SB Digs

Rebecca Riskin
DRE 00805720 & Associates
Dina Landi
DRE 01815307
Sarah Kelly
DRE 01447045

Visit the website:

info@hummingbirdcarpinteria.com

2013 Downtown Art & Wine Tour

nancys — Wed, 15 May 2013 16:09:10 +0000

The Santa Barbara Downtown Organization will host the 2013 Downtown Art & Wine Tour on Thursday, May 23rd from 5:30-9:30pm. Tickets go on sale May 1st for this popular downtown event where participants enjoy a self guided tour of downtown venues prepared with a logo wine glass in hand for tasting wines and sampling delicious foods at every stop.

Tour these participating Venues: 33 Jewels at El Paseo, Bryant and Sons, Ltd., Casa Magazine, Couch Santa Barbara, Gallery 27 at Brooks Institute, Imagine, Industry Home, James Main Fine Art, Jane Deering Gallery, Plum Goods, Salt Caves, Santa Barbara Contemporary Arts Forum and the Santa Barbara Historical Museum.
Proceeds will once again benefit the 61st Annual Downtown Holiday Parade.

_________________________________________________

2013 DOWNTOWN ART & WINE TOUR
Thursday, May 23rd, 5:30 – 9:30 PM
Tour: 5:30-8:00pm Various Downtown Locations
Final Party: 7:30-9:30pm Santa Barbara Historical Museum

____________________________________

Sample delicious hors d’oeuvres from these participating Restaurants:
Aldo’s Italian Ristorante, Blush, Caribbean Coffee, California Pizza Kitchen, Chuck’s Waterfront Grill, Cielito, Finch and Fork, The Greek House Cafe, Holdren’s Steaks and Seafood, Los Arroyos Mexican Restaurant and Take Out, Opal Restaurant and Bar, Paradise Cafe, Persona Neapolitan Pizzeria, Pascucci, Savoy Cafe and Deli, Sugar Cat Cupcakes, Sojourner Cafe, Spoon, Wahoo’s Fish Tacos and Wine Cask.

Taste remarkable wines and beer from these participating Wineries and Breweries:
Artiste Winery, The Brander Vineyard, Consilience and Tre Anelli Wines, Grassini Family Vineyards, Kalyra Winery, Oreana Winery, Pali Wine Company, Pierre Lafond Winery, Presidio Winery, Riverbench Vineyard and Winery, Santa Barbara Winery, Windrum Vintners and Figueroa Brewing Company.

The Final Party will be held at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum featuring more food, more wine, live music and dancing with Mon-E-Luv and Scott Topper Productions, SBPhotobooths and a silent auction and raffle showcasing wonderful gifts and packages all to benefit the 61st Annual Downtown Holiday Parade in December.

Tickets are $60 for the tour and final party. Tickets go on sale May 1st on www.eventbrite.com. Tickets may also be purchased at the Arlington Theatre Box Office (credit card or cash + $1 surcharge per ticket); at the Downtown Organization office – 27B East de la Guerra Street (M-F, 8am-5pm, cash, check or credit card); and at Paseo Nuevo Guest Services (cash or check). A limited number of tickets are sold and advance purchase is necessary.

Check-in begins at 5:15pm at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum at 136 East De la Guerra Street.

The Art & Wine Tour is brought to you by the Santa Barbara Downtown Organization. The Downtown Organization is a membership-driven, non-profit organization whose goal is to maintain and enhance the business and cultural activity in the downtown area. Helping keep downtown Santa Barbara clean, attractive, safe and vibrant goes towards supporting this goal. Presently, there are over 1,400 members who benefit from the Downtown Organization’s commitment to excellence and its ongoing efforts on their behalf.

Some of the programs, activities and events sponsored by the Downtown Organization include the Annual Downtown Holiday Parade, Downtown Art and Wine Tour, Downtown Host Program, decorative State Street Flag Program, 1st Thursday, Film Feast and the State Street Safe Trick-or-Treat.

For more information, please call (805) 962-2098, ext. 22

VISIT THE WEBSITE:

www.santabarbaradowntown.com

Elegant Contemporary Designer’s Home

nancys — Tue, 07 May 2013 19:31:12 +0000

Situated on a secluded, oak-studded property in the foothills behind Santa Barbara’s riviera, the home of interior designer Christopher Teasley and Stephen Singleton, is a mere shadow of the 1969 version of a Hollywood Regency home that the partners purchased in 1986.

Over the years, areas of the home have been remodeled numerous times. The oak trees, boulders and lively creek bed (during winter storms) are the few original elements of what is now a graciously landscaped acre. From private but generous terraces off the living areas, views encompass large swaths of Tasmanian tree ferns, azaleas, clivia and acanthus among the oaks and boulders.

Sitting at the dining table feels as though you are perched high in a tree house, with a single oak outside seemingly holding up the room. Facing westward the curved end to the living and dining room is a window on spectacular sunsets year-round.

In 1996 the original south-facing terrace was dramatically enlarged including a sweeping stairway down to the garden below. The aggregate terrace provides several relaxed seating and dining options for the homeowners. Furnished like an outdoor room, the main seating area is sheltered from the sun by the addition of a pergola designed to marry with the original structure.

The existing architecture of the entry area goes back to the original 1986 remodel as does the French limestone tile that continues into the interior entry and gallery.

Dominated by a romantic landscape from a 20th century Italian painting studio, the spacious living-dining room is the primary area for entertaining for the owners, who enjoy hosting dinner parties for friends and clients.

The coffee table is one of the several pieces designed by Christopher Teasley. The classic Cedric Hartman tables and the Fortuny covered bench have survived remodels and decorative changes.

A significant part of the house was demolished in 1998 in order to expand the kitchen and to create an area for casual dining where Mac James’ oil painting, “ Big Blow” hangs. Stairs lead to the second floor guest suite and study which were a part of the 1998 remodel.

The spacious, light-filled master bedroom reflects the owners’ desire in recent years to simplify the interiors of their home. An Italian brass and glass table from the 1940’s was found in Vienna. Knoll chairs enhance the clean, modern lines in the room as reflected in the nightstands and bed designed by Teasley. The acrylic painting is by Hawaiian artist, Deborah Young and inspired the colors of the room, remodeled in 2011.

The west facing den is perfect for an afternoon nap or viewing an evening film. The Japanese folding screens depicting pine saplings and grasses are early 20th century by the artist, Kojitsu.

The couple’s home reflects their ever-evolving and simpler tastes and preferences in furnishings, color and decorative objects. Their collection of art and antiques reflects their deliberate style of acquiring classic pieces that have endured the many changes to the interior spaces
over the years.

Clients and colleagues alike regard Christopher Teasley and Stephen Singleton’s business partnership as creative, enthusiastic and enjoyable to work with. The longtime couple share interests in travel, architecture, museums, gardens, music, cooking and entertaining; all of which afford them a broad frame of reference for each design project.

As a young graduate of the University of California in French and Italian, Christopher gravitated to design work while living in San Francisco prior to joining an established Montecito interior design business in 1979. In 1983 he founded Christopher Teasley Interior Design and currently operates from a design studio in downtown Santa Barbara.

Stephen joined Christopher Teasley Interior Design in 1996 after having established himself in Santa Barbara as a well-known caterer, event designer and managing partner of Acacia Restaurant & Bar with interiors designed by Christopher Teasley.

CHRISTOPHER TEASLEY INTERIOR DESIGN

921 St. Vincent Avenue, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

805.969.4005 e-mail: info@ctinteriordesign.com

Visit the website:

www.ctinteriordesign.com

Cooking Classes and Events with Pascale’s Kitchen

nancys — Sun, 05 May 2013 22:56:04 +0000

These popular classes are fun, casual and informative. Peruse the calendar of Pascale Beale’s upcoming cooking classes, plus a picnic at Zaca Mesa Winery. Visit the website to reserve spaces.

Monday, May 13, 2013
Cooking Class
10:30 am
Sauteed Radish and Mache Salad
Smoked Salmon Souffle with Salmon Caviar Creme Fraiche
Strawberry Tartlettes with Lemon Mascarpone
$90

Wednesday, May 15, 2013 — Thursday, May 16, 2013
2-Day Bread Making Workshop
Day 1 10:30 am – Noon, Day 2 – 9:00am-1:00pm and 4:00pm to 7:00pm
Each participant will receive a copy of the Tartine Bread Book and a large cast-iron baker in which to bake bread. You will also receive starter to take home to make your bread after the workshop. We will make 3 types of bread; a classic boule, Olive-Almond Bread, and Golden-Raisin Pistachio Bread.
$165

Monday, May 20, 2013
Cooking Class
10:30 am
Lentils de Puy Salad with Asparagus and Watercress
Roasted Black Cod with Olives, Pistachios and a Saffron-Tomato Sauce
Grilled Nectarines with a Lemon Syllabub
$90

Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Cooking Class – The Apricot Men
10:30 am
A luscious Apricot Herb Salad
Split Roasted Farmers Lemon Chickens with Apricots, Green Onions and Honey Shallots
Apricot Tart
$90

Picnic at the Zaca Mesa Winery with Pascale
Saturday, June 1, 2013
11:30 am – 2:00 pm
Enjoy a gourmet picnic in the vineyards with Chef Pascale. She will prepare lunch from her Spring cookbook under the oak trees on a summer day. Lunch and wine will be served as she discusses the beauty of a picnic with friends. Ticket price: $85. includes lunch, wine and an autographed cookbook from her collection.

________________________________

I have had the pleasure of attending many of Pascale’s cooking classes. She is an exquisite teacher, always accommodating to differing levels of knowledge and skills. The hands on experience allows for every individual to practice what is being taught. Then, of course, the indulging in the finished creation by sitting around a delightfully set table, sharing the flavours of her unique recipes, provides one a most memorable time!
— Suzon

P A S C A L E ‘ S K I T C H E N

805.965.5112

VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR A LIST OF PASCALE’S CLASSES AND EVENTS :

WWW.PASCALE’SKITCHEN.COM

Modern Butterfly Beach Villa

nancys — Fri, 03 May 2013 16:30:06 +0000

Simplicity was the ultimate key in the transformation of a classic 1952 bungalow, located near Butterfly Beach in Montecito. Dave Mendro, partner at Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects, reconfigured the home to remove interior walls and combine the rooms into one larger space and opened up a courtyard in the back of the house to extend the space outside.

“This was a classic ’50s ranch-style bungalow with a broad, low-pitched roof, exposed rafters and a wide-plank board ceiling. I loved the bones of it,” states Mendro. “My challenge was to preserve the old character but create a modern home that is more livable by today’s standards.”

Mendro credits the collaborative efforts of the entire project team for the success of the project. The owner had a strong vision and was intimately involved in all aspects the interior design and landscaping. Ian Cronshaw of Allen and Associates, was the general contractor who was instrumental in tackling the numerous issues that arise with the repair and renovation of an older home. Landscape architect Sam Maphis transformed the landscape and created the outdoor living spaces.

Design details include a standing-seam metal roof in a dark gray color with rain chains instead of gutters. For the front entry, a mahogany door with vertical slats is in keeping with the tropical ambiance. Coral stone from the Dominican Republic was used for the surface of the exterior patios, walkway to the front door and stone veneer on the front façade.

The plans opened the kitchen to the dining and living rooms to create one larger space.

The gas fireplace makes the living room feel sleek and modern, yet warm and welcoming.

Limestone counter tops and mahogany cabinets add to the sophistication of the space. Custom mahogany bi-fold doors and windows effortlessly connect indoor and outdoor living spaces, opening completely for endless entertaining opportunities. The kitchen is equipped with a Wolf dual fuel range and Sub-Zero refrigerator.

The existing 2 by 6 tongue-and-groove ceiling was left exposed and refinished in white and track lighting was added in key areas.

A sun-drenched hallway passes a stylish guest bedroom and bathroom before reaching a built-in mahogany desk, daybed and custom cabinetry.

Double doors open on to a sunken master retreat, enhanced by a luxurious spa-like bathroom and private patio.

Custom-made mahogany cabinets and a platform bed unit complete the new master bedroom.

A blown glass pendant chandelier adorns the freestanding soaking tub, overlooking a serene courtyard with an eight-foot privacy glass gate. Interior living spaces now open to outdoor patios, water fountains and a walled private garden.

Outside, a large garden oasis awaits with wandering paths through fruit trees, palms and towering bamboo. Generous patios, water fountains, a walled private garden and lush tropical landscaping allow for true indoor-outdoor Santa Barbara living. When the remodel was finished, the home was still a compact 1,627 sq. ft. but felt much larger.

Mendro says that it’s refreshing to see the trend toward maintaining existing structures and smaller living spaces. “Sustainable practices have people adapting existing homes to their needs rather than expending the energy to create something new. This is a highly successful remodel and demonstrates the shift in focus from bigger to smaller, higher quality homes”.

ARCHITECT: Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects, Carpinteria, CA

General Contractor: Allen Associates, Santa Barbara

Landscape Architect: Sam Maphis, Earthform Design

Photography: Ciro Coelho

888 Linden Avenue, Carpinteria, California 93013

805.684.8885

email: info@nmaarchitects.com

To view Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects portfolio, visit the website:

www.nmaarchitects.com

Hummingbird in Carpinteria

nancys — Thu, 02 May 2013 21:46:19 +0000

This charming boutique has a well edited selection of fine jewelry and handbags, women’s clothing, gifts and accessories. Located on Santa Claus Lane in the beach town of Carpinteria, CA.

Clothing includes Jonny Was, Biya, Pete & Greta, 3J Workshop, Three Dot, linen sleepwear by Kumi Kookoon, and children’s hand knit sweaters and hats.

Luxurious handbag lines from Hammitt, Isabella Fiore, Foley and Corinna, 49 square miles, Hobo, David Galan, Vicky Kallens, and many more.

Hummingbird’s sophisticated jewelry gallery showcases many well-known designers including Susan Cummings, Julez Bryant, Tat2, Branch, Avindy, Love Heals, Liquid Metal by Sergio Gutierrez, Zoe Chicco, Sweet Tooth, Hammered Hoops, Kings & Priests and many local designers.

Hand knitted baby sweaters by Linda Laponis.

Scents from Voluspa, Antica Farmacista, Lollia and Thyme. Local artists include Ginny Speirs, Debbi Green Acrylics, Terri Fawcett, Acrylics, and Fred Sweeney watercolors. Pottery by Luna Garcia in Venice Beach, and Fringe vases and candles.

Hummingbird is known for its casual elegance, and warm atmosphere. Enjoy a one of a kind shopping experience and meet owner Lynn Davis and her friendly staff at this popular shopping destination on Santa Claus Lane.

Hours
Monday – Saturday: 10:00am-5:30 pm
Sunday-11:00am-4:00 pm

HUMMINGBIRD

3823 Santa Claus Lane, Carpinteria, CA
Phone 805.684.5800

VISIT THE WEBSITE:

www.hummingbirdcarpinteria.com

Arcadia Studio Landscape Design

nancys — Wed, 01 May 2013 20:53:37 +0000

Arcadia Studio has been unique from its beginning. When founded in 2001, business partnerships formed by multiple landscape architects were unheard of in Santa Barbara County. Twelve years later, Arcadia Studio, a partnership between four leading landscape architects – Derrik Eichelberger, Laurie Romano, Carol Puck Erickson, and Bob Cunningham – continues what is now a history of award-winning residential and commercial design.

