Image: GMAP
A Jewish religious items store at 11 Avenue A in East Village is being converted into a six-unit residential building.
Located between East 1st and East 2nd streets, the existing three-story building will get another floor, expanding from 3,782 square feet to 5,020 square feet. The developer is Abraham Soudry’s Better Living Properties, and Robert Strong Architect will design the conversion, according to the plan exam application filed January 3rd. There will be retail on the ground floor, as well as a roof deck.
Since 1960, the site has been home to Ben Ari Arts, which sells Jewish religious articles such as menorahs, mezuzahs, ceremonial wine cups, Seder plates, prayer shawls, candlesticks and religious art. The store first opened in 1945 at 201 Allen Street, according to The Villager.
In December 2013, Ben Ari Arts sold the property to Better Living Properties for $3.4 million, according to public records.
