Blog

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.

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.

A “Pickleball Social Club” From the Founder of Crushcakes

Plus: New nail salon coming to San Roque; big sale from local shops and brands; slate of improvements at Birnam Wood Golf Club; question about how property taxes are allocated to schools; “book bench” to be installed on the Eastside; testing a street vacuum on State Street.

Where in Santa Barbara…?

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

New England Traditional in Toro Canyon

Noteworthy new listings also include: Tri-wing midcentury near the Cold Spring trailhead; 6,900-square-footer with a backyard built for fun; multi-level turnkey in Park Highlands; Mediterranean atop TV Hill; dazzling views on La Vista del Oceano; and more.

Eight Design Experts to Take Your Home to the Next Level

Given how much time you spend there, why not make your home as sweet as it can possibly be?

ICE Officers Seen on the Eastside and Westside

Other recent news: Pacifica Graduate Institute to leave its Lambert Road campus; cannabis revenues keep falling; Goleta shopping center getting remodeled; new effort to restore kelp forests in the Santa Barbara Channel; the tree of the month.

Another Vegan Restaurant Is Closing

More food news: Pascucci will close in mid-March; new Santa Barbara development will have four or five restaurants; expanded hours at Oat Bakery’s Goleta outpost; the name of the restaurant at Hotel El Roblar in Ojai; Considered Coffee is now stationed at The Factory; Santa Ynez Valley “wine BID” won’t include Lompoc; donation line on a credit card slip.