Arcadia Studio has successfully completed work on over 1,200 projects, ranging in size from small residential gardens to large corporate campuses. Their work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Sunset, Phoenix Home and Garden, Pacific Horticulture as well as several books such as ‘Reimagining the California Lawn.’

The Principals, over their careers, have earned over eighty awards for design. Arcadia Studio currently has a staff of eleven, seven of whom are registered landscape architects.

“Before Arcadia Studio, I had been operating my own firm while Puck and Derrik had for many years been employed in small firms,” said Bob Cunningham, who specializes in commercial design, perhaps most notably the redesign of lower State Street, for which he won the coveted Lockwood de Forest Award.

“They wanted the opportunity to lead on their own. We had all worked together on various projects and realized we had the compatibility necessary to collaborate successfully. No other office in our area had succeeded with more than one landscape architect as the firm leader, but the three of us felt that our combined experience and our compatibility as individuals would enable us to develop designs of a quality that might exceed what any one of us could achieve on our own,”
says Cunningham.

This goal of raising the bar on the quality of design could not be realized were it not for the individual strengths of the partners. Derrik Eichelberger, who was an historian before earning an MA in landscape architecture, has a wide range of design experience, but specializes in residential and estate design, with a particular interest in historic renovation and preservation.

His understanding of the West and passion for the historic gardens of Southern California has proved a perfect fit for designing landscapes in Montecito. He likes to say that “great gardens are living art–always surprising, always inspiring”.

Carol Puck Erickson, a resident of Los Olivos, has designed and overseen the development of many beautiful residences and ranches in the Santa Ynez Valley. Puck, who also has an extensive portfolio of residences and arid gardens in Arizona, was initially educated in the visual arts, which still informs her work. She is an avid bi-coastal hiker and amateur botanist who is intrigued by the relationships between the cultural and agrarian landscapes and the native environment.

Puck is also committed to the therapeutic value of gardens, as a founding member of the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden and pro bono consultant for many school and community gardens.

A further goal of the studio is to create a firm that can outlast the careers of its founders by providing a place for younger designers to grow, flourish and eventually lead. Laurie Romano, who became a partner of the firm in 2008, is this goal in practice. “I’d worked at the firm for 6 years and understood the value of the partnership,” said Laurie. “When an opportunity to join them arrived I was confident the quality of work and the firm’s solid reputation was something I was absolutely willing to organize my career around.”

Laurie specializes in high end residential, commercial, and winery design. “Contemporary gardens are my passion, and minimalism is the nature of my approach to design,” she said.

“Our other designers add even more breadth and depth to the team nature of our approach to design,” said Laurie. “While one person may clearly lead a project, it is the natural function of our firm to bounce ideas off one another and ask for opinions.”

Whether the collaboration is explicit or casual, the fact that it is easily available for the team to draw upon their collective passion makes Arcadia a rich environment to foster creative solutions and beautiful landscape architecture.

ARCADIA STUDIO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

Derrik Eichelberger, Laurie Romano, Carol Puck Erickson, Bob Cunningham

202 E. Cota Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

805.962.9055

Visit the website:

www.arcadiastudio.com

What’s Happening in May at Arlington Tavern

nancys — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:02:41 +0000

At Arlington Tavern, they take seasonal, farm fresh cuisine seriously, and the warm Santa Barbara sunshine brings amazing produce. On the appetizer front, they’ll be serving a flavorful Filet Mignon Carpaccio and Pacific King Salmon, straight from the Santa Barbara channel. Try the new strawberry upside-down cake, made with local strawberries, house made ice cream and caramel drizzle, Chef Ron True’s take on a fresh summer dessert.

With summer just around the corner, it’s finally PATIO season! Take advantage of the warm nights on the patio and enjoy the daily Happy Hour from 4-7 pm with $3 beers & $5 wines or dinner al fresco.

Special menus and events this month include Mother’s Day Dinner on May 12th. Treat Mom to a three-course dinner featuring favorites like Tomato Red Onion & Dill salad, Bouillabaisse, and Dessert for $40 per person.

The following weekend on May 19th, Taste of the Nation food and wine festival will be held at the Montecito Country Club, where the Arlington Tavern will be serving bites of their house-made Kobe Beef Hot Dog.

Edible Santa Barbara Supper Club will be held on May 22nd. This all-inclusive dinner highlights new summer menu items, plus classic Tavern favorites like the Red Wine Braised Short Ribs.
Visit ediblecommunities.com to see the menu and make reservations for this special food & wine event.

21 WEST VICTORIA STREET, SANTA BARBARA, CA

805.770.2626

Monday – Saturday: Restaurant 5pm – 10pm Bar 4pm – midnight
Sunday: Restaurant 4pm – 9pm Bar 4pm – 10pm

VISIT THE WEBSITE to view upcoming events and seasonal menus:

www.arlingtontavern.com

Amelia Jane in Summerland

nancys — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 19:46:31 +0000

This children’s boutique’s focus is simple, soothing, gentle, peaceful things that inspire imagination. Amelia Jane’s vignettes include a gender-neutral nursery, a feminine-inspired nursery, a colorful boy’s room and a back room devoted to vintage toys, books, bath and gear.

Come to Amelia Jane to decorate your nursery. Everything from classic pastels to saturated bohemian prints and playful, unique accessories.

Peek inside the vintage fridge and see what’s for sale: bottles, nipples, pacifiers, sippy cups and more…

Take a splash in the tub with organic hooded towels, rubber duckies and gentle shampoos and washes.

Dress your toddler in the latest from Mimi & Maggie, Anthem of the Ants Ella Moss, Splendid, Wild Mango and many other quality lines.

Musical instruments made in Peru…

Photos by Nancy Neil.

2325 LILLIE AVENUE, SUMMERLAND, CA 805.565.7766

VISIT THE WEBSITE:

www.littleameliajane.com

David & Peggy Dahl Exhibit at Porch

nancys — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 16:52:47 +0000

New paintings from talented artists David and Peggy Dahl are on display at the Porch gallery in Carpinteria, CA.

About the artists…

David Rains Dahl
David graduated from UCSB, and received an MA from San Francisco State University, where he met Peggy in 1977. They’ve lived in Santa Barbara since married in 1978. He is a writer as well as artist, and won a California Arts Council grant for his poetry. He is author of Bright Garden at World’s End, and The Blue Deer and Other Dreamtales. David has had a number of exhibitions of his work over the years. He was awarded an artist’s grant from the William T. Colville Foundation.

Last Cantina

Subterranean

Peggy Wirta Dahl
Peggy graduated from the University of Oregon. Her artwork is in the collections of Ackland Art Museum, University of North Carolina; Canary Hotel, Santa Barbara; Museum of Fine Arts, Huston; Santa Barbara City College Luria Library, and UCSB. She was awarded an artist’s grant from the William T. Colville Foundation.

#12 Tomales

California Coast

#13 Tomales Bay

email: info@porchsb.com

Hours

Monday -Saturday from 9:30 am – 5:30 pm Sunday 11:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Visit the PORCH website: www.porchsb.com

Botanik in Summerland

nancys — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 20:06:01 +0000

Visit botanik for an exquisite selection of furniture and accessories, pottery, textiles and more. The boutique’s interior and private garden abound with unique finds from all corners of the globe.

A brilliant selection of diffusers, scented candles…

Atelier De Lait Milk Soy Wax Candles are hand poured into a silver glass tumbler. They are made in California using sustainable and domestically grown pure soy wax, perfume grade fragrances and a lead free cotton wick. Four scents to choose from: Almond Milk, Magnolia, Sweet Thistle, and Vanilla Fig. Each candle is beautifully packaged.

Hand-painted ceramic dishes from Morocco add a splash of color…classic white serving pieces will blend with just about every style of dishware.

Sustainably grown/harvested acacia wood bowls and platters, salt and pepper cellars and an assortment of cooking utensils will come in handy in the kitchen, while adding a warm, rustic touch to your table. Rattan trays and wood cachpots in a variety of shapes and sizes for a multitude of uses.

Located just south of Santa Barbara and Montecito in the beachside town of Summerland, botanik is a destination for garden enthusiasts, discerning designers and those anxious to indulge their senses. Set within the backdrop of a 1920’s Victorian, the boutique has garnered both regional and national acclaim.

2329 LILLIE AVENUE, SUMMERLAND, CA 805.565.3831

Open Monday-Saturday 10-5:30 Sunday 11-4

VISIT THE WEBSITE:

www.botanikinc.com

Ferguson-Ettinger Architects Design Panel House

nancys — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 17:35:35 +0000

Completed in 2010, this modern, sustainable Montecito home features innovative building techniques, including tilt-up concrete walls, ventilated rain-screen wall panels, fully integrated solarvoltaic panels, and an underground cistern for collecting rainwater.

The house is oriented south with large overhangs to maximize solar heat gain in the winter and keep the interior cool in the summer.

The floor plan is organized around a south facing courtyard, formed by two north-south building wings flanking central open living spaces which feature high, sloped ceilings.

The interior spaces open up to the rear courtyard with floor to ceiling sliding glass panels, forming a seamless and transparent connection to the outdoor environment.

The courtyard features reclaimed wood decks and recycled concrete terraces, providing sheltered outdoor living space to take advantage of the temperate Santa Barbara climate.

Building materials were chosen for low maintenance, fire resistance, and increased building life expectancy. They include stained concrete walls, prefabricated, integrally colored cementitious wall panels, stainless steel flashings, steel stud framing, and tempered, dual-glazed aluminum frame windows, doors, and sliding panels.

Established in 1990, Ferguson Ettinger Architects is a husband and wife partnership. Each project is site sensitive, whether urban or rural, drawing inspiration from its immediate context and their commitment to sustainable architecture and interior design.

Projects are diverse, residential, commercial, institutional – and are firmly bound to their desire to form a seamless and harmonious relationship with the land. Each project is unique, forging together the use of indigenous and raw materials with rigorous attention to create modern, yet tactile and light filled spaces.

“We practice restraint and form true collaborations with our clients, allowing our design philosophy to evolve.” partners Pamela and Brett Ettinger explain. “We are involved in all stages of design and building to ensure that our projects are realized to their fullest potential.”

Photography/ Patrick W. Price

___________________

FERGUSON-ETTINGER ARCHITECTS, INC.

29 Parker Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93103

805.899.9171 email: brett@fe-arch.com

Visit the website: www.fe-arch.com

Elizabeth Vallino Interiors

nancys — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 22:17:07 +0000

Santa Barbara designer Elizabeth Vallino creates interiors that draw on all her experiences from living and traveling worldwide. She is known for her ability to blend old-world elegance and modern casual living and works with new construction, remodels, or refining an existing space.

With an education deeply rooted in classical Italian art and architecture, a modernist sensibility honed in New York City, and the soul of a southern California native, Vallino offers an individualized approach to each client, working within the appropriate aesthetic, budget and time frame.

Design services include space planning, kitchen and bath design, material specification, furnishing selections and art consultation. The focus of the practice is to evolve a backdrop for life to be lived well, with the understanding that good design can change your life.

Graduating from Pepperdine University, Elizabeth lived in Rome to complete a degree in Interior Architecture from the Istituto Pantheon. She experienced for the first time spaces that had been inhabited for centuries, and witnessed how the passage of time affects material things, gaining a deep familiarity with classical art and architecture, and with the singular beauty of Roman light.

Vallino then went to New York City to work for the Italian Trade Commission marketing Italian fabric and fashion to the American market and traveled each season to the Ready-to-Wear collections in Milan and Paris, and textile fairs in Como and Biella. In New York, she was exposed to the best in modern design, art and architecture.

After 8 years, Elizabeth returned to the west coast, settling in Santa Barbara. She started her design firm in 1999, and began creating interiors that draw on all her experiences in the world. She is married to Italian artist Gianni Vallino, who creates lighting from recycled industrial materials. The couple live in the hills above Santa Barbara with their son, Luca.

Elizabeth Vallino Interiors

726 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Phone 805.451.4441

Email: elizabeth@elizabethvallinointeriors.com

Visit the website:

elizabethvallinointeriors.com

Leslie Lewis Sigler

nancys — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 17:04:02 +0000

Santa Barbara artist Leslie Lewis Sigler’s recent series of paintings, Relatives is a study of family heirlooms, tools and obsolete technology.

Artist’s Statement

In recent years, I have attended a number of weddings and funerals, as well as the happenings that surround them. By participating in these kindred events, I have become fascinated with the concept of family heirlooms. Various heirlooms—silverware, china, tools, and obsolete technology—seem to have an eternal shelf life. They pass through family generations.

Old gifts become new gifts, some polish nicely for use or decoration, some survive the purgatory of an antique store, some find new life at a yard sale. In this way, these items form a lineage that connects us to each other, through generations and geographies.

By composing portraits of these everyday and yet personal objects, I study their history, life, and lifespan in one moment by distilling the object to its very essence. The collection of portraits in Relatives explores this lineage that connects us.

The Silver series studies a family—or a species—of objects that vary in shape, size, function, detail and condition, not unlike a human family…or relatives. En mass they are a family portrait.

It is my intention that the paintings will provoke memories, evoke conversation,
and awaken forgotten stories.

COMMISSIONS…

Leslie has completed commissioned work of beloved heirlooms with stories of their own — a silver tea set that survived a wildfire; a single spoon from an aging mother’s silverware pattern; a young couple’s
antique wedding gift.

For those who might like to experience a cherished heirloom as a painting, please contact Leslie for more information.

L E S L I E L E W I S S I G L E R
805.687.9414
e-mail: L@leslielewissigler.com

To View Portfolio:

www.leslielewissigler.com

The Montecito Cafe

nancys — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 19:17:51 +0000

The Montecito Cafe was opened in 1986 by husband and wife team Mark and Margaret Huston, both graduates of the California Culinary Academy. The restaurant is located in the historic Montecito Inn.

The Cafe specializes in simple and delicious food with a variety of daily specials to choose from, which always includes the freshest fish. The Cafe is known for their entrée size salad bowls, sandwiches, fresh fish and entrée choices such as filet mignon, and grilled chicken with anaheim chilies. The homemade lamb sausage is also a favorite with loyal customers. Everything is made daily from scratch on the premises, including desserts, sauces, dressings and breads.

The motto of the restaurant is “Quality, Value and Service” quality people, excellent value and fast and friendly service. They have maintained the highest standards for over 25 years and have received many awards including “Best Montecito Restaurant” for the past 11 years in a row.

The Bar is located across from the entrance, and is a popular meeting place for enjoying intimate dinners, homemade pizzas and cocktails.

“We would like to thank our beloved customers from Montecito, Santa Barbara, Goleta, Summerland, Carpinteria and around the globe for over 25 years of loyal support. Thank you for the privilege of sharing your special occasions as well as your every day lives with us. We look forward to making more memories together for the years to come.”
Mark and Margaret Huston, family and staff.

