halsted Point luxury apartments for rent near River West and Old Town

Plans also include public amenity and green spaces along the river as well as between the towers.

Onni Group Goose Island Development

This stretch of Halsted, known as Goose Island, is the connector between River West to the west, River North to the east, Old Town to the north, and West Loop to the south. Just a few minute walk to the heart of each neighborhood, but on a quiet strip, itself, residents who eventually live in these new units will have arguably, one of the most desirable residential locations in the city.

Halsted Point luxury apartments for rent near River West and Old Town

As it stands, Halsted Point will likely around 10 years to complete. Due to the size, scale, and lack of other development in the immediate area, Onni Group’s new development could effectively, create a new neighborhood. Although Halsted Point is yet to receive zoning approval, it seems to have the emphatic support of the area’s alderman. “When I was kid, growing up right over the bridge from, here we used to call this area ghost town,” said Alderman Burnett at a community meeting via Zoom. “Now this area is very vibrant. We’re allowing for some residential [development], some new infrastructure is getting built, and the riverwalk is getting enhanced. A lot of great things are happening.”

Halsted Point comes in a string of mega-developments that aim to make good use of the riverfront. Southbank, The 76, and Lincoln Yards are also massive scale projects along the river with similar compositions of residential units, commercial space, and public amenities.

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

21 E Chestnut Gold Coast Apartments

21 E Chestnut offers newly renovated luxury studio and 1 bedroom apartments in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood!

21 E Chestnut has something for everyone, offering both partially and fully renovated luxury apartments. Fully renovated units include an in unit washer and dryer, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, mosaic tile kitchen backsplashes, kitchen islands, and hardwood floors. All apartments include ample storage space and thoughtful, unique layouts.

21 E Chestnut Gold Coast Apartments For Rent Looking for luxury 1 bed apartments for rent near Gold Coast in Chicago?

The state of the art amenities at 21 E Chestnut include a resident lounge, business center with multiple co-working spaces, sundeck with gas grilling stations, fire pits, and a picnic area, a resort style pool, and a Les Mills style fitness studio where you can stream, cast, or download over a thousand workouts.

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One of multiple resident co-working spaces

21 E Chestnut’s location is hard to beat! These luxury Gold Coast apartments are just blocks to Jewel Osco and Whole Foods grocery stores, minutes from the CTA red line train, and surrounded by quaint coffee shops, tree lined streets, and great dining and night life. Washington Square Park, beloved by dogs and humans alike, is also just steps away.

Check out the gallery below for more stunning pictures of the apartments at 21 E Chestnut!

21 E Chestnut Gold Coast Apartments For Rent Looking for luxury 1 bed apartments for rent near Gold Coast in Chicago?

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Gold Coast Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

West Loop Events: Artopia

Looking for things to do near the West Loop this weekend? Artopia is one of the newest attractions coming to Chicago’s West Loop starting April 17th!

The avant-garde installation is opening in Morgan Manufacturing’s 32,000 square feet of event space, bringing “a month of kaleidoscopic immersion” and “blending the creativity of renowned artists with the wonders of modern technology” according to a recent article in Secret Chicago. Artopia will be a one hour guided experience with craft cocktails afterward. Highlights include interactive projection mapping, sound reactive LED pieces, 20 murals by Chicago street artists, eight sculptural pieces, large scale light art, and holographic pieces.

Much like the West Loop’s beloved WNDR Museum, Artopia also promises “Instagrammable” photo opps in one of a kind settings.

Artopia will run every Thursday through Sunday through May 15th at Morgan Manufacturing (401 N Morgan Street). COVID precautions include mandatory mask requirements, hand sanitizer in each room, a 50 person capacity, and a one-way guided tour route. Click here for tickets!

Artopia Morgan Manufacturing

Image courtesy of Datagrama

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the West Loop Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

The Deco Gold Coast Apartments

The Deco, at 1400 N Lakeshore Drive, is a newly renovated rental building along the lakefront in Chicago’s Gold Coast. These studio, one, two, and three bedroom apartments offer modern finishes, thoughtful floorplans, and practical amenities, all in a prime location.

Each apartment features hard surface flooring, large windows, and ample storage space, although there are three tiers of finishes. Prestige apartments (most recently renovated) come equipped with subway tile backsplashes, white cabinetry with under-mount lighting, stainless steel appliances, and white quartz countertops.

Studio apartments 2 bed apartments available now with rooftop in the Gold Coast downtown Chicago

Prestige Finishes

Premium apartments come with classic wood cabinetry, granite countertops, and mosaic backsplashes.

Studio apartments 2 bed apartments available now with rooftop in the Gold Coast downtown Chicago

Premium Finishes

Lastly, vintage apartments feature metal countertops and tiled floors in the kitchens. Little details, like the black and green bathrooms and archway room entries, give these units special character.

Studio apartments 2 bed apartments available now with rooftop in the Gold Coast downtown Chicago

Vintage Finishes

The Deco also offers convenient amenities, including a 24 hour state of the art fitness center, 24 hour door staff, and a rooftop patio for enjoying stunning views of the lake.

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The rooftop overlooks Lake Michigan, Navy Pier, and downtown Chicago’s skyline.

Whatever your primary mode of transportation, The Deco’s location is hard to beat. The Deco is just 5 blocks from the CTA red line train, walking distance to the Loop, 2 blocks to the lakefront bike path that spans the city, and a block to Lakeshore Drive if you’re driving. Plus, Jewel Osco grocery store is just 6 blocks away. On weekends, enjoy the farmer’s market on Division (5 blocks) or grab brunch on Rush Street (6 blocks).

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Gold Coast Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Nevele22 River West Apartments

Nevele22 (1122 W Chicago Ave) is one of River West’s newest luxury apartment buildings, with studio, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments (a total of 97 units) preleasing this spring. This new luxury building will offer stunning, modern interiors, thoughtful layouts, and state of the art amenities, all in the desirable and convenient River West neighborhood! Nevele22 is also leasing 1000-6005 square feet of divisible retail space at the ground level. There are also whispers that a restaurant with outdoor seating could also be in the ground level at Nevele, although this is not confirmed.

Pet friendly apartments for rent near River West! Now Leasing!

Rendering Courtesy of Pappageorge Haymes

The seven story apartment building is being developed by Lipe Property Company and designed by Pappageorge Haymes Partners.

River West has been booming, with total deliveries of nearly 1000 new rental units over the past couple years. Nevele22 will be next to join the ranks alongside Spoke, Linkt, Avenir, and Westerly. As more residential buildings have sprung up in the area, so have coffee shops, restaurants, and doggie daycares. Fortunately, River West residents get the best of both new spots and places with old charm. Long standing breakfast spot, Windy City Cafe, Chicago’s smallest bar, Matchbox, and the Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art all help keep the neighborhood-y character as these great new additions pop up. Nevele22 will be 3 blocks from the expressway, one block from the CTA blue line train to downtown and O’Hare International Airport, a short walk to both River North and West Loop (hence: “River West”), and right along Milwaukee Avenue, affectionately known as “Hipster Highway” because of its generously sized bike lanes that lead directly into downtown.

Spoke Now renting River West Luxury 2 Bedroom Penthouse Apartment in downtown Chicago at Spoke Apartments

A penthouse unit at Spoke, the first luxury high rise in this part of River West

Stay tuned for specifics about Nevele22! With a location like this, you’ll surely want to check it out!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River West? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

When To Start Looking For Apartments In Chicago

For renters getting ready to move, timing is everything. Determining when to begin your search can dramatically impact not only rental prices, but also availability. In other words, if you know when to look for an apartment in Chicago, you could find more units and better prices than you might at other times of year. So, what are the secrets? When is the best time to hunt? Here are some tips:

1. Start by knowing what you want. You could say the best time to look for an apartment is when you know what you’re looking for — and you’re willing to focus on that. What’s your budget, for example? If you know you can’t afford to go over a certain limit, don’t waste time viewing rentals you already know you can’t afford. Likewise, what are your must-haves? If you’re not willing to add an extra 10 minutes to your daily commute, there’s no point checking out rentals beyond your target area. You’ll save yourself time and stress by starting the apartment-hunting process with a clear idea of what you need.

2. Give yourself a month, if possible. One month out from your ideal move-in date is the best time to start looking. Most of the apartments that will be available when you’re planning to move will be listed by then, giving you access to a large inventory. While some landlords will list sooner or later than a month out, the majority will be posted with 30 days’ notice.

3. Shop at the end of winter for better deals. Let’s face it: Nobody wants to relocate in the middle of Chicago’s winter snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. If you’re looking for great prices, however, this could be to your advantage. Fewer people want to move in winter, which means less competition for whatever units are empty. By the time March and April roll around, rates will typically have plummeted to their yearly lowest. Depending on what size apartment you’re going for, you could save hundreds of dollars per month in rent simply because you took advantage of the end-of-winter price dips.

4. Look for new year deals. While the end of winter offers lower prices, the start of a new calendar year often brings rental incentives. Every January, be on the lookout for limited-time promotions, such as a few months of free rent or waived admin fees.

5. Shop at the end of summer for a big selection. You don’t have to be a student to know how the school year affects rental availability. Not only do college students, parents, and teachers typically move in the summer to prepare for new school years, but — thanks to yearly leases — that routine can continue well into the future. If you want to see a wide variety of apartments at one time, summer is usually a good bet. Keep in mind, however, that high demand means high competition; if you want to shop in summer, be prepared to act fast and submit your application the same day you view an apartment.

Whether you’re changing neighborhoods, upgrading your apartment size or moving to Chicago for the first time, you can get a lot more bang for your buck by knowing when to look for a new place. Use the five tips above to strategize and find the right home for you. For even more help, rent your next apartment with Downtown Apartment Company, the Chicago rental agency with a free luxury apartment search tool!

Parkline Loop Apartments

Parkline is one of the newest luxury apartment buildings located in the eastern part of Chicago’s downtown Loop neighborhood, steps to Millennium Park, Lakeshore East, and the Magnificent Mile. Parkline offers 190 modern studio, convertible, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments (in addition to 24 condos on top floors) with soft loft finishes and the best of high rise amenities.

Parkline luxury loop apartments

From studios all the way up to the 3 beds, each apartment’s thoughtful layout has dedicated space for “living”, “working”, and “dining”, with ample storage space and private balconies in select units. Apartments feature exposed concrete ceilings, premium closet systems, roller shades, dark wood grained flooring, and individually controlled heating and air conditioning with Wifi compatible thermostats. Each kitchen comes with quartz countertops, Grohe and American Standard fixtures, stainless steel appliances, undermount lighting, and matte grey or white cabinetry. Parkline apartments are also perfect for working from home! Each apartment has a place for a desk and high speed Wifi. Additionally, Parkline also has plenty of work-remote amenity spaces.

Looking for luxury aparmtents near Chicago Loop?

Even the studio and convertible layouts at Parkline have plenty of dedicated work from home space

 

Year round amenities at Parkline include sky lounge with a terrace, an expansive fitness center with a private yoga, pilates, and spin studio, a cafe with billiards, multiple resident lounges and entertainment spaces, a private conference room and business center, a private outdoor dog run and pet spa, and a library with co-working space. In the warmer months, enjoy the landscaped panoramic terrace with a fire pit and lounge seating as well as outdoor dining areas with stainless steel BBQ stations. Parkline’s pool offers the best of both worlds; the indoor year round pool opens up to the outdoor terrace in the summer months. Additionally, 24/7 concierge, professional management, onsite maintenance, 24/7 package receiving, indoor bike storage, and touchless building features all make living at Parkline that much more convenient.

Looking for luxury aparmtents near Chicago Loop?

Indoor-Outdoor Pool at Parkline

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about any move in specials!

Atrio Medical District Apartments

Atrio is conveniently located at the intersection of Harrison and Damen in the heart of the Illinois Medical District. These Medical District apartments are walking distance to Rush and all the four major area hospitals and just blocks away from the West Loop. The expressway entrance and CTA green line are also just steps away. Atrio is comprised of 272 studio, one bedroom, two bedroom, and three bedroom apartments.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Illinois Medical District?

Courtesy of Marquette

Atrio is one of the most recent deliveries from local developer, Marquette. The newly renovated Atrio sits at the gateway of the Medical District and is the only residential rental building in the immediate vicinity. These pet friendly apartments feature thoughtful layouts and luxe interior finishes. Each kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, Tundra white cabinetry, white quartz countertops, a garbage disposal, dishwasher, microwave, and a gas range. Each apartment also comes with an in unit washer and dryer, with matte black hardware and grey plank flooring throughout. The equitable bedroom size in the two and three bedroom apartments makes them great for roommates!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Illinois Medical District?

Atrio, formerly known as 1926 W Harrison St, before and after a recent complete renovation. Rendering courtesy of Brininstool + Lynch.

Atrio’s useful amenity spaces include multiple co-working spaces and conference rooms, a club level rooftop, a fitness center with a private studio, package receiving, and bike storage.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Illinois Medical District? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about any move in specials!

The West Loop’s Daniel Burnham: Darren Sloniger on Marquette Companies’ Vision for the Neighborhood

Residential development in the West Loop has continued to boom, especially for Naperville based developer, Marquette Companies. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Darren Sloniger, President and CIO of Marquette, to hear more about the big vision they’re bringing to the neighborhood and what to expect.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop Chicago?

Darren Sloniger, President and CIO of Marquette Companies

From the successful lease up of The Mason, current projects at 1400 and 1440 W Randolph, plans to revitalize Union Park, and plans for 140 N Ashland Ave, it seems like Marquette has a big vision for the west part of Fulton Market. Can you talk a little about Marquette’s big picture plans for the area?

Our first project in the West Loop was Catalyst Chicago (2013). That was before the West Loop was the cool area it is today and before Google and McDonalds announced their offices. We were really first to the table, and as a result we just crushed it.

The development in the west portion of Fulton Market started with The Mason. I was sitting across the street at Smyth and having dinner with my wife for our anniversary. We were sitting near the window and I looked over at this lot and thought it was really incredible. Most other developers were east because zoning wise you could get the most height and density on Halsted up to the highway. So the thesis was “let’s jump all the way to the west where it will have more of that neighborhood feel”. We were banking on the fact that there were people who wanted to live in Fulton Market but preferred more of a neighborhood feel over a high density one.

At the time, it was very pioneering to come this far west, so I needed to do a few things to help give people a sense of place. One of those things was the landscape lighting on the parkway trees along Ada Street. The idea is rather than doing blaring security lights, you create an ambiance.

Then, I noticed most Mason residents would walk all the way to the Morgan CTA station instead of just a couple blocks west to the Ashland station. The other under-utilized feature of this area is Union Park, one of the largest neighborhood parks in Chicago. That’s what made me decide to take on this whole area and really create a sense of neighborhood.

My first acquisition was the BellyQ site, which is 1400 W Randolph, then the next site along Lake so we could give that stretch of Ogden a pedestrian feel. We’re doing the tower on the south side of the site, and on the north side of the site we’re putting in one of the largest residential dog parks.

I also just signed an 11,000 square foot restaurant for the base at 1400 and Ogden with one of the top restaurateurs in Chicago, then across the street we just got a letter of intent for a 50 unit hotel with a bar by the same operator as the restaurant at the base.

Most recently, the opportunity came up on the other side of the street to purchase 140 N Ashland. I realized this was a great opportunity to have a development right on the park and revitalize that particular block. So the idea is now we’ll be able to create that same sense of place all the way down to the Ashland Street station by putting in those well-lit parkway trees and foot lamps, and we hired Disney Imagineers to do a whole animated light installation at the corner of 1400 and Ogden, so it creates a neighborhood ambiance in the area.

To me, 140 N Ashland was the final piece to the puzzle in the creation of a neighborhood.

Looking for Luxury Apartments to rent near the west loop? Marquette Cos

Marquette is leading the way on the development of the West Loop’s west end

Are there any types of commercial tenants that are particularly helpful for creating that neighborhood feel or that tend to get renters excited about the area?

I’m not ever looking for a national tenant. I’m always looking for a local expert and to activate the base with a neighborhood style bar or restaurant. To be able to bring in a local Chicago operator for this restaurant is great and the operator I’m bringing in for this hotel is a local Chicagoan, too.I like to create the place you want to hang out, that local place that’s in your neighborhood where they know your name.

For the operator we’re talking about bringing in at The Mason, he operates a little outdoor bar in the suburbs where my wife and I go. We were talking one day and he mentioned wanting to open a place in Fulton Market, so that worked out really organically. I always have in my head what I’m looking for and what I want so when the opportunity arises we’re ready for it. I don’t ever force it.

 

Can you tell me a little about Atrio and why you’re optimistic about development in the Illinois Medical District?

The site was a concrete building with about 32 building code violations when we started. The idea was not only could we rehab it affordably to keep the rents lower, and that people would want to live there since it’s the only residential building in the area, but we would also be able to get the FAR (floor area ratio) we needed to develop two other buildings. The Medical District was really on board because the existing building was right at the neighborhood gateway and it wasn’t a pretty building.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop Chicago?

Before and after of 1926 W Harrison, now Atrio Apartments. Rendering courtesy of Brininstool + Lynch.

Upon completion of the project we’ll have the 272 unit rehab,a 280 unit 24-story tower, and a 9-story 120 unit residential building with 30,000 square feet of medical offices and another 15,000 square feet of retail on the corner of Damen and Harrison.

 

What trends have you noticed in terms of the finishes and amenities renters look for in the West Loop in 2021?

Believe it or not, I don’t really focus on trends or what other buildings are doing. If you’re truly building a unique product with a unique vibe then you don’t have to worry about that. People either want to live there or they don’t and you’re going to attract people based on what you’ve created. I’m focused on creating great space.

There’s no detail of a building I’m not involved in, down to the baseboards. Being intricately involved in the design is important to me because building great spaces is in every detail. So I can vividly remember the day I picked out these floors from Merchandise Mart or these stools (referencing the stools in the resident bar area at The Mason) I picked out when I was with my wife shopping and had been trying to find one that was grey, narrow, and really, really comfortable…so I’m always on the lookout when I’m in design mode. Another example is the co-working space. We have individual offices plus multiple conference rooms that can be reserved. We figured why not bring a WeWork type concept here. There weren’t many people who had done it when we first did it.

West Loop Luxury Apartments for Rent!

Co-Working Offices at The Mason, Courtesy of Marquette Management

In 1400 W Randolph for example, I’m really focused on making it a health and wellness building. We invested a lot in the ionization air purification system, which has proven results against COVID, touchless everything, broke the fitness areas into three different places, and added a meditation room.

That’s how it happens– I’m really thinking through every detail of the environment and making it attractive for people who want to live here. It usually flows organically into what we’re trying to do.

 

By Sophie Morrison

*Interview has been edited for clarity.

 

Is Chicago Bike Friendly?

Short answer: Yes.

