Author: Erik Torkells

February 10, 2025

Riverfront House in the Santa Ynez Valley Sells for $7.95 Million

Last week's sales also include 1956 three-bedroom between Mission Canyon and Cielito; spec renos in West Mesa and on TV Hill; Samarkand house with four en-suite bedrooms; 1928 two-bedroom just off Shoreline Park; lower Anacapa Street townhouse; the Alta Mesa one without a kitchen; and more. 1

February 9, 2025

More of Carpinteria’s Bluffs Are Getting Preserved

Plus: The county's push for more decomposed granite sidewalks in Montecito; the Biltmore resort has plans for three swim rafts, not two; parking availability at Santa Barbara Airport is now online; new shop on State Street; proposed "health retreat" on Paradise Road; signs of life at the Andalucia Building at State and Gutierrez. 6

Newsletter: February 9

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Where in Santa Barbara…?

Know where this was shot? Prove it in the comments. (Update: We have a winner!) 1

February 7, 2025

Hedgerow Flip With a Zipline in the Backyard

Noteworthy new listings also include a Mediterranean compound in Hope Ranch; big views on Bella Vista Drive; the former site of the Glass Pavilion house; fresh renovation in Birnam Wood; 2016 Craftsman in Carpinteria; permitted plans for a cool contemporary up Toro Canyon; and more.

February 6, 2025

Pedicabs and a Pop-Up Forest Proposed for State Street

Other recent news: The risks associated with the lithium-ion battery storage facility in Goleta; Billabong and Volcom stores have closed; more on the development proposed for the Sears lot at La Cumbre Plaza; new design standards for developers; changes to Milpas Street's trees; the history of Santa Barbara City College's land; Santa Maria to get a Planes of Fame Air Museum; the reopening of Pacific Coast Highway. 20

February 5, 2025

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara’s Flagship Restaurant Has Closed

More food news: The Shoreline Cafe appears to be for sale; first look at the menu of Mission City Sandwich Shop; The Ellwood's soft-opening; Bar Lou is open for brunch starting this weekend; Bossie's Kitchen is serving weekend lunch again; Rolld Ice Cream is coming to Paseo Nuevo; a novel way to support Bibi Ji. 17

Newsletter: February 5

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February 4, 2025

The Two Sides of Florence

While the city center has several major attractions, it has become an open-air mall and, at least during the holiday season, is thronged with visitors. Across the river was more my style: calmer and altogether more interesting. 18

February 3, 2025

A Major Week in Santa Barbara Real Estate

Last week's sales include five over $10 million—11,000-square-footer in Carpinteria, whopper at the Hot Springs Trailhead; Ennisbrook house once redone by Ellen and Portia, and more; Montecito minimalism; East Mesa for $4.35 million; two on Coronada Circle; 1909 Lower Riviera charmer; Hope Ranch vacant lot; and many more.