In 2009 Mark and Margaret Huston opened their new restaurant, Jane located next to the Arlington Theater in downtown Santa Barbara. For more information on Jane please visit the website at www.janerestaurantsb.com

MONTECITO CAFE

1295 Coast Village Road, Santa Barbara, CA

805.969.3392

VISIT THE WEBSITE:

WWW.MONTECITO CAFE

The Adesso Atelier in Santa Barbara

nancys — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 15:50:17 +0000

Last September, local jewelry designer Samantha Goldstone opened the Adesso Atelier, a designer’s well curated collection from journeys near and far. Housed in a restored Georgian on de la Vina, you will find Santa Barbara’s newest must-stop shopping experience for artisan jewelry, gifts and vintage finds.

The Adesso atelier features current Adesso jewelry collections and one-of-a-kind pieces in addition to a selection of artisanal products, vintage finds and unique global pieces.

The Adesso Atelier is home to the production studio of the Adesso jewelry collection that is sold to fine boutiques around the world. With more jewelry than Adesso is able to display in the store this is your opportunity to see all that they have to offer, and get amazing prices on past collections and one-of-a-kind pieces. You will find a wide range of jewelry on sale – from the modern bohemian styles that Adesso is known for, as well as more refined limited edition and custom pieces that Samantha creates for her celebrity and Beverly Hills clientele.

“Adesso is committed to inspire individual expression of style and self through designs that are influenced by travel, culture, art and nature in the world around us. The Adesso atelier reflects our vision and offers guests the opportunity to shop where they know they will find jewelry and other items that will make the perfect gift or the right addition to their own authentic style,” owner
Samantha Goldstone explains.

Some of the items offered at the atelier include Adesso’s current collections, vintage and antique finds, hand crafted stationary, home décor and furniture and artisan created objet d’art.

Adesso Top-sellers & Favorites…

• Zodiac Bracelets. The wood bead bracelets with a brass zodiac charm have always been a customer favorite. Adesso has just introduced a more delicate zodiac style to their collection. Dainty charms are paired with brass beads and Irish waxed linen thread.

• The Bixby Necklaces and Bangles are a modern take on a nautical look. Handwoven thread over rope and hand-forged brass tubes-an instant Adesso classic.

• Vintage snake bead bracelets are the perfect accessory for Spring & Summer. Snake beads were made to look like snake vertebrae and have been worn be tribes people of Africa as a symbol of strength and courage. They come in all sorts of beautiful colors, great for stacking and mixing with your other Adesso bracelets.

• Fashionable scarves benefit the woman that make them in Africa and are the perfect accessory.

The Adesso atelier provides a space for creating and building community around beauty,
creativity and authenticity.

Adesso Atelier regular hours: Monday thru Saturday 10am to 5pm.

A D E S S O A T E L I E R

1209 De La Vina Street, Santa Barbara, CA

805.966.2707

e-mail: info@adessoshop.com

Visit the website for more information:

www.adessoshop.com

The Farmhouse in Sonoma Wine Country

nancys — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 03:27:36 +0000

Spend a romantic wine country vacation at The Farmhouse and enjoy all the warmth and hospitality of a family owned bed and breakfast inn coupled with all of the services and amenities of a AAA 4-Diamond luxury boutique hotel. Surrounded by the towns of Healdsburg, Santa Rosa and the Sonoma Coast, the internationally-acclaimed Inn, restaurant and spa offers something for everyone.

The Farmhouse in is located in Forestville, California (just 1 1/2 hours north of San Francisco) , the hub of the Russian River Valley, and minutes from hundreds of wineries and world-class restaurants.

Your dream vacation might include wine tasting through the Napa and Sonoma Valleys, romantic fine dining at some of the most impressive restaurants in the world, hiking in the Armstrong Redwoods or cycling the routes of the Amgen Tour, or visiting a few art galleries and boutiques.

Farmhouse Inn’s team of highly trained concierges will take great pleasure in assuring that your wine country experience is exceptional.

Owned and managed by lodging industry trendsetters, Farmhouse Inn realizes the ever-evolving vision of brother/sister team, Joe and Catherine Bartolomei. Fifth generation farmers, winery and vineyard owners, their vision for Farmhouse is to invite guests to share their Sonoma County lifestyle.

Says Catherine, “Anyone can have a wine country vacation; Farmhouse Inn guests can have a total wine country experience. It’s not just about luxury, although that’s key too, it’s about authenticity. It’s about meeting our friends; winemakers, chefs and artists… and, making them your own. Whether you fly in on your own jet or you cycled in on your bike, our concierge team will hand-craft an insiders’ experience that will leave you wanting more.”

Relax by the pool or enjoy spa services on the grounds, just steps away from your cottage. Many of the rooms have a sauna, fireplace and soaking tub.

Michelin starred Chef Steve Litke creates menus using the incredible diversity of local agriculture and artisan producers, with a consistent focus on organic and sustainably farmed fruits and vegetables. Their chefs create dishes that rely entirely on what is seasonal and at its peak.

In spring it’s all about local, wild salmon from the nearby Sonoma coast, baby lamb from the farmer up the road, pea shoots from the chef’s garden and fava beans from a Healdsburg neighbor. Summer brings heirloom tomatoes and herbs from the Bartolomei ranch, just down the road and fresh cheeses from the local goat dairy.

A decadent, two-course breakfast, dreamed up and prepared by Catherine and breakfast chef Trevor Boosinger, is served to guests in the Farmhouse dining room overlooking the inn gardens, or out on the patio. Breakfast starts with house-made pastry and fruit. Hot scones, full of blackberries from the garden or flaky sweet cream biscuits slathered with house-made Meyer lemon curd or Sonoma organic lavender honey, may be the pastry of the day.

Entrees are farm-fresh, too and simply delicious. Eggs Benedict, Farmhouse Breakfast Farmhouse-style, with eggs fresh from the Bartolomei farm, locally smoked ham and fluffy hollandaise is a Farmhouse favorite. If you like something a bit sweeter, try their signature French Toast with Mascarpone cheese and poached orchard pears, served with organic maple syrup and locally made chicken and apple sausages. The menu offers something different each day of your stay.

Springtime is a great time to sneak away to the romantic Sonoma Wine Country!

Hot cider, a good book in front of the fireplace, hiking, biking, wine tasting, hot air ballooning, shopping…After your day exploring Sonoma and the wine country, why not indulge in a spa treatment?

Completely relax while receiving a Muscle Soother massage at the Farmhouse Inn Spa, then sip a glass of wine poolside or in front of your private outdoor fireplace or out by the fire pit.

Spring Special Rates (check out other packages and events on the Farmhouse website)
Midweek stays all through April…any 3 nights in a king room that includes a Tuesday-Tuesday is free.
* Offer must be mentioned at time of booking and does not apply to existing reservations. Valid midweek only through April 30, 2013. Not valid for holiday or event periods.

_____________________________________

THE FARMHOUSE

7871 River Road, Forestville, CA

1.800.464.6642

VISIT THE WEBSITE: www.farmhouseinn.com

Lori Smyth Design

nancys — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 01:16:50 +0000

Lori Smyth Design provides full service commercial and residential interior design, project management and design consulting services. Her most recent projects include a brilliant remodel of her own home, a contemporary, light-filled house located on a coastal bluff in Santa Barbara.

Lori Smyth found her passion for design while remodeling several homes for her young family. She was encouraged by friends who felt that her design skills could be put to good use by flipping houses in Montecito. Fast forward 15 years later…Lori has purchased, remodeled and sold over fourteen properties in Montecito and Santa Barbara.

When the market started to soften in 2007, Lori turned her attention to working with clients and started a successful design business which includes custom residential, hospitality and commercial design. Lori Smyth Design has designed projects in Santa Barbara, San Jose Del Cabo, Mexico, Hood River, Oregon and Sun Valley, Idaho.

Lori successfully renovated and lived in four substantial properties while raising her children. “After my kids left for college, I realized downsizing my own home made sense and I began searching for a smaller house,” Lori explains. ” I focused on the one area of Santa Barbara I had not lived, and began to explore several neighborhoods on the Mesa.”

“I found a 900 sq. ft. house, located just 1/2 block from the beach and I knew immediately it was the right house. It had already been gutted when I first saw it, which just made me all the more excited to complete the project and turn it into the ideal home for my new lifestyle.”

Lori wanted the space to be as open as possible so she opened up the ceiling and made the kitchen and living room one big space, which helped increase the use of limited space.

Originally a 3 bedroom, 1 bath house, Lori divided the third bedroom to incorporate a master bath and an entertainment nook that opens onto the great room.

To keep the interiors simple, clean and contemporary, Lori chose a color theme of black and white with a dash of vibrant color added throughout.

Adding doors everywhere possible and creating functional, attractive outdoor living spaces made the small home feel much larger.

“When I moved in, I immediately felt at home on the Mesa. It was like moving to a new beach town. I fell in love with the neighborhood and the fact that I can just walk across the street and be on the beach within minutes,” Lori comments.

__________________________

Working with high-end residential homes, commercial/office buildings, and local restaurants,
Lori Smyth Design provides a unique and eclectic look that combines the traditional and classic materials with modern sensibility.

Client comments
Lori Smyth and her staff did an absolutely phenomenal job of decorating and designing my home. They were very patient and professional in their dealings with me and went above and beyond the call of duty in helping to decrease my sense of “overwhelm”. Lori’s vision and creativity is excellent, to the point that I would be happy to walk away and let her have free rein of the decorating and design of a home.

Working with Lori to completely redecorate my home was not only productive but also a lot of fun. She has a very creative aesthetic, and constantly injected unexpected touches into the design of my home. While she listened to me and was an expert guide in selecting materials, she also encouraged me to stretch and grow. She did a wonderful job staying within my budget which I really appreciate.

L O R I S M Y T H D E S I G N

phone 805.845.9441 e-mail: lori@lorismythdesign.com

View a portfolio of projects:
lorismythdesign

Jane Deering Gallery Flat Files

nancys — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 17:07:54 +0000

Explore the Flat Files at Jane Deering Gallery in downtown Santa Barbara. The Flat Files contain affordable works by contemporary artists from Santa Barbara and abroad. A wide range of media including graphite, ink, a variety of paints, photography, printmaking and collage. Each Thursday in May, receive 30% off all flat file artwork.

Birgit Faustmann/ Pigment on Paper

Margaret Morrison/ Parrot Tulip #4

Artists include…

Richard Aber, Gail Barker, Geoffrey Bayliss, Rana Begum, Nell Campbell, Barrie Cooke, Ann Diener, Bill Dewey, Birgit Faustmann, Aaron Fink, Bay Hallowell,
Heidi L. Johnson, Hugh Margerum, Margaret Morrison, Michael Porter, Esther Pullman, Diane Goolkasian Rahbee, Linda Saccoccio, Dana Salvo, Marie Schoeff,
Christina Seely, Dawn Southworth, Youngsuk Suh, Joan Tanner, Juni Van Dyke, Nance Cole, Roger Craton, Dane Goodman, Gail Pine,
Keith Puccinelli, Jerry Shevick, Dug Uyesakaand Hazel Walker.

Works by many of the artists are in major museum and private collections.

ABOUT THE FLAT FILE PROJECT

The Flat File Project is a collection of artwork at Jane Deering Gallery in Santa Barbara. Participating artists work in a wide range of media including graphite, ink, a variety of paints, photography, printmaking and collage. Although many of the artists with work in the Project are based in the Santa Barbara area, living in the region is not a requirement for participation.

Each participating artist has a portfolio in a drawer that contains six to twelve artworks (each in an archival clear plastic sleeve) along with a copy of the artist’s resume and all necessary information about the artworks in the portfolio — the title, date, medium, size and price of each work.

The drawers are open to the public during gallery hours, Tuesday through Saturday, 11 AM to 5 PM and Sunday 1-4pm. It is not necessary to schedule an appointment to view work in the drawers.

128 E A S T C A N O N P E R D I D O S T R E E T

SANTA BARBARA, CA

805.966.3334

VISIT THE JANE DEERING GALLERY WEBSITE:

www.janedeeringgallery.com

Christopher Teasley Interior Design

nancys — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:30:27 +0000

Christopher Teasley Interior Design is known for decorating sophisticated yet comfortable interiors for a discerning clientele. Designing and furnishing architectural interiors involves an insightful understanding of clients’ tastes, lifestyles, collections and properties. Clients often request Christopher Teasley Interior Design to plan interior spaces as well as design interior architecture, cabinetry and custom furniture.

Christopher Teasley Interior Design was established in Santa Barbara in 1983. The majority of residential and commercial projects have been in Montecito and Santa Barbara, however Christopher Teasley’s design projects have taken him from Palm Beach to Napa, to the shores of Hawaii and throughout California. Cohesive and enduring interior design is the norm regardless of the
client, job site or architecture.

Projects include an oak-studded ranch in Sonoma, a traditional family home in the mid-west, a contemporary, pied-à-terre in San Francisco, an art-filled beach house in Malibu and a refined, modern retreat on the northern California coast.

Santa Barbara, CA

This long-time residence of an active couple is privately situated among oaks and boulders in the foothills of Santa Barbara. Traditional and peaceful describes this retreat where expansive 10-foot glass doors and walls allow for ample light and views of the landscaped property.

The owners’ tastes and lifestyle are reflected in an eclectic and personal collection of art and antiques and an uncluttered, balanced approach to furnishings.

The Sea Ranch, CA

Long-time clients asked Christopher Teasley Interior Design to oversee the planning, construction and furnishing of a refined, modern retreat on the northern California coast.

The clients’ preference for both stone and warm colors manifested in stone-colored, porcelain floor tiles along with Australian eucalyptus hardwood; teak doors, closets and cabinetry throughout; colorful glass tiles in bathrooms; the occasional, concrete counters and the bold use of steel and bronze.

A collection of paintings and photography was assembled for the clients including a diptych painting of a nearby river that slides apart revealing a flat screen television.

Sonoma, CA

Owners of this Sonoma home, originally furnished by Christopher Teasley Interior Design, wanted to give their primary residence a more sophisticated look. CTID coordinated a complete transformation of the interior architecture and design that included furnishings, art, windows, doors, flooring, staircase design, cabinetry, bathrooms, and lighting.

Favorite pieces of art and furniture of the clients were altered and reintroduced into what is now a stunning, light-filled home with ample views of the garden.

Photographers: Santa Barbara/Arnaldo Abba, The Sea Ranch/ Matthew Millman, Sonoma/John Sutton

__________________________________

Whether specifying finish materials such as flooring or lighting for new architectural spaces or simply establishing the decor for a client’s dining room, the goal at Christopher Teasley Design is to provide comfortable, thoughtful interior design for their clientele.