In 2016, bicycling.com named Chicago its “Best Bike City in America,” and the city has been turning up in similar rankings for decades.

That will happen in a town with more than 15,000 bike racks, and where the number of bicycle commuters more than tripled from 2000 to 2017.

A Little History

Chicago’s biking bona fides go way back. In the late 1800s, roughly two-thirds of the nation’s bikes were built within 150 miles of the city, which was home to a young entrepreneur named Schwinn.

In 1971, Mayor Richard J. Dailey unveiled a 34-mile bike route. The next year, he added rush-hour bike lanes in the heart of downtown.

In the 1990s, Mayor Richard M. Daley expanded on his father’s vision, creating the Mayor’s Bicycle Advisory Council. The next decade saw more than 100 miles over bikeways constructed or improved and thousands of bicycle racks installed.

Best of the Best

While the city as a whole is good for biking, some areas are better than others. Prime neighborhoods include:

Wicker Park/Bucktown/Logan Square: The 606 trail touches each of these communities, which also benefit from proximity to the Milwaukee Avenue Spoke Route, one of seven such routes providing continuous bike routes to downtown.

Lincoln Park: There’s the park for which it is named, easy access to the 18.5-mile Lakefront Trail and the Clark Street Spoke Route, just for starters.

South Loop: Grant Park, the Lakefront Trail, Northerly Island and the Museum Campus make for some of the most scenic rides in the city — and your commute will likely be short and sweat-free.

What Makes a City Bike Friendly?

Well, one thing that works in Chicago’s favor is that it’s flat. Even while there are some terrific mountain biking areas within a short drive of downtown, Chicago’s even terrain takes the interval training aspect out of casual rides and daily commutes alike. For mountain biking areas, check out the Palos Trail System in the Southwest suburbs or Kettle Moraine State Forest in Southern Wisconsin if that’s what you prefer.

However, there are many more things to consider, such as:

Security. With 200 miles of on-street protected, buffered and shared bike lanes, and a magnificent variety of off-street paths, Chicago is a national leader in staking out spaces for bicyclists.

Accessibility. Divvy, Chicago’s ride-sharing program, has 600 stations and 6,000 bicycles available throughout the city. Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s 2021 Five-Year Capital Plan includes $37 million for additional improvements that would move Chicago closer to former Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s goal of having every Chicagoan live within a half-mile of a bike path.

Culture. Do city officials embrace biking? From the first Mayor Daley on, that has been a resounding yes in Chicago. Do cyclists have the routes and access to shops and pit stops that feed the desire to get back in the saddle? Absolutely — from the stunning vistas of the Lakefront Trail to the culturally immersive 606 (replete with art installations, observatories and educational programming), to one of the largest bike shops in the nation (Old Town’s Village Cycle Center), Chicago has you covered.

Ride With Us

If you’re asking, “Is Chicago bike friendly?” make friends with us. The best way to ensure you’re going to get the most use out of your bike in Chicago is living in an area — and an apartment — that embraces bike culture. Downtown Apartment Company knows the neighborhoods and the housing inventory in each. To get a head start on your life in the bike lane, check out our listings here.

Chicago Restaurant Week 2021

Chicago Restaurant Week begins this Friday (albeit, it may look a little different this year than in previous years). During Restaurant Week, over 250 participating  restaurants in and around Chicago offer multi-course prix fixe menus for lunch ($25) and dinner ($39 or $55). This year, you’ll get to enjoy restaurant week through indoor or outdoor dining, carry out, and even delivery. Here are some of the notable additions to this year’s Restaurant Week roster in addition to tried and true favorites.

Avec River North

The new River North location of this beloved West Loop restaurant will be offering a five course dinner menu ($55). The tasting menu will include house-marinated olives and ciabatta to start, followed by chorizo-stuffed medjool dates with bacon and piquillo pepper-tomato sauce, a course of shaved brussels sprouts with calabrian chili and golden raisin, wood oven paella with confit chicken, escargot sausage, mussels and tangerine aioli, and lastly a raspberry rose tart. Enjoy dishes inspired by Greek and Spanish cuisine for indoor dining or on the outdoor patio.

Looking for restaurants with outdoor dining near River North open now?

Courtesy of Avec

Odyssey Chicago River

This dining experience is taking riverfront dining to a whole new level. Enjoy Chicago’s stunning architecture during a dinner cruise along the Chicago River. The menu ($55) includes a selection of soup or salad, an entree (with dishes like root vegetable fricassee, broiled salmon, grilled chicken, or scallop and shrimp scampi), as well as a dessert.

Aba

Aba is a West Loop favorite amongst many Chicagoans. This year, Aba’s $55 dinner menu will include a choice of a wide selection of appetizers (like charred eggplant, striped bass crudo, or house made stracciatella), an entree (like braised short rib, king salmon, or grilled cauliflower with dates and turmeric), a dessert (like pistachio or chocolate cake or creme brûlée), and even a craft cocktail (like a kiwi gin and tonic or a Mediterranean mule). Enjoy Aba’s Mediterranean fare from their stylish and intimate outdoor rooftop. Aba will also be offering a prix fixe brunch menu for $25 which includes two courses plus a choice of cocktail, beer, or wine.This definitely tops the list as one of the best Restaurant Week deals!

Looking for West Loop rooftops with outdoor dining near you?

Courtesy of Aba

Girl and the Goat

Girl and the Goat is another tried and true West Loop favorite. In addition to the high quality food and experience, the world renowned restaurant rose to prominence because of it’s owner and chef, Top Chef winner, Stephanie Izard. This year’s menu ($55, dinner only) will offer contemporary dishes like brioche with goat liver mousse and relish, roasted bosu oysters with yuzu Harissa butter, shio kombu, and lime,  and crispy short ribs with avocado and grape fruit chermoula. Don’t worry– we had to google a few of those ingredients, too. Girl and the Goat’s Restaurant Week menu will be exclusively available for indoor dining.

Restaurant Week restaurants near West Loop

Intimate ambiance inside Girl and the Goat, courtesy of Girl and the Goat

Chicago Restaurant Week runs March 19th through April 4th. Click here to make reservations and see a list of participating restaurants.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to guide you in your search and answer your questions! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about any move in specials!

How To Furnish An Apartment

Whether you’re furnishing your first apartment or fifth, moving to a new place offers the fun opportunity to decorate it to one’s tastes. You may have some existing furniture, or you may be starting from scratch. You may have a certain aesthetic in mind, or you may want to wing it. Whatever the case, there’s a lot that goes into finding apartment furnishings that make a new address feel like home.

Outfitting a residence with furniture that meets your needs and fits your tastes tends to be challenging and expensive. It often takes time and skill to pick the pieces that fit your particular personality and preferences. With that in mind, here’s a look at some top tips for how to furnish an apartment in a way that works for you.

Start With Necessities

While it’s easy to get excited about accessorizing, the building blocks of furnishing an apartment are those pieces that serve necessary functions. If you’re working with a blank slate, here are several must-haves on which to focus:

  • A place to sleep: If there’s one thing your apartment needs to give you, it’s a place to sleep each night. Shop around for mattresses and bed frames, and you’ll see there are abundant possibilities. Keep in mind that just because a mattress is the most expensive doesn’t mean it’s the best. Look for models that hold up well.
  • A place to eat: You can consume daily meals standing at the counter, but usually you’ll want a table or bar where one can sit down. Think beyond regular eating, too. Will you want to entertain? If so, you’ll need room for several people at your eating area.
  • A place to sit: Couches, armchairs, dining chairs, and stools all cater to the same function: giving you a place to sit. Typically, you’ll want an anchoring piece of furniture for the living room, such as a couch, sectional or loveseat. Likewise, you’ll want chairs for the eating area and an office chair if you work from home.
  • Kitchen tools: Even for the least culinary-minded individuals, everyday cooking requires pots and pans, cooking utensils, small appliances, and linens. Stock your space to enable meal prep, and make daily life more functional.
  • Storage: Last but not least, you’ll want places to store belongings. Have a lot of books? Shelving or bookcases are a must. Want to showcase a collection of some kind? Furniture can make this possible. In the living room, you could keep extra blankets in baskets. The front entryway often benefits from wall hooks or a hangingrack for coats. Think about what you use in each part of your layout, and choose containers, cabinets, shelves and baskets accordingly. Organization makes a huge difference in how your space looks and feels day to day.

One more tip: whatever you’re buying, a little research can go a long way. In order to invest in the best you can afford, try to find out where products were made, how they’re constructed and what to expect in terms of longevity before you buy.

Know Where to Splurge

As anyone who’s moved more than once could tell you: a lot of furniture ends up going to a donation box. To avoid overspending on pieces you’ll end up ditching, try to think about your long-term needs. Ask yourself: what furniture would be worth packing and moving in a truck, and what would you leave behind? Only allow yourself to splurge on the items that you’re sure to keep. That bench that perfectly fits your uniquely shaped entryway, for example. It’s unlikely to work as well anywhere else.

Hunt Around for Furniture

You have all kinds of options for where to buy furniture. There are big-box stores and traditional retailers, but you can also shop furniture outlets, second hand stores or even mobile apps such as OfferUp or LetGo. Whether you hunt for a new dining table on Facebook Marketplace or find a great lamp at a garage sale, you may find excellent bargains by digging around a bit.

One more smart way to simplify and accelerate the furnishing process is to work with Downtown Apartment Company. When you rent one of our luxury apartments, we’re available to help connect you with other companies that rent furniture and can possibly save you money in setting up the new space. Let us help you fill the apartment without having to rent a fully furnished unit. To learn more, reach out to us anytime!

How To Grill When You Live In An Apartment

When people sign a lease to a new apartment, it could incite excitement for a variety of reasons. Perhaps it’s your first time living on your own, or you are finally living in the city of your dreams. What some people don’t realize is that they miss out on some of the luxuries of having a house.

Without a porch, patio or balcony, it might be difficult to partake in certain activities — such as grilling — while living in an apartment. Due to the rules and regulations against gas, charcoal and open flames, apartment dwellers sometimes aren’t allowed to grill at all. Here are some tips to still have a great grilling experience when you live in an apartment.

Workarounds to Grilling Outdoors

If you’re craving some flame-roasted meals but don’t have access to a grill, try these kitchen alternatives that can be used year-round — even if you have to endure the Chicago winters from your downtown apartment rental:

  • Use the broiler: Some people might think that an oven only has one baking setting and a light switch. However, there are a variety of ways you can use an oven. To successfully substitute broiling for grilling, set the oven to broil and move the rack so that it’s between four and eight inches from the heat source. Doing so should create the perfect caramelization and charring for your food. It may take a bit longer than cooking over an open pit, but it’s worth the wait.
  • Turn on the electric grill: For the modern and eco-friendly cook, an electric grill can still achieve a thorough roast. Since you’re using electricity instead of fire, it’s important to make sure the meat is cooked on the inside too. Adding drops of liquid smoke and the right seasoning and sauce pairings can ensure the success of your indoor barbecue.
  • Invest in a grill pan: A grill pan can be used on the stovetop or in the broiler. A ridged, cast-iron pan can even imitate the grill marks. A pan also grants you the ability to baste your meat while it’s cooking and provides more smokey flavor than an electric grill. A few drops of liquid smoke, extra seasonings and sauces may be necessary. Just beware of a potentially smokey kitchen and messy cleanup.
  • Seasoning is your friend: If you still don’t have a way to cook up some flamed goodness, add some herbs and spices to imitate a fire-roasted meat dish. Once it’s on the pan or in the oven, the seasoning and sauce can bring out the flavors from the meat and give a tasty alternative to charcoal and fire.

Alternatives to the Kitchen

Grilling is often a messy process. If you don’t have the space or building clearance to cook indoors, try getting creative with your surroundings.

  • Use common areas: Many apartment complexes and buildings offer a space to grill outside. Whether it’s in the yard or on the rooftop, utilizing a public space offered by your building could save the hassle of kitchen grilling.
  • Head outdoors: If you don’t have access to a cooking space in or near the apartment, try a park, campsite, pier or public pool. Many cities and municipalities have community spaces specifically for outdoor grilling. Simply take your cooking, cleaning, prep and serving supplies — and don’t forget the meat.

When you’re really craving some fresh, smokey barbecue, it can kill the mood to have to settle for takeout. Being crafty and patient with your utensils and cooking space may take some time and effort, but you’ll be rewarded with a satisfying meal. Mastering the art of the grilling lifestyle from a tiny apartment is doable — without setting off a smoke alarm. If hosting a killer barbecue party is a priority for your next apartment, contact us to find your next grill-safe rental.

Lake and Wells Apartments

If you’re looking for convenient location, it doesn’t get much better than Lake and Wells Apartments. At Lake and Wells Apartments you’ll be just steps to the CTA Blue Line train, which provides service throughout the city and out to O’Hare International Airport, as well as minutes to the CTA Brown, Red, Pink, Orange, and Green line trains, a plethora of restaurants, shops, and plenty of green space along the Chicago Riverwalk and lakefront. River North is also less than a 10 minute walk away.

Now leasing! Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago downtown loop? CTA Blue Line

These newly renovated luxury apartments feature modern interiors and thoughtful design. Kitchens come equipped with stainless steel appliances and a choice between two finish packages, including either black granite countertops with cherry wood or espresso cabinetry, or white quartz countertops with white cabinetry.

Lake and Wells Apartments Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago downtown loop? CTA Blue Line

Modern White Kitchen Finishes

Lake and Wells Apartments Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago downtown loop? CTA Blue Line

Classic Dark Finishes

Each spacious layout features in unit laundry and floor to ceiling windows to take in the stunning city and river views. Hard surface flooring, 10 foot ceilings, and expansive balconies are also available.

Lake and Wells Apartments Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago downtown loop? CTA Blue Line

Amenities at Lake and Wells Apartments include an indoor lap pool which becomes an indoor-outdoor pool deck in the summer months, a 24 hour state of the art fitness center, 24 hour co working space, a rooftop with a fire pit, grilling stations, landscaped lounge spaces, and outdoor hot tub, an outdoor private pet park, complimentary coffee service, garage parking, onsite dry cleaning service, package receiving, and onsite storage lockers.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago’s Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials including free rent!

Optima Lakeview

Optima Lakeview is one of the newest residential developments from Chicago developer, Optima, slated for 2022 delivery and located at the former Treasure Island site. The seven story building will include a composition of one, two, and three bedroom residences, 14,000 square feet of commercial space, and 40,000 square feet of amenity space.

Optima Lakeview luxury apartments for rent

Courtesy of Optima

Lakeview is a tree-lined neighborhood with lots of character, known for having a high density of charming walk-ups, homes, and smaller multifamily buildings. So far, luxury amenity buildings have been far and few between and those looking to live in a luxury amenity building have opted to live further downtown. Thanks to Optima Lakeview, you’ll no longer have to choose between high rise living and the charming neighborhood feel Lakeview offers.

Optima Lakeview will be located on Broadway, right in the heart of Lakeview, just steps to restaurants, boutiques, the lakefront, comedy clubs, parks, Wrigley Field, Diversey Driving Range, Belmont Harbor, and nightlife. Amenities will include an indoor basketball court, a golf simulator, a putting green, fitness center, a dog park, pet spa, game room, a yoga studio, demonstration kitchen, conference rooms, a rooftop sky deck, resort style pool, an in-home concierge service, a striking interior atrium, and more! So far, plans show that Optima Lakeview will feature a dark brick base with a glass and bronze exterior. The CTA Red Line train and entrance to Lakeshore Drive are also just minutes away, making it a quick and easy commute downtown or north to Evanston and Northwestern.

Looking for pet friendly 2 beds near Lakeview on Broadway?

Courtesy of Optima

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago in Lakeview? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials including free rent!

West Loop Salons

The West Loop is full of upscale and innovative salons and blowout bars. Here are a few of our favorite west loop salons!

Looking for West Loop salons?

Art + Science – 1144 W Randolph St

The stylists at Art + Science each specialize in a particular area including coloring, cutting, barbering, and styling. Each stylist on the floor has been through Art + Science’s competitive apprenticeship program, so it’s no surprise Art + Science was ranked “Best Salon in Chicago” by Chicago Reader for three years. If you’re craving a change and need some inspiration, check out their “cutting” edge look book here!

In 2016, Art and Science also started Hair Cares, a nonprofit that gives back to underserved people in the community through fashion shows, coat drives, raffles, and more.

Salon DJ Hairtography – 300 N Elizabeth St

Salon DJ is a full service salon and one stop shop for great headshots, offering hair and make up services, products, brow, nail, and aesthetic services, and portrait photography all under the same roof! Located in a very spacious timber loft, there’s plenty of room to space styling stations far apart for social distancing.

*Residents of The Mason get 20% off services for a limited time! Contact us for more information about The Mason!

Looking for West Loop salons?

Courtesy of Shari Sirotnak

Blowout Junkie – 1219 W Madison St

If you need to get in an out quickly and look polished for days, Blowout Junkie is worth checking out! With high water pressure for extra clean hair and state of the art dryers for a quick styling time, this West Loop blow-dry bar is a neighborhood favorite for a reason!

*For a limited time, receive $5 account credit for every service you receive in February 2021!

Trixie Girl Blowdry Bar – 237 S Halsted St

It’s difficult to find West Loop salons open on Mondays, early in the morning, late at night, or on holidays. Fortunately, Trixie Girl West Loop Blowdry Bar has you covered! Trixie Girl is open seven days a week including early morning and late evening hours, so you can get that last minute perfect hair day in or start your work day with a fresh ‘do.

Blow Dry Bar Open Monday Open Late near you

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about free rent and move in specials!

Cascade Lakeshore East

Cascade is one of Magellan Development‘s newest high rises. In addition to many popular communities throughout Chicago, like the Gallery on Wells and Exhibit on Superior, Magellan is known for being the developer behind the Lakeshore East community. Over the past several decades, they’ve developed many high rises, commercial space, public enhancements, and Lakeshore East park, turning the former golf course into a full-blown neighborhood. Cascade is one of three buildings within the parcels IJKL in Lakeshore East, one of the last remaining areas to be developed in the neighborhood. The edgy interior design, thoughtful layouts, striking architectural details, and useful amenities make Cascade a standout building.

Magellan development apartments near you in downtown Chicago

These new luxury apartments will offer stunning views of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan

The positioning of this high rise offers optimal natural light for all units as well as stunning lake and river views, just one of the ways bKL’s thoughtful architecture is woven through each detail of the building. The glass facade, accented with copper expression panels,  will reflect the surroundings, including Lake Michigan and nearby park, making Cascade an homage to what’s already beautiful in Lakeshore East. Upon completion, Cascade will be 37 stories with 503 rental units. Amenities will include a pool deck, an outdoor kitchen and grilling stations, a media room, multiple communal lounges, work space, fire pits, and more.

Cascade will also be close to plenty of green space. Adjacent to the tower will be Cascade Park, a new three acre landscaped park designed by internationally acclaimed Claude Cormier and Associates.

