by randy hope
pring is naturally a time for rebirth and rejuvenation. This season, however, unexpected changes and transitions are in store at home of one of Hillcrest’s
most popular establishments—
House.Boi. Folks familiar with the truly original pop store and Ari Clare, creator of the unique shopping men’s gaybor- hood shopping experience, might be surprised to learn there’s a new head of the house. Nobody, as surprised as James Culver is himself about his venture officially as new owner of
House.Boi. “The opportunity to acquire
House.Boi was all
timing and coincidence,” explains Culver, who after recently ending a career with a large environmental services company sought business opportunities allowing interaction with the community. “I think that the serendipitous moment propelled
the deal farther and faster than either one of us re- ally anticipated,” he explains. Happenstance found him
House.Boi when a mutual friend connected him to former owner Ari Clare. Both sought a change of direction in life and it was a perfect match. Clare created a bang in the neighborhood during
the summer 2007, when his unique retail concept popped up.
House.Boi not only integrated contem- porary furniture and home accents with hip men’s clothing and accessories, but brought to town a distinctively pop store, giving “bois” and men alike, a new kind of shopping experience, while offering a unique product line found nowhere else. “Count on Hillcrest to have such a fantastic con-
cept—with store creativity and community sup- port—both financially and morally,” he says, noting it was an experience so great that he immediately realized opportunities for growth and bought the “boi.” With a financial background in processes and
controls, Culver says he knows that it’s important to be surrounded by people who have difference tal- ents and experiences. He maintains such diversity in the force of people he’s found who are passionate about continuing to make
House.Boi succeed. “We have a great team assembled and have de-
veloped great camaraderie through mutual respect and effort,” he notes. “Most importantly, we have fun.” Still, Culver is diligent to keep a tidy house for
everyone. He is passionate about environmental and social justice causes. “I believe that each of us bears a responsibility for
our impact on others and our impact on the planet,” Culver says. He follows a vision of creating a more sustainable society through economic, cultural and
60 RAGE monthly | APRIL 2012
HOUSE.BOI GETS A NEW
OWNER
community we serve,” is the driving force Culver promises will continue to distinguish his business.
“Our passion for who we are and for the
social development—both globally and locally. The addition of his role with
House.Boi adds to
the already busy life he has with his partner and as father to three 11-year-old children. All of whom are equally excited about the addition of
House.Boi to the mix and getting involved in the local com- munity, whose support Culver says is making the transition a success. Culver looks forward to continuing the relation-
ship
House.Boi is known for having with the com- munity. He especially hopes to make a stronger connection with local artists to develop regular art events allowing local artists, regardless of their medium, to display their talents. “We’re resolved to help find solutions to the ‘starv-
ing artist dilemma,’” he says.
House.Boi is continuing its reputation as the loca-
tion to find unique gifts for unique individuals, the new owner maintains. “Our passion for who we are and for the commu-
nity we serve,” is the driving force Culver promises will continue to distinguish his business. There are many new exciting things in store for
House.Boi, including the upcoming May trunk show and the new line Cult of Individuality. Stop by today to check it out and say hello to the new owner.
House.Boi 1435 University Avenue, Hillcrest 619.298.5200
houseboisandiego.com
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