Christopher Teasley and Stephen Singleton

Client comments…
No matter what the scope of the project, it can be turned over to Christopher with the confidence that it will be done to perfection and within the given time frame. Christopher has an immediate grasp of the taste of his clients, great knowledge of resources and makes classic and refined choices that stand the test of time. He and his team are utterly reliable, and a delight to work with.
Julie and Jim Warren, Santa Barbara

It has been a pleasure to work with Christopher Teasley Interior Design twice on our residence in Sonoma and on a new home at The Sea Ranch. The teams that we assembled included talented architects, lighting consultants and contractors. We would not have achieved the same results without the coordination and oversight provided by Christopher and Stephen. The process of furnishing our homes has been inspired, creative, and methodical. The look of both homes is distinctive, comfortable and pleasing beyond our expectations.
Larry and Brennie Brackett, Sonoma

CHRISTOPHER TEASLEY INTERIOR DESIGN

921 St. Vincent Avenue, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

805.969.4005 e-mail: info@ctinteriordesign.com

Visit the website:

www.ctinteriordesign.com

Pacific Panoramas

nancys — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 19:21:25 +0000

A property of rare elegance, this Montecito jewel offers exceptional design and unparalleled views. Surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of the California coast, this sprawling 6,000+/- square foot residence with detached guest suites enjoys coveted 360 degree views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, Santa Ynez mountains and Santa Barbara harbor while its serene and secluded location offers the utmost privacy. Listed with Riskin Associates.

Masterfully designed with attention to every detail by noted Montecito architect Don Nulty, century-old Tuscan roof tiles, antique French oak and limestone floors, vaulted ceilings, French doors and crown molding create a home that truly epitomizes refined sophistication.

Perched at the top of a private meandering drive, a garden of succulents and a tranquil fountain introduce the gracious home.

Through a striking glass and wrought –iron entry door, the bright and airy foyer is met with a dramatic ocean vista paralleled by a pristine galleria, connecting each room of the immaculate main level with aesthetic symmetry. Beyond the foyer lies the spacious and tasteful formal living room, where floor-to-ceiling glass frames an expansive ocean view and a grand limestone fireplace creates an ideal space for entertaining or leisure.

The formal dining room, with an 800 bottle temperature-controlled wine cellar, is brilliantly lit by skylights in the pitched ceiling. A wall of French doors open to a generous loggia with a built-in barbecue, an over sized fireplace and a cozy sitting area, creating a harmonious flow between indoor and outdoor living, perfectly suited to Montecito’s enviable climate.

The expansive kitchen is a culinary paradise, beautifully-appointed with every modern convenience and enjoying garden and ocean views. Two center islands and dual pantries offer a plethora of storage.
Top of the line, sub-zero appliances and convenient refridgerated drawers complete the true gourmand’s kitchen.

Just off the kitchen lies an intimate den where a coffered ceiling, French windows and custom-fitted bookcases create an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere for relaxation. A deluxe laundry room with a center island offers abundant storage, while just outside an elaborate outdoor shower is ideal for sandy beach days or pet grooming.

The opposite end of the galleria offers privacy and seclusion, where expansive ocean views are the centerpiece of the polished master bedroom featuring vaulted ceilings, antique French oak floors, crown molding and expansive French doors and windows.

The exquisite ensuite bath, adorned in marble and boasting impressive his and hers walk-in closets, completes the most luxurious master suite. Privately tucked at the end of a bright corridor lies a superb guest suite complete with walk-in closet and splendid ensuite bath. Vaulted ceilings complement majestic mountain views and enhance the ambiance of the sumptuous suite.

Ascending a stately iron-railed staircase, a bedroom with a luxurious yet understated bath overlooks the peaceful grounds and ocean beyond. Complete with beamed ceilings, custom-fitted bookcases and a cozy fireplace, the private space perfectly doubles as a quiet study or office.

Outside, the grounds are a haven of natural beauty where gardens of wildflowers, selected by noted landscape architect Eric Naglemann for their alluring fragrances, are the ideal accompaniment to the awe-inspiring surroundings.

Stone pathways wind between honeysuckle and citrus trees to reveal a winsome sitting area, offering a magical place to enjoy morning tea or relax with an evening’s glass of a local vintage. Lush lawns roll naturally along the horizon and seemingly touch the glistening Pacific beyond.

Sunlight peeks through a vine-covered trellis to a spacious patio and swimmer’s pool, overlooking panoramic ocean vistas. A changing room and bathroom offer privacy and convenience.

Privately set away from the main residence, two superbly designed guest suites open to manicured gardens. Offering the utmost in privacy and convenience, one suite enjoys a cozy fireplace and a kitchenette while the other boasts private laundry facilities. Each suite features splendid ensuite baths, whitewashed beamed ceilings and ample storage.

Inspired by authentic Mediterranean elegance and designed to embrace a casual California lifestyle, this truly exceptional property is the quintessence of modern sophistication.

Offered at $14,900,000

Riskin Associates
1250 Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA 93108

Office
805.565.8600

Rebecca Riskin
DRE 00805720 & Associates
Dina Landi
DRE 01815307
Sarah Kelly
DRE 01447045

Visit the website:

www.bacara resort & spa

Patrick W. Price Photographer

nancys — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 19:20:04 +0000

Patrick W. Price Commercial Photographer, Architectural Photographer & Videographer provides quality imagery for Santa Barbara’s finest Architecture firms, Interior Designers, Realtors, and Contractors.

The studio also specializes in fashion photography in addition to photo and Video content Production for commercial advertising, art, television and social media.

Services include…

Architectural Photography, Lighting, Location Shooting, Music Videos, Fine Art, Fashion Photography, Editorial, Photoshop, Underwater Photography, Real Estate/Architectural Videos/Cinematography.

Clients include Hochauser Blatter Architects, Ferguson-Ettinger Architects, Cearnal Andrulaitis Architects, Acme Architects/Keith Rivera, Pete Ehlen, Bob Easton Architects, Kavoian and Associates,
Steve Slavin, Scott McCosker/ Coldwell Banker Real Estate agents, J&L Glass.

“I’m fortunate to be involved in the Santa Barbara community of creative professionals,” Patrick comments. “I serve as a judge for the the Channel City Camera Club contests and appreciate the opportunity to work with brilliant photographers such as Santi Visalli and Bill Zeldis.”

“Santa Barbara is the ideal setting to capture the beauty of great architecture and design coupled with breathtaking natural surroundings. I couldn’t ask for a more beautiful
place to work and live. The people, art, design elements…even the food is amazing.”

Client comments

Patrick is brilliant behind the camera! His photographs are like works of art.
Scott McCosker, Architectual Estates Director at Coldwell Banker Previews International

Patrick has an innate talent for photography that is mind-blowing. His passion and natural ability to capture the moment make him a true artistic genius. I love his work so much that I have several of his pieces, one of which is hanging in my office at work. I strongly recommend Patrick and his work.
Kristina Donehew, Global Product Manager, Strategic Marketing – Covidien

Patrick Price Architectural Photography & Cinematography
827 State Street, Suite 19
Santa Barbara, Ca 93101
805-452-5844

Visit the website to view portfolio:

www.patrickwprice.com

Cabana Home Furnishings for the Home

nancys — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 01:18:34 +0000

In addition to custom orders, Cabana Home, in Santa Barbara, CA, offers a well stocked selection of quality home furnishings and decorative accessories. Many of the pieces in the showroom are readily available for purchase and delivery, providing immediate gratification for clients wanting to pull together their home design in an instant.

New home buyers (and homeowners simply wanting to refresh their interiors) can one-stop-shop to furnish their home by perusing the Cabana Home showroom, courtyard and warehouse. Nearly seven thousand feet of offerings, from large furnishings including rugs, bookcases and dining tables to designer sofas and chairs in a variety of styles and fabrics.

Ceramic vases, elegant trays and inlaid boxes, gorgeous coffee table books and other eye-catching accents help to decorate and define your home.

Handpicked to easily mix and match, these accessories will personalize your decor.

Finishing touches are the key to a successful design project. Exquisite lamps, pillows, linens for bed and bath, framed art and even candles to illuminate the powder room are abundant throughout the showroom.

Nesting and accent tables

Whether you’re searching for a piece to define a room or a functional surface for everyday use, Cabana Home has something for everyone. From petite end tables with classic appeal to expansive dining tables with an industrial edge, Cabana Home has finds for every taste, room, and budget. Decorative and functional…placed beside a chair or sofa, accent tables provide the ideal place to display art objects or a fresh floral arrangement.

Looking for a distinctive end table or bench? You’ll find it in the Cabana Home showroom or warehouse. The warehouse, located just a few steps away, houses a varied selection of furnishings and decorative accents that will complement any design style.

Inside out or outside in…Cabana Home also offers design consultation for custom orders, for those who have a bit more patience.

A talented design team is available to answer your every need, or schedule an appointment for an in-home consultation.

Downtown Santa Barbara (Between Pacific Coast Highway 101 and the ocean)

Operating Hours:

Open Mon thru Saturday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Closed on Sundays.

email:

info@cabanahome.com

Visit the Cabana Home website: www.cabanahome.com

Bacara Resort & Spa

nancys — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 23:49:32 +0000

Discover Spanish Colonial warmth and stunning natural beauty at Bacara Resort & Spa, a luxury hotel in Santa Barbara. Nestled on the bluff and beaches of the Central California Coast between the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains, Bacara offers comfortable luxury and incomparable natural beauty.

Just a five-minute drive from the Santa Barbara Airport, the resort features 305 lavish guestrooms and 49 specialty suites, each with either a private balcony or patio with ocean, garden or mountain views.

The Santa Barbara hotel features direct access to beautiful beaches, world-class golf and wine country.

What luxury getaway would be complete without a little pampering? The spa at Bacara offers a range of rejuvenating treatments and spa services offered by world-class massage therapists and aestheticians.

All accommodations reflect the serenity of Bacara’s classic coastal setting, using the colors of sea, sand and sky, along with natural materials, elegant Spanish tile, overstuffed furnishings, and Frette linens and robes.

The bathrooms feature deep soaking tubs, marble showers and Fresh bath products.

About half the guestrooms have gas fireplaces; all of the suites and luxury retreats have gas or wood-burning fireplaces.

The two zero-edge, heated saline swimming pools feature expansive ocean views, along with their own heated saline hydrotherapy whirlpool spas. Twenty-five private pool cabanas include wireless Internet access, phone outlets, food and beverages with dedicated waiter service, along with bottled water and a fresh fruit amenity, the perfect place for relaxation or entertaining.

In addition, the Pool Bar features a menu including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and kids’ meals, as well as full bar service; open from 11:00am until sunset.

The resort features an assortment of culinary options − from casual to healthy organic to fine dining at its three distinct dining venues. An expansive wine cellar housing more than 12,000 bottles showcases wines from around the world and the region.

Bacara’s beachfront setting lends itself to outdoor adventures, including onsite kayaking, stand-up paddle lessons, mountain biking and surfing.

Additionally, travelers can connect with the region’s stunning natural beauty at the resort’s complimentary stargazing classes with the Santa Barbara Astronomical Unit or guided beach hikes with the Gaviota Coastal Conservancy.

8301 HOLLISTER AVENUE, GOLETA, CA

877-713-2813

Visit the Bacara Resort & Spa Website:

Arlington Tavern in Downtown Santa Barbara

nancys — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 13:10:55 +0000

Located just steps from Santa Barbara’s historic Arlington Theatre, you’ll find a Tavern that offers a winning combination of contemporary farm-fresh fare and casual yet sophisticated ambiance. Chef Ron True, of Arlington Tavern, constantly sources local ingredients at the twice-weekly Santa Barbara Farmers Markets.

The fresh fish and produce True finds from local sources helps to shape his seasonal menus. Perfectly complementing his menu is the impressive beer and wine list.

Pair refined menu options such as Roasted Bone Marrow or Lamb Shank with Zaca Mesa’s Z Cuvée, which is also perfect for washing down the AT Burger.

“There is a lot of integrity and pride that goes into every dish I prepare,” notes Chef Ron True. “A big part of my process is using the highest quality ingredients that are simple and honest. We make everything from scratch because you can taste the difference.”

True grew up in Santa Barbara. In fact, his second job happened to be at Soho which was in the same building that now houses his restaurant, Arlington Tavern. In 1991 he left to pursue a career as a chef and gain more experience in the food industry.

He attended La Varenne – Anne Willian’s cooking school in The Chateau du Fey in northern Burgundy, France and worked for some of the top restaurants, chefs and restaurateurs in the country; Zuni café- San Francisco, Gramercy Tavern- New York City, Union Square Café- New York City are some of the most notable.

Favorites from the menu include…

ASPARAGUS & EGG
fried egg red wine tarragon vinaigrette

BLACK COD
roasted trumpet mushrooms brussel leaves leeks bacon & mustard butter

BOUILLABAISSE
Hope Ranch mussels clams shrimp rock crab sea bass saffron tomato fennel potato pernod rouille croutons

LEMON CAKE
blueberry compote fresh thyme

Sample a variety of Arlington Tavern’s dishes by choosing from a three and five course prix fixe menu, offered every night of the week.

True returned to Santa Barbara in 2006 and met Arlington Tavern partner Diego Barbieri while working at Epiphany, which occupied the same space at 21 West Victoria Street.

If you remember Epiphany, you’ll remember the popular Mac & Cheese, which Chef True has chosen to keep on both Arlington Tavern’s ‘Bar Snacks’ menu as well as the ‘Main’ menu.

“It’s important to me that I visit each table and personally engage with our customers,” says Arlington Tavern partner, Diego Barbieri. “I want to know what our guests are looking for in a wine, or in a beer so that I can offer them a good recommendation based on their preferences. I want to be sure that we make the Arlington Tavern experience great every time and if I can be part of that experience, then I feel good at the end of the day.”

Whether you choose to eat in the main dining room, or in the bar, Arlington Tavern aims to give you a fresh perspective on food and an inviting, friendly place to dine.

Happy Hour: EVERY DAY from 4pm – 7pm

Monday – Saturday: Restaurant 5pm – 10pm Bar 4pm – midnight
Sunday: Restaurant 4pm – 9pm Bar 4pm – 10pm

21 WEST VICTORIA STREET, SANTA BARBARA, CA

805.770.2626

VISIT THE WEBSITE to view upcoming events and seasonal menus:

www.arlingtontavern.com

Casa Dorinda in Montecito

nancys — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 21:29:10 +0000

Casa Dorinda was opened in 1975 as a “life care community” for seniors. Operating as a non-profit by the Montecito Retirement Association, it is home to approximately 300 residents. The original mansion was designed by Carleton Winslow, a noted architect who designed the S.B. Natural History Museum, The Valley Club, and other historic estates in Montecito.

When built in 1919, the 80-room Casa Dorinda was one of the largest homes in Santa Barbara. Aside from having servants quarters for staff, a two-story guesthouse and other outbuildings, the mansion itself consisted of a dining room and courtyard, a music room, library, a magnificent tower, and acres of formal gardens.

During one of the chapters of Casa Dorinda’s history, the mansion served as the campus of the Montecito School for Girls, a day school and boarding school. Casa Dorinda is now owned and operated by the Montecito Retirement Association, a community sponsored, not-for-profit corporation serving seniors through estate retirement living since 1975.

Casa Dorinda offers residents a variety of options to enhance their lives. Many important decisions are made through boards and committees, most of which are made up of the residents, themselves. Residents live in their own apartments, cottages or in the assisted/memory care or the medical unit of the facility, located in Montecito.