Magellan development apartments near you in downtown Chicago

Cascade Park adjacent to Cascade and Cirrus towers

Additionally, the beloved six acre Lakeshore East park is also neighboring the high rise. Lakeshore East park is currently Chicago’s only free wireless park and also has a sectioned off dog park.

Cascade is located at 445 E Waterside Drive and is slated for completion in quarter three of 2021.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are currently offering in person, self guided, and virtual tours. Be sure to ask about move in and free rent specials!

How To Create A Work-From-Home Space

Despite all the benefits of working from home, it is not without its challenges. Whether you’re managing meetings over Zoom or trying to complete projects amid household distractions, the convenience of quitting a commute can start to feel like a burden if you don’t have a dedicated home office workspace.

If you spend any time telecommuting, it’s important to create a makeshift office at home. With that in mind, here’s a look at the advantages of a designated workspace, along with tips for how to get started.

Benefits of Having a Dedicated Home Office Workspace 

Your home offers many comforts, but it can’t compare to a traditional office. If you’re trying to set up shop at the kitchen table or on the living room sofa, you’ll quickly learn how easy it is to get distracted. Someone rings the doorbell, or the washing machine dings. The TV beckons, and the pantry is full of snacks. Having a dedicated work area can help with all these challenges.

Some of the many benefits that a home office can provide include:

  • More focus: Shutting out the routines of household life can make it easier to minimize distractions and boost productivity. With a work-from-home space, you have a dedicated area where you can get tasks done — away from chores, noises and anyone else who lives there.
  • Accessible supplies: Even if all you need for work is a computer, it’s helpful to have a specific place where you can always keep it. A home office could also be where your printer, files, paper, writing utensils and other office supplies stay.
  • Better work/life balance: Setting aside a room strictly for work ensures that you create better boundaries between your job and home life. In the office, you work; out of it, you don’t.

Tips to Create a Makeshift Office

If you’re new to working from home or finally realizing it’s time to settle into a more productive routine, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Minimize distractions. Step one in creating an effective home office is to pick a location where you will be uninterrupted. You can use a spare bedroom, a large closet or part of another room, but the place you choose should make it easy to get away from regular life, find some peace and quiet, and concentrate.
  2. Get organized. Gather everything you’ll need for daily work and organize it properly. Along with traditional office supplies, consider investing in a sturdy desk, ergonomic seating and sufficient lighting to keep your eyes from getting overtired. Likewise, decorate to make the space feel personal and calming, so it’s a pleasure to occupy.
  3. Limit work to the workplace. Once you have an office set up, make it a habit to use it only for your job. By allocating the area specifically for work, you’ll make it easier to be productive when you’re on the clock.

If you’re willing to get creative, you can set up an office almost anywhere. That said, sometimes the easiest way to make more space is to move to a bigger home. If you’re interested in a rental that could accommodate a work-from-home environment, come explore the units we have available at Downtown Apartment Company.

 

Avra West Loop Apartments

Avra is one of the West Loop’s newest luxury high rises featuring elegant interiors, thoughtful layouts, practical and upscale amenities, and an unbeatable location.

Avra features a collection of 198 luxury apartments, comprised of studio, convertible, one, two, and three bedroom units as well as penthouses. Some of the star features include oversized walk in closets, floating vanities, floor to ceiling glass windows, kitchen peninsulas, designer pendant lighting, and four piece bathrooms.

New luxury studio 1 bedroom 2 bedroom 3 bedroom apartments near Rush Medical Center

Renderings courtesy of Tandem

Avra is a full amenity building, including a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, a fully equipped fitness center, co-working space, fire pits, complimentary bike storage, and even pet amenities like the community dog wash station.

Now leasing Avra luxury West Loop Apartments near UIC

Avra, located at 1125 W Van Buren, is in a prime West Loop location, just minutes from the Loop and Medical District, and two blocks to the University of Illinois at Chicago campus. With Whole Foods and Mariano’s grocery stores just blocks away, Target just one block away, the CTA blue line train two blocks away, and the highway entrance less than a minute drive, you’ll be situated near all the major conveniences. Furthermore, Avra is just a few blocks from Halsted and Madison streets, both lined with retail, restaurants, coffee shops, fitness studios, salons, and the like. Avra is also just a few blocks from Mary Bartleme Park, where you can peruse the seasonal farmers market, go for a stroll, or take your furry friend to the enclosed dog park. Whether you’re looking to live near the Loop, the West Loop, or the Illinois Medical District and UIC, this location is hard to beat!

Now leasing Avra luxury West Loop Apartments near UIC

Avra is currently pre-leasing for move ins starting  in April 2021 and offering spectacular pre-leasing specials.* Avra is being developed by Tandem with architecture by Antunovich Associates and interiors by Brianne Bishop Design.

New luxury studio 1 bedroom 2 bedroom 3 bedroom apartments near Rush Medical Center

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the West Loop or apartments near the Illinois Medical District and UIC? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in and free rent specials!

*Concessions,  specials, and availability are subject to change on a daily basis.

Morton Salt Redevelopment in Lincoln Park

Developer, R2, recently proposed a new development that would bring office, entertainment, retail, and dining space, as well as over 500 feet of  new riverfront space to the Morton Salt warehouse site. Upon approval for a zoning change from warehouse to commercial of what’s been dubbed the “Salt District”, R2 will also seek landmark status. R2 plans on keeping the famous “Morton Salt Umbrella Girl” sign, which is visible from the expressway.

Lincoln Yards megadevelopment by Sterling Bay

Courtesy of R2

R2 purchased the site at 1357 N. Elston in 2017, roughly two years after Morton closed down their factory after 86 years of use. The public sentiment seems to be overwhelmingly popular, with the project bringing hundreds of jobs and public green space to an area that has been out of use for several years.

The Morton Salt warehouse is located in a prime location along the north branch of the river in Lincoln Park. This 760 acre corridor of Lincoln Park and the Near North Side has been known for housing industrial sites, until the city changed its zoning to allow for (and encourage) other mixed use development in this “North Branch” corridor.

Lincoln Yards megadevelopment by Sterling Bay

Among other office and public recreation developments underway in the area, Sterling Bay announced it’s plans for Lincoln Yards, a mega development bounded by the Kennedy Expressway to the west, Webster Ave to the north, Clybourn Ave to the east, and North Ave to the south. Plans for the massive Lincoln Yards development include public riverfront space, residential, office, retail, and hospitality space, bike paths, art installations, and other recreation space. This stretch of Lincoln Park has only grown in popularity with developers.

The video above is an overview of the neighboring Lincoln Yards mega development. See the gallery below for renderings of R2’s proposed Morton Salt redevelopment.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about free rent and move in specials!

IMPRINT South Loop Penthouses

IMPRINT Penthouses South Loop New Construction

Step into the luxury penthouses at IMPRINT, which feature top of the line finishes, striking views, thoughtful design, and unique luxury features.

Penthouse units range from one to four bedrooms, most of which have dedicated spacious closets and bathrooms for each bedroom, as well as private wrap-around terraces.

These South Loop penthouses feature soaring exposed concrete ceilings, solid core entry doors with brushed chrome hardware, oversized bedrooms, and hard surface flooring. The European style kitchens come equipped with flat panel cabinetry, quartz countertops, Frigidaire stainless steel appliances, a gas range, garbage disposal, a large undercount stainless steel sink, and a single lever faucet with an integrated pull out sprayer.

Spa inspired bathrooms are complete with elegant lighting, vanities each with a drawer, frameless mirror, and integrated sink, single lever premium faucets, soaking tubs, glass showers, towel bars, robe hooks, tile flooring, and double vanity sinks in select units. Each unit also features full-sized, Whirlpool front loading washers and dryers as well as floor to ceiling windows with UV blocking roller shades.

With indoor amenities for year round use, outdoor amenities in the warmer months, and convenient services, the amenities at IMPRINT are second to none. Head to the fitness studio and yoga platform for your own workout or a complimentary yoga class. and towel off with complimentary towel service. IMPRINT’s state of the art fitness center is complete with Peloton bikes, a Powermill stair climber, and ample cardio and weight training equipment. Entertain, unwind, or work from home in the resident lounge, the private dining area and demonstration kitchen, or at the fifth floor terrace, complete with grilling stations, fire pits, and ample seating space. Check out the digital entertainment and gaming space or warm up by the fire pits at the top floor observation deck. Although the dedicated co-working spaces and first floor library are excellent for working from home, all amenity spaces are equipped with WiFi should you decide to work from one of the outdoor common spaces.

New loft style penthouses for rent in the South Loop Chicago

IMPRINT offers extensive indoor and outdoor amenities

IMPRINT also offers a multitude of conveniences. The dog spa, grooming station, and private 24/7 dog run make having a dog in a high rise a breeze. The 24/7 concierge, on-site maintenance and management teams, LuxerOne package receiving, Tide Cleaners valet dry cleaning, printing service, covered attached garage parking and on site bike storage, housekeeping services available through The Minte, and curated resident events and perks program are all things IMPRINT offers to make life just a little easier.

IMPRINT is located in the Printer’s Row area of the South Loop. The South Loop is beloved by Chicagoans for its vibrant cultural scene, with Chicago’s world renowned museums, Soldier Field, Grant Park, the lakefront, stunning architecture, and exceptional dining all within blocks.

Check out the gallery below for more images of the penthouses at IMPRINT. A virtual tour of the amenity spaces is also available!

 

Looking for luxury penthouses for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and assist you in your search. We are currently offering in person and virtual tours.

Gift Ideas for Hard-to-Shop-For Friends

We all have that hard-to-shop-for friend. Whether its someone who seems to have everything, doesn’t like anything, or someone you don’t know all that well, these gift ideas are worth checking out!

Slip

Slip offers high quality machine washable silk products, like the silk eye mask and pillow case that are included with their sleep set. The silk pillow case is especially beloved for its propertied skin and hair benefits. The Slip sleep set is a great way to make someone’s nighttime routine feel just a little more luxurious. Slip sleep sets and a la carte silk products are available at Bloomingdale’s.

Holiday Gift Ideas Near You 2020 Slip Sleep Set

The Sill

We all have that friend who has a window ledge full of “pet” plants in lieu of furry pets. The Sill is the perfect place to shop for a holiday gift for that friend. From succulents to more luscious potted and hanging plants, The Sill has an outstanding selection. If you or the person you’re shopping for don’t have very much natural light, don’t fret! You can also purchase plant growth lights from The Sill. The good news is that even if you purchase a plant for someone who doesn’t particularly like plants, the gesture is still usually well received. Who couldn’t use a new potted plant to brighten up their home these days?

The Sill is also a great option if you’re looking to support a small business this holiday season!

Holiday Gift Ideas 2020 Near You

Lettuce Entertain You Gift Card

Ever forget what you got someone the year before and end up accidentally giving them the same gift twice? This gift card is a gift that’s socially acceptable to give to your entire circle of friends and family year after year. Lettuce Entertain You gift cards can be used at dozens of locations around the Chicagoland area and make the perfect gift for that hard-to-shop-for person. Although the recipient probably won’t be going out to eat for a while, these gift cards can be used for carryout, too. For a limited time, get a $25 bonus card to use for yourself after the holidays for every $100 you purchase in gift cards. (Lou Malnati’s has a similar promotion going on.)

Vosges Chocolates

Whether you’re shopping for a corporate gift or got stuck with a secret santa you don’t really know that well, it’s hard to go wrong with chocolate! Vosges offers stunning high quality chocolate gifts for any price range.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about any move in specials including free rent!

The Clark Gold Coast Apartments

The Clark is one of the newest luxury apartment buildings in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood, offering studio, one bed, and two bedroom apartments.

The Clark Apartments in Gold Coast Chicago

Building amenities at The Clark include indoor, outdoor, and service based amenities.

The rooftop terrace at The Clark is complete with grilling stations, Sonos wireless HiFi sound system, and stunning views of the downtown Chicago skyline. Unwind and entertain in the penthouse lounge or stop by the resident herb garden to grab a sprig of something to spice up your home cooked meals. Indoor amenities include the fitness center and yoga studio, both with 24 hour access, as well as plenty of space to work from home including the business center, reservable conference room, or coffee bar which seres espresso and cold drinks. Amenity spaces are also equipped with high speed internet.

The Clark Apartments in Gold Coast Chicago

The Clark offers residents incredible services for added convenience. From the 24 hour door staff and concierge, flexible lease lengths, Butterfly MX, a smart intercom service with video calling capabilities via mobile app, reserved garage spaces, bike storage, onsite management and maintenance, recycling, close proximity to public transit and Jewel Osco grocery store, and 24 hour package receiving, daily life is a little easier at The Clark.

1201 N Clark St Apartments for Rent

Interiors at The Clark include bright and modern design, quality appliances and finishes, and smart home features.

Each smart apartment is enabled with Stratis, allowing residents smart phone control over their lighting and thermostats. as well as Latch, which allows you to use your smart phone as a key. Apartments are also equipped with 1 Gigabit download speed internet, Leviton Z-Wave dimmer switches, and Nest programmable thermostats which allow you to adjust temperature settings remotely and schedule ideal settings.

1201 N Clark St Apartments for Rent

Kitchens features quartz countertops, designer tile backsplashes, and hardwood floors. Efficient appliances include in unit laundry, dishwashers, and microwaves. High ceilings, private balconies, premium window coverings, large closets, and striking views are all other touches that make apartments at The Clark special.

1201 N Clark St Apartments for Rent

The Clark offers expansive private balconies and patios

The Clark is also a pet friendly community offering state of the art pet amenities. Rain or shine, the onsite private dog run offers incredible convenience!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s Gold Coast? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in specials including free rent!

Fulton Market ‘Reve Burger’

Chef Curtis Duffy is a Michelin three starred Chicago chef known for Randolph Street’s ‘Grace’, which closed its doors in 2017. After three years in the works, Duffy and his business partner, Michael Muser, opened their new Fulton Market restaurant, Ever, in July. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions and supply chain obstacles, Ever has pivoted into a new temporary concept called ‘Reve Burger’.

Ever started as a high end, contemporary concept with an 8-10 course tasting menu (starting at $285 per person) featuring seafood, seasonal vegetables, nuts, meats, seeds, and grains. The original menu consisted of ingredients like squab with guajillo, raspberry, and sorrel, hoja santa (also known as “root beer leaf”), and an earthy-looking wagyu beef with sunchoke, orange, and tat soi. However, COVID has made sourcing many of these ingredients much more difficult than usual. Between these supply chain obstacles and COVID-19 indoor dining restrictions, the restaurant’s offerings have changed considerably for the time being.

Fulton Market Restaurant Ever Reve Burger Duffy

Osetra caviar and crab with a cucumber and citrus lace; Courtesy of Ever/Michael Muser

Ever’s Fulton Market space is currently being used for Reve, Duffy and Muser’s carryout concept. In addition to being “Ever” spelled backward, “Reve” also means “dream” in French. Reve offers gourmet burgers and American fare for delivery and pick up. The standard “Reve burger” consists of two, four-ounce beef patties, a few slices of American cheese, plus Vienna dill pickles, and special sauce between a brioche bun from Highland Baking Co, served with shoestring fries that supposedly get crunchier after they’re reheated. Reve chef du cuisine, Jason Selk, got his chops working at Culver’s in Wisconsin. Selk hopes eating the delicious burgers from Reve will invoke a feeling of nostalgia for the consumer.

West Loop Restaurant Reve Burger Duffy Ever

Courtesy of Michael Muser/Reve

Be sure to try Reve burger while it’s here for a limited time!

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Fulton Market? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search! We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about any move in specials!

Socially Distant Chicago Holiday Activities

Although it may look a little different this year, there are still plenty of holiday festivities and things to do in Chicago! Here are some socially distant holiday activities in and near downtown Chicago.

Looking for outdoor social distant holiday things to do near downtown Chicago? Activities in the Loop!

Courtesy of Element5 Digital

Christkindlmarket (Virtual)

Christkindlmarket is a Chicago staple for holiday activities. This year, instead of its traditional pop up location in the Loop, the market has gone virtual. Browse goods from all over the world and check out virtual events, like cooking classes, Sunday story time, and German language lessons, all through the end of December.

Zoo Lights (Lincoln Park)

Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo runs select dates from 4-10pm through January 3rd, 2021. Stroll along Lincoln Park Zoo’s winding paths to see hundreds of luminous holiday displays comprised of 2.5 million bulbs and indulge in some seasonal fare. With reduced capacity admissions, Zoo Lights can be a great option if you’re looking for outdoor socially distant holiday things to do!

Mag Mile Lights Festival (Loop)

Looking for outdoor social distant Christmas and New Year things to do near downtown Chicago? Activities in the Loop!

Courtesy of Austin Henckel

Watch downtown Chicago transform into a winter wonderland with over 1 million lights lining the Magnificent Mile. Knock out your holiday shopping list while perusing the grand illumination trees lining Michigan Avenue now through Christmas Day.

Ice Skating at Maggie Daley Park (Loop)

Skate along the winding ribbons of ice rink at Maggie Daley Park, surrounded by the backdrops of the serene lakefront to the east and the striking Chicago skyline in all other directions. The icey path is twice the length of a lap around a traditional ice rink. Admission is free, but you’ll need a reservation, as capacity this year is capped at 180 skaters. Ice skates are also available for rent starting at $16. Maggie Daley Ice Rink is open now through March.

Looking for outdoor social distant holiday things to do near downtown Chicago? Activities in the Loop!

Courtesy of Maggie Daley Park and Timeout Chicago

Looking for luxury apartments for rent now near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to help you in your search and answer any questions. Be sure to ask about move in specials! We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours!

Downtown Chicago Museum Exhibits Happening Now

Chicago is home to some of the world’s greatest museums. If you’re looking for a fun way to spend the day during the holidays, check out these Chicago museum exhibits!

Immersive Van Gogh – Lighthouse Art Space (Old Town)

Lighthouse Art Space is a new art venue in Old Town dedicated to “merging the boundaries between entertainment and culture.” “Immersive Van Gogh” is a an hour long walk-through digital art experience that will allow visitors to step inside Van Gogh’s world. The exhibit is coming to Chicago February 11th, 2021 with tickets starting at $39.99 for adults and $24.99 for kids.

 

Superpower Dogs – Museum of Science and Industry (South Loop)

Explore the incredible dogs and their humans who fight crime, protect endangered species, and save lives in natural disasters around the world. In a film at the Giant Dome Theater at the Museum of Science and Industry, you’ll learn about the remarkable abilities of dogs and the science behind those abilities. Screening times are Wednesdays through Sundays at 10:40am, 1:00pm, and 2:20pm. Tickets are $12 for adults and $9 for kids.

Monet and Chicago – The Art Institute (The Loop)

The Art Institute’s 46 Monet paintings and drawings constitute the largest collection of his work outside Paris. In addition to his well known popular pieces, many of his rarely seen pieces are also on display. Visit Monet and Chicago through January 18th 2021.

