About EMME Chicago Apartments
Located at 165 N. Desplaines Street in the vibrant West Loop, EMME is a thoughtfully designed apartment community that seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with sustainable living. This 14-story building offers 199 studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, each featuring wide-plank flooring, Italian cabinetry, quartz countertops, and Energy Star-rated appliances. The open-concept layouts are complemented by exposed concrete ceilings and LED lighting, creating a contemporary urban ambiance.
What sets EMME apart is its commitment to sustainability and urban innovation. The building features an 8,000-square-foot green roof dedicated to food production, one of Chicago’s first commercial rooftop farms. It yields hundreds of pounds of produce, herbs, and flowers each year, available for tenants and local businesses. Locally sourced materials, including handmade tiles from a Chicago artisan, are featured throughout the building, reflecting a dedication to community and environmental responsibility.
Residents enjoy a suite of amenities designed for convenience and connection. The rooftop pool and cabanas offer a serene escape with panoramic city views, while the rooftop fitness center and yoga studio provide spaces for wellness and relaxation. The third-floor lounge, equipped with a chef’s kitchen, pool table, and TV, serves as a social hub, and the expansive outdoor terrace features BBQ grilling stations, fire pits, and seating areas for gatherings.
For those working from home or needing quiet spaces, EMME offers private work pods with AV capabilities, a second-floor mezzanine with a library and co-working table, and a community chef’s demonstration kitchen. Pet owners will appreciate the indoor and outdoor dog run and grooming stations, as well as bike parking with a maintenance station.
EMME’s design also pays homage to its location’s history. The building was constructed adjacent to the Haymarket Memorial, and the developers intentionally set the structure back to create a public pocket park, enhancing the area’s green space and honoring the site’s historical significance.
With its blend of modern design, sustainable features, and community-focused amenities, EMME offers a truly unique living experience in one of Chicago’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
The Neighborhood
Located in Chicago’s vibrant West Loop, EMME puts you steps from dining, nightlife, and local attractions. The building is adjacent to the Fulton Market District, River North, and the Loop, making it easy to get to work, explore Restaurant Row, stroll the Riverwalk, or visit the Loop’s theater district. With nearby CTA stops and commuter options, this location blends city convenience with a lively, walkable neighborhood.
Restaurants near EMME Chicago Apartments
Residents are surrounded by a variety of dining options, from casual spots to inventive cuisine:
- Alla Vita – cozy Italian restaurant with classic pasta and wine
- ROOP Chicago Innovative Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar – modern Indian flavors with creative cocktails
- Proxi – contemporary American tasting menu in a stylish setting
- SUNNYGUN – popular patio with happy hour, cocktails, and tasty appetizers
Transportation Options
EMME offers excellent connectivity for both public transit users and drivers. The Clinton Green and Pink Line L station just a block away, while multiple bus routes crisscross the adjacent streets. Drivers enjoy quick access to I-90/I-94 for commuting or weekend trips. Divvy bike stations and ample building bike storage make biking around the West Loop and downtown another convenient option.
Parks and Recreation
The area around the building offers plenty of outdoor spaces to relax, play, or get some exercise:
- Fulton River Park – green space perfect for walking, jogging, or dog strolls
- The Riverwalk – scenic path along the river with seating and public art
- Heritage Green Park – small neighborhood park for picnics and fresh air
- Big City Pickle – local hotspot for pickleball enthusiasts
Universities and Employers
Living at EMME puts you close to major educational institutions and key employers:
- Chicago-Kent College of Law – top law school in the heart of the Loop
- Salesforce – offices for the leading cloud software company
- Various offices in the Merchandise Mart (a.k.a. The Mart)
- Northwestern Mutual – financial services headquarters
- Boeing Corporate Offices – major employer nearby
Grocery and Convenience
Everything you need for daily errands is within easy reach:
- Jewel-Osco – full-service supermarket for groceries and pharmacy needs
- Whole Foods – favorite for organic and prepared foods
- Mariano’s – convenient for fresh produce, deli, and household staples
- 7-Eleven – quick stop for snacks and essentials