Casa Dorinda serves the residential, social, artistic, emotional and medical needs of many of Santa Barbara’s senior citizens. It is a traditional residential care community, but there is so much more offered to the individuals residing at Casa Dorinda. Most live independently
and are extremely active, taking classes, pursuing hobbies and participating in many cultural and social events.

Casa Dorinda’s well-appointed common areas include a library, music room and the oriental room, located in the main building on the first floor.

In addition, there are jewelry, ceramic and photography studios, several meeting rooms and a computer lab on the grounds. The gallery outside the painting studio showcases some of the residents’ work.

The tower at Casa Dorinda, a well-known landmark for many Montecito residents, is still accessed by the original elevator. The main dining room and courtyard is often used to celebrate special occasion events or small private parties for the residents and their guests.

A gourmet dining room serves three delicious meals a day, with a on-staff nutritionist who is available to counsel residents with specific nutritional needs. Special menus are prepared for private parties, with friends and relatives often in attendance.

The resident gardeners at Casa Dorinda plant, tend and harvest flowers, fruits, vegetables and herbs in the community garden, for use in their own homes as well as in the main dining room.

Social activities range from assorted exercise classes, to lawn bowling, croquet and gardening, to inside board games and movies. Over a dozen special annual events and festivities offer ample opportunities for the active residents of Casa Dorinda. A 22-passenger bus provides transportation for everything from shopping to cultural events, both locally and many theatre and museum events in the Los Angeles area.

THE HISTORY OF CASA DORINDA…

Built as a home for Mr. and Mrs. William Bliss, the estate later served as a girls’ school, a military housing center and is now home to one of the country’s finest retirement communities.

Anna Dorinda Blaksley was born in St. Louis Missouri and moved to Santa Barbara to retire. Her philanthropic efforts left a lasting mark on the Santa Barbara community, including support of both Cottage Hospital and the Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens. She was best-known for her home, Casa Dorinda, a magnificent estate in Montecito.

She and her husband were familiar with Santa Barbara’s reputation for good health and rejuvenation, and purchased a 16-acre parcel at 300 Hot Springs Road. They wanted to build a magnificent home in which to live out their remaining years, hiring noted architect Carleton Winslow to design the plans for their new home in Montecito. Construction was completed in the spring of 1919.

Casa Dorinda’s 45 acres included three formal gardens, a vegetable garden, flower gardens, the great lawn and a variety of trees, many of them oak and other indigenous species.

The 80+-room mansion was one of the largest homes in Montecito. The mansion was staffed with many servants, including a valet, maids, gardeners, security staff, a chauffeur, and more. Part of the allure of Casa Dorinda, and what has made it such an enduring part of Montecito history is the reputation it gained through Mrs. Bliss’ love of entertaining. Formal dinner parties, garden parties, music recitals and other social events were often held at Casa Dorinda.

Anna Dorinda Bliss remained living at Casa Dorinda until her death in 1935 at the age of 84. The estate was left to her only child Mildred, and her son-in-law, Robert Bliss. They offered Casa Dorinda to the Navy in 1942 for use as a recuperation and recreation center for returning military personnel. The cost of maintaining the property proved to be prohibitive for the Navy, and the estate eventually reverted to Mildred and Robert Bliss.

In 1946, the Bliss’ sold the property to Dr. Homer F. Barnes, who opened a day/boarding school, The Montecito School for Girls. The school closed in 1956. After several more transitions, the estate became available for sale in 1970. Casa Dorinda was meticulously renovated and opened as a retirement community in 1975, beginning a whole new chapter for the grand estate.

C A S A D O R I N D A R E T I R E ME N T C O M M U N I T Y

300 Hot Springs Road, Montecito, California 93108
e-mail: kmunoz@casadorinda.org
Phone: (805) 969-8011

Visit the Casa Dorinda website to learn more about the retirement community:

www.casadorinda.com

Allen Associates Kitchen Designs and Remodels

nancys — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 22:32:11 +0000

It is said that kitchens are the center of the home. Not only are meals made there; they are the place where everyone congregates during a party or a family gathering. Whether you are building a new home or remodeling, the drawing board is open for you to design the kitchen of your dreams. Allen Associates has created some of the most beautiful kitchens in the Santa Barbara area and is available to assist you in building the ideal kitchen for your home.

It is certainly a priority to feel comfortable working in your kitchen while you prepare a meal. If you are remodeling, there is a list of key questions to consider.

Can you move around easily and do you have enough counter space? Are your cabinets well placed for easy access and do they hold everything you want them to?

Have your kitchen floors, cabinets and counter tops been updated lately or are you still cooking in the same space you were 10 years ago?

It’s important for you to feel good about your kitchen – a place that you can gather your friends and family to prepare daily meals or celebrate special occasions.

“One thing we have seen over time is that people are often embarrassed about how their kitchen looks. If it’s old and dated, they might feel self-conscious when they entertain. This can be a real motivator for people to remodel,” states Allen Associates president, Bryan Henson.

When building a new home, an attractive, efficient kitchen is often one of the most challenging aspects of the design process. Decorative details, open shelving for display, and custom surfaces used in the kitchen provide the opportunity for homeowners to inject their own personal style that complements the other living spaces in the home.

An open floor plan works well for small homes where space is at a premium. Adjacent family rooms and kitchen islands with seating provide a place for family members who want to be present while meals are prepared.

Lighting and custom cabinetry add character to an area that needs to be highly functional, yet aesthetically pleasing and comfortable.

Allen Associates specializes in residential and commercial construction for both new and remodel projects, balancing their green building expertise with sound construction practices. Call to schedule a consultation, whether you’re planning to remodel or build a new home.

Their team of experts will guide you in the right direction. Their valuable list of local resources and established relationships with top architects, designers and quality craftsmen in the building trade will ensure that your project begins and ends with all of the right elements for success.

Loyal customers in the Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez Valley and Ventura County areas have relied on Allen Associates for objective advice and quality construction for over 30 years.

Allen Associates SB Headquarters
201 N. Milpas Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Phone: (805) 884-8777
Fax: (805) 884-0029

Ventura Office
963 East Main Street, Ventura, CA 93001
Phone: (805) 641-0839
Fax: (805) 641-0889

To view full services and portfolio:

Rustic Compound in Carpinteria Foothills

nancys — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 02:50:44 +0000

Perched on over 5.5 acres with heavenly ocean, mountain and valley views, this truly one-of-a-kind, rustic compound has masterfully maintained the utmost sophistication. Designed by Don Nulty, and featured in Architectural Digest, the estate seamlessly blends modern elements with reclaimed barn wood to create its understated style.

The foothills of Carpinteria host its serene location, offering abundant seclusion and privacy, yet fine dining and shopping opportunities lie merely minutes away.

The top of a long, gated drive reveals the home—a warm, inviting retreat and a magnificent place for entertaining. Celebrating harmony in nature, almost every room opens up to the exquisitely landscaped outdoor areas and terraces terraces designed by Eric Nagelmann.

An abundance of windows unveils breathtaking vistas while bathing every corner in sunlight.

French doors lining the living room offer stunning ocean views immediately upon entering the home.

Truly a great room, the living room boasts soaring pitched ceilings, an expansive second story loft currently used as an office, and large fireplaces on each side of the room—an ideal space for intimate gatherings or hosting large groups.

Just off the living room, the gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream come true, with top of the line appliances, a walk-in pantry and gorgeous views.

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the pool, gardens and coastal vistas, the dining room opens up to the kitchen and offers a fantastic space for both casual and formal occasions. The rotunda-like room—with its large fireplace—offers an intimate feel, while the scale and proportions allow seating for many.

Bookshelf-lined walls grace the library, which may also serve as a cozy den. A full bathroom and closet allow for a third bedroom suite in the house.

The main level additionally includes an extraordinary guest suite that offers another fireplace, ocean views, a private patio and wonderful loft space.

An architecturally significant stairway connects to a lower level and to the master suite above.

The lower room is exceptionally large, with a full bath and closet, and provides a perfect space for a media room, gym, wine cellar, additional guest suite, or a combination thereof.

At the top of the stairs, the romantic master suite proposes a spacious yet intimate hideaway. The sitting room enjoys dramatic ocean and mountain views and cozies up to its own fireplace.

An alcove allows for partitioning between the sleeping and sitting rooms. Natural light floods the sophisticated master bathroom, where beautiful mountain views abound. Like other bedroom suites throughout the home, the master boasts a lovely loft.

Outside, pathways meander through the grounds and past the black-bottomed pool, arriving at an enchanting guesthouse. Privately tucked away from the main house, the space provides guests with a large living room, fireplace, ample bedroom, full bathroom, and lovely outdoor patio space—all overlooking the captivating views beyond.

This exceptional offering comprises two parcels with stunning sea and mountain views. The second parcel has a two-bedroom, two-bath home. Exquisitely landscaped grounds create a stunning setting harmonious with its surroundings and complementary to the views.

An incredible opportunity for haven seekers and truly unlike any other, this magical retreat merges exquisite, rustic beauty with opulent, upscale living.

For the buyer interested in additional land, two adjacent parcels are available with approximately 1.7 acres and a 2 bedroom home.

Offered at $7,250,000.

Riskin Associates
1250 Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA 93108

Office
805.565.8600

Rebecca Riskin
DRE 00805720 & Associates
Dina Landi
DRE 01815307
Sarah Kelly
DRE 01447045

Visit the website:

www.anchorwoodfirekitchen.com

Anchor Woodfire Kitchen Opens in Santa Barbara

nancys — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:13:18 +0000

Chef Jason Tuley is pleased to announce the opening of Anchor Woodfire Kitchen in downtown Santa Barbara. After successful restaurant openings in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Santa Barbara, Chef Tuley has created the opportunity to provide intelligently sourced, well crafted woodfire dishes. He is joined by lifelong friend and Chef de Cuisine Charles Fredericks.

From the incredible quality of organic meats, house-made cured meats, fresh sustainable seafood, house-made pastas, breads, pastries made daily, the local knowledge and attentive personalities of the chefs make Anchor Woodfire Kitchen a quality dining experience.

Utilizing the relationships they have established over the last 30 years with local food purveyors, they have created an exciting new dining experience for the Santa Barbara community.

Santa Barbara native Chef Tuley grew up cooking with red oak, which has been part of the inspiration behind Anchor Woodfire Kitchen. His delicate execution to his cuisine, coupled with Chef Fredericks’ relationships with local growers and suppliers, allows them to create innovative menus that change on a daily basis.

A full bar, handcrafted seasonal cocktails, dynamic beer and an incredible wine list complete the dining experience. Chef Tuley is honored to be an integral part of reigniting the downtown Funk Zone by providing a rustic yet elegant and comfortable atmosphere.

On the catering front…all of Anchor Woodfire Kitchen’s menus are available through their catering division Anchors Away.

Photography/Aron Ives

Open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to midnight.

Sunday brunch is served from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The restaurant is located in the Hotel Indigo, 119 State Street, Santa Barbara. Anchor Woodfire Kitchen will also be providing room service to the award-winning boutique hotel.

_____________________________________

119 S T A T E S T R E E T

S A N T A B A R B A R A, C A

805.845.0989

________________________________

VISIT THE WEBSITE:

The Market Table with Pascale Beale

nancys — Sun, 13 Jan 2013 00:56:49 +0000

The Market Table is Santa Barbara chef Pascale Beale’s new seasonally inspired food blog. The new blog is filled with ideas and recipes that Pascale creates using produce from her weekly forages through the local Farmers Markets.

“Sometimes I’ll pop down to the farmers market with one idea and come home with something completely different because I came across a new vegetable or something that has just come into season,” she says.

Pascale is often asked where she gets her ideas for recipes and menus, and the answer more often than not has been from her weekly meandering through the Santa Barbara area
Farmers Markets.

“I love the vibrant colors, and stalls filled with seasonal produce. It’s all visually and physically nourishing,” she states. “I might spy some fat, juicy tomatoes and some fresh goat cheese, some purple basil and put them all together in my basket with a salad in mind, or come across the ingredients for a ratatouille and then buy some farm fresh eggs to make a soufflé or omelet filled with the delicious, fresh vegetables.

Visit the MARKET TABLE BLOG to sign up for weekly updates and learn more about recipes and secret tips on preparing healthy, farm-to-table meals.

WWW. PASCALES KITCHEN MARKET TABLE BLOG

The Arts Fund Gallery Presents BIG SPLASH

nancys — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 00:09:02 +0000

The Arts Fund Gallery in Santa Barbara is pleased to present BIG SPLASH, an exhibition curated by Catherine Gee and Nancy Gifford. Featuring works by artists Benjamin Anderson, Cayetana Conrad, Blakeney Sanford and Rick Stich. April 5 – May 18, 2013.

Cayetana Conrad / Leap

BIG SPLASH will present large scale works with aquatic themes. “The idea is for the viewer to enter a space with representational and abstract works with emphasis on the overwhelmingly large-scaled sizes,” says Arts Fund director Catherine Gee.

An exhibition by Benjamin Anderson, Cayetana Conrad, Blakeney Sanford, and Rick Stich

Reception for the artists on Friday, April 5th, 2013 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm

Arts Fund Gallery 205-C Santa Barbara Street, Santa Barbara, CA

Exhibit runs April 5 – May 18, 2013

Benjamin Anderson/Liquidation

Benjamin Anderson’s work was first presented in the De Young Museum of Fine Arts ‘Emerging Artists Exhibition’ of 2001. Trained in Florence, Italy and the SF Academy of Art University (BFA), he has been creating monumental oil paintings since 2002 and has been recognized for his portraiture by the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery. He has shown work in San Francisco, New York, Europe and a variety of venues in California and is represented by galleries in Southern California, the Bay Area, New York and most recently in Greece. In addition to his own career as an artist, Anderson is a co-owner of the Anderson ART Collective in his home town, Carpinteria, CA.

Rick Stich/ Water Mirror

Rick Stich is best known for his abstract impressions of reflections on water. In 1977 he developed a process whereby he extracted pigments from soil. With this natural medium Stich produced a number of small-scale paintings that focused on nature’s organic forms and shapes. His paintings are in numerous private collections as well corporate collections.

Cayetana Conrad received her B.A. from Yale, Cayetana went on to study theatre design at NYU and illustration at San Francisco Academy of Art. She currently lives and works in Carpinteria and shows with Frank Pictures Gallery in Santa Monica.

Blakeney Sanford/ Really Big

Blakeney Sanford is quickly gaining recognition for her innovative sculptures and paintings created with acrylic, steel and her signature epoxy resin panels. Common themes in her work include nature and industrial materials, human form, and color and light. Blakeney’s work has been shown in galleries and museums nationally as part of significant international private collections, and is displayed permanently in many retail spaces. She has worked at the corporate level, collaborating with one of the world’s most prominent brands: Quiksilver, Inc./Roxy.

Community Gallery sponsors include: Santa Barbara Foundation, Santa Barbara County Arts Commission, Ablitt’s Fine Cleaners, and Towbes Foundation.

