The Essex St. development "will involve further combining the two Essex St. properties into one, adding additional floors to each of these buildings and demolishing the Ludlow St. property" says Matthew Barnett of Levien & Co., owner's representative for the restoration. The project's architect is Meltzer/Mandl. Abraham Joselow Associates, Pillori Associates and the Office of James Ruderman will serve as the project's engineers.

Hermits on the Upper West Side? Look no further than The Hermitage, an 18-story pre-war luxury condominium building containing 126 units at 41 West 72nd St. One- and two-bedroom apartments are being marketed for $375,000 to $800,000. The residences range in size from 638 to 1,000 sf and feature four different layouts.

"With its great location, the Hermitage could also be the ultimate pied a terre for many frequent visitors to New York, particularly those wanting to take advantage of the cultural activities at nearby Lincoln Center or the Broadway theatre district," says exclusive leasing agent Iva Spitzer of Douglas Elliman. Many of the residences have been completely renovated with new kitchens and baths. The lobby of the building is also undergoing a complete restoration.