Before the House: Three Ways of Looking at Land

The morning light, the shape of a tree canopy, and the point during the approach where the coast first comes into view all offer clues to the house that might one day belong on a piece of open land.

Toro Canyon Mediterranean Sells for $10.25 Million

Last week's sales also include 1990s Tuscan in Hope Ranch; a couple of Birnam Wood spiffer-uppers; Bel Air Knolls spec reno for $3.9 million; 1940s San Roque; and more.

How to Pronounce “Syuxtun”

Plus: The ever-broken escalators at Santa Barbara Airport; crosswalks at the intersection of N. Jameson and the Sheffield underpass; livecasts of theater and opera; fundraising for a dedicated mountain biking trail; "No Time For Love" at Separate Reality. 1

Still Funky After All These Years

There are nicer beach towns on the California coast than Pismo Beach, but they might be less fun to explore. Pismo has a Bakersfield-by-the-sea energy that's uniquely its own. 3

Newsletter: November 8

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Where in Santa Barbara…?

Know where this was shot? Prove it in the comments. (Update: We have a winner!) 2

Has This Hope Ranch Mediterranean Appreciated 66 Percent?

Noteworthy new listings also include a dramatic living room in Birnam Wood; 1990s style in western Montecito; classic Mission Canyon funk; West Beach condo for $3.875 million; 1932 house in San Roque; and more. 1

The Alleged Scheme Behind the Huge Builder’s Remedy Projects

Other recent news: Three progressive candidates elected to Santa Barbara City Council; Carbajal and Hart reelected; how the state ballot propositions fared; more election results expected today; indoor pickleball facility put up for lease; the tree of the month. 4

They Don’t Build Communities Like This in Santa Barbara Anymore

Sitting alongside a two-acre avocado orchard, this Cathedral Oaks home has one of the most pastoral settings in Santa Barbara. Come see for yourself at the open houses this Friday and Saturday.

Ancora Osteria Is Now Offering Takeout

More food news: New private-dining spaces at Dom's Taverna and from Barbareño; winery taking over former tire shop; rendering of the BBQ restaurant opening near Home Depot; Zaca Coffee truck's new location; where the restaurants and shops will be in the northern La Cumbre Plaza development.