___________________

Organization Background
The Arts Fund was established as a nonprofit in 1983 dedicated to fostering the arts in Santa Barbara County. The organization’s formal mission is to create, fund and administer programs and projects that foster the arts for the people of Santa Barbara County, to act as a catalyst maximizing the effectiveness of arts resources, and to nurture collaborative relationships amongst arts organizations.

T H E A R T S F U N D G A L L E R Y

205-C Santa Barbara Street at Yanonali, Santa Barbara, CA

Phone: 805.965.7321

e-mail: info@artsfundsb.org

Open Wednesday – Friday from 1-5 p.m., Saturday 11 – 5 pm and by appointment.

Please visit www.artsfundsb.org to learn more about upcoming programs and events.

Encanto in La Arcada Courtyard

nancys — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 17:07:10 +0000

E N C A N T O is a Santa Barbara lifestyle store, specializing in classic, yet elegant women’s clothing, jewelry, gifts and decorative accessories for the home. Each item has been carefully curated by the owner, award-winning interior designer Christy Martin.

F I R S T T H U R S D A Y A R T W A L K

Each first Thursday of the month (during the Santa Barbara Downtown Art Walk), ENCANTO hosts a trunk show featuring jewelry, clothing, art — or whatever strikes their fancy. The BLUE MOON TRIO (including Ms. Martin on the vocals) plays classic American standards/jazz music from 6 – 8 PM and local wine is served.

Hand knit alpaca scarves and sweater coats from Peru are paired with Pakistani linen embroidered kurtis and are part of the large selection of ever changing women’s clothing items available at ENCANTO.

Hand-embroidered tunics from Pakistan and India are just some of the fair trade items. Luxe Italian cashmere scarves are perched on vintage Peruvian leather arm chairs.

Unique home accessories include a rustic sconce made from oyster shells and multipurpose zinc baskets from Syria.

Designed by a Greek jeweler, these stunning green amethyst wrapped in 24 K gold earrings and opulent moonstone with fresh water pearl earrings are stunning examples of the COUTURE JEWELRY COLLECTION available at E N C A N T O.

The BRIDGE JEWELRY COLLECTION at E N C A N T O includes high style, but reasonably priced items such as these cuffs and a chain necklace by an LA based French designer who adds Swarovski crystals to brass and vermeil.

A shop favorite: handmade soap from Syria, made from a centuries old recipe of olive oil and laurel.

ENCANTO

1114 State Street, No 22, La Arcada Courtyard

Santa Barbara, CA 93101

805.722.4338

infoencantosb@gmail.com

To learn more about Christy Martin and her award-winning interiors, visit the website:

WWW.STUDIOENCANTO.COM

Hotel Cheval in Paso Robles Wine Country

nancys — Thu, 03 Jan 2013 21:19:00 +0000

Hotel Cheval offers a welcoming haven for travelers visiting California’s central coast. This elegant, European-style hotel is located almost halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles on scenic Highway 101 and is situated just off the charming and historic Paso Robles Central Square Park.

With only 16 rooms, Hotel Cheval is designed for guests to enjoy themselves by one of their intimate outdoor stone wood-burning fireplaces, a quiet respite in the library with a good book, or with friends in the Pony Club, the Parisian inspired horseshoe-shaped zinc Bar.

Visitors to Paso Robles quickly find that it is a very special place. Famous for its world-class wines, charming downtown, and welcoming ambiance, Paso Robles has a long list of attractions and is close to the wine trail that includes quality wineries like Justin, Treana, L’Adventure, Tablas Creek, Linne Calodo, and many more.

Area attractions include Lake Nacimiento and Lake San Antonio,vibrant Farmers Markets, golf courses, State Fair at The Paso Robles Event Center, historic Missions San Miguel and San Antonio de Padua.

Perhaps the most renowned: Hearst Castle which attracts almost one million visitors a year, just 45 minutes from Hotel Cheval Paso Robles.

After dreaming of the Paso Robles Wine Country, relax in the morning with a leisurely sleep-in while enjoying the newspaper, and some local delicacies complete with a piping hot beverage of your choice, all delivered discreetly to your room.

On weekends you will enjoy a delicious breakfast in the cozy Pony Club, or outdoors in the courtyard.

Looking for something a bit heartier? Wander down the street and stop in Panolivo for egg specialties and fresh baked pastries, or McPhees in Templeton is just a short 15 minute drive.

__________________

H O T E L C H E V A L

1021 PINE STREET, PASO ROBLES, CA

For more information on Hotel Cheval visit the web site:

WWW.HOTELCHEVAL.COM

Coast 2 Coast Wedding Gift Registry & Bridal Jewelry

nancys — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 05:05:08 +0000

Coast 2 Coast Collection, in downtown Santa Barbara, offers luxury tabletop, vintage & bridal jewelry, and quality gifts. From Bernardaud, Christofle and Lalique luxury tableware to Juliska, Match and Vietri casual dinnerware and glassware, beautiful frames, luxurious table linens, to scented candles. Everything you’ll need to celebrate your special day.

Coast 2 Coast Bridal Vintage Jewelry Collection in La Arcada Courtyard offers something unique for your special day. Coast 2 Coast has one of the largest collections of vintage costume jewelry including Chanel, Miriam Haskell, Dior, Givenchy, Kenneth Lane, and Vendome.

Bring in your wedding dress or Mother of the Bride outfit to find the perfect jewelry to complete your look. Coast 2 Coast also carries fresh water pearls and made to order bracelets, necklaces and earrings for your bridesmaids.

You will also find a vast array of vintage and silver cufflinks with custom engraving services offered for the groom and his groomsmen.

Visit the store to to see the beautiful pieces that will set you apart on your wedding day. Beaded clutches and unique handbags complete the look.

Bridal registry service is offered by the experienced staff to help you select the perfect table settings, flatware, glassware, linens and gifts to suit your individual style. When it comes to planning a wedding, building the registry is one of the most exciting (and often challenging) things a couple will do together.

“At Coast 2 Coast, we make gift registry a fun and enjoyable experience. We encourage our wedding couples to invite family and friends while we explore the store and help with those important selections that can make a lasting family treasure,” says Coast 2 Coast Collection owner Holly Murphy.

A wedding registry guide provides invaluable advice for brides, grooms, and guests alike.

When shopping for a wedding gift from a couple’s registry, always remember that a couple will appreciate any gift you select for them.

“If you decide to purchase something that isn’t on the list, you can always use the gift registry as your guide and gain a sense of a couple’s style, wants and needs,” Holly comments. “A wedding registry makes shopping easy and at Coast 2 Coast we can show our customers each item and discuss what a couple’s priorities might be. For example, if silver place settings or fine china is at the top of the list – then we can inform their guests.”

What’s something couples should NOT leave off the registry?
Many couples debate about whether to register for a separate set of formal china and glassware. These items should definitely be on your list. It’s a wonderful experience to break out a collection of gold-rimmed plates and crystal stemware for parties and the holidays.

Registering for these pieces is also a nice way to include guests in milestones, like your first Christmas together. Couples who have been married for years often say their fine entertaining pieces are their most memorable wedding gifts.

Wedding party gifts and decor for life’s special occasions…distinctive items for hostess gifts and the wedding party are displayed throughout the store.

Stop by Coast 2 Coast to create your wedding gift registry. Their knowledgeable staff is available to assist you.

Monday thru Saturday – 10am – 6pm
Sunday – Noon – 5pm

C O A S T C O L L E C T I O N

1114 State Street, Suite 10, La Arcada Courtyard

Santa Barbara, CA

Phone: 805.845.7888

Email: info@c2ccollection.com

VISIT THE WEBSITE: www.c2ccollection.com

Maison K in Montecito

nancys — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 01:53:35 +0000

Owner Kimberly Phillips’ love of art, history, unique cultures and design takes her all over the globe. Kim delights in finding new, vintage and antique treasures…introducing others to the craftsmanship of fine and authentic objects.

Antique mother of pearl inlay mirrors from Syria, ceramics from France, hand blown chandeliers from Italy live harmoniously with silver serving trays from Argentina, frames from Peru and Byzantine-style jewelry from Turkey.

French Dressing for your table…Astier de Villatte ceramics are HAND MADE in Paris and sold in only a few stores in the country. It’s highly collectable and timeless.

Festive decor and unique, beautiful gifts.

Jewelry lines include one of a kind pieces found during Kim’s trips to France and other destinations.

Cashmere scarves and lightweight wraps. Luxurious hand loomed Changra cashmere scarves and throws just arrived from Nepal. Made from the Changra goat found only on the slopes of the Himalayas, this cashmere is light, silky, and exceptionally warm.

Kimberly’s combination of exotic and classic design skills have won her a place in the hearts of local residents and designers. When the need arises, she is available for home design consultation.

M A I S O N K

1159 Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA

Phone 805. 969.1676

Monday through Saturday 10 am 6 pm Sunday 11 am to 4 pm

Visit the Maison K website:

www.maisonkinc.com

D.D. Ford Construction

nancys — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 21:44:10 +0000

D.D. Ford Construction, located in Santa Barbara, builds remodels and maintains custom residential homes and commercial buildings. Their top priority is to build strong, lasting relationships. The maintenance and repair department sets them apart by offering ongoing service for both existing and new clients, once construction is complete.

D.D. Ford Construction is organized into four separate yet closely coordinated departments:
New Homes & Major Renovations, Remodel Projects (of all sizes), Home Maintenance and
Finish Carpentry.

Depending on the size and scope of each project, D.D. Ford Construction provides the workforce for general labor and demolition, framing, finish carpentry, project supervision and project management. Using sophisticated project management systems coupled with a proactive and caring personnel, they transform the two dimensional dreams into three dimensional reality.

At D.D. Ford Construction it isn’t just the homes that are built to last. They go to great lengths to develop trusting and creative relationships for the long-term. Once construction is complete, the Home Maintenance Department steps in to provide your home with ongoing maintenance for life.

As the top custom home builder in Santa Barbara, D.D. Ford places great emphasis on the process and progression of a project from conceptual design, through construction, and long term maintenance of your home. The common thread that ties all of their relationships together with clients, architects, and designers alike, is clear open and honest communication.

“Our business is built on the most precious of all commodities … dedicated & highly skilled people. Our reputation as the top Santa Barbara custom home builder is built from our craftsman and field crews, right through to our management and office staff. You’ll find that everyone in the company shares a rare passion and enthusiasm for building and remodeling the very finest homes in Santa Barbara,” states Doug Ford, founder and president of DD Ford.

Doug Ford
Founder and President

DD Ford encourages every individual to bring the best of their talents, creativity, and heart to everything they touch within the company. These individual efforts are made within the unique company culture of empathy & service, creating a team more powerful than any one individual; a team that ensures a great customer experience on all levels.

Client’s Comments

- Hard issues which had eluded a prior contractor were tackled very methodically and resolved much to my delight.I got to know Ryan Prahm, who represents all that is good about DD Ford – integrity personified – professional, personable, and commited. Hills Sutton, in addition to being a very nice person, is a master craftsman – all that he does, he does well.

- On time and on Budget-period. Awesome bidding process response. Great leadership assigned to our project. Clean. Courteous. Knowledgeable.

- I was happiest with their attention to detail, the meetings, the communication and dialogue, the emails, and the care and genuine interest they displayed in the project.

DD Ford Construction, Inc.
303 Palm Avenue
Santa Barbara, CA 93101

805.965.4055

info@ddford.com

For more information visit the web site:

www.ddford.com

Rori’s Artisanal Creamery Retail Store in Montecito

nancys — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 20:55:54 +0000

Rori Trovato’s new ice cream shop has recently opened in the Montecito Country Mart on Coast Village Road. Stop in to taste seasonal flavors served in mason jars or on cones, and take home a pint or two.

The Montecito store staff allows you to taste the latest flavors and offers shakes, malts and made to order ice cream sandwiches.

Flavors include…serious dark chocolate (72% Cacao), cup o’ joe Spinelli (espresso), salted caramel, root beer float, peanut butter and jelly, lemon curd, fresh mint patty and roman’s chocolate coconut (dairy free) and many more.

Pick up a pint at Lazy Acres Market, Tri-County Produce, Gelson’s Market, Whole Foods or Plow to Porch Organics, to name just a few Santa Barbara locations that currently carry Rori’s ice creams.

Rori’s Artisanal Creamery Philosophy

Owner Rori Trovato says, “We create organic ice creams that not only take you to a new planet, customers even credit it for making them want to be better humans! Personally, we just want you to fall madly in love with the passion, inspiration and pure desire we put into all our ice cream. Every ingredient in our ice cream is hand selected, local and organic whenever possible.”

“We don’t use any bio-gastric, bla bla blas or flavorings; it’s all real folks. We use Straus Family Creamery organic milk, cream and eggs.”

Sit back and enjoy the experience.

1024 D C O A S T V I L L A G E R O A D
M O N T E C I T O, CA
(Montecito Vons Shopping Center)

(805) 770-2266

HOURS:

Sunday – Thursday 10 am -10 pm
Friday – Saturday 10 am -11 pm

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT THE WEBSITE:

www.rorisartisanalcreamery.com

Montecito Splendor

nancys — Sat, 15 Dec 2012 23:09:28 +0000

Refined luxury and European elegance are combined in this stunning Mediterranean villa on historic Riven Rock Road, listed with Rebecca Riskin & Associates. A grand estate enjoying the finest amenities, the five bedroom, nine bathroom main house with +/-10,000 square feet is graced with mountain and ocean vistas.

The scenery is breathtaking, with four exquisitely landscaped acres gently sloping toward a Pacific Ocean and Channel Island focal point. Vast lawns and impeccable gardens surround a swimmer’s pool, grand pool pavilion, luxurious guest house, tennis court, pond and creek. The estate’s quintessential Montecito location, only a short distance from the Upper and Lower Village shops and restaurants, is peacefully tucked in an ideal and private setting.

A dramatic, olive lined drive leads to a spacious motor court with ample guest parking, specimen palms and spectacular mountain views.

18th century columns and chandeliers, hand-painted artisan ceilings, and abundant marble, limestone and oak complement the villa’s world-class grandeur in one of Montecito’s most exceptional properties.

Grand iron and glass doors open to an impressive foyer with symmetrical staircases and a stunning Murano glass antique chandelier. One’s eye is immediately drawn up to a remarkable, hand-frescoed ceiling dome, reminiscent of an Italian cathedral.

A generous, formal living room sits to the right of the solarium, adorned with matching antique limestone fireplaces, crystal chandeliers and a hand-painted coffered ceiling.

On the opposite side of the solarium, an elegant dining room has French doors opening to the southern terrace, silk upholstered walls, built-in china storage, an antique chandelier and hand-distressed oak floors.

The combined family room and gourmet kitchen create a well-appointed yet informal space, with a distressed beam ceiling, antique limestone fireplace and French doors to the terrace for
outdoor dining.

Antique Mesopotamian hand-painted tiles and beautiful stone counters surround state-of-the art appliances, including a Viking range, Thermador oven and Sub Zero refrigerator.

A pine-paneled library with distressed oak flooring, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and wet bar offers a warm and sophisticated space. His and hers powder rooms, a sizeable laundry room and a guest or housekeeper’s bedroom suite complete the main level.