Monet and Chicago downtown Museum exhibits 2020 2021

Monet’s “Arrival Of The Normandy Train Gare Saint-Lazare”

Can’t make it in person? The Art Institute is operating with limited hours (Thursday-Monday from 11am to 6pm) so they currently have expanded virtual offerings. Check out one of The Art Institute’s many online talks on an array of topics from gratitude, Impressionism, Chicago stories, and the timely talk on isolation, which explores current social questions and current events through a dialogue about art.

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions! We are now offering in person, virtual, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Moving for Work? Corporate Relocation Options in Downtown Chicago!

Are you moving for a corporate relocation, school, a medical rotation, or an internship? Is your lease up and you’re not sure what the next few months will bring or where you want to live next? Maybe you want to move but just don’t feel like committing to a long term lease or have family coming for a long visit and nowhere for them to stay. Whatever your reason, short term leases and furnished apartments are growing increasingly popular for the incredible convenience they offer.

Although many luxury rental buildings offer three, six, and nine month leases, it’s hard to find options for shorter lease terms. One high quality option is Suite Home Chicago.

Pet friendly apartments for rent now!

One of the short term options Suite Home offers in the West Loop neighborhood

Suite Home Chicago offers furnished short term rentals in downtown Chicago. With inventory in luxury high rises throughout many of Chicago’s neighborhoods, it’s not hard to find a convenient option for your short term stay. The minimum stay is 30 days, but there is full flexibility in anything longer. For instance, if you need to stay for 42 days, you’ll only be billed for the days you need rather than a full second month.

Furnished luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago pet friendly

What really sets Suite Home apart is the quality of their inventory. Their rentals are in top notch luxury high rises and the interiors are masterfully designed. Each rental is complete with basics like full furnishings, full sized appliances, linens, silverware, in-unit laundry in most units, and of course wifi, down to the last detail including paper towels, house plants (because what’s a modern apartment without a succulent), dish towels, travel sized toiletries, and even some trendy throw pillows. All you have to bring is your favorite snack (and some clothes too).

With regular housekeeping service, door staff, and state-of-the-art amenities, you get the luxuries of a hotel with the space and comfort of apartment living. Pets are welcome!

Pet friendly short term rentals luxury apartments in downtown Chicago's West Loop

Each furnished apartment comes complete with linens and all the comforts of home

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and assist with your move or corporate relocation. We are now offering in person, virtual, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Restaurants Offering Thanksgiving Delivery

Does the recent stay at home order have you wondering what this Thanksgiving will look like? Don’t fret! These downtown Chicago restaurants are offering incredible Thanksgiving dinners for carryout and delivery!

Aba – West Loop

Give your celebration a Mediterranean twist with Aba’s Thanksgiving dinner. For $48.95 per person, you’ll get pumpkin hummus, truffle baked orzo, grilled kababs, crispy Brussels sprouts, and creme brûlée, with an option to add a bottle of wine.

Thanksgiving carryout restaurants near downtown Chicago

Duck Duck Goat – West Loop

In the spirit of everything this holiday season being somewhat…atypical…ditch the turkey and opt for duck! Renowned chef, Stephanie Izard’s Chinese inspired menu includes peking duck, soy-roasted sweet potatoes, green beans with black bean sauce, char siu bao buns, mashed potato spring rolls and veggie fried rice. Duck Duck Goat’s Thanksgiving menu starts at $175 for four people.

Maple and Ash  – Gold Coast

If a decadent holiday meal is your thing, look no further. Maple and Ash’s package includes a whole turkey, lobster bisque, shrimp cocktail, plenty of sides and salads and apple pie, with an option to add the IDGAF add-on, which includes caviar, king crab, filet mignon, truffle jus and more, starting at $70 per person.

Thanksgiving carryout restaurants near downtown Chicago

Courtesy of Maple and Ash

etta – Wicker Park and River North

Etta’s prix fixe menu features Thanksgiving favorites with an elevated touch (can you say, cacio e pepe mac and cheese?) For $85 per person you’ll also get a bottle of wine, focaccia, salad, turkey breast, bolognese stuffing, veggies and pumpkin cake with spiced cream cheese frosting.

Bang Bang Pies – Logan Square

Are you making dinner yourself but looking for an extra something? Bang Bang Pies is a Chicago favorite for Thanksgiving classics like pumpkin, apple, chocolate, pecan, and key lime pies. Call ahead to order! Their pies go quickly!

Holiday dinner to go carryout restaurants near downtown Chicago

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. Be sure to ask about any move in specials!

1400 & 1440 W. Randolph Apartments

Developer, Marquette Companies, has broken ground at the former site of BellyQ restaurant in the western portion of the West Loop and Fulton Market neighborhood. The development is located at Randolph and Ogden, just over a block from the CTA pink and green line stop at Ashland, making it a transit oriented development. Current plans include a 26 story building with ground level restaurant space at 1400 W. Randolph Street and an 11 story building adjacent to Union Park at 1440 W. Randolph Street. Chicago-based architecture firm Brininstool + Lynch designed both structures.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Fulton Market in the West Loop Chicago?

Rendering courtesy of Brininstool + LynchAt a community meeting in August, Darren Sloniger of Marquette Companies noted that this new development would “build on the success of The Mason”, another residential high rise from Marquette which leased up 70 percent of its 263 units in only eight weeks. Marquette is also behind Catalyst, another popular luxury high rise in the West Loop. Additionally, Marquette owns other multifamily developments in the suburbs of Chicago as well as in Michigan, Indiana, Texas, and Minnesota.

The total of about 500 luxury apartments at 1400 and 1440 W. Randolph Street are slated for completion in 2022.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the West Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual and in person apartment tours.

‘North Union’ Mega-Development at Moody Bible

JDL Development has proposed a multiphase mega-development with both commercial and residential properties, as well as public green space, near Old Town. The proposed Near North Side development, North Union, would span 8.1 acres and cover half of the current Moody Bible Institute’s Near North Side campus.

New construction near north side apartments for rent and lease

Courtesy of Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture

North Union would bring over 30,000 square feet of commercial space, 2680 rental apartments, and 1.3 acres of green space to Moody Bible Institute’s campus. JDL currently has a deal to buy the land and Moody Bible plans to continue to operate on the remaining 9.4 acres of their current Near North Side campus.

Union North Moody Bible Near North Side Old Town

Courtesy of Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture

The proposed development would be situated between Wells Street and the CTA brown line tracks, bounded by Hill and Chestnut Streets as the northern and southern boundaries. Current plans include three high rises along Oak Street at 44, 47, and 55 stories respectively. Plans also include over 200 low rise units like town homes. Once approved, the development could take 7 to 10 years to complete.

Union North Megadevelopment at Moody Bible Institute on Wells Street

Courtesy of Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s Near North Side? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering in person and virtual apartment showings. Be sure to ask us about move in specials!

Halloween Activities Near Downtown Chicago

Even though it may look a little different this year, Halloween is still on! We know you’ve already been wearing a mask and eating candy for a few months now, but if you’re still looking for ways to celebrate the fall festivities, here are some Halloween activities near downtown Chicago!

Adults Night Out: The Great Pumpkin Glow

Head to Lincoln Park Zoo for seasonal activities including a pumpkin walk, a haunted trail, themed food, seasonal cocktails, and a socially distant movie. The outdoor animal exhibits will be open (with nocturnal species most likely to be active during the event). The Great Pumpkin Glow is Thursday, October 29th 6:30 to 10pm. Grab a hot cider and get your tickets here!

Chicago pumpkin fall activities and things to do this weekend olivia-kulbida

Photo courtesy of Olivia Kulbida

Music Box of Horrors

The Music Box Theatre will take over Chi-Town Movies Drive In through October 31st for screenings of horror movies, ranging from classic favorites to rarely screened films as well as filmmaker Q & A, pre-show entertainment, live trivia with prizes, and double features on Fridays and Saturdays. Admittance begins 30 minutes before the film’s scheduled start time. Although the event is technically a “drive in” you can still attend without a car by bringing your own lawn chair and purchasing a ticket online.

I Put a Spell on You: “Hocus Pocus” Themed Pop Up Bar

“I Put a Spell on You” is a new Halloween pop up bar is now open at the Homestead rooftop in West Town. Chefs Chris Teixeira and Christo Vlahos named menu items after the most quotable lines in the 1990s cult classic film, “Hocus Pocus”, like the “Amok!” cocktail and “The Devil Himself” fried chicken dish. The “I Put a Spell on You” pop up is open evenings through November 8th with a special themed brunch menu on weekends.

Looking for Halloween things to do near downtown Chicago pop up bar hocus pocus west town?

An ice cube with Sarah Jessica Parker in “Hocus Pocus” on the top. Photo courtesy of Homestead

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering in person and virtual apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

What’s Open in Chicago: Phase Four

Now that Chicago is in phase four of reopening from COVID-19, there’s even more to do while socially distancing. Phase four allows reopening of museums and zoos, both outdoor and indoor seating at restaurants, tourist attractions, and the reopening of movie theaters and live performance venues. Here are some of the attractions that are now open near downtown Chicago for your entertainment!

Tourism

Chicago Architecture Center, Wendella, Chicago Lakefront Cruises, and Shoreline Site Seeing have all resumed their boat tours. Hear expertly trained docents share fascinating stories about Chicago’s history, interesting details about over 50 of the buildings that line the Chicago River,  and how Chicago from being a small settlement to one of the world’s largest and most prominent cities in the span of 100 years. If you visit the Chicago Architecture Center and book through them, you’ll save on admission!

Now Open Near Downtown Chicago

Zoo

Lincoln Park is now open near downtown Chicago! Lincoln Park Zoo is home to 200 unique species of wildlife from around the world. Enjoy strolling the zoo’s winding paths surrounded by the tranquil setting of trees, ponds, and glimpses of the city. Upcoming events hosted by Lincoln Park Zoo include virtual penguin feeding, virtual haunted history tours, and Zoo Nights, where you can enjoy fall decor, food, and beverage by Levy Restaurants on Saturdays, all of which run through October 31st. Lincoln Park Zoo admission is still free of charge but to limit the number of people on site, the zoo is requiring online reservations ahead of time.

Now Open in Downtown Chicago

Museums

Chicago offers one of the richest cultural scenes in the world and the extensive list of museums, across many mediums, is a big reason why! The Art Institute, Museum of Science and Industry, and Shedd Aquarium are now all open and require tickets in advance. The Field Museum, American Writer’s Museum, and Museum of Photography are open and offering tickets at the door. The Museum of Contemporary Art is open on weekends only with limited hours. If you’re looking for things to do or places now open near downtown Chicago, start by checking out one of Chicago’s many museums!

Chicago Field Museum Things To Do Near You

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to provide you with more information. We are now offering virtual and in person tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Old Town Park Phase 3

Developed by Vancouver based developer, Onni Group, the third phase of the Old Town Park development is open and available on Chicago’s near north side. At 41 stories, Old Town Park phase 3 is the tallest of the three towers so far. It includes 456 rental units, a sixth floor amenity deck, parking for 193 cars, and office space on the lower levels.

Studio 1 bed 2 bedroom townhouse penthouse Old Town Apartments for rent town homes

Old Town Park phase two made headlines in 2019 for its $45,000 per month penthouse, which set Chicago’s record for the highest price for a rental apartment.

Now, the outstanding finishes, interiors, and amenities at Old Town Park tower 3 are impressing viewers all over again. Phase 3 features an outdoor deck with a heated pool, a hot tub, loungers, daybeds, grassy areas, outdoor play spaces, fire pits, a bocce ball court and various kitchen spaces.

 

This is right in line with the thoughtful amenities at the first two phases of Old Town Park, which include large pools and hot tubs, steam rooms, saunas, and massage rooms, indoor and outdoor rooftop basketball courts, spacious pet amenities, club grade fitness centers, a game room, a self playing piano, many lounge and entertainment spaces, and elegant co-working spaces. Custom closets, full sized washers and dryers, integrated kitchen appliances, sleek design, private balconies, condo-grade finishes, and large bathrooms and kitchens are also all hallmarks of other Onni buildings, including the first two towers of the Old Town Park development.

Opened early in summer of 2021, phase three not only has a lot to offer by way of luxury living, but it also provides an incredible location in Old Town. Living in Old Town Park’s phase three building puts residents right in the middle of this historic, friendly community known for block parties, art galleries and easy access to Lake Michigan. Enjoy being steps from Navy Pier and North Avenue Beach! When you’re looking for luxury apartments for rent in Old Town near Wells Street, explore our listings online to find the perfect place for you. Or, talk to one of our neighborhood experts, as they will be happy to answer your questions. Contact us today! We are now offering virtual, in-person, and self-guided apartment tours.

River North Furniture Stores

River North is one of Chicago’s cultural hubs, filled with boutiques, galleries, music venues, restaurants, and design studios. It’s no wonder River North is chalk full of top tier furniture stores. Here are a few neighborhood favorites!

Luminaire – 301 W Superior St.

Luminaire Chicago features modern designer furniture, lighting, and accessories in a timber loft show room. Luminaire’s show room is located in the gallery district of the River North neighborhood, which features the largest concentration of art galleries outside Manhattan.

Furniture stores near you

The Golden Triangle – 330 N Clark St.

The Golden Triangle is a hidden gem for one of a kind rare finds. From furniture and decor, art work, lighting, and sculptures, to jewelry, artifacts, European and Asian antiques, and custom work, it’s easy to get spend an afternoon perusing the uniquely curated collection.  The Golden Triangle is offering virtual tours of the show room and inventory via Matterport.

Furniture stores near you

Casa Spazio – 222 W Hubbard St

Casa Spazio has a collection of luxury home decor designed and made in Italy. Their collection includes custom pieces, upholstery, office and bedroom furniture, and other modern home furnishings. Casa Spazio also provides space planning and interior design services and is currently offering a virtual tour of their show room.

Furniture stores near you

Manifesto – 808 N Wells St.

Manifesto in River north carries custom designed furniture, imports from Italy and Austria, and contemporary accent pieces. The chic, spacious showroom features a large selection of decor in neutral colors, wood furnishings, rugs, and accent lighting.

Furniture stores near you

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s River North neighborhood? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided tours. Be sure to ask about any move in specials!

369 W. Grand Apartments

369 W. Grand apartments is a new rental building from Canadian developer, Onni Group, at the site of the former Clark and Barlow Hardware Store. Upon completion, 369 W. Grand will provide 365 apartments in a glass-clad 41-story tower in Chicago’s River North neighborhood.

The five story base will feature retail space on the ground level with parking on the next four levels. The main building will feature a resident amenity deck on the sixth floor with a large outdoor deck that will expand on to the roof of the five story base. Units will feature modern finishes and private balconies.

369 W. Grand apartments will also feature three floors of luxury penthouses.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North in downtown Chicago?

A rendering of 369 W. Grand apartments

Onni Group is also the developer behind The Hudson, just a few blocks north of 369 W. Grand, and the multi phase Old Town Park development.

The River North neighborhood is just across the Chicago River from the Loop. Known for its high concentration of restaurants, music venues including the House of Blues, and art galleries as well as its vibrant nightlife scene, River North is a go-to neighborhood for a night out. River North is also home to Merchandise Mart, world-class architecture, and design studios. River North offers convenient access to both interstate 90/94 (Kennedy Expressway) and Lake Shore Drive as well as the brown, purple, and red line trains which run through the Loop and north through Lincoln Park past Northwestern University in Evanston.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, self guided, and in person apartment tours. Be sure to ask about any move in specials!

Aspire South Loop Apartments

There’s no question that the South Loop is one of this year’s hottest Chicago neighborhoods for residential development. If you’re looking to be where all the action is, Aspire apartments is certainly worth checking out! Aspire is one of the South Loop’s newest luxury rental communities, offering pet friendly 1 bed, 2 bed, and 3 bedroom apartments.

Each apartment features modern finishes, thoughtful features, and premium appliances including full sized in unit laundry, exposed concrete ceilings and accents, roller shades, ample closet space, and wide plank flooring throughout. Kitchens boast stone countertops, stainless appliances, and European two tone cabinetry with stone backsplash. Bathrooms offer frameless glass showers and generous vanity storage space.

The amenities at Aspire are top notch. Enjoy the fully equipped fitness center and yoga room with a virtual training system. Between the private work spaces, conference room, the resident cyber lounge, and WiFi access throughout all the indoor and outdoor amenity spaces, there’s plenty of space to work from home.

Pet friendly south loop apartments for rent

Entertain or unwind in the fireside lounge, the pub room, the sports simulator or game and arcade room, or the outdoor pool complete with private cabanas, fire pits, and grilling stations. Aspire also offers lots of conveniences for residents including an on site guest suite, an outdoor private dog park, bike storage, a private garage with electric car charging stations, valet dry cleaning, and a Luxor package receiving system.

Last but certainly not least is Aspire’s “Aspiring Artist” in residence. Canary Garcia has been commissioned to create custom artwork, beginning with a sculpture, for the building while living in it!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering in person, virtual, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Amli 808 Apartments

Amli 808 at 808 N. Wells Street is Amli’s newest apartment community coming to River North! The 17 story tower will features studio, one bed, and two bedroom apartments as well as state of the art amenities and roughly 4700 square feet of commercial space. Of the 318 total apartments, 80% will be efficiently designed studios.

Some of the amenities will include multi-use lounge spaces, a library, a resident craft room, an indoor-outdoor dog run as well as other pet amenities, a rooftop pool deck, an outdoor kitchen with grilling areas, a two level fitness center, a juice and coffee bar, a Zen lounge, a podcasting room, a bike repair shop, communal gardens, and ample coworking space. Amli 808 is also being built to achieve LEED Gold certification.

New construction AMLI 808 River North Apartments for Rent

Rendering of 808 N. Wells

Amli 808 will have fewer car parking spaces but more bicycle parking space than some of its other developments– for a good reason! This transit oriented development is located just a block from the CTA brown and purple line trains which run south through the Loop and north through Lincoln Park, Lakeview, all the way past Northwestern University. It will also be along Wells Street, which is one of the primary bicycle thoroughfares that runs through the city. Although Amli 808 will be the new building on the block, the design team was intentional about making sure the building would jive with the character of River North’s gallery district.  According to architecture firm, NORR, Ami 808 was designed “with a nod the many low rise warehouse and art galleries in the neighborhood by utilizing a common brick aesthetic…with a contemporary glass sheathed jewel box rising above.”

Amli 808 is slated for completion in late spring 2021.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions! We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours!

Hidden Gem Furniture Stores Near Fulton Market

Whether you’re looking for a contemporary accent piece, functional furniture for your small space, a timeless antique, or a whole new eclectic midcentury collection for your apartment, these furniture stores near Fulton Market are a must!

