Elad taps Futterman for Plaza retail assignment.

Robert K. Futterman & Associates (RKF) has been named exclusive leasing agent for the prime retail, banquet and restaurant space at the Plaza, it was announced by Miki Naftali, President of Elad Properties, owner of the world-renowned landmark at Fifth Avenue and 59th Street.

The fabled castle on the park is undergoing a $350 million lobby to roof renovation, restoring the iconic1907 structure to its former glory for New Yorkers and visitors from around the world for the next 100 years.

The restoration provides for 182 luxury residences and a world class hotel with 282 rooms and suites, as well as the high end 160,000-squarefoot retail, banquet and restaurant component.

"We are delighted to be working with Robert Futterman and his team in creating the elegant shops, stores and boutiques as well as the destination restaurants in the great public spaces that help define the Plaza," Mr. Naftali said.

"For example, The Oak Room and Oak Bar, and Palm Court, with its magnificently restored stained glass ceiling, will once again offer the finest food, beverage and service in their storied environments," he said.

"The Plaza clearly represents the most significant retail opportunity in Manhattan today," said Robert K. Futterman, Chairman and CEO of RKF and leader of the Plaza retail marketing and leasing team.

"We look forward to working with the world's top luxury retailers and the world's greatest chefs to set the stage for a new standard of retailing at one of the city's most important, dynamic and historic locations," he said.

RFK is developing a merchandising plan for the 160,000 square feet of incomparable space at the Plaza. Exquisite ground floor, mezzanine, concourse and lower concourse level locations will be available for upscale domestic and international lifestyle retailers and boutiques. Incredible ground floor restaurant space will be offered as well as exceptional banquet and event space on the first and second floors. There will also be prime spa and health club space available for lease on the second floor.

Robert K. Futterman will direct the marketing effort for the extraordinary retail space at the Plaza. The RKF team also includes managing director Ariel Schuster, senior director Robert Kinsey and director Jane Ehrenkranz.