The gracious master bedroom, spanning the entire south side of the upper level, offers a limestone fireplace, crystal chandelier and French doors opening to a balcony, overlooking the mosaic glass-tiled pool that sparkles just like the ocean beyond it.

His and hers bathrooms line either side of the bedroom, hers boasting 18th century French columns, a private terrace, laundry area and an extraordinary walk-in closet designed by world-renowned Maxine Ordesky.

Two guest suites take mountain view positions on the north side of the upper level, one with mahogany built-ins, the other with hand-painted wall coverings and a 17th century French crystal chandelier. Several steps lead down to a mid-level media room, guest bedroom and full bathroom.

Outside, the grounds are just as impressive as the house, with luxurious amenities and world-class landscaping. Vast lawns roll past terraced garden walls to line the impressive swimmer’s pool (21′ x 70′) and stone patios, perfect for lounging. A magnificent rose garden and redwood, birch, palm and fruit trees enhance the spectacular green landscape.

A vast pavilion takes center stage at the end of the pool, designed for entertaining and indoor/outdoor dining. Complete with a plantation style ceiling, billowing curtains and a large fireplace, the pavilion houses a kitchen, ample dining space and two rooms with ensuite baths, perfect for an office, gym or additional guest bedrooms.

Across the pool, a hedge-lined tennis court borders the one bedroom guesthouse with pillared entry. Inside, beautiful beamed ceilings and oak floors complement the elegant bedroom, bathroom and kitchenette.

Enjoying the finest amenities on a grand scale, this Montecito estate combines the coveted California lifestyle with superior European sophistication.
Offered at $17,900,000

Rebecca Riskin & Associates
1250 Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA 93108

Office
805.565.8600

email
associates@riskinproperties.com

Dina Landi, Rebecca Riskin, Sarah Kelly
VISIT THE WEBSITE: WWW.MONTECITO-REALESTATE.COM

Kakoon Boutique in Santa Barbara

nancys — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 18:30:55 +0000

Kate McMahon’s hand knit collection is available in her boutique, located in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone. The emphasis is on luxurious hand knit sweaters and accessories from Kakoon, but Kate showcases some of her favorite clothing lines, including Hartford for women. A shipment of Hartford has just arrived for spring, including linen t-shirts, poplin jackets and more.

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NEW SHIPMENT OF HARTFORD AT KAKOON

What makes Hartford so sought after besides the effortless styling, is the quality of the fabric and the consistent fit. This line is perfect for the Santa Barbara lifestyle. Available this spring at kakoon, in addition to an amazing selection of shirts, are Indian print scarves, linen t-shirts and sweaters, and summer weight poplin jackets and pants.

The inspiration for ‘Hartford’ originated from the 40’s & 50’s vintage men’s shirts that designer ‘Yves Chareton’ found in Paris flee markets in the late 1970’s; From this he launched a range of Hartford mens shirts; they were an immediate success. In 2000, persuaded by customer demand, Yves decided to create a Hartford Clothing womens line which enjoys the same cult following as the men’s line.

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“My designs are not complicated or fussy… they are classic and effortless, yet modernly elegant. Sweaters to be worn everyday… the ones you’ll reach for first. I believe that things of quality have no fear of time,” Kate explains.

Along with her two knitters, Kate hand-knits all of her clothing and accessories, many are made using wool from Peruvian baby alpacas. From babies to both men and women, her items include sweaters, ponchos and blankets.

Kakoon also features Salvage Garden t-shirts for men.

Kate’s favorite jewelry designers include Eileen Avolio and Erin Reinecke-Balint, of ERB Jewelry.

Kakoon is housed in a new contemporary multilevel complex in the funk zone, just across from Wall Space Gallery. Kate McMahon, who previously owned and operated Kate on Coast Village Road, designed the stylish studio to highlight her line of hand knitted clothing.

“This is a way for me to showcase my personal designs and allows customers to stop in to select colors and yarns for their custom orders,” Kate states.

116 E. Yanonali Street
Santa Barbara, California 93103

Hours
Tuesday – Saturday
11:00 am – 4:00 pm

Phone (805) 698-7569
Email kakoon@me.com

Visit the Kakoon Website:

www.kakoonknits.com

Bonita Clothing Boutique in Summerland

nancys — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 18:29:37 +0000

Bonita is located in Summerland, CA. An extensive selection of A-list designers includes Anna Sui, Calleen Cordero, Burning Torch, St. Barth and more. Bonita combines a balance of bohemian casual elegance with Southern California lifestyle and touches of vintage finds.

Stop in the store to see the fall collection of designer shoes, handmade bags, leather jackets.

Accessories by Anouk, Roccio G., Totem, Carla Mancini, Cleobella, We Are Owls, Will Leather Goods and many more quality lines.

BONITA’S fragrance selection includes Calypso, Alvarez Gomez. Masion De Vanille and La Natura.

Clothing lines include Biya, Frank and Eileen, Carole Fakeil, Autumn Cashmere, Me DeMoiselles and Genetic Denim.

The Bonita staff loves to help you find your perfect jean fit and will satisfy all your shopping needs.

An abundant selection of jewelry collections featuring Melissa Joy Manning, Denise Betesh, Renee Garvey, Katie Diamond, Sara Beltran, Chan Luu (diamond collection) and Vanessa Moony.

Lingerie and lounge by Kerry Cassill, Stella McCartney, Elle MacPherson and more.

Favorite designers are highlighted during special events, allowing customers to meet and mingle while shopping and enjoying a glass of bubbly along with tasty hors d’oeuvres.
Visit the Bonita website for a list of upcoming events.

2330 Lillie Avenue, Summerland, CA

805-565-3848

email: info@bonitasummerland.com

VISIT THE WEBSITE:

WWW.BONITASUMMERLAND.COM

Duo Dinner To Go

nancys — Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:10:41 +0000

The service is designed with today’s hectic lifestyle in mind. Popular Duo Catering & Events is offering delicious and healthy dinners to go 3 days a week. The meals can be ordered online by noon and picked up in the afternoon at Duo’s kitchen, conveniently located at
614 E. Haley Street, Santa Barbara, CA.

The menus typically consist of three courses and are based on what’s available at Santa Barbara’s local farmers markets.

Three unique menus are posted weekly and are charged per person.

Meals are packed in reusable, oven safe containers and placed in a insulated bag, making the whole process of pick up and home preparation easy and efficient.

The pick up time at the Duo Kitchen location is from 3-6pm.

Duo will accommodate most dietary restrictions and requests; special requests require a twenty-four hour notice.

Duo Catering & Events was founded in January of 2006 as a full service catering company. The company was formed to express the vision of the two founding partners, Ashley Transki and Brian Congdon. Their vision is built upon creating a harmonious relationship between locally grown organic produce and finely crafted meals.

The catering and events company has gained the reputation as one of the highest quality, innovative catering companies in the Santa Barbara area, serving both private clients and top event and wedding planners. Check the website listed below for more information on their catering menu and services.

Join the “Dinner To Go” mailing list. You will receive weekly emails with the weekly dinner menus:

duoevents.subscribe

614 E. Haley Street, Santa Barbara, CA

Visit the website for more information:

duoevents.com/togo

Weekend in Paso Robles Wine Country

nancys — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 21:50:43 +0000

Cayucos is a sleepy little California beach town with some great hot spots; the best of both worlds. Paso Robles Wine Country is only 15 minutes away. A list of inns, wineries, organic growers and restaurants to visit during this weekend tour aimed at FOODIES and WINE LOVERS.

Paso Robles is in the middle of the Central Coast wine-growing region with organic farms and a plentiful supply of seafood. In the past few years Paso Robles has become a destination for chefs enthralled by the wealth of ranchers and food artisans selling organic produce fruits, grass-fed meats, virgin olive oil, artisan cheese and a variety of freshly caught seafood.

Foodie tourists have discovered talented, well-known chefs (many transplants from popular restaurants in New York and Los Angeles) who have recently created a culinary hot spot, similar to what is found in the Napa Valley area.

Start your wine weekend in the sleepy, beach side town of Cayucos with an overnight stay at The Cass House Historic Inn & Restaurant.

Built in 1867 and meticulously restored in 2007, the inn is Grace Lorenzen manages the inn features five luxurious guest rooms with private baths, luxurious Anichini bed & bath linens, Molton & Brown bath products, meandering gardens and ocean views.

The restaurant, run by Grace’s husband Jensen Lorenzen, is open Thursday through Monday for dinner and features daily changing, locally sourced menus. A full breakfast is included in all room rates as well as wine and cheese in the afternoon. Within 20 minutes of wine country and 30 minutes to San Simeon’s Hearst Castle.

The Cass Historic Inn & Restaurant
222 N. Ocean Ave., Cayucos, CA 93430
805.995.3669
Visit the Website : www.casshouseinn.com

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The Brown Butter Cookie Company
Christa Hozie runs Brown Butter Cookie Company with her sister Traci Nickson.

This talented duo make super-addictive sea-salt-topped cookies, selling in many top Santa Barbara specialty food stores like C’est Cheese, Metropulos and Pierre Lafonds. Visitors are welcomed with the scent of freshly baked cookies from the Brown Butter cookie Company with samples right off the baking tray. Smell the butter browning, and watch their team of dough makers, bakers, and cookie rollers hand-roll each brown butter sea salt cookie.

Stock up on a variety of cookies to enjoy on your wine tour picnic, or take home for gourmet gifts. Once you’ve tried their signature cookies, you’ll want to order online for home delivery.

Brown Butter Cookie Company
www.brownbuttercookies.com

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After breakfast and an early morning walk on the beach, spend the day on the wine tasting trail.

The county has over 200 wineries, many with beautiful tasting rooms and picnic areas overlooking the vineyards. The Paso Robles wine scene is on the move with both established and experimental winemakers creating quality, award-winning wines.

Watch the Paso Wine Man Video:

Long-standing producers like Tablas Creek have established the area’s potential for Rhône varietals, while younger winemakers such as Cris and JoAnn Cherry of Villa Creek Cellars are experimenting with old-world styles
like Spanish Tempranillo.

Halter Ranch Wine Tasting…be sure to ask about the wine club.

Halter Ranch Vineyard

8910 Adelaida Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Phone 805.226.9455

Visit the website for more information on events held at the winery: Halter Ranch

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Pasolivo Olive Oil Tasting Room
Ten years ago, Joeli Yaguda was a dot-com executive when she and her husband decided to take charge of a 6,000-tree olive orchard his mother had planted as a retirement project.

Pasolivo oil is now used at the popular L.A. restaurant Osteria Mozza and was recently ranked in the top 10 out of 1,000 in a German competition.

The Pasolivo Tasting Room is open daily from 11 to 5, and offers free tastings of olive oils and other gourmet cooking products, as well as tours of the olive press – just ask! Pasolivo uses a state-of-the-art Pieralisi olive mill to press their olive oil.

Go to the website for directions.

To order product online…

VISIT THE PASOLIVO WEBSITE: www.pasolivo.com

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STOP AND HAVE LUNCH…or pack a picnic of gourmet sandwiches and deli items.

Farmstand 46 is a roadside lunch spot on the wine route that runs around the west side of town, owned by former New Yorker Tom Fundaro, who previously worked for Eli Zabar in New York and popular restaurants in Santa Fe, creates gourmet pizzas and deli foods made with vegetables that are grown on the property.

His evenings are spent at his restaurant in downtown Paso Robles, Villa Creek Restaurant.

FARMSTAND 46
3750 California 46 Templeton, CA
(805) 239-3661

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At the end of the day, arrive in downtown Paso Robles, check into Hotel Cheval and explore the town’s many restaurants for a relaxing dinner.

Owners Robert Gilson and his wife Sherry first came to the area years ago and purchased a horse ranch as a weekend retreat from their home in Montecito.

The couple loved the downtown area and bought a number of faded properties to restore. With the popularity of the wine area quickly developing, they felt the need for high end hotel that well-heeled wine enthusiasts would appreciate.

Hotel Cheval, which combines such amenities as Wi-Fi and luxury bedding, outdoor patios with fireplaces, is just off the town’s main square.

Hotel Cheval website:
www.hotelcheval.com

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Paso Robles Restaurants
Thomas Hill Organics has its own 10-acre farm owned by Debbie and Joseph Thomas that supplies their restaurant’s kitchen.Find your way to their lime green and white restaurant by going through the olive oil store. Enjoy Thomas Hill produce served with Vietnamese barbecued pork belly or pan-seared diver scallops.

Check out specialty food stores in Paso Robles: 15 Degrees C Wine Shop, Vivant Fine Cheese.

Artisan Showcases locally grown produce and foods, Executive Chef Chris Kobayashi draws much of the inspiration for his dishes from regular trips to the farmers market and organic farms in the area. His menu evolves to meet the seasonality of the area’s products, yet his unique approach to the American Bistro remains constant.

A R T I S A N
1401 Park St. (805) 237-8084

Visit the website for current menus:
www.artisanpasorobles.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PASO ROBLES WINE COUNTRY:

WWW.PASOWINE.COM

Mission Canyon Modern Home and Garden

nancys — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 16:05:18 +0000

This updated 1950′s ranch house, reinvented by architect Nick Noyes of San Francisco, takes advantage of the site’s dynamic views, exceptional climate and location in the foothills of the Santa Barbara Riviera. Landscape Architect Jeffrey Gordon Smith recently designed a peaceful oasis in the garden, including a fire pit and hot tub area, creating additional entertaining areas for outdoor living.

When Kevin and Elizabeth Burns purchased the home, the architecture had already been completed and there was an existing courtyard. Recent transplants from Connecticut and avid gardeners, the clients fell in love with the climate of Santa Barbara and the extensive plant palette they noticed throughout the area, but found the multitude of options overwhelming. In a climate that can grow nearly everything well, where do you place limits?

“The Burns had stressed to us that they wanted something that spoke of their east coast roots but also took advantage of the views of the Santa Ynez mountains yet invoked the feeling of being an ultimate California experience, hot tub included,” comments landscape architect Jeffrey Gordon Smith.

In order to provide the client with a Santa Barbara east-meets-west retreat, the design team had to first create a large patio area to compliment the architecture. Since the site dropped off near the properties edges, a retaining wall was added to allow for more level room for outdoor space.

A deck off of the guest bedroom and office was added, incorporating a redwood hot tub (from Gordon and Grant Hot Tubs & Spas) for a spa-like area.

Jay Hanseth Construction did the construction work on the garden project. “Jay has an amazing team of carpenters and stone masons. The Ipe deck, bench and outdoor shower were particularly difficult because the wood is so dense. I love that it will all weather to a silvery gray,” Elizabeth comments.

Santa Barbara sandstone was used extensively throughout the site to tie back to the geological history of the area and was also used to create the fire-pit which adds a rustic quality and helps to create an indoor-outdoor experience and sense of timelessness to the new landscape.

Another major challenge of the site was to retain the view corridor for the neighbors above the property, while preserving the views of the mountains for the client. The goal was to create a private atmosphere and feeling of seclusion. This was accomplished using a staggered planting of a smaller Mexican weeping bamboo which was an extension of a large existing stand of timber bamboo.