Knoll – 811 W Fulton Market

Knoll has distinct collections for both commercial and residential spaces, including their hybrid work from home collection. Knoll’s style could best be described as contemporary, minimalist, and functional (think “IKEA’s upscale cousin”). If you’re partial to mid-century modern design or are a big believer that “less is more”, Knoll’s Mies van der Rohe collection might have just what you’re looking for. Knoll recently moved from Merchandise Mart to their new Fulton Market showroom, which was designed in collaboration with Gensler.

Fulton Market Furniture Stores

Knoll’s Barcelona Chair from the Mies van Der Rohe collection

Make a reservation and visit their trendy new showroom. If you can’t make it to the showroom (or don’t have a car and can’t stomach carrying your new desk and sofa all the way home), most items from Knoll ship free within 1 to 3 business days.

Primitive – 130 N Jefferson St.

There are some furniture stores where it helps to know what you’re looking for before you go. This is not one of those places. Primitive, on the eastern end of the West Loop, features both modern and antique furniture, accent pieces, jewelry, artifacts, lighting, paintings, textiles, and more from over 100 different cultures around the globe. According to their site, Primitive’s collection is “from some of the world’s hardest to reach places and everything has been carefully selected for its inherent merit and meaning”. Although it is temporarily closed, their “Buddha Room” is a popular event venue. Primitive can feel more like a museum than a store. This is the place to go to find one in a million curated pieces, not to find bargains. Browse their site to get an idea of how extensive this world class collection truly is!

Luxury apartments for rent near Fulton market

Wedding Bed with Canopy & 4 Mirror Insert Panels from 19th Century China

Morlen Sinoway Atelier -1052 W Fulton Market

Morlen Sinoway is a multi-disciplinary design studio representing over 60 brands. Their show room features contemporary furniture, lighting, and various accents for the home. If you find yourself overwhelmed by their extensive 60 brand catalog, Morlen Sinoway’s interior design staff will be happy to lend a hand (or an eye, rather). Whether you’re looking for an individual piece to tie your loft together or a complete redesign of your space, Morlen Sinoway Atelier is worth checking out.

Fulton Market Furniture Stores

South Loop Loft- 685 N. Milwaukee Ave

“South Loop Loft” is kind of a misnomer, as this hidden gem furniture store is located in the River West neighborhood, just blocks north of Fulton Market. South Loop Loft is the place to go for 20th century furnishings and decor from around the globe, custom designed pieces, and an ever-changing inventory of hand picked pieces. Make an appointment to check out their showroom!

Looking for furniture stores near you?

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Fulton Market? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Mondial River West Apartments

If you’re looking for maximum square footage and closet space but don’t want to compromise on style or your price range, look no further! Mondial River West has it all at a competitive price point.

Now leasing luxury per friendly River West apartments

Mondial is best known for having spacious layouts and ample closet space. Each apartment at Mondial also includes a full sized washer and dryer, floor to ceiling windows for taking in natural light and panoramic views, modern finishes, digital thermostats, natural hardwood flooring, and high ceilings. With expansive living rooms, extra long kitchen islands with bar style seating, and large private balconies, there’s plenty of space to work from home or entertain. The modern kitchens feature granite countertops, full stainless steel Kitchen Aid appliance packages, Grohe pull out faucets, and double bowl undercount sinks. Bathrooms are complete with deep soaking tubs and walk in showers and designer marble tile.

Now leasing luxury per friendly River West apartments

The amenities at Mondial offer incredible convenience. With grilling stations, 24 hour concierge, 24 hour fitness center, package receiving, valet dry-cleaning, on site storage, indoor parking, and a digital intercom service, you’ll have nearly everything you could need at your fingertips. If you want to get out of your apartment without leaving the building, entertain, relax, or work from home in the rooftop entertaining room where you can curl up near the fireplace or soak up the sun on the spacious rooftop deck with stunning skyline views, a water mister, a fire pit, and a pergola. Mondial is pet friendly and even has an onsite private dog run and fully landscaped park area.

Mondia Apartments in River West

Mondial is conveniently located one block from CVS, one block from the Chicago Blue Line subway stop (which provides quick and direct access to O’Hare International Airport and the Loop), two blocks from the expressway, six blocks from Jewel Osco grocery store, and a short walk to restaurants and nightlife on Grand and Milwaukee or Fulton Market. Mondial is also located right off Milwaukee Avenue, affectionately known as “hipster highway” for its wide bike lanes and Divvy rental bike stations. The River West neighborhood is one of the most in demand areas downtown because of its neighborhood feel and proximity to the West Loop and Loop.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River West? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Imprint Printer’s Row Apartments

If you’re looking for state of the art amenities, soft loft accents, and modern interiors, all in a prime location, Imprint in Printer’s Row could be the place for you!

Imprint Printer's Row Apartments for rent now leasing

Each apartment features soaring nine foot exposed concrete ceilings, solid core entry doors with brushed chrome hardware, and hard surface flooring throughout. The European style kitchens come equipped with flat panel cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, a gas range, garbage disposal, a large undercount stainless steel sink, and a single lever faucet with an integrated pull out sprayer. Bedrooms are equipped with spacious walk in closets and are thoughtfully laid out. Spa inspired bathrooms are complete with elegant lighting, vanities each with a drawer, frameless mirror, and integrated sink, single lever premium faucets, soaking tubs, glass showers, towel bars, robe hooks, and double vanity sinks in select units.

With indoor amenities for year round use, outdoor amenities in the warmer months, and convenient services, the amenities at Imprint are second to none. Head to the fitness studio and yoga platform for your own workout or a complimentary yoga class. and towel off with complimentary towel service. If you’re having company, entertain or unwind in the resident lounge, the private dining area and demonstration kitchen, the fifth floor terrace, complete with grilling stations, fire pits, and ample seating space, or warm up by the fire pits at the top floor observation deck. Although the dedicated co-working spaces and first floor library are excellent for working from home, all amenity spaces are equipped with WiFi should you decide to work from one of the outdoor common spaces.

Imprint Printer's Row Apartments for rent now leasing

Imprint also offers a multitude of conveniences. The dog spa, grooming station, and private 24/7 dog run make having a dog in a high rise a breeze. The 24/7 concierge, on-site maintenance and management teams, LuxerOne package receiving, Tide Spin valet dry cleaning, printing service, and curated resident events and perks program are all things Imprint offers to make life just a little easier.

Imprint Printer's Row Apartments for rent now leasing

Check out the gallery below for more images of Imprint!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Printer’s Row in the South Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering virtual, in person, and self guided tours. Be sure to ask about any move in specials!

River West Town Homes at Spoke

If you’re looking for a rental near River West that gives you the benefits of living in a single family house (like your own parking garage, no elevator rides, and two levels of living space) with the benefits of high rise living (like door staff, access to state of the art amenities, and 24/7 maintenance should you need that hard to reach lightbulb changed), there’s no need to compromise! These town homes at Spoke in River West offer the best of both styles of living.

Between the two levels of living space, street-level private entrance, and attached single car garage, there are plenty of reasons to love living at these luxury town homes. The finishes are top notch with hardwood floors throughout, walk in closets with Elfa shelving systems, oversized windows, and automated shades.

Now leasing! Town homes near downtown Chicago

In the kitchen you’ll find under-cabinet lighting, polished white quartz countertops, GE Profile appliances including a French door refrigerator with hands free autofill, gas range with warming drawer, dishwasher with hidden controls, a front-loading Energy Star washer and dryer with steam assist and sensor dry features, and a Marvel stainless wine chiller. Spa inspired bathrooms include Moen fixtures in satin nickel and lighted vanity mirrors. Although the town homes each have their own private entrances, they are attached to the high rise portion of the building for convenient access to the common areas and amenities.

Now leasing! Town homes near downtown Chicago 3 bedroom apartments

One of the town home floor plans including both levels of living space

Town home residents get full access to Spoke’s building amenities. With the exception of the sky lounge, which is on the penthouse floor and comes equipped with a chef grade kitchen and private outdoor terrace with a fire pit and grills, the main amenity levels are the fourth and second floors. The fourth floor has over an acre of outdoor space complete with a rooftop pool, private cabanas, a massive hot tub, open green space, a bocce court, hammocks, tables, fire pits, garden, and even an outdoor pizza oven!

On the fourth floor you’ll also find a “Family Room” with a 12 seat farmhouse table, a double sided indoor-outdoor fireplace, lounge furniture, TVs, and another kitchen. If you’re going to be hosting guests for an extended period of time, you can reserve the fully furnished guest suite! Head across the terrace to the 24 hour fitness center, complete with cardio equipment, free weights, weight machines, a boxing training system, and two private training studios which offer both on-demand fitness classes as well as complimentary fitness and yoga classes every Tuesday. Residents also enjoy access to a dedicated Peloton studio.

 

Head to the second floor for some particularly stand-out features and amenities! Enjoy the fully equipped sound-proof recording studio, the interactive virtual gaming room and movie theatre, the conference room, and The Venue– complete with a performance stage, instruments, and professional lighting as well as a billiards table, club-style seating, four flat screen TVs, and a custom sound system. You can also make use of the complimentary bike shop and storage.

In the winter time, on rainy days, or on the days you just feel like having a little extra convenience, the heated dog run and deluxe dog spa are the first class amenities that make Spoke feel like home to your four-legged friends. Additional conveniences include the lobby coffee bar, package receiving, valet dry cleaning, housekeeping service, door staff, and a 24 hour maintenance guarantee as well as a plethora of discounts at local restaurants and businesses!

Check out the gallery below to see more stunning pictures of the townhomes at Spoke!

Looking for luxury town homes for rent in downtown Chicago near River West? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions! We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours.

Westerly River West Luxury Apartments

With all the demand from recent commercial growth and new jobs in downtown Chicago, the residential market can hardly keep up! With multiple significant corporate relocations to the Loop and West Loop, demand for luxury residential rentals isn’t showing signs of slowing up anytime soon. For those looking to live in an area with a true neighborhood feel that is also in close proximity to work and all the hustle and bustle of downtown, River West has quickly become Chicago’s brightest hot spot. Fifield Cos, a pillar and market leader in Chicago’s luxury rental market, is delivering 188 new “urban chic” luxury rentals to River West at Westerly (740 N. Aberdeen).

Westerly’s prime location is situated less than a block from the expressway, one block from the CTA blue line train to downtown and O’Hare International Airport, and is right along Milwaukee Avenue, affectionately known as “Hipster Highway” because of its generously sized bike lanes that lead directly into downtown. All Fifield buildings are known for having high walk scores, an indicator of convenience and accessibility, including Westerly which has a score of 94.

The studio, one, two, and three bedroom apartments all feature best in class finishes. Kitchens come equipped with stainless steel appliances, gas ranges, and quartz countertops with full height backsplashes.

Dog Friendly River West Apartments Westerly now renting!

Spa inspired bathrooms features 18 inch deep 32 inch wide soaking tubs and frameless glass separate showers, with double vanities in select units. Plank flooring throughout, walk-in closets with organizers, floor to ceiling windows, and Nest thermostats give these apartments their sleek but homey feel.

At Westerly, residents will enjoy state of the art amenities and thoughtful conveniences. Entertain or relax year round in the resident lounge, complete with an 85 inch flat screen TV with surround sound, the rooftop party room with a full demonstration kitchen, grills, and space for alfresco dining, or one of Westerly’s intimate lounge spaces.

Dog Friendly River West Apartments Westerly now renting!

In the warmer months, soak up the sun at the outdoor sundeck and resort style pool. Whether you’re looking to get in a great workout, work from home, or groom your dog, you won’t have to leave home. Head to the club quality fitness center, the business center, co-working pods, or dog wash and run areas for all your from-home needs.

Three bedroom, two bedroom, one bedroom, and studio apartments for rent in River West the Westerly

Westerly’s conveniences don’t stop there. Grab your morning coffee at the third floor coffee bar, head to one of the curated resident events, or work poolside with the complimentary WiFi that’s available in all common areas. Residents can also enjoy the convenience of access controlled resident parking, concierge service, and even Livly, a digital assistant.

See the gallery below for more stunning pictures of Westerly!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River West? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions! We are now offering in-person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours.

Socially Distant Things to do in Downtown Chicago

Although we’re in the second half of the summer, there are still plenty of socially distant things to do in downtown Chicago! Here are some ways you can make the most of the rest of these Chicago summer nights!

Drive in Movie

Looking for socially distant things to do near downtown Chicago? Architectural boat tour

Courtesy of Jeremy Yap

The Davis Theater is hosting Chicago themed drive in movie nights (with flicks like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Blues Brothers) at Lincoln Yards in Lincoln Park. If you’re looking for things to do near the South Loop, head to Soldier Field for nightly entertainment including screenings of classic movies like Groundhog Day and Grease, live music, and singalongs. No car? Check out movies in the park at Navy Pier in Streeterville or a floating cinema September 9th-13th (location to be determined), where you and up to 7 friends can watch a “drive in” movie from your own small boat!

Boat Tour

Socially distant summer activities drive in movie places

Courtesy of Clay Banks

Whether you’re a born and raised Chicagoan, new to the city, or visiting from out of town, a boat tour on the Chicago River is a must, so we had to include it in our list of socially distant things to do. See the skyline from a new perspective while you catch some sunlight and learn some facts you can spout to sound more cultured at your al Fresca dining later. The Summer of George 90 minute boat tour, praised for having extremely knowledgable and personable guides, showcases all three branches of the Chicago River, northeast to Lake Michigan, south to Tom Ping park and the vertical bridge, and west past the Groupon building. Summer of George architectural boat tour boards from 900 South Wells St. by the Southbank development and asks that you bring a mask.

Have a Picnic

Socially distant summer activities drive in movie places

Courtesy of Maria Ilves

Downtown Chicago is chalk full of spacious, gorgeous public parks, which is rare for such a large city. Each neighborhood has its share of great picnic spots, but it’s hard to compete with Promontory Point. Promontory Point is a human made peninsula at Burnham Park that juts out into Lake Michigan, just south of downtown. Get some fresh air and take in the city and stunning lake views from a new perspective. If you’re looking for socially distant things to do near downtown Chicago, a picnic at Promontory Point is hard to beat!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions! We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in and rent credit specials!

Outdoor Dining Near Lincoln Park

Streets throughout Chicago are being designated as “shared streets”, which means they are closed to auto traffic on weekends to maximize the space available for outdoor dining. In Lincoln Park, North Lincoln Avenue from West Fullerton Avenue to West Wrightwood Avenue has been designated as shared street space for outdoor dining on weekends. During the rest of the week, however, you can still head to these Lincoln Park favorites for outdoor dining.

Cafe Ba Ba Reeba – 2024 N. Halsted St.

Outdoor dining at restaurants open in Lincoln Park

Head to Cafe Ba Ba Reeba for tapas, pinxos, paella, and sangria. Their all seasons enclosed patio is open for up to 50% capacity. Reservations are required for patio dining due to the limited seating and availability. You can make your reservations on OpenTable or here. Not looking to dine out? Cafe Ba Ba Reeba also offering carryout including Spanish cocktail kits, like the popular Mezcal Mule.

Summer House Santa Monica – 1954 N. Halsted St.

Looking for Lincoln Park restaurants with outdoor seating?

Avocado toast with poached eggs and scallion mascarpone

Just up Halsted Street from Cafe Ba Ba Reeba is Summer House Santa Monica, a trendy spot serving California inspired fare with local and market driven ingredients. The front patio and Vitamin D room are now both open with 50% capacity and an all day menu.

The J Parker Rooftop at Hotel Lincoln – 1816 N. Clark St.

Enjoy stunning views of the lakefront, Lincoln Park, and the Chicago skyline from the J Parker rooftop. The J Parker, from Boka Restaurant Group, offers small plates, like spring rolls and elote hush puppies, as well as a few salads and burgers, but is best known for it’s unrivaled selection of signature cocktails.

Looking for restaurants with outdoor seating near Lincoln Park open now?

Take in sweeping views from the J Parker rooftop atop Hotel Lincoln

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

River West Outdoor Restaurants

Looking for restaurants with outdoor seating near River West? Try one of these neighborhood favorites!

The Dawson– 730 W. Grand Ave

Originally built in 1888 and reimagined in 2013, The Dawson’s ambiance and decor perfectly blend rustic, historic charm and chic, modern aesthetic. With gorgeous topiary work and greenery, trendy but comfortable lounge furniture, an outdoor fireplace, hanging lights, reclaimed wood partitions, and the high fence that surrounds it, The Dawson’s large patio makes you feel transported to a world of its own. There’s a reason The Dawson is known as the “gathering place of River West”. Matcha grilled ahi tuna served with papaya salad, chopped salad topped with chicken fried lobster, house made spirits and expert mixologists, there’s not much The Dawson doesn’t have. See their creative menu here.

Now leasing! Looking for luxury River West apartments for rent available now?

 

Frontier– 1072 N. Milwaukee Ave

James Beard Award winning chef, Brian Jupiter, crafted a menu “dictated by nature” at Frontier. Frontier is probably best known for its signature, “Whole Animal Experience”, which allows you to order a whole boar, goat, alligator, lamb, or salmon, among others. For those who aren’t quite as carnivorous, Frontier has a host of other dishes, like cauliflower or salmon hash, cauliflower steak, ahi tuna sandwich, kale salad, and more.

Twisted Spoke- 501 N. Ogden Ave

Twisted Spoke has both patio and rooftop seating and is a River West go to for burgers, brunch, and drinks. Their brunch menu, which they call, “Hangover Hospital”, features classic brunch favorites, like omelettes and French toast, and innovative twists, like breakfast gumbo, banana fritters, and pears poached in champagne. Twisted Spoke also has an extensive Bloody Mary menu as well as impressive beer, bourbon, and spirit lists.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River West? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, self guided, and in person apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

1325 N. Wells Old Town Apartments

1325 N. Wells offers modern, luxury apartments in the heart of Old Town. If you’re looking for contemporary finishes, useful amenities, and a prime location, this could be the place for you!

Each luxury apartment comes with built in custom closets, an in unit washer and dryer, hard surface flooring, and a Nest thermostat for conveniently controlling your unit temperature, even when you’re not home. The spa like bathrooms feature rich Italian tile, great lighting, frameless mirrors, ample storage space, chrome faucets, and spacious, contemporary vanities.

Now leasing! Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town Chicago? Wells Street Pet Friendly Apartments available now

With sleek finishes like the quartz countertops, tiled backsplashes, and stainless steel appliances, and thoughtful features, like undercount stainless steel sinks with garbage disposals and pull out spray faucets, and large kitchen islands, the gourmet kitchens at 1325 N. Wells are a dinner party host’s dream come true. The large living room windows and private balconies are perfect for taking in unobstructed views and natural light.

