Sweet Chicago Rental: Luxe Green Living for $1,977

Your next apartment building could look like a giant wave.

No, this is not a futuristic fantasy or some outlandish design plan that's never going to be realized. At one of Chicago's newest green, full-amenity buildings, Aqua, units are now available for rent with studios starting at $1,531 and 1-bedroom apartments beginning around $1,977. The economy changed plans for the state-of-the-art residential highrise meaning the condos that developers intended to sell are being leased out instead.

Designed by Chicago architect Jeanne Gang (it's the tallest building in the world built by a woman), Aqua's genius is in the ripple effect created through incongruous balconies on every level. Every apartment in this New Eastside area skyscraper boasts a balcony and each one is unique in shape and size.

But Aqua doesn't just project the aesthetics of natural elements. It also proves that eco-conscious living can coexist with luxury. Read on to see how to live in green-inspired comfort.