Rare Device Offers Curiosities With Plenty of Character

If you live in San Francisco or happen to be in the area, you must pay a visit to Rare Device. Considering its proximity to the ‘Alamo Square Pad,’ I walk by this place pretty much every day and I’m always marveled at their fantastic windows filled with quirky objects and incredible colors. What else can I ask for?

I am not sure why I’ve waited so long to write about this jaunt — this is the ONE PLACE to get paper goods from Rifle Paper Co., home decor pieces and beautiful gifts. What makes this place stand out is its commitment to fostering relationships with local makers and artists, such as Emeryville’s Inna Jam and San Francisco’s own Floss Gloss.

The space consists of part shop, part art gallery and they often host events such as gallery showcases, trunk shows and kids’ events. They are also open until 8pm so if you are waiting for one of those coveted tables at Nopa, this is the place to come and shop around.

Don’t be fooled by the name — as there is nothing rare about its offerings. It’s just a line poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge used in his masterpiece ‘Kubla Khan,’ where he described one of the creations of the Mongol emperors as a ‘miracle of rare device.’

Gallery coordinator Kehav and store manager Katrina know me by name, and these gals always share a back story of the goodies. If the artist or designer lives in the area, they might even be there perusing around. That’s what happened when I stopped by an event a few weeks ago and saw one of my favorite local artists, Eric Rewitzer from 3 Fish Studios. Needless to say, I had a complete ‘fangirl moment’ and there will be a local gem to follow.

There is so much to love here and I can guarantee you it’ll be challenging to walk out empty-handed — in fact, I don’t think I ever have.

Ryzenberg On, is Signing Off

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Rare Device | 600 Divisadero Street |San Francisco, CA 94117 | 415.863.3969

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