First Look

October 8, 2021

First Look

Another Huge Development Is Proposed for the Funk Zone

The plans have dropped for a big, interesting project in the Funk Zone: it contains a hotel (possibly two), several restaurants, a coffee shop, a tasting room, a corner market, an art gallery, and more. Plus: a popular brewery could be one of the tenants. 8

May 5, 2021

First Look

Back-to-Back Roundabouts Proposed for Highway 101’s Cabrillo Interchange

The preliminary design for the stretch of Highway 101 between Olive Mill and Salinas Street replaces the left exit at Cabrillo with a right one, and it adds a new roundabout—which could end up making three in a row along Cabrillo Boulevard. 2

First Look

Preliminary Designs for the Montecito Section of Highway 101

The Montecito Association got a sneak peek of the next segment of the 101 widening, which includes the Olive Mill and San Ysidro interchanges. See what you think.... 4

April 11, 2021

First Look

A 14-Room Hotel Is in the Works at Paseo Nuevo

According to the plans submitted to the Historic Landmarks Commission, the property will have a basement lounge, a ground-floor restaurant and bar, and a roof deck atop the new third floor. 1

March 15, 2021

First Look

Exciting Changes Proposed for a Santa Barbara Landmark

A big chunk of the Andalucia Building on State Street is getting turned into a food-and-beverage complex of some kind. 4

March 3, 2021

First Look

A New Place to See and Be Seen in Santa Barbara

The Palihouse Santa Barbara hotel has opened, and it looks great. The bar and an all-day courtyard café are sure to be a hit with the stylish set. 2

February 22, 2021

First Look

New Housing Community Proposed Next to the Polo Fields

The Santa Barbara Polo Villas would comprise 25 single-family dwellings and 15 condominiums on an 11.48-acre lot. 1

February 15, 2021

First Look

Sophisticated Makeover Proposed for Downtown Plaza

The plan for De La Guerra Plaza has much to like—the removal of car traffic and parking, the airiness, the dining area—but there are also some reasons for concern. 5

February 11, 2021

First Look

The Revised Design for the New Police Headquarters

Architect Cearnal Collective's second try is more Spanish Colonial than the initial foray, which was a bit severe. Check out the renderings....

September 15, 2020

First Look

New Harborside Restaurant Salty at the Beach Opens This Week

Check out the interior and the menu for Salty at the Beach, which is serving lunch, dinner, and drinks. Its sister establishment, a burger joint called Chomp on the Rocks, will follow soon.