Now leasing! Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town Chicago? Wells Street Pet Friendly Apartments available now

1325 N. Wells has both seasonal and year round amenities. Soak up the sun in the summer months at the rooftop lounge pool with views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan or entertain at the roof sun deck, complete with ample seating, an outdoor kitchen with gas grills, and a fire pit area. If you’re having company, you can also head to the multi-purpose roof lounge which opens to a private rooftop terrace and comes equipped with TVs, seating, and a wet bar.

Now leasing! Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town Chicago? Wells Street Pet Friendly Apartments available now

Year round, enjoy the state of the art fitness center, indoor resident lounges (with WiFi access for working from home) and all of 1325 N. Wells’ resident conveniences, including valet dry cleaning, on site retail, a heated garage, and bicycle storage.

Now leasing! 1325 N. Wells Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town Chicago? Wells Street Pet Friendly Apartments available now

The apartments at 1325 North Wells are also pet friendly and close to plenty of parks, including Washington Square Park which typically hosts events like Doggie Yoga and “Yappy” Hours.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions! We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours. Ask about move in specials!

South Loop Restaurants With Outdoor Seating

What’s a summer in Chicago without a trendy new rooftop lounge or al fresco dining? After months of quarantine and winter, this Chicago summer has made outdoor dining even more of a staple than it already was. Here are some of the restaurants in the South Loop offering outdoor dining.

The Bar at Moody Tongue – 2515 S. Wabash Ave

Looking for places to eat near you in the South Loop?

Moody Tongue’s bar menu is less like what you’d expect to see on a bar menu and a little more like what you’d expect at a contemporary, Michelin Starred dinner place with a month long waiting list. If you’re looking for something light, try the smoked beet and charred strawberry tartare with spruce infused ricotta and sourdough, the salmon crudo, heirloom tomato and compressed watermelon salad, or the butter poached king crab with corn, gnocchi, fennel, and host of other flavorful accoutrements. If you’re looking for something even more decedent, try the confit pork belly, Maine lobster roll, fried quail, or crispy whole summer flounder with fermented bok choi, shiitake, and a chili crunch.

Kurah Mediterranean – 1355 S. Michigan Ave

Looking for places to eat near you in the South Loop?

Kurah Mediterranean has something for everyone. From vegan to gluten free to carnivore, all types of eaters can find a dish to enjoy here. Pomegranate tabouli, roasted eggplant flatbread, bacon wrapped dates, and the shwarma platter are just a few of the menu favorites. Kurah also has a daily happy hour from 4pm to 6pm offering $5 wines, beers, sangria, and appetizers as well as $2 off cocktails.

AO Hawaiian Hideout – 1315 S. Wabash Ave

Looking for places to eat near you in the South Loop?

AO Hawaiian Hideout serves up homestyle southeast Asian and Hawaiian fare. Poke bowls, sushi, short ribs, fish tacos, and curry dishes all grace the menu. AO also has an entirely gluten free vegan menu and a broad cocktail menu. Although AO has postponed their weekly live entertainment due to COVID-19, they still have fantastic specials! Click here to see more details.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop in downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours!

Columbus Plaza at Lakeshore East

If your top priorities in an apartment are square footage, storage and closet space, and central location, then keep reading. Columbus Plaza Lakeshore East apartments could be the place for you!

Each layout offers an incredible value on square footage. Pushing 600 square feet, the studio and convertible layouts are larger than most 1 beds in the downtown area. 1 bed layouts are even larger, ranging from 792 to over 1000 square feet and 2 beds come in at 1352 square feet, rare finds for downtown Chicago! Most layouts also include at least one walk in closet.

Columbus Plaza Apartments for rent near Lakeshore East New East Side

Entertain company on the expansive outdoor terrace, complete with a fire pit, grills, plenty of seating, and a relaxing fountain. If your guests are in from out of town, reserve the on site hospitality suite. Unwind in the resort style sun room with a retractable skylight and energize in the state of the art fitness center. Work from home from the 24/7 business center.

Columbus Plaza is located on E Upper Wacker just east of Michigan Avenue. With the Chicago Riverwalk just across the street, the Lakefront trail, Navy Pier, and Magnificent mile just blocks away, direct access to the Pedway, and close proximity to the Loop, Gold Coast, and Streeterville, it’s no mystery why Columbus Plaza has a WalkScore of 95 for it’s convenient location. Although situated near all the hustle and bustle of downtown, if you walk just a few minutes southeast, you can enjoy Lakeshore East’s quiet residential park, walkways, and a flagship Mariano’s supermarket.

For a limited time, Columbus Plaza is currently offering a $2000 concession on studio, convertible, and 1 bedroom apartments and a $3500 concession on 2 bedroom apartments!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer all your questions. We are now offering virtual, self guided, and in person apartment tours!

West Loop Restaurants With Outdoor Dining

In light of COVID-19 protective measures, rooftop and al Fresca dining has become even more of a Chicago summertime staple than it already was. Here are some of the top places in the West Loop to enjoy outdoor summer dining!

Nobu Hotel Rooftop – 155 N. Peoria St.

Outdoor rooftop dining chicago in West Loop open near you

One of the West Loop’s newest summer hot spots is Nobu Hotel’s rooftop. Take in stunning views of the Chicago skyline as you enjoy light Japanese inspired fare, a wide range of sakes, wines, and hand crafted cocktails. Menu favorites include the black cod lettuce cups, Arctic char rococo, New Zealand lamb, ribeye Kushiyaki, nigiri, sashimi, and sushi rolls. Nobu’s rooftop is open daily from 4pm to 10pm and hosts live music and DJ performances throughout the summer months. Reservations are recommended.

Aba – 302 N. Green St.

Outdoor rooftop dining chicago in West Loop

Aba, a Fulton Market favorite, is a Mediterranean restaurant with a rooftop patio. Try one of Abc’s signature dishes, including skirt steak shawarma, short rib hummus, Muhammara with pomegranate molasses, or the whipped feta appetizer. Mixologist Liz Pearce showcases rare Mediterranean-inspired wines and spirits. Aba is open for nightly dinner and weekend brunch.

Beatrix – 834 W. Fulton Market St.

Outdoor rooftop dining chicago in West Loop

Whether you’re stopping by for their classic freshly squeezed juices, an innovative floral cocktail, farm to table breakfast pastries, or any number of lunch or dinner favorites (like the quinoa burger, truffle risotto, or miso glazed salmon), Beatrix is undeniably a neighborhood staple. Beatrix Fulton Market is open daily for coffee and bakery service starting at 9am, breakfast through dinner on weekends, and for patio dining and carryout for lunch and dinner on weekdays.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer all your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours.

 

Coast at Lakeshore East Apartments

Coast at Lakeshore East apartments offers an incredible value on luxury rentals. These pet friendly apartments are beloved by residents for their sleek interiors, top of the line appliances, outstanding amenities, panoramic views, and little extra building conveniences.

Now leasing studio, convertible, 1 bed, 2 bed, 3 bedroom apartments

If you’re looking for great natural light and sweeping city views, look no further! With glass paneled balconies, open floor plans, and floor to ceiling windows, these stunning apartments take in optimal natural light with great views of the Chicago River, Lake Michigan, Lakeshore East Park, and the Chicago skyline. Kitchens come equipped with GE Clean Steel Energy Star appliance packages including a refrigerator with an ice maker, gas range and oven, full sized microwave, dishwasher, and full sized washer and dryer. Whether you’re looking for light and bright white quartz or dark and homey espresso cabinetry with nickel hardware, Coast has something for you with a choice between two finish packages. Bathrooms all have sleek finishes with oversized marble vanities, ceramic tile, and mosaic accents throughout. The apartments at Coast also have excellent storage space between the generous amount of cabinetry and spacious closets. All units also have individually controlled heat and air conditioning, high speed internet, window treatments, and plank flooring.

Coast is a full amenity building. Residents have access to plenty of co-working space including private meeting rooms, a tech center with PC and MAC stations, and shared areas. All the amenity spaces are outfitted with complimentary WiFi, so you can feel free to take your Zoom meetings from the outdoor landscaped garden and deck or the adjacent indoor lounge. Year round enjoy the indoor spa lounge with a hot tub, sauna, and steam room, the state of the art fitness center with Cybex equipment, and the private dining lounge.

Warm up at the heated outdoor lap pool or around the fire pit with lounge seating. Coast also offers a multitude of on site resident conveniences like a private dog run and washing station, stainless steel barbecue grills, on site parking, bicycle and resident storage, an eco-friendly neighborhood courtesy shuttle, Zip Cars, electric car charging stations, 24 hour door staff and maintenance, package receiving, valet dry-cleaning, and of course, Pedway access.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer all your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided tours.

The Tides at Lakeshore East

The Tides at Lakeshore East offers spacious studio, convertible, one, and two bedroom apartments for rent in a prime location with state-of-the-art amenities.

These apartments feature in unit laundry with full sized washers and dryers, high speed internet, floor to ceiling windows, expansive glass paneled balconies, great storage space, walk in closets, individually controlled heat and air conditioning, and spacious layouts, with upgraded finishes and renovations in select units. Kitchens come equipped with gas ranges, dishwashers, refrigerators with ice makers, islands, ample cabinet space, and ceramic tiled or espresso wood floors. In the bathrooms you’ll find additional generous storage space including oversized vanity cabinets and tri-view medicine cabinets.

Now leasing dog and pet friendly Chicago apartment rentals! Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Check out the Tides

Renovated kitchen with white cabinets, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances.

Amenities include both indoor and outdoor places to lounge, entertain, and work from home. Rain or shine, entertain at the indoor amenities. The Shore Club, a private reservable club floor retreat, and the billiards room are both perfect for entertaining company. Unwind in the spa and sauna, work out in the 24/7 fitness center, or work from home in the lounge off the complimentary coffee bar. Soak up the sun from the outdoor amenities, including the rooftop pool and sundeck which offer stunning views of downtown Chicago. Furthermore, Magellan Development, the developers of the majority of Lakeshore East, arranged the high rise buildings in the neighborhood like a sundial so that each rooftop pool gets unobstructed sunlight, as is the case with the rooftop pool at The Tides.

Now leasing! Renovated apartments near downtown Chicago blue line O'Hare

Rooftop Pool at The Tides Lakeshore East

The Tides is pet friendly and also offers resident conveniences such as 24 hour door staff and maintenance, on site parking, car sharing, electric car charging stations within the vicinity, storage, bicycle storage, direct dog park access, on site housekeeping, valet dry cleaning, 24/7 package receiving,

The location is, itself, an additional convenience. The Tides has an on site pre-school, is adjacent to a 6 acre quiet park, on the other side of which there is a large Mariano’s grocery store, CVS pharmacy, Chase Bank, salons, and multiple restaurants ranging from Eggy’s for breakfast, Brown Bag Seafood for lunch, III Forks or MingHin for dinner, Filini for happy hour, and many more.

Last but not least, The Tides offers access to the Pedway, which is an efficient way to access anything downtown, transit, shops, and the airport in the winter time, all without going outside.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer all your questions. We are now offering virtual, self guided, and in-person tours!

Phase 3 of Reopening in Chicago

Illinois is now in phase 3 of reopening post COVID, meaning that infection rates are stable or declining, which allows residents to gather in groups of 10 or less and continue to wear a mask in public. Here’s an overview of what’s open and allowed in downtown Chicago as part of phase 3 of Illinois’ post COVID reopening plan.

What's reopening near me downtown chicago covid19 phase iii illinois restaurants

Courtesy of Jason Mowry

Although restaurants have already been open for carryout, phase 3 allows restaurants to offer outdoor dining and drinking for groups of 6 or less with social distancing measures. Some restaurants that did not previously offer outdoor dining, like Smyth and The Loyalist of the West Loop, have made accommodations on the surrounding sidewalks and outdoor areas to offer outdoor seating.

What's reopening near me downtown chicago covid19 phase iii illinois restaurants outdoor patio seating rooftop near west loop open late

Courtesy of Megan Markham

As of June 17th, bars that do not serve food were allowed to open for outdoor seating as well.

If you’re looking for summer activities, many outdoor attractions in Chicago are reopening, if they haven’t already. Walking, biking, and hiking as well as boating with no more than 6 to 10 people (depending on boat size) are already allowed. Parks are open with 25% maximum capacity for indoor facilities. The Lakefront Trail is set to reopen on June 22nd with hours from 6am to 7pm, while other parks and beaches east of Lakeshore Drive as well as the 606 trail will remain closed. Pools, playgrounds, beaches, museums, theaters, and zoos are to remain closed for the time being as well.

What's reopening near me downtown chicago covid19 phase iii illinois restaurants

Kelly Sikkema

For more information on what’s reopening near you, here’s a comprehensive list of what each phase means for each type of site and which phase your area is currently in by zip code.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions.

North Harbor Tower at Lakeshore East

If you’re looking for a spacious floor plan in a convenient location at a great price, North Harbor Tower at Lakeshore East could be the place for you!

Studio apartments available now near downtown Chicago Lakeshore East Dog Friendly Apartments for rent in Chicago

All layouts are particularly spacious, even the studios!

North Harbor Tower is known for its spacious floor plans, great storage and closet space, and wraparound windows for panoramic views. Many units have been recently renovated with premium kitchen finishes, offering a choice between dark and light interiors. Select units offer in-unit laundry and high ceilings. With apartments starting around just $1445 per month, these luxury apartments are an incredible value.

Lakeshore East Dog Friendly Apartments for rent in Chicago

Classic dark kitchen finishes

Lakeshore East Dog Friendly Apartments for rent in Chicago

Renovated light kitchen finishes

North Harbor Tower recently underwent a full amenity renovation, which you can enjoy year round. Rain or shine, you can access the indoor pool (which converts into a semi-outdoor space during the summer months), party suite, 24 hour fitness center, yoga studio with complimentary classes, 24-hour library, and business center with co-working space.

Lakeshore East Dog Friendly Apartments for rent in Chicago

The library space

In the warmer months, soak up the sun in the outdoor BBQ and picnic area, one of multiple outdoor lounge spaces, and sun deck. North Harbor Tower also offers a host of conveniences including door staff in the elegant lobby, bike storage, parking, high speed internet, on-site management and maintenance, package receiving, and even pet amenities.

North Harbor Tower luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago

One of multiple outdoor amenity spaces

These luxury rentals are located in a prime location for dog owners. Lakeshore East’s 4.6 acre park is just two blocks away with quiet walking paths and a shaded dog friendly area for off leash play. North Harbor Tower also offers an on-site dog run and dog walking services for days you can’t make it to the park with your four-legged friend. Select floors at North Harbor Tower are pet friendly.

Whether or not you’re a pet owner, everyone can appreciate the convenient location of these luxury apartments, with Mariano’s grocery store just two blocks away, broad selection of restaurants, easy access to Lakeshore Drive and public transit, and short walking distance to the Gold Coast, Streeterville, and the Loop.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts would be happy to answer all your questions and fill you in on current rent specials. We are now offering virtual tours with in-person showings at select buildings!

Lakeshore East Restaurants

Although Lakeshore East is a small neighborhood and one of Chicago’s best hidden gems, it is still home to lots of restaurants. Here are some of our favorite Lakeshore East restaurants offering take out and delivery.

Mezcalina

Mezcalina offers upscale Mexican cuisine with lunch, dinner, and brunch menus. Their menus are full of seafood, vegetarian, and meat based options. Mezcalina is currently offering take out and delivery.

MingHin

MingHin serves Cantonese favorites like hot pots, seafood, and dim sum as well as signature cocktails. Their menu is centered around sharable, small dishes, making MingHin a great place to try with friends. MingHin is currently offering take out and delivery. Check out their menu and order online here.

Looking for restaurants offering carryout near Lakeshore East?

Courtesy of MingHin

Eggy’s Diner

Eggy’s is the neighborhood go-to spot for all day breakfast and baked goods but they also make great lunch and dinner dishes. Their rotating menu uses seasonal and local ingredients. A little known fact is that Eggy’s is actually named after the David Carlins’ (president of Magellan Development) childhood friend, Robert Mallin, who was nicknamed “Eggy”. Magellan Development is largely responsible for the development of the Lakeshore East neighborhood, so it seems fitting! Eggy’s is currently offering take out only. Check out their menu here.

Looking for restaurants offering carryout near Lakeshore East?

Courtesy of Eggy’s Diner

III Forks

III Forks serves seafood, steaks, and classic American fare with all the favorite steakhouse sides. Grab a wedge salad, shrimp cocktail, creamed corn, lobster mac and cheese, or roasted seasonal vegetables with any one of their .005% quality hand picked steaks. III Forks is currently offering take out only. See their complete dinner menu here.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual tours!

Best Food Delivery Services For Your Chicago Apartment

Food delivery has come a long way in recent years. Before, the options were basically pizza and, if you were lucky, a local Chinese restaurant. Food delivery services in Chicago, especially, have evolved spectacularly in a short time, driven first by convenience and now by safety and social distancing concerns.

When it comes to apartment building food delivery, the first thought is a hot meal delivered by the restaurant that made it. However, if you’d rather make the food yourself, write a list and let a grocery delivery service do the shopping; or better yet let a cook-at-home company send you complete meals ready to be prepared.

Hot Meals

These days, the best way to support your local favorite is to order delivery directly from the restaurant — their staff will bring the meals to you. However, where that isn’t an option, here’s a rundown of companies that provide meal delivery in Chicago:

  • Caviar: Pricey, but in addition to standard fare, this app offers exclusive access to upscale operations such as Duck Duck Goat, Honey Butter Fried Chicken and Mott St.
  • DoorDash: If there has been a winner in the pandemic, it is DoorDash, which with its subsidiaries earned 45% of all US meal delivery sales in April. While its customer service record can be spotty, DoorDash essentially brings every restaurant in the city to your door by not limiting orders to a specific radius.
  • GrubHub: Founded and headquartered in Chicago, GrubHub has many options and is easily navigated. It, along with subsidiaries including Seamless and Eat24, had 23% of US sales in April.
  • Postmates: With an unlimited option for a yearly flat fee, Postmates is great for frequent users — and since their promise is “anything from anywhere,” including medicine, booze and groceries — you might become one of those users.
  • Uber Eats: Fast, with a wider radius than most and in-app tipping.

Grocery Delivery

Perhaps you’re not particularly close to one of the many grocery stores in Chicago. Maybe you’re after something a little different. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of grocery delivery options available:

  • Amazon Prime Now: If you’re a Prime member, they offer free, same-day delivery of groceries from Whole Foods and Fresh Thyme Farmers Market, plus Amazon’s marketplace.
  • Imperfect Foods: Offering up to 30% savings over typical retailers, Imperfect pulls from food rejected by those stores (e.g., surplus or blemished produce) and delivers weekly bundles based on customers’ answers to an enrollment questionnaire.
  • Instacart: This service includes all the big grocers, plus options such as Petco, CVS and Binny’s. It mostly charges retail prices plus a $4-$8 delivery fee.
  • Shipt: An annual fee, yes, but no delivery charges for orders over $35 — and whose grocery bill is less than that? Plus, Shipt promises hand-selected items and offers an in-app messaging service to put you in touch with the shopper.

