San Francisco - October 05, 2007

Curious Gorg

The Curiosity Shoppe Opens

We all know what curiosity did to Whiskers (RIP).

It’s unlikely that your love of hand-crafted curios and treasures will get you trapped inside the tailpipe of a car. But it will lead you to The Curiosity Shoppe, the new brick-and-mortar version of the quirky online boutique from husband and wife duo Lauren Smith and Derek Fagerstrom.

The space is raw yet refined, with pegboard detailing, modular wood shelves, and a striking cabinet of curiosities. There’s even a library nook, complete with window bench, where curling up with eccentric art books is encouraged.

Pieces range from woodsy (high-end faux antler lamps) to campy (crocheted squid sculptures by Jessica Polka) to nostalgic (make-your-own pinhole camera kits).

Artist events and craft parties are top on the couple’s to-do lists, along with the odd collaboration with 826 Valencia across the street.

Putting a positive spin on the term “nosy neighbors.”

The Curiosity Shoppe, 855 Valencia Street, at 20th Street (415-839-6404 or curiosityshoppeonline.com).