Extraordinary Desserts II

Extraordinary Desserts has been a cult food destination in San Diego for over 3 decades. This new 2,500SF shop in Banker’s Hill is the second collaboration of client, architect, and builders; expanding upon the Union Street location built in 2005. Drawing on the process of baking Karen Krasne’s signature cake, the new patisserie provides its patrons a layered architectural experience – curiosity, reveal, and anticipation.

The 1st layer is understood from the street. A diaphanous stainless mesh ‘teardrop’ screen is suspended from custom steel outriggers. The reference is to Noren; branded fabric panels hung at the entryway of Japanese shops to protect the interior from the elements. Here, from the street, the teardrop shades the shop and inspires curiosity for what might be found within.

Just beyond the screen stands the 2nd layer. The custom engineered and locally fabricated wall of steel and glass reaches 40’ long and 13’ tall. The threshold at which passerby becomes patron, the façade reveals what lies at the heart.

The 3rd layer, the object – jewelry cases supported by a 32’ long island clad in bronze. Rather than jewels, the cases hold cakes; the main attraction. Learned from success at the Union Street location, the architects understand one particular moment that is exhilarating about dessert; anticipation of delight. In this new shop, patrons linger at each vitrine, weighing the merits of chocolate over coconut; meringue over frosting. Giddiness ensues and the choice to indulge becomes an architectural experience.