Lights, Camera...Home!
We Live In Paradise
JORDANA BREWSTER renovated a 100-year-old house as a weekend getaway for her newly blended family, then realized she never wanted to leave
A pioneer in our midst: the legendary RENNY YATER and board members of the Hope Ranch Surf Club
Designer Doni Nahmias returns to his roots, rolling through bowl corners at Carpinteria’s new skate park.
What if we told you that two young Santa Barbara girls formed a friendship that has lasted well into their adulthood—growing, thriving, regressing, rebounding, and ahhhh…expanding and exhaling into an extraordinary collaboration of the heart and mind. Meet best friends Achok Majak and Isabelle Bridges.
Susan Read Cronin
Bronze sculptures with humorous and allegorical themes
Otto
Bronze Limited Edition of 24
4” H x 4” W x 7” D
What’s Now
Our world-renowned FILM FESTIVAL finds the sweet spot between Hollywood and international cinema
President and CEO of Paramount Pictures Brian Robbins and his wife, Tracy, hosted an intimate event at their home in Montecito last weekend to celebrate the release of Jeremiah Brent’s first book, The Space That Keeps You.
he restaurant’s culinary orientation is clear from its name—RASCAL’S VEGAN—but owner and chef Dalan Moreno’s commitment to that dietary regimen goes beyond a foodie trend.
Peter Lee and Felicia Medina have turned a pandemic pop-up into one of Santa Barbara’s most playful Asian-fusion concepts: SECRET BAO.
Southern California has no shortage of great Southeast Asian cuisine, but NA NA THAI, a new kitchen in Buellton, is in the running for best Thai food in the entire state.
A decade ago the Funk Zone was an emerging neighborhood in Santa Barbara, and THE LARK was a newcomer in the area.
When California gets a rare dose of winter chill, a trip up to Mammoth to embrace the ice and snow is just the ticket
In Partnership
A fresh Golden Quadrangle estate features five newly fashioned structures across three sculpted acres—adding up an elegantly harmonious whole.
A charming 1948 Spanish-Mediterranean home with vivid Santa Barbara hilltop views is faithfully renewed for the 21st century.
The longstanding luxury agent and his group are on a perpetual mission—to highlight the beauty of real estate and satisfy the most discerning clients in the business.
In Partnership with Santa Barbara Magazine
Nestled within the serene streets of Montecito's MUS school district lies the beautifully preserved, historic carriage house, once belonging to the esteemed George Boldt Estate. This three-bedroom, single-level home boasts timeless charm and modern elegance, featuring a connected guest studio with a separate entrance. The expansive great room is bathed in natural light filtering through large windows and showcases the warmth of hardwood floors, wood-beamed ceilings, and a beautiful stone fireplace. Seamlessly integrated with the private terrace, an effortless indoor-outdoor flow creates an ideal setting for alfresco dining under the stars. The kitchen's design effortlessly extends into the adjoining family room, fostering a sense of connectivity and warmth, making it a central hub for both culinary endeavors and relaxed family gatherings. The primary bedroom wing is a serene retreat, featuring a versatile space that can serve as a cozy sitting area or a functional home office. From the thoughtfully curated interiors to the tranquil outdoor spaces, the ethos of this home create a harmonious living experience, combining comfort, functionality, and timeless appeal for sophisticated and effortless living. Presented by Riskin Partners Estate Group | Offered at $6.2 million Learn More
From its secluded and peaceful ocean-view perch in Hope Ranch, this stunning estate offers an opulent oasis difficult to rival. Boasting more than 10,300 square feet of living space, beautifully and extensively renovated in 2015, the 2.5-acre property checks nearly every box: a 8,100+ sq. ft. main residence, a spacious guesthouse, a pool and pool house, a tennis court, an exercise center, gated security, and privacy — a true luxury compound tucked away on one of the most desirable streets in Hope Ranch. Presented by the Dusty Baker Group | Offered at $19.950 million Learn More
Hollister Ranch is a community rich in history and home to many notable owners, yet rarely has there been a legacy offering quite like the front row parcel of ''Tranquility Base,'' with its 102± acres, generous main estate home with swimming pool and tennis court, guest house, two barns, equestrian facilities, and ranch office. This spectacular parcel is one of the most private and secure compounds on the coast of Southern California. The ultimate in ranch living, with pastures, horse stalls, trails, gardens, a private well, and much more. It’s a perfect retreat offering uncompromising serenity, breathtaking views of the ocean and islands, and the vast expanse of the Hollister Ranch hills and its native vegetation, wildlife, and natural resources, unlike any other placePresented by Emily Kellenberger & Associates | Offered at $33 million Learn More
