San Francisco - October 24, 2007

Twice As Nice

Rare Device SF Opens

In general, sequels suck. (See The Next Karate Kid, Teen Wolf Too, and Return to the Blue Lagoon for reference.)

Rare Device is an exception to the rule. When Brooklyn’s mini design mecca opens its San Francisco outpost tomorrow, it will be just as good as the original.

Behind a tiny FoCo doorframe (that’s the Four Corners of the Castro, Mission, Hayes, and Downtown), the charming boutique beams with goods — delicate, durable, and always unusual. Ceramic bits and bobs from Perch and Alyssa Ettinger satisfy your need for pretty stuff. Edgy gold baubles from Amy Tavern and New York-based Odette will make you rethink your less-is-more mantra. Hard-to-find books, handcrafted journals, and whimsical note cards will keep you coming back for seconds.

The space also doubles as a gallery showcasing work from local artists. (First up: Kelly Lynn Jones.)

You know, the kind that actually have talent. Making them a rare breed, indeed.

Rare Device, 1845 Market Street, at Guerrero Street (415-863-3969 or raredevice.net).