Is There a More Buildable Lot in the Riviera?

This weekend's open houses also include: George Michael's former Cielito retreat; a hilltop castle, complete with crenellated tower; Tuscan pastiche on East Valley Road; a ranchette in the hills above Summerland; and many more.

Whitney Avenue in Summerland

When you slow down for a stroll, you see so much more. In this installment: The highest street in Summerland. 1

Dispute Over Parking at New Funk Zone Restaurant

Other recent news: Another earthquake nearby; public input on Baron Ranch on the Gaviota Coast; California might not require solar panels on new houses; saving the white abalone; distemper outbreak at Pinnacles National Park; the tree of the month; suspicious hair.

First Look at Mesa Burger’s Upcoming Montecito Outpost

More food news: Opening day set for the Daisy on State Street; more on Onus Donuts; Bar Seven turns seven; Bar 29 on Chapala has closed; dining by choice at an assisted-living facility.

George Washington Smith’s First House Is for Rent

Plus: Netflix is looking for an "ultra-modern" home to shoot in; Kendall Conrad bailed on her Montecito Country Mart shop; geodesic dome house hits the market; rocks for sale.

Habitat Home & Garden Promises Boho Chic at Affordable Prices

After 25 years, San Luis Obispo–based Habitat Home & Garden has branched out to Santa Barbara with a big new store on State Street. Prices are often lower than those at Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware, and at Habitat, you get something unique.

Newsletter: November 11

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A Visit to the New Virtual Reality Studio on State Street

Other recent news: Initiatives to curb homeless encampments get stymied; more on the new debris basin in Montecito; Caltrans has a plan to deal with Highway 1 traffic in Big Sur; one of the last drive-in theaters on the Central Coast is in peril.

Is the Cannabis Boom Hurting High-End Real Estate in Carpinteria?

Also newly reduced: What might be the prettiest house in Montecito; 1928 Tudor estate with room for a carnival; an El Caserio–style duplex condo downtown; San Roque charmer with a mancave out back.

A 1911 New England Cottage Steps from East Beach

The recent renovation and spot-on staging have made 428 Corona Del Mar—likely the sweetest property within walking distance to East Beach—as pretty as a picture in a magazine. So what's not to like?