This renovated 4,757-square-foot haven with 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms on almost one acre seamlessly merges with its wooded surroundings. The main level hosts the primary suite, appropriately set away from the guest bedrooms, which offers views of the tree-lined property and two recently updated ensuite bathrooms. The spacious lower level of the home provides three bedrooms, a large living room, gym, and three updated bathrooms. Adding allure to this retreat is a 1,576-square-foot tucked-away guest house boasting 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. With its high ceilings, wood beams, glass walls, and an effortlessly cool style, it’s a space that complements the main residences unique charm. Immerse yourself in a lifestyle where artistry meets nature on this architecturally unique and thoughtfully designed home in Montecito. Presented by The Easter Team | Offered at $7.995 million Learn More
Oakhaven Estate, designed by renowned Architect Robert Spurgeon Jr., is a 17+/- acre oasis in Montecito. The stage is set as one approaches the home up a dramatically long driveway canopied with mature oak trees. Boasting vast and astonishing ocean and mountain views, this Spanish Colonial Revival Hacienda-style home features timeless craftsmanship throughout. Unique to the era, the estate features a warm library with a fireplace and detailed wood paneling; a grand living room which opens to a courtyard and deck; a primary bedroom gazing out to a southwesterly view of the ocean; and an expansive sunroom hallway that leads to additional ensuite bedrooms—all truly giving that feeling of a private retreat. Presented by Tiffany Doré & Cathy O’Neill | Offered at $25 million Learn More
Located on a quiet and private street off Picacho Lane lies Montecito’s newest and most coveted offering. This newly rebuilt California Modern home was custom crafted with no expense spared and will impress even the most discerning of buyers. Luxurious finishes of clear Alaskan cedar, rare Calcutta marbles, onyx stone and lime washed plaster take the stage in this refined yet relaxed single level home. The easy-living floorplan boasts five bedrooms, five bathrooms, theater room, and an oversized chef’s kitchen—all which integrate seamlessly with the outdoors. Soaring ceilings of 12 and 10 feet are punctuated with floor-to-ceiling steel pocket doors. Perhaps the biggest showstopper is the “California Room,” an indoor-outdoor living area taken to the next level, creating the ideal entertainment space. A stunning 60x20’ white bottom pool, infrared sauna, gracious outdoor kitchen, and multiple dining areas cement this home as one of the most thoughtfully designed re-creations in Montecito. Presented by Amanda Lee and Eric Haskell of The Agency | Offered at $13.995 million Learn More
Block Party
Enjoy a rambling tour of downtown’s home stores; you’ll be sure to discover something special to brighten your day (and your abode)
Ideas for reveling in the Southern California lifestyle abound in the boutiques here, plus the beach is just across the way
Everyone seems to know everyone else in this low-key, close-knit beach town with a penchant for vintage wares
Under the gaze of the Topa Topa Mountains you’ll find a big design destination with a small-town charm
Wine, windmills, and wide-open spaces set the stage for design-detailed lodging, home, and garden havens
Awarded gold medals in 2022 and 2023 by the Sommeliers Choice Awards, Champagne Alexandra Sainz is a unique and exclusive Grand Cru Champagne.
Folded Hills Winery is a small family-owned winery located at the gateway to Santa Ynez Valley just off the 101 between Las Cruces and Buellton just 4.5 miles from the Pacific Ocean.
La Lieff is a small, vibrant, women-owned wine company producing Rhône Varietals along the California Central Coast.
Tomi Cellars is the winery project from film industry veterans Boyd Shermis and Denise Davis.
Book Club
Tomes to keep you dreaming
After surviving the 2018 Montecito mudslide, Mary Firestone interviewed trauma survivors and now shares her own harrowing story in Trusting the Dawn (Sounds True, $26). The book lends a fresh take on healing modalities, focusing on connection, hope, and choosing joy. Firestone says, “Experiencing extreme growth, positive change, and a new, wondrous perspective on what it means to be alive can contribute to a more connected, dynamic life on the other side [of trauma].”
