EQ3, the new Target of home furnishings (and I mean that in a good way!), recently opened a showroom in San Francisco. The 9th & Bryant store sells EQ3's Americanized version of Ikea aesthetic: inexpensively made, underdecorated furniture and home decor items influenced just as much by the mid-century modern movement as by contemporary office furniture. Materials are a bit better and construction sturdier than much of the dorm living items marketed by Ikea; less veneer and more wood, less plastic and more steel. The prices are fantastic; I was aghast at the low prices of such items as suede sofas and the steel and glass desks I saw on a recent visit. The very young staff are particularly pleasant, and I recommend stopping by if you are in SoMA.

EQ3
540 9th Street
San Francisco, CA 94103
t 415.552.2626
f 415.552.2122
hours: Mon - Sat 11-7; Sun noon-6; free parking