Author: Erik Torkells

August 31, 2019

The Saturday Farmers’ Market Is Increasingly at Risk of Being Moved

According to organizers, the City Council could be on the verge of "sealing the decision" to move the Saturday market from its longtime location.

August 30, 2019

Oceanfront Compound in Montecito Now $1 Million Cheaper

Also newly reduced: California cottage a short walk from the beach; Tuscan-style villa with a crenellated tower; Montecito farmhouse with a lavender-filled front yard; 1929 house on Alameda Padre Serra.

The Prettiest House You Ever Did See

When Drew Barrymore put 1270 Pepper Lane on the market in 2013, it was ready for a bit of TLC. The house got all that and more, from new owners who didn't just renovate it—they polished it.

August 29, 2019

More on Insurance Companies’ Retreat from the Area

In other recent news: A visit to the new-ish SeaVees store in the Funk Zone; questioning the appropriateness of palm trees (and another discussion about the Olive Mill roundabout); how Montecito streets got their names.

This Old House Has Been Given a New Life

The grandes dames of the Upper East rarely come available, and certainly not ones with this caliber of workmanship.

August 28, 2019

A Disappointing New Roof Near Miramar Beach

Plus: The sweet old days of Summerland; former hostel site is on the market; accommodating an oak tree in style; Toro Canyon house sells for a million off the listing price.

August 27, 2019

A “Master Flipper” Is Ready to Move On

After buying this 1950s Cielito house in early 2018 for $3.5 million, Xorin Balbes embarked on a thorough renovation and redecoration—but without changing the footprint. Now he has listed it for just under $9 million. The house is certainly something to see....

August 26, 2019

The Revised Debris Flow Risk Map Could Now Come as Late as Mid-November

In other recent news: Restaurateur James Sly has died; Laura Capps will run against Das Williams for county supervisor; Southern California Edison's fire mitigation efforts; Carpinteria moves to acquire the Rincon Bluffs Preserve.

Is This the Grooviest House in Greater Santa Barbara?

The Castle in the Sky has personality to burn—along with a swimming pool moat, hot tub grotto, circular platform bed, and helipad, complete with hangar.

August 24, 2019

The Little Door Is Said to Have Closed

Plus: The French Press has officially changed its name; Giovanni's Pizza is down to just one location; Viva to become Eleven 14; Mosto Crudo has rebranded; Sama Sama Kitchen is partnering on an endeavor in Los Alamos.