Housing IV, the next phase for residences on campus following Glacier Hall in 1987, was conceived in late 1997/early 1998 as a 400-bed expansion to campus housing.   Cascade Hall opened in September 1999, finished in record time thanks to a new system using steel stud construction.  The total cost of the Hall came to $20.3 million and was financed entirely through the university’s reserve fund and with a 25-year debenture through Alberta Municipal Financing Corporation.  Cascade Hall was the first post-secondary residence in the province to be built without government funding.

A 3D tour is available.

Cascade Hall, named after a mountain range in the Rockies in keeping with the university’s tradition and policy, had several suites that were chemical-free, in response to those occupants with sensitivities.  The suites featured hardwood furniture, 100 % cotton futon mattresses, separate ventilation systems, and marmolium flooring, made from processed flax seed.  There were also several wheelchair-friendly suites, an upgrade from the now-dated ones located in Norquay, Brewster, and Castle Halls built in the early 80s.