I read in the New York Observer over the weekend that Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, bought an 11th floor condo at the Plaza for $14,477,211. It wasn’t long ago that Harry Macklowe bought several contiguous apartments at the Plaza for $60 million, a record-breaking number for New York City, and quite frankly, the world. The purchase somewhat coincided with the 100 year anniversary of the Plaza, a somewhat bittersweet moment, depending on who you ask. At the ceremony, Robert Tierney, chairman of the Landmarks Preservation Commission remarked (regarding the controversial conversion) “It’s a very exciting thing to have The Plaza truly saved.” I don’t know if the 160,000 square feet of retail space exactly constitutes “saved,” but we do appreciate the restoration of great spaces such as the Palm Court and the Oak Room. The 120 hotel rooms, still managed by Fairmont, should be opening for business in December, presumably around the time each and every condo will be sold. Based on the website, only a handful are left right now.