Craft & Commerce

Project Awarded

During deliberations for the 2011 Grand Orchid, the jury was taken with one particular project, where they were all in agreement that the space had actually transcended the design. They felt strongly that Craft & Commerce - this accessible, adaptive re-use project in Little Italy, had been carefully designed and masterfully executed to create a truly exceptional experience. Idea-driven, yet basic; it is, as one juror notes, “…an amalgamation of tried and true populist design moves that still manages to maintain its own personal, and innovative, identity.” Another commented, “There are some wonderful things going on here, and some of them are obviously personal which start to unravel a story to how this place was born….” Having doubled in size since it’s opening in August of 2010, it has provided the impetus to stimulate a sleepy corner into a stimulating destination. Craft & Commerce demonstrates how the design dialogue opens minds and doors . . . and blooms. It shines through as a unique and inspirational property and a welcome and daring addition to San Diego's design landscape.