Rare Device

TO MEET · 04/11/2013

Rare Device

Located on a busy corner of Divisadero near Alamo Square, Rare Device is a calm, perfectly organized gem. “Our aesthetic is modern with a touch of whimsy,” owner Giselle Gyalzen explained to us. The white walls and tables are covered with a variety of home goods, art work, cards and accessories—all have a touch of quirkiness and fun.

“We handpick each item that we choose to sell. We choose to work with independent designers and artists that own small, personal businesses like ours,” Giselle said of their selection of products. Their inventory is constantly changing as they seek out new and exciting people to work with.

They’ve been at their current location for just the past year, and have become a go-to spot for neighbors searching for gifts and design inspiration. Within the store, they host a monthly story, song and dance time for kids. “We’ve seen some of these kids grow up this year and it’s been fun to get to know them!” Giselle told us.

It sounds like the perfect balance—kids have a good time while their parents can shop for a hand drawn greeting card, kitchenware or a pick-me-up piece of jewelry.

A few of Giselle’s current favorite item are mugs by Kahara from Japan, which she describes as having, “a gorgeous black textured matte on the outside, and glazed either in white or green ombre or black on the inside.”

“We also have these fun piñata eggs by Tiffanie Turner,” she told us as she referenced the little pastel-colored orbs hanging from a tree branch. “They’re hollowed-out chicken eggs, filled with confetti and finished with fringe. You can leave them as is, or if you’re courageous, smash them!”

When it comes to sourcing inspiration outside of the store, Giselle ventures to the Alameda Flea Market for all sorts of finds and Stuff on Valencia for 50’s and 60’s inspired goods.