Cook-at-Home Options 

Vegetarian? Pescatarian? Keto? Paleo? Maybe you’re just tired of the five recipes you know? Meal kits could be your salvation, and, luckily, there are dozens available. Here are some standbys:

  • Blue Apron: Weekly deliveries provide everything you need for at least two meals for two, or a family of four. Customized to your dietary preferences, recipes are lean on seasonal and hard-to-find ingredients. Plus, add wine or kitchen tools to any order.
  • EveryPlate: Easy-to-follow recipes for two to four people, these meals require minimal tools and about 30 minutes to cook.
  • Freshly: Delivering prepared dishes that are ready to eat in three minutes, this subscription service starts at a minimum order of four meals per week at $50.
  • Gobble: Super easy (everything comes peeled, chopped and marinated), super-fast (15 minutes) and available in two- or four-person plans.
  • Hungryroot: Plant-based Hungryroot takes pains to personalize its weekly deliveries, covering all meals and snacks. Ingredients come pre-chopped. Sauces are made. Meals take about 10 minutes to assemble.
  • Sun Basket: With an emphasis on healthy and sustainable options, Sun Basket will cater to just about any dietary restriction, with hormone-free meats and wild-caught seafood.

We’ll Deliver, Too

Face it — you can get just about anything delivered to your door. All those great meals should be enjoyed in an equally great place. Downtown Apartment Company will help you find the perfect home to savor that dish. Check out our listings today.

Aqua Building at Lakeshore East

Magellan Development’s Aqua building was designed by prolific Chicago architect, Jeanne Gang and delivered in 2009. The 82 story mixed use tower consists of residential rental units, condo units, commercial space, and hotel space with amenities that were ahead of its time.

The eighth story amenity deck spans over 82,000 square feet and includes a running track, fire pits, a club quality fitness center, co-working space, a media room, basketball court, a steam room and sauna, a billiards and game room, hot tubs, both indoor and outdoor pools, indoor entertainment suites with private dining areas, a terrace with small gardens and seating areas. Radisson, who operates the hotel portion of the Aqua building, also operates Filini, the on site restaurant.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East?

The Aqua building also connects to the Pedway, which allows for convenient downtown access rain or shine as well as direct access to a plethora of shops and services without going outside. The stunning views from the balconies of the luxury residential units are also another major draw.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East?

The Aqua building has received notoriety from its cinematic appearances, social references, and many accolades including the Emporis Skyscraper of the Year award, selection by the American Institute of Architects as one of Illinois’ greatest places, recognition by USA Today Travel magazine as one of Illinois’ 25 must see places, and its title as the tallest woman-designed building in the world, (a title which will belong to Vista Tower, also designed by Gang, upon its completion).

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East?

All photos courtesy of Magellan Development

Lakeshore East has become an increasingly sought after neighborhood. Its proximity to downtown, quiet neighborhood vibe, and easy access to conveniences make it an attractive location. A 6 acre park sits in the center of Lakeshore East with designated trails, a dog park, a kids play area, outdoor wifi, and shady trees, fountains, and curated landscape design that give it a peaceful ambiance. South Water Street, which surrounds the park, is lined with shops, salons, excellent restaurants, Mariano’s grocery store, and GEMS World Academy, a highly ranked preschool-grade 12 private school. Lakeshore East also has convenient access to the riverwalk and lakefront trails.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering virtual tours on Chicago apartments.

The Neighborhood Hotel Apartments

The Neighborhood Hotel in Lincoln Park offers both short term and long term furnished luxury rentals with a unique, artful blend of historic charm, modern interiors, and homey conveniences.

Furnished luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park

The Neighborhood Hotel was originally built in 1893 and still has some of its preserved vintage details, like the original banister, staircase, and limestone cladding. It has since been updated with 21st century finishes and conveniences.

Furnished luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park

The Neighborhood Hotel’s exterior around the time of construction. Its exterior still looks similar today.

Each furnished rental unit at The Neighborhood Hotel has been thoughtfully designed and furnished. Apartments come equipped with air conditioning, WiFi, a hair dryer, coffee, books, Sonos speakers and record player, a TV with video games and YoutubeTV, linens, washer and dryer, beach essentials, and other essentials like shampoo, kitchen utensils, and spices.

Furnished luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park

Entertain outside on the balcony or patio, complete with grills. Large bedrooms are complete with fire places, seating areas, and bay windows.

Furnished luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park

The grey wash hardwood floors, mosaic tiling, pastel accent walls, and Art Deco light fixtures are part of what gives these rentals their character.

Furnished luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park

The prime Lincoln Park location sits between Diversey and Fullerton, just a few short blocks west of Diversey Harbor, the lakefront trail, Lincoln Park Zoo. The Neighborhood Hotel is also near the red, brown, and purple line trains, allowing for a quick and easy commute south through the Loop, north through Evanston, and to the Depaul, Loyola, or Northwestern campuses.

The Neighborhood Hotel offers 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments. See more photos in the gallery below.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering virtual tours!

West Loop Apartment Specials

Many luxury high rise apartment buildings in Chicago have opted to offer virtual tours during the stay at home order. The West Loop has multiple new construction buildings in their lease up also offering virtual tours. With all the new inventory in West Loop, pricing is competitive and many buildings are offering concessions. Here are a few of the best specials at apartments offering virtual tours!

Property 193- Madison & Green
(Offering 1.5 months free on 18 month lease terms plus an additional $500 concession)

Now leasing! Looking for west loop luxury apartments for rent?

This West Loop apartment building offers a range of rentals from studios, 1 beds, 2 beds, 3 beds, and a selection of bi-level townhomes. The third floor amenity deck connects this development’s multiple towers and creates a unique, neighborhood park feel. Enjoy the club quality fitness center, pool, co-working space, indoor and outdoor lounge spaces, and more. Each unit comes equipped with in-unit washer and dryer, gas stove, stainless appliances, a mosaic backsplash, and sleek, modern finishes.

Now leasing! Looking for west loop luxury pet friendly apartments for rent?

Property 161- Van Buren & Halsted
(Offering 2 months free on move ins by June 30th)

This boutique mid-rise has the feel of a chic luxury hotel in the amenities and a spacious private home inside the units. Apartments offer ample storage space and great separation between rooms. Large kitchen peninsulas and spacious living rooms make these apartments comfortable to work from home, entertain, and relax. Head to the fitness center complete with Peloton equipment, stunning common space and quiet co-working space, and sprawling pool with grill stations overlooking the skyline all on the top floor. Enjoy additional outdoor common space and a covered dog run on the third floor.

Now leasing! Looking for west loop luxury pet friendly apartments for rent?

Property 134- Van Buren & Green
(Offering 2 months free on select units for move ins by June 15th)

Now leasing! Looking for west loop luxury pet friendly apartments for rent?

Wood accents and pops of bright color throughout the property gives this modern apartment building a warm personality. Each unit has floor to ceiling windows for ample natural light, wood plank flooring, integrated Bosch appliances with quartz countertops and tile backsplashes, walk-in closets, full-size washers and dryers, and concrete accents. Select apartments also have terraces. Boho meets nautical on the amenity deck, where you can enjoy lounging on the tranquil pool terrace or in one of the multiple common spaces.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s West Loop? Contact us today and one of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering virtual tours.

River North Carry Out Specials

Not only can you enjoy some of your favorite River North restaurants during the stay at home order, many are even offering specials for curb side pick up and carry out. Here are some of our favorites!

Now leasing! Looking for luxury apartments available ASAP near River North?

Courtesy of Shayda Torabi

Pacific Standard Time- 151 W. Erie St.

The best of California meets the best of the midwest at Pacific Standard Time. In addition to offering carry out for their traditional menu, Pacific Standard Time is offering a $40 option that feeds four people. It includes salad, cheese pizza, rigatoni with sausage, and chocolate chip cookies with gluten free options for pizza and pasta available upon request.

Siena Tavern- 51 W. Kinzie St.

Siena Tavern is another River North hot spot offering curb side pickup specials. If your order by calling their direct line at 312-595-1322 they will include a bottle of wine with your order. Orders over $150 also get a $25 gift card. Additionally, for just $40, you can order a pasta or pizza meal kit or a family style meal. Siena Tavern is a go-to if you’re looking for innovative takes on Italian fare, serving up dishes like squid ink linguine with lobster, truffle pizza, or the giant wagyu meatball with tomato sauce made for dipping (pictured).

Restaurants open in River North near your new luxury apartment

Courtesy of Siena Tavern

Gene and Georgetti- 500 N. Franklin St.

As Chicago’s oldest steak house, Gene and Georgetti has been a neighborhood favorite since 1941. Order curb side carry out for menu staples like the Bibb lettuce salad with seared tuna, Italian sausage with peppers, baked clams, huge portions of pasta, and of course, steaks. For a limited time, receive a $25 gift card with every $100 you order for carry out.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today. One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering virtual tours!

West Loop Restaurants Offering Curbside

Even with the shelter in place order, you can still enjoy many of the West Loop’s greatest restaurants. Here are some of the West Loop restaurants offering curbside pick up.

Now offering virtual tours and showings on Chicago luxury apartments for rent near West Loop!

Courtesy of Louis Hansel

Aba- 302 N. Green St.

Aba is a favorite when it comes to Mediterranean fare. With an assortment of spreads and hummus, meat, fish, and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Aba is offering both carryout and delivery (including bottles of wine)

Au Cheval- 800 W. Randolph St.

Au Cheval isn’t going to let anything stand in the way of its customers getting their hands on it’s world famous burger. With a high quality patty, dijonnaise, thick cut bacon, fried egg, and even fois gras, it’s easy to see why this burger has developed quite the following. Thankfully, it’s available for curbside pick up.

Monteverde- 1020 W. Madison St.

If homemade pastas, gnocchi, and dishes with truffle galore are your cup of tea, try Monteverde. The menu includes traditional classics like spinach and ricotta ravioli or gnocchi with pesto and innovative creations like wok fried arrabiata with shrimp and tagliatelle.

Momotaro- 820 W. Lake St.

Now offering virtual tours and showings on Chicago luxury apartments for rent near West Loop!

Courtesy of Momotaro

Be as involved or uninvolved as you’d like. Momotaro offers an a la carte menu with sushi, ramen, and other favorites if you’re looking for standard pick up, but you can also spice things up with one of their meal or cocktail kits.

Little Goat- 820 W. Randolph St.

If you’re looking to enjoy your Sunday brunch ritual from home, picking up carryout from Little Goat Diner is a good place to start! Try their beloved hash browns, unique waffles (like the Fat Elvis, which comes topped with peanut butter flavored butter), and in typical West Loop fashion, an assortment of breakfast meats.

The Loyalist- 175 N. Ada St.

The Loyalist serves American favorites with an upscale twist. Order dishes like the homemade biscuit with n’duja butter and honey, beet and avocado salad, or their signature dish, the cheeseburger, complete with cartelized onions and seasoning.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the West Loop offering virtual tours? Contact us today for more information.

How to Stay Productive Working From Home

When our whole lives seem to occur in the same small space, possibly with others trying to fit their whole lives in that same small space, too, it can be even more challenging to get great focus at work than it already is under normal circumstances. Here are our top 3 tips for staying productive while working from home.

1. Create a Ritual (and stick to it)

Start by picking a spot that’s designated for work, only. Research has shown that working in a space you associate with other activities, like sleeping, lounging, or eating, can stifle focus. This could mean moving your existing furniture around, picking an area you don’t normally use, or ordering a small table and chair to put in the corner of the room.

Tips For Working From Home Space Virtual Tours on Luxury Apartments in Chicago

Courtesy of Lucija Ros

Next, pick a morning routine. What do you do under normal circumstances? Some people feel that commuting helps to book end their day and transition between work and home life. You can recreate this by taking a walk around the block before and after your work day. Similarly, getting dressed in work clothes can help to signal to your brain that it’s time to focus, even if that just means you’re wearing your “Zoom outfit” (A.K.A. Dress shirt on top, sweats on the bottom.) Maybe your morning routine includes the gym and Starbucks. Whatever it is, identify what helps you transition throughout your day and get creative on how to recreate those experiences while working from home.

2. Take Breaks, Avoid Distractions (Read: Stay Off Social!)

Designated breaks and distractions are different. Human ultradian rhythms generally allow for 90 minute “sprints” of focus before becoming distracted. Give yourself a designated stretch break, time to take a walk, grab a snack, or a Ted talk to listen to every 90 minutes to recharge. According to a study at the University of California Irvine, it takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds to get your focus back after a distraction.

The reason distractions are different is that they are not controlled or accounted for. If you don’t take a designated break, you’re becoming susceptible to increased distractions (which would likely be multiple times in the same window).

3. Create Boundaries

Tips For Working From Home Space Virtual Tours on Luxury Apartments in Chicago

Courtesy of Bogomil Mihaylov

Boundaries both with work and with home life are important. Know when to clock out from work and give yourself designated technology free times. It’s also important to have boundaries with your home life. That could mean putting a “do not disturb” sign on the door for a portion of the time you’re working each day, saving household chores until after work is done, and if you share a small space with other people, setting expectations. That could mean waking up earlier than the rest of your household to get some quiet focus time, or setting spatial expectations. (For instance: “Can you please pick an hour window that I can have this designated area to myself each afternoon?”)

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent in Chicago with space for working from home? Contact us today! We are currently offering virtual tours!

5 Free Fitness Programs During COVID-19

It’s going to be at least another month before fitness centers start to reopen, but that doesn’t mean you have to get off track with your health goals. If you’re looking for ways to get or stay healthy during the COVID-19 Shelter in Place Order, here are five fitness programs you can do from home for free with minimal equipment!

Free Virtual Fitness Classes at Home

Courtesy of Jonathan Borba

ClassPass

Although ClassPass is normally a paid membership, free fitness classes are available to all users for free through the app, including HIIT, yoga, pilates, and more.

If you’re already a ClassPass user, you can roll over an unlimited amount of credits for when in person classes resume or use your existing credits for livestream classes anytime.

Pure Barre

Pure Barre is offering free live classes! Can’t make the live classes work with your schedule? Classes are recorded and uploaded to the Pure Barre Facebook page to watch anytime. Classes will call for some equipment, like hand weights, but feel free to get creative with household items! (Tip– a can of Bush’s beans weighs exactly 1 lb.)

Free Virtual Fitness Classes at Home Online

Pure Barre is one of multiple boutique studios offering virtual classes online.

Barry’s Bootcamp

Barry’s Bootcamp is streaming it’s HIIT workouts twice daily on IGTV. Check out the 20 minute work out sessions on the @Barrys Instagram account. Some of the sessions will call for equipment (like elastic bands).

Peloton App

Peloton’s on demand app offers an assortment of classes in their 30 day free trial, including yoga, running, strength training, outdoor workouts, meditation, and more, no bike required!

Corepower Yoga

Corepower is making select online classes available for free during the coronavirus stay at home order. Choose from CPY favorites like C1, C1.5, C2, Hot Power Fusion, Yoga Sculpt, or guided breath meditations. You can also get unlimited access to all classes for $19.99 monthly.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent? We’re offering virtual tours! Contact us today for more information and to get all your questions answered by one of our neighborhood experts.

Moving During The Coronavirus

A lot of tasks that once seemed approachable can seem more daunting in the current times of extreme uncertainty, namely, moving during the Coronavirus. We’re here to help. Here’s your guide to moving during the Coronavirus, start to finish.

Step 1: Contact an Agent

Your leasing consultant or broker will start by asking you some questions about your search. For instance, your ideal move time frame, price range, whether you’ll be bringing any pets or cars, whether having in-unit laundry is a must-have or nice-to-have, how much furniture you’re bringing, transit or sites you’d like to be near, view and lighting preference, the finishes, color palettes, and amenities you like best, and anything else that is most important to you.

You’ll want to give some thought to these questions so you know what you’re looking for and your agent can best serve you. You can start by making a list of all the things that are important to you in an apartment, location, and lifestyle. Then, sort your criteria into “must-haves” (the non-negotiables) and “nice-to-haves” (the things you like but can do without).

Available for rent now!Are you moving during the Coronavirus? Here are luxury apartments available for leasing via virtual tours

Courtesy of Erda Estremera

Step 2: Evaluate the Apartment Options (Round 1)

After having a conversation about what you’re looking for, your agent will send you options that match your criteria via email. Pick the top options (usually about 2-5) that you’d like to virtually tour and let your agent know of any feedback you have from these options. Is there something else you’d like to see? Did you realize something that is more or less important to you than you initially thought? If so, your agent will send you any additional options.

Step 3: Virtually Tour Apartments & Re-Evaluate Options (Round 2)

Your DAC agent will reach out to the on-site team at each property to request a virtual tour and bring the on-site agent up to speed on what you’re looking for. Your DAC agent will either send you the virtual tours or make sure the on-site agents send them. Then, your DAC agent will help you evaluate each tour and talk through the tradeoffs of each option.

Step 4: Apply For an Apartment

Once you’ve chosen the best option, your DAC agent or the on-site agent at the building will send you a link to the online application. These applications are usually conducted through a third party. You’ll want to have the necessary materials ready for income verification. Although managed high rise apartment buildings in Chicago don’t typically ask for a security deposit, there are typically application and administrative fees around $50 and $450, respectively. Some buildings will waive or credit back the administrative fees if you apply within 24 or 48 hours of your virtual tour.

Available for rent now!Are you moving during the Coronavirus? Here are luxury apartments available for rent via virtual tours

Step 5: Schedule Your Move

Each apartment building has their own protocol for scheduling a time to reserve an elevator for your move in. You’ll want to ask the on-site team member you’ve been working with during the application process about how to schedule your move.

If you’re looking for a fully furnished apartment, you can ask your agent about furniture rental options so you can schedule furniture deliveries, as well.

Step 6: Enjoy Your New Apartment!

For more information about virtual tours, moving during the Coronavirus, or luxury apartments for rent in Chicago, contact us today to get your questions answered by one of our leasing specialists.

Chicago Summertime Quarantine Guide

Residents of Chicago, like those across much of the county, are under a stay-at-home order during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In a town that trudges steadfastly through the winter waiting for the jailbreak of spring, it’s good to know that there are fun things to do in Chicago in the summer without violating the quarantine.

State guidelines say time outdoors for exercise or fresh air is allowed. While practicing social distancing — wearing masks and staying at least 6 feet from other people at all times — we still have several choices for summertime fun. Here’s our list of the best things to do in Chicago in the summer while keeping safe.

Explore the Architecture 

Architectural boat tours are always among the most popular things to do in Chicago during the summer. While the boats are docked, take on the city in smaller chunks.