In a bright, heartfelt, humorous memoir, 3 Sisters, 3 Weeks, 3 Countries (Still Talking)(BookBaby, $15), Elizabeth Moore Kraus proves that sometimes it takes being a half world away (specifically Ireland, England, Scotland) to rediscover things about yourself and the people—in this case three sisters in their 60s, Liz, Les, and Rie—you love. “Eat, Pray, Love this is not,” the author says. “Think more along the lines of Eat. Laugh. Lost. That’s something the Moore sisters do, oh, so very well.”
A Map to Your Soul (Rodale Books, $26), by Dr. Jennifer Freed, sheds light on the elements (fire, earth, air, water) that manifest in each of us. The guide helps readers discover their personal map, with self-care rituals to design their best life. “I wanted to share a pathway to full self-expression, turning gifts and strengths into community contribution,” says Freed, Goop’s resident psychological astrologer. “Getting elemental is the best way I know to teach the fundamental and worldwide basics of astrology.”
All Signs Point to Paris (Mariner Books, $29) is a rom-com-like memoir of one woman’s search for a second chance at love. Author Natasha Sizlo—“divorced, broke, freshly heartbroken, and reeling from her father’s death”—is gifted a session with L.A.’s most sought-after astrologist, who tells her that an ex is “the one,” because his birthdate and birthplace (November 2, 1968; Paris, France) line up with her astrological point of destiny. The nonbeliever says, “Oui” and books a ticket to Paris with her sister and two besties for the trip of a lifetime.
California Elegance: Portraits From the Final Frontier (Mondadori, available at Chaucer’s Books) profiles people who have shaped the destiny of the Golden State, including scientists, politicians, designers, firefighters, and, appropriately, treasured local denizen Mahri Kerley, who has elegantly helmed the venerable Chaucer’s Books since 1974.
For a taste of eye candy, pick up Michael Haber: The Elements (Art/Society Publishing, available at Field + Fort), a large-format tome featuring a curated collection of images snapped by the talented local lensman during the course of his awardwinning career producing stunning commercial campaigns for the likes of The Gap, Old Navy, and Tommy Bahama. Don’t miss the author’s book signing on December 11, 3-6 p.m., at Summerland’s Field + Fort.
Artist Symeon Shimin (1902-1984)—whose work includes an important mural at Washington’s Department of Justice building and the movie poster for Gone With the Wind—is being rediscovered thanks to The Art of Symeon Shimin (Mercury Press International, available at Tecolote Book Shop). The book is edited by his daughter, UC Santa Barbara dance professor emerita Tonia Shimin, with essays by local arts writers Charles Donelan and Josef Woodard.
(Flatiron Books, available at Chaucer’s Books) is an insightful (and often witty) firsthand account by UC Santa Barbara student Via Bleidner detailing her experiences attending high school in the land where McMansions and Kardashians are the norm.
Architecture buffs will be thrilled to know that Santa Barbara Architecturefrom Spanish Colonial to Modern (Tailwater Press, available at tailwaterpress.com) is back in print. The latest update of this comprehensive compendium—which was first published in 1975—includes a foreword by local architect Marc Appleton and images by local photographer Wayne McCall.
Alexandra and Michael Misczynski, the wife-and-husband team behind the L.A. design firm Atelier AM, showcase eight of their new projects in Houses: Atelier AM (Rizzoli New York, $70), with photographs by François Halard. rizzoliusa.com.
In Partnership with Santa Barbara Magazine
Great Schools
From Pre-Kindergarten through 12th Grade, throughout Santa Barbara
South Coast Montessori offers an authentic Montessori program for children 3 months through 12 years old.
Ojai Valley School is an independent boarding & day school for 290 students — Pre-K through 12th grade — on two campuses in Ojai.
Located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, Anacapa School is an independent, co-educational school for grades 7-12 that offers a high-quality education in an enriching environment.
Crane Country Day School is a co-educational Kindergarten–8th Grade independent school located on 11 beautiful acres in Montecito.
Laguna Blanca—your potential is our passion. At Laguna Blanca, it is impossible to fly beneath the radar.
Since 1965, Montessori Center School has developed children ages 18 months to sixth grade into independent, self-motivated, confident learners.
Equip your student to pursue a life of purpose with Providence: Santa Barbara's only Christian school serving preschool through 12th grade.
Founded in 1976, Santa Barbara Middle School is an independent co-educational day school specializing in grades 6-9.