What Does the “S” on Certain Chimneys Stand For?

"805 Soledad Avenue has an 'S' on the chimney. I see this 'S' all over San Roque, the Westside, and other places. It seems to be mainly on 1930s houses, many of which lean toward Tudor styles. Is it a builder’s signature?" —S.

Chanel Is Opening a Boutique in Montecito

Plus: UCSB Arts & Lectures announced its next season; renowned racetrack for sale; Highway 101 construction is moving north; concerts by Jon Batiste, Sturgill Simpson, John Hiatt, and Omar Apollo; the Yes Store has moved; watercolor show in Los Olivos.

Newsletter: June 9

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Where in Santa Barbara…?

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

The Indoor-Outdoor Lifestyle of Yore

Noteworthy new listings also include an 1895 Crocker Row house, handsomely redone; two-bedroom Hedgerow cottage for $5.25 million; Chelham Way spec reno for nearly $5 million; 1970s architecture with big mountain views; the San Roque spec reno that tried for $4 million and missed; and more.

The Good Lion Folks Are Opening a Bar at the Montecito Inn

More food news: What's in store for The Palms in Carpinteria; the owner of the Derf's building is said to be talking to prospective tenants; Local has cut weekday lunch service; return of the Santa Barbara Greek Festival; update on Fairview Gardens Farm; Seven Bar & Kitchen now has a vacation rental. 9

Santa Rosa Island in One Day

A day trip to Santa Rosa Island involves a lot of sightseeing on the ferry, but there's enough time for a truly lovely hike through unspoiled nature. 4

Newsletter: June 5

The Siteline newsletter is the best way to follow the website. To subscribe, click the link at the bottom of this post. And you can unsubscribe at any time.

Santa Barbara Is Considering a Sales Tax Increase

Other recent news: Many of the school district's solar arrays have yet to function; criminal charges filed against landlord; mysterious fish die-off; Old Town Antiques is closing; the tree of the month; county district attorneys vs. Carbmaster bread. 2

1912 House Remodeled by Lutah Maria Riggs Sells for $17.425 Million

Last week's sales also include Cove House Design's spec reno on Alameda Padre Serra; two in Hope Ranch; Lower Village with pool; Shoreline Drive pocket listing; one with potential on the Riviera; sprawler above the Westside for $2.3 million off the initial ask; 1920 Structure of Merit in the Upper East; and more.