A Loop walking tour could take you past a who’s who of high-rises — Marina City, the Rookery and Willis Tower, among many others — all within less than two miles.

Or contrast the quaint, bohemian residences of Old Town with the nearby historic mansions and brownstones of the Gold Coast. Another stroll could take you among the stately Victorians lining Beer Baron Row in Wicker Park.

Have Dinner Delivered 

Chicago has some of the best food in the world, from fine dining to the city’s ubiquitous beef sandwiches and deep-dish pizza. You could sit in Lincoln Park and do a Saturday Showdown with pies from Pequod’s Pizza and Lou Malnati’s Pizza. Or, if you’re holed up in the West Loop, 10 of the 25 Michelin-starred restaurants in Chicago are in your neighborhood. Ordering from each of them is one of those summer things to do in Chicago that could carry you into the fall.

Get Out

Any list of the best summer activities in Chicago must include visiting the city’s many parks. While the Chicago Park District has closed the Lakefront Trail, all nearby parks and beaches, park district buildings and playgrounds, many other parks remain open, including:

  • Humboldt Park — A few blocks west of Wicker Park, this sprawling 197-acre park is worth the visit. Named in 1869 for German scientist and explorer Baron Freidrich Heinrich Alexander Von Humboldt, the park includes a lagoon popular with local fishermen, a youth-sized replica of Wrigley Field and several Prairie-style buildings.
  • Wicker Park — This park features nearly five acres, including ornamental gardens, a historic fountain and a dog-friendly area.
  • Oz Park — Taking up 14 acres on the west side of Lincoln Park, Oz Park honors “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” and its author L. Frank Baum. Since 1995, statues of the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, the Scarecrow, and Dorothy and Toto have been added to the park, which also features an Emerald Garden.
  • Washington Square Park — Easily accessed from the Gold Coast, Streeterville or Old Town, this small gem won’t be overflowing with the usual wedding celebrants this year. A lush floral garden, historic fountain and period lighting highlight its three acres.
  • Lake Shore East Park — Surrounded by the dazzling modern skyscrapers of the New East Side and just steps from the Chicago River, this space — officially named Park No. 546 — offers nearly five acres of green lawns, a walking path and a dog-friendly area.
  • River Esplanade Park — Take a stroll along this park’s walking paths, covering a little more than an acre on the north bank of the Chicago River in Streeterville.
  • Ping Tom Park — Along the south branch of the Chicago River, this 17-acre site has been transformed since 1998 from an old rail yard into a beautiful, rolling green space. It’s a South Loop treasure, with many design nods to neighboring Chinatown.

For up-to-date information on park closures, check the Chicago Park District website. And don’t forget, Chicago is one of the most bike-friendly big cities in the world. Of its more than 200 miles of protected, buffered and shared bike lanes, only a small fraction are currently off limits.

Be a Birder 

If you’re a Chicagoan, you should be able to tell the difference between a blue jay’s squawk and a cardinal’s musical call. With more than 300 kinds of birds native to the area, wander any neighborhood with an Audubon field guide and a pair of binoculars, and you’ll engage in a pursuit that is at once relaxing and competitive, solitary and communal — and among the very best Chicago summer things to do.

First Things First 

With all the things to do in Chicago during the summer — even during a quarantine — your first priority should be to find a perfect place in the perfect neighborhood. In this especially challenging real estate market, let Downtown Apartment Company guide you. Check out our listings of available apartments today.

Careers in Leasing: What To Know

Ever wondered what being a luxury leasing agent is like? Here’s what you need to know!

 Looking for careers in real estate and real estate agent jobs now hiring in downtown Chicago?

Working With High Rise Buildings

Although some luxury leasing consultants work with both MLS listings and high rises, some just work with high rise buildings. These high rises are seldom listed on MLS. Through years of mutual relationship building, Downtown Apartment Company (DAC) has gotten the privilege of non-exclusively representing over 200 high rises in downtown Chicago. High rises appreciate working with DAC because we bring them qualified clients, that is– client’s whose wants, needs, price ranges, and preferences match what the building has to offer.

Most high rise apartment buildings have dedicated on-site leasing teams. On-site team members have extensive knowledge of the ins and outs of their particular building. DAC’s luxury leasing consultants work to have extensive knowledge of the overall market as a whole, strong familiarity with each building, and get a deep understanding of the client’s wants and needs. DAC’s leasing consultants and on-site building teams have strong relationships and stay in regular communication so both parties can give the client all the information they need and find them the best suited options. This allows DAC leasing consultants to act as matchmakers between clients and on-site teams.

If there’s a great deal or rare unit on special, on-site team members will be the first to alert DAC’s leasing consultants. Similarly, when a client reaches out with specific search criteria, a DAC luxury leasing consultant will use their market knowledge to narrow the options from over 200 downtown high rises to a selection of 5-8 buildings. Then, the DAC leasing consultant will get in touch with the on-site experts to see which layouts in the building will be best for accommodating the client’s move date, price range, view and lighting preferences, and furniture quantity.

The chief responsibilities of a leasing consultant at DAC are to (1) know all there is to know about your client’s wants and needs, (2) know all there is to know about the market, an (3) know all there is to know about your inventory, all so you can serve your clients’ best interests. The market, pricing, and availability can change on a day-to-day, or even moment-to-moment basis, so staying on top of current information takes ongoing initiative. It takes a village to know the city!

Now hiring leasing agents in downtown Chicago

DAC works primarily with luxury high rise buildings in downtown Chicago

Being a Team Player

At DAC we value character above all else. There’s a misconception that you need to be “tough” or “cut-throat” to succeed in real estate. That could not be further from the truth. The people who are most likely to succeed at Downtown Apartment Company embody professionalism, kindness, great listening skills, patience, and integrity for two reasons: (1) it just feels good to be a good person, and (2) being a good person is good for business. You only do a high quality job when you’re looking out for your client’s best interests. When you find your client a great deal that is exactly what they’re looking for, they will naturally refer you to their friends. Your clients want to help their friends, not expose them to a “cut-throat” agent who doesn’t really listen.

The Chicago real estate industry also feels pretty small. Over time, you’re bound to run into the same agents again and again. Being kind and professional with other agents is a must. Each interaction is an opportunity to plant the seed for another positive interaction in the future. No deal is ever worth jeopardizing a relationship.

 If you’re someone with integrity, professionalism, a desire to learn, a good attitude, and an interest in being part of a tight-knit team, we’d love to talk with you, regardless of whether you have any real estate experience! If you’re interested in learning more about leasing and real estate careers contact us at careers@downtownloop.com or click here to learn more.

Sono East Lincoln Park Apartments

The Sono sub-neighborhood (South of North Ave) in Lincoln Park is an increasingly in-demand place to live. Tree-lined side streets converge on boutique-lined Sheffield Street, surrounded by popular shops like Sephora, Lululemon, the Apple Store, and Banana Republic, restaurants from fast-casual to fine sit-down, live music venues, nightlife, theatre like Steppenwolf and the Royal George, as well as conveniences like FFC health club, Marianos, Whole Foods, a movie theatre, Chase bank, blow-dry bars, coffee shops, and the CTA Red Line station at North & Clybourn. It’s all packed into a few square blocks.

Sono East is located on Blackhawk (one of the aforementioned tree-lined streets) just one to three blocks from everything listed above. In fact, you don’t even need to leave home to find plenty of things to do and conveniences at Sono East. The 8,000 square foot resident amenity area includes a rooftop sundeck, hot tub, pool, fire pits, outdoor entertaining space, and grill stations, a state of the art expansive fitness center, a yoga studio with complimentary classes, a party room with full prep kitchen, billiards, co-working space, and a business center. The ground floor features a spacious, secured dog run. The building also offers conveniences such as The Minte housekeeping service, bike storage, 24 hour door staff, package receiving, and even made to order room service via PearChef.

Now leasing! Virtual Tours At Sono East Lincoln Park Luxury Apartments

Pool deck at Sono East

Each luxury apartment at Sono East features modern and soft-loft accents, like soaring 9 foot ceilings, open floor plans, concrete accents, floor to ceiling windows, hardwood style flooring, Italian marble tile, deep, stainless steel bowl sinks, sleek Poggenpohl cabinetry, and modern kitchen countertops. Each apartment also has its own thermostat, Whirlpool Energy Star appliances, and in-unit washer and dryer. Generously sized balconies and terraces are also available.

Virtual Tours At Sono East Lincoln Park Luxury Apartments Virtual Tours At Sono East Lincoln Park Luxury Apartments

Sono East is one of many high rises offering virtual tours. If you’re interested in learning more about Lincoln Park’s Sono area, luxury apartments for rent, or buildings offering virtual tours, contact us today to get your questions answered by one of our neighborhood experts.

Lincoln Park Apartments: Newcity

Surrounded by a mix of tree-lined residential side streets, lively strips of shops and restaurants, and live music and theatre venues, sits Newcity Apartments in the heart of Lincoln Park‘s trendy SoNo neighborhood (South of North Ave).

Newcity apartments Offering virtual apartment tours near Lincoln Park pet and dog friendly

The apartments at Newcity begin on the 5th floor of the high-rise, with retail (including Mariano’s super market) on the lower levels for added convenience. Newcity is also a full amenity building. Indoor amenities include co-working space complete with a conference room and a cyber cafe with coffee, a 24 hour fitness center with adjacent yoga studio, equipped with Wellbeats Fitness on Demand, an entertainment room with a bar area and wifi, and a theatre screening room with a 90 inch screen.

Newcity apartments Offering virtual apartment tours near Lincoln Park pet and dog friendly Newcity apartments Offering virtual apartment tours near Lincoln Park pet and dog friendly

Outdoor amenities include a rooftop pool and spa, an outdoor lounge with a fire pit and grilling stations, and wifi that extends to the outdoor amenities in case you want to work from home and get some fresh air at the same time.

Newcity apartments Offering virtual apartment tours near Lincoln Park pet and dog friendly

There’s plenty of space to spread out on the outdoor terrace

For optimal convenience, Newcity also offers 24 hour door staff, a bike repair and storage area, on site valet dry-cleaning, free guest parking (a rare gem in downtown high-rises), storage, recycling on every floor, on site maintenance, package receiving, and a dog run.

The luxury apartments at Newcity feature in-unit washers and dryers, high ceilings for maximum natural light and an open feel, plank flooring, ceramic tile baths, stand up glass showers, private balconies, and built in quartz tech desks. Kitchens feature GE Energy Star efficient steel appliances, quartz countertops, and contemporary espresso cabinets. The cylindrical shape of the building makes most units feel like corner units, with floor to ceiling windows and panoramic views.

Newcity apartments Offering virtual apartment tours near Lincoln Park pet and dog friendly

Downtown Apartment Company has compiled a resource of all the luxury apartment buildings offering virtual tours, one of which is Newcity! Looking for apartments offering virtual tours in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood? Contact us for a consultation with one of our neighborhood experts!

Stay at Home Date Ideas

With just under a month left in the Shelter in Place order and an unknown amount of time left of suggested stay at home time, it’s time to get creative with date and activity ideas. Here’s some inspiration of things to do during at home dates!

At Home Date Ideas and Activities To Do From Home

Courtesy of Jonathan J Castellon

Virtual Camping Trip

Another at home date idea to make the most of social distancing from your apartment is to virtually tour a national park. From the Grand Canyon and Joshua Tree to Yosemite, Redwoods, and Yellowstone, these 3D virtual tours allow you to visit national parks from your couch. Plan a zero-cost “trip” with your partner and turn it into a date night. Put on your camping gear, make a blanket fort (or for extra brownie points, pitch a real tent in your living room), turn out the lights, roast some marshmallows on your stove, and watch your virtual tour of the stunning state park of your choosing.

At Home Date Ideas and Activities To Do From Home

Courtesy of Insider

Make Your Partner’s Favorite Date Dinner

Are you a couple whose go-to at home dinner is cereal and milk or microwaved ramen, but when you dine out you always order things topped with fois gras and shaved truffle? This is your time to shine! Pick your partner’s favorite dine-out meal (the more extravagant, the better) and (attempt to) make it for them! It’ll either end in an incredible meal and new found hobby, or in some laughs and the microwaved ramen you were originally going to make.

Get Competitive

Start an ongoing competition with your partner. You can order two of the same puzzle and see who completes it first over the course of the week, have an ongoing push up contest, bust out the deck of cards and play gin rummy, or make food for the other person to eat with just chopsticks (hint: this one gets interesting if you make soup for your partner). You can also turn your competition into collaboration by teaching your partner something new. Maybe your partner is great at guitar, drawing, or handstands, or maybe they have a hidden talent you’ve never known about before. Each partner pick a skill or talent to teach the other.

At Home Date Ideas and Activities To Do From Home

Courtesy of Aditya Chinchure

Start a Partner Book Club

You’ve finally done it. After all these years, you and your partner finally have nothing left to talk about. Maybe these past three weeks of stay at home quarantine have left you in a repetitive cycle of conversation topics. If that sounds like you, try starting a miniature book club with your partner. Each person order a copy of the book to read separately. Schedule a time or two each week you’ll have book club and discuss the book.

 

Looking for Chicago apartments offering virtual tours and showings? Contact us today to get all of your questions answered by one of our neighborhood experts!

 

By Sophie Morrison

Downtown Apartment Company Office

It’s been one year since Downtown Apartment Company opened its new River North Office. (Of course, working from home wasn’t how we expected to spend it.) The office was thoughtfully curated with unique features and plenty of individual spaces, and rings true to the DAC slogan, “Choose Wisely. Live Stylishly.”

Upon entering DAC’s two level River North office, you’ll step into a two seat lounge-style lobby area.

Up the steps to the right sits the crowned jewel of the office– the conference room. The long table with regal chairs and furniture, quartz and crystal coasters and accents, and last but not least, the faux living green wall, are just some of the attributes that make this room feel special. Even when the office lights are turned off at the end of the day, the illuminated Downtown Apartment Company logo shines from the glassy conference room.

As you move through the rest of the ground level, you’ll see an open layout of work space with sleek white desks. The high ceilings and towering cathedral style windows allow for abundant natural light in this area.

Our office is located in River North’s acclaimed gallery district. In keeping with that theme, our office is full of inspired artwork and artisan pieces. On your way down the stairs to the ground level you’ll notice a collection of artwork on the wall that spans both levels. Each piece of artwork correlates with a meaning and a playlist that ties together the fun shui of the office.

The lower level is complete with a spacious training room, an “instagram worthy” seating space, a large lounge area, and a kitchenette with four glass seating tables.

The crystal accents throughout the office were chosen for the properties they represent: Amethyst for the protection and prosperity it brings, agate for harmony and equilibrium, selenite for fluidity and honesty, rose quartz for agreement and resolution, and smoky quartz for vitality and balance.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent? Contact us today! We’re offering virtual tours and would be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Work From Home Tips: How To Set Up Your Apartment

For many of us, working from home is a change of pace. It can be challenging to have healthy work-life separation and a productive work environment if you live in a small space and your amenities are closed. Here are some tips on setting up your apartment to work from home.

Whether you have a studio apartment or just want to section off your living space, there are few quick and easy ways to create an additional room. You can use a tension rod to hang curtains on the exposed side of your bed to give yourself a designated bedroom area in your studio.

Looking for virtual tours on luxury apartments for rent in Chicago?

Bedroom created with curtains, Courtesy of IKEA

You can also use shelving to create a similar effect. Floating a couch in the middle of living space can give the illusion of separate rooms, as can area rugs.

Now renting near you! Apartments with virtual leasing remote tours and showings!

A shelving unit used to separate rooms, Courtesy of IKEA

Another way to create work-home separation is to give your tables different designations. For instance, if you don’t have a desk, maybe you temporarily designate your dining table as your “office space” and eat at your island. If your island or peninsula has an outlet (as is the case in many new construction apartments) you can try designating the island as your “office” during your work from home period.

You can also create separation by having your furniture face different directions. For example, try putting your desk facing a window, so you’re not looking at the rest of your space while you’re in work mode. If you have a studio apartment, try facing your bed away from the rest of your apartment.

Having separation is important for keeping routine and healthy sleep behaviors. Regardless of whether you opt to break up your space, whatever you do, don’t bring your laptop or work materials into your bed. Keep work materials out of sight when it’s time to unwind by storing them in a designated spot.

Looking for virtual tours on luxury apartments for rent in Chicago?

Living space to bedroom convertible set, Courtesy of IKEA

In addition to setting up your space to be work from home conducive, it’s also crucial to optimize your living situation to be distraction free, which could mean communicating with roommates or other occupants about work from home agreements. For instance, put a “Work Mode” sign on the door to your bedroom, guest room, den, or wherever you’re working. Create expectations about what it means when that sign is up. Maybe it means they need to act as if you’re away at your office and should call, text, or email you to communicate rather than coming in or even knocking. Put away your pets during zoom calls. Resist the urge to do housework in the middle of the work day.

If you’re conducting your apartment search, DAC offers virtual tours which are, as always, a completely complimentary service. For more information about virtual tours and remote showings, contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Old Town Park Phase II’s Unparalleled Amenities

Old Town Park phase II, also known as 202 West Hill Street, is one of the newest deliveries from developer, Onni Group. The new tower features 428 dwelling units, composed of convertible, 1 bedroom, 1 bedroom plus den, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom apartments, town homes, and unparalleled penthouses, each with its own private hot tub and sprawling terrace. All residences also have access to the building’s resort style amenities.

Now leasing near Old Town! Dog friendly apartments for rent!

Basketball court

Old Town Park phase II offers over 27,000 square feet of resort inspired indoor and outdoor amenities, including an oversized indoor hot tub, a steam room and sauna, an outdoor pool deck with loungers and daybeds, an expansive fitness center, yoga and spin bike studio complete with Peloton bikes, lockers, and towel service, semi-private outdoor kitchens and dining areas, an indoor basketball court, multiple lounge and work from home spaces, a chef’s kitchen and private dining space for entertaining, multiple outdoor spaces including an outdoor theatre, a family play room, a game room, wine tasting room, and even a self playing piano.

On all those freezing cold or rainy days, wouldn’t it be nice to have an easier way to take your dog out? Old Town Park II’s on-site dog run is enclosed and on the fifth floor, so you can let your furry friend have some room to run around. Wash your four legged family members off in the indoor pet spa when you’re ready to come in!

Looking for apartments available for rent in Old Town available now? Leasing immediate move ins! Virtual tours and remote site unseen showings available.

A map of the amenities at Old Town Park 2. See the gallery below for more amenities!

With Old Town Park phase II’s prime location off of Wells and Division, you’ll be steps to the lively heart of Old Town, chalk full of shops, dining, nightlife, and entertainment. The convenient location is also just two blocks from the flagship Jewel Osco grocery store and the CTA Red Line train.

Looking for luxury apartments with great amenities for rent near Old Town? Contact us today for an in person or virtual tour! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!