The lawn was incorporated into the design as a request by the client as it reminded them of their home in Connecticut. Patio pavers were added for a seamless feel.

The site was tied together using a rich plant palette which included Agave Attenuata ‘Nova’, mixed succulents, evergreen Miscanthus, and a Mediterranean palette indicative of the surrounding area.

A vegetable garden placed in large galvanized feed troughs hides behind the rosemary hedge and provides year round fruits and vegetables for the family.

“The magic of this place to me is that when I moved here from Connecticut, this is what I pictured living in California would be. It’s all about the outdoors and blurring the line between inside and out. This house is just under 2,000 square feet but seems more expansive because of the open doors and outside living spaces.”

Accessories in the house came from the owner’s home in Connecticut, shopping at local stores Porch, Seaside Gardens and Botanik and a few favorite online design websites.

“The art work is mostly symbolic of my travels and places we have lived….Santa Barbara, Nantucket, CT, St. Barths and New York. I also used some of my own paintings and one by SB artist Lloyd Dallet, the previous owner who did a brilliant job of remodeling the house,” Elizabeth explains.

“While we live in a mid-century modern house, my biggest challenge was to make it feel contemporary but warm….a place you want to stay a while. To me it’s all about the accessories and the way they are set up that gives a home personality. I only buy things I love and I’m constantly moving things around. My husband, who commutes between here and CT, says it looks different every time he comes home!”

As an artist, for me it’s all about the light and the organic nature of this space, even though it’s in a very modern frame. We absolutely love living here,” states owner, Elizabeth Burns.

RESOURCES:

Jay Hanseth Construction
805.896.8497

Gordon and Grant Hot Tubs & Spas
gordonandgrant.com

Porch
3823 Santa Claus Lane Carpinteria, CA
805.684.0300

Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture
1212 2nd Street, Baywood-Los Osos, CA 93402
805.528.2118
email:
info@jgsdesigns.com

To view the JGS Landscape Architecture portfolio, visit the website:

www.jgsdesigns.com

Pascale’s Kitchen Online Boutique

nancys — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 18:19:23 +0000

Santa Barbara’s unique culinary online boutique. From delicious lifestyle classes showcasing the fragrant seasonal produce of local farmers’ markets to an enticing line of Mediterranean cookbooks, creative items for your cooks pantry including local olive oils, balsamic vinegars, teas, unique gifts and so much more.

Experience the unique taste and style found in Pascale’s Kitchen. Choose a menu from one of the seasonal cookbooks and flavor the dish with their herbs, spices, sea salts and gourmet peppercorns. Dress your salad with their delicious olive oils, made from freshly picked, stone pressed, Californian olives, and fabulous flavored vinegars, bottled in Santa Ynez, California.

Pascale Beale brings you the essence of cooking in California, the Mediterranean and beyond.

Serve the meal on Pascale’s kitchen exquisite tableware, including a delightful selection of salt and pepper cellars, wooden platters, salad bowls and trays made from sustainably harvested woods.

Colorful, practical Provencal linens in a variety of patterns…

Enjoy tea and dessert with a selection of black and herbal teas, brewed in a Japanese cast iron teapot and served in stylish Morrocan tea glasses.

Ceramics include a red and white Latté Bowl Set…perfect for your morning latte, café au lait, hot chocolate or an afternoon’s ice cream indulgence.

Pots de Crème Set includes 8 individual porcelain lion head bowls, a 500 ml measuring jug, a bamboo serving tray and a 100% cotton unbleached tea towel.

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P A S C A L E ‘ S K I T C H E N

805.965.5112

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF AVAILABLE ITEMS, PLUS A SCHEDULE OF UPCOMING COOKING CLASSES, VISIT PASCALE’S KITCHEN WEBSITE & SHOPPING BOUTIQUE:

WWW.PASCALE’SKITCHEN.COM

The Villa at Sunstone Vacation Packages

nancys — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 17:39:36 +0000

Sunstone’s Season to Remember vacation rental package allows guests a unique and intimate way to experience the Sunstone estate including two nights accommodations in a luxury suite at the Villa. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of Sunstone’s estate from the privacy and comfort of your own Tuscan-inspired retreat, elegantly appointed with European antiques, fine linens and bedding, private patio and nightly wine and cheese offering.

Your wine country experience culminates with a private two-hour guided tour of Sunstone’s organic estate and wine tasting with sweet and savory locally sourced small plates perfectly paired to the characteristics of each Sunstone wine.

A Season to Remember vacation rental package begins at $1,295 per couple and is subject to very limited availability. Please book your visiting dates in advance to guarantee package accommodations.

The Villa at Sunstone is made from reclaimed limestone and artifacts from France. This 8,500 square foot Tuscan-inspired event center is also available for location shoots,
culinary retreats and dreamy weddings.

Advance reservations are being immediately accepted for package dates beginning
November 1, 2012 through January 31, 2013.

To reserve your package at the Villa, please contact Nicole Sands.

805.688.9463, ext. 227

email nicole@sunstonewinery.com

Sunstone’s tasting room is reminiscent of some of the small wineries in the Provencal French countryside. The gorgeous courtyards and picnic grounds, surrounded by vineyards, provide the perfect place to experience the wines. The Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Viognier and Syrah grapes from Sunstone’s certified organic vineyards are crafted by winemaker Nick de Luca into wines marked by firm structure with a balanced, sophisticated mouth-feel. Nick strives to translate the unique character of the estate into a wine that is true to the terroir.

A landmark destination winery for almost two decades, Sunstone Winery continues to enthrall visitors with it’s Provencal countryside architecture, ambiance and extensive barrel aging caves. Over 5,000 square feet of stone barrel-aging caves are built into the hillside. Winemaker dinners and other special events are held in the tasting room, caves, and courtyard year-round.

UPCOMING Events at Sunstone Winery:

For more information email Jenna Angelo, Wine Club Director at jenna@sunstonewinery.com

SUNSTONE VINEYARDS AND WINERY

125 N Refugio Road, Santa Ynez, CA 93460

VISIT THE SUNSTONE WINERY WEBSITE:

WWW.SUNSTONEWINERY.COM

Mission Canyon Retreat by Deb Campbell Interior Design

nancys — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 04:34:54 +0000

This recently renovated home is surrounded by mature oaks on a private acre, located near the historic Santa Barbara Mission. The stunning natural setting of native oaks and boulders was interior designer Deb Campbell’s inspiration for the color palette and natural textures used throughout the house.

Although the house was built in the 70’s, it had a distinct mid-century vibe. “I wanted to keep the furnishings clean and classic without a hard edge mid-century look. It was also important to make sure that all surfaces and fabrics were functional and durable, since the home is occasionally used is a vacation rental. The accessories and artwork were selected with input from the client, who uses the home as a tranquil retreat when he’s in town,” Deb explains.

Walls of glass allow the beauty of the outdoors to meld with the interiors. The view makes you feel as though you’re cradled in the branches of an ancient Oak forest.

Ventura architect Martha Picciotti was actively involved in the architectural design. Her redesign of the kitchen layout allowed the space to open to the outdoors. By reconfiguring the entry and opening the walls between the kitchen, living and dining room, the flow between the rooms was improved and also enhanced the view from all of the key living spaces.

The dining room is centrally located between the living room and kitchen, allowing guests to mingle and stay connected throughout the open floor plan.

In the kitchen, a large center island of smooth fossil stone provides seating for guests, making it convenient to visit during meal preparation.

Cabinets by The Kitchen Co., backsplash tile from N.S. Ceramics.

The light-filled master bedroom offers a welcome retreat, with large glass doors that open to a viewing deck overlooking the private garden.

A Philippe Starck Ghost Chair adds a unique accent to the bedroom writing table.

Travertine and glass meet design and function in the master bathroom. A simple, yet elegant soaking tub creates a space to linger.

In the garden…

Designed by Pat Brodie, the landscape is in keeping with the natural beauty of the Mission Canyon area. Meandering paths lead to lower gardens overflow with plantings and large boulders.

Working closely with the homeowner to unveil and then enhance the natural features of the site was the first step in creating this garden. “The garden needed to fit into the site and also complement the mid-century modern architecture of the home as well as the strong design sensibilities of the homeowner,” Pat states.

Preserving the many wonderful Oaks and exposing the large boulders took priority and dictated the plant selection. Pat explains, “There were visible remnants of a grand old garden and crumbling stone retaining walls which we repaired and added to.”

Olive trees line the Cherokee Creek stone and gravel pathways around the house. The pool deck is sandstone colored stamped concrete.

“When you enter the gate to the house you can hear the sound of water. You can’t see it, but it draws you in,” Pat comments. A cascading waterfall and pool are the central features of the gently sloping terraced property.

Pond construction: Bruce Garcia
Stone walls and garden installation: Gau Bailon

The lower area which is now a living/dining space was originally covered in black top. Pat says, “We figured it was part of a large pond. We removed most of it and covered it in decomposed granite, which became the floor of the living/dining room.” Garden beds now surround the space and help to enclose and create an outdoor room for entertaining.

The plant palette incorporates a strong mix of foliage color and texture with dramatic accents of large succulents, masses of grasses and ground covers.

Agave Vilmorninana ‘Stained Glass’ with its variegated green and creamy yellow leaves, other large scale Agaves, Aloes and masses of Echiveria ‘Cante’ with it’s rosettes of silver.

All plants selected are Oak tree compatible and low water use.

Pat Brodie Landscape Design
Santa Barbara, CA
805. 969.4157
email pat@brodiedesign.com

Martha Picciotti, Architect
404 N. Catalina Street, Ventura, CA 93001
805.641.3221

_______________________________________

DEBORAH CAMPBELL INTERIOR DESIGN
RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL
Santa Barbara, CA

Design has always been instinctual for Deb Campbell. Born in Santa Barbara, raised in the San Francisco bay area, she grew up with an artist mother and an architectural/engineer father. Her grandfather owned a fine furniture store. Deb was influenced by the modern classics that she grew up with; from Noguchi to Bertoia and Eames. With a passion for mixing classic design elements in both formal and casual interiors, she creates balanced, timeless spaces.

Deb Campbell studied design, graduating from California Polytechnic University and worked for several architectural firms before starting her own design firm in 1982, and has completed numerous commercial, hospitality and high profile residential design projects throughout California.

805.969.9657

email: dcidesign@cox.net

Waterhouse Gallery in La Arcada

nancys — Sun, 04 Nov 2012 22:55:23 +0000

Waterhouse Gallery, located in Santa Barbara’s downtown La Arcada courtyard, specializes in Plein-air landscape, figurative and still life paintings by leading California artists.

Waterhouse Gallery offers work by artists who reflect the highest standards of quality and integrity within their chosen fields of painting. Specializing in Plein-air landscape, figurative and still life paintings by leading California artists.

The gallery has a quality selection of original oil and watercolor paintings by award winning artists from the Western states, including the Santa Barbara regions.

For more information, please email: art@waterhousegallery.com

WATERHOUSE GALLERY
La Arcada, 1114 State Street, Suite 9
Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Diane and Ralph Waterhouse
phone: (805) 962-8885
email art@waterhousegallery.com

The works shown on the Waterhouse Gallery website depict their entire inventory, which is constantly changing. For more information, please visit the website:

www.waterhousegallery.com

Weekly Meal Delivery from Le Petit Chef

nancys — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 22:53:38 +0000

Personal chef Denisse Salinas now makes her culinary services available to all with conveniently packaged and easily reheated dinner options. Nourish your life with delicious, hand-made cuisine at an affordable price. Spend more time with your guests and let Le Petit Chef prepare the appetizers for your next party.

Say goodbye to frozen foods laden with chemicals and preservatives or to fast foods that don’t cater to your health and vitality. Le Petit Chef proudly offers gourmet, seasonally inspired dishes using the freshest local ingredients delivered for you to enjoy in the comfort of your home.

Here’s how it works:

Every Friday, Le Petit Chef will post an array of fresh, seasonal menu options available for delivery the following week.

Visit the website and enter your email address and receive a weekly notice with a full selection of menu choices.

To order, simply call or email with your selections by Monday at noon. Deliveries will be made on Wednesday afternoon which will include detailed reheating and serving instructions.

__________________________________________

Sample Menu

Soups & Salads
Tuscan White Bean & Garlic Soup
bacon, crispy sage

Butter Lettuce & Pear Salad
gorgonzola, rosemary candied pecans

Walnut Crusted Goat Cheese Medallions on Mixed Greens
date, pomegranate

Salad Dressings
Roasted Garlic-Dijon Vinaigrette
Champagne-Herb Vinaigrette
Pomegranate Balsamic Vinaigrette

Entrees
Butternut Squash Lasagna
spinach, fontina, béchamel

Champagne Poached Salmon
dill butter, smashed baby potato, green bean amandine

Portobello Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast
roasted tomato marsala sauce, parmesan polenta, braised kale

Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin
blood orange-pomegranate reduction, maple whipped sweet potato, winter greens gratin

Desserts
Greek Yogurt Cheesecake with Apple Crumble Topping
Roasted Pear Tart Tatin
Chocolate Bread Pudding with Bourbon Caramel Sauce

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View this week’s menu on the website below and be sure to sign up to have the current menu emailed to you weekly. A minimum order of $50 is required. Please check the website for pricing details.

Payment method by cash, check or credit card due upon delivery.

Le Petit Chef is also available to develop custom menus for your next event, in home meal preparations, cooking lessons and more.

__________________

Hors d ‘Oeuvres Delivery!
Let Le Petit Chef prepare the appetizers at your next party. Choose from a wide selection of delectable bites that will be prepared fresh and delivered right to your door with simple serving instructions.

Menu
Ham & Gruyere Tartlets
Cranberry, Gorgonzola & Walnut Spread with Endive Spears
Braised Short Rib Stuffed Mushrooms
Coconut Crusted Shrimp with Mango Dipping Sauce
Smoked Salmon Mousse on Cucumber Rounds
Goat Cheese, Fig & Arugula Flatbread
Crispy Prosciutto Cups with Mascarpone & Melon
Black Pepper Parmesan Puffs

1-3 Platters: $45 each | 4 or more Platters: $35 each
Each platter serves up to 10 people. Please allow 48 hours notice for delivery.
To order call 805.637.3899 or email denisse@lepetitchefsb.com

______________________________

I was so happy to have found Le Petit Chef to provide weekly food deliveries for a local family in Montecito, CA. I was looking for a local chef who delivered delicious, healthy, organic and seasonal dishes and I found this and more with Denisse. She is also highly professional, discreet, clean, reliable and has a creative flair for food presentation. She was able to accommodate for special food requests and was always on time with food delivery. I would HIGHLY recommend her to anyone looking for an excellent chef. We were lucky to have discovered her! -Diana

To place an order, please email or call 805.637.3899

email: denisse@lepetitchefsb.com

VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION:

WWW.LEPETITCHEFSB.COM

Hawthorn Fall/Winter Fashion

nancys — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 16:26:57 +0000

Visit Hawthorn on Padaro Beach for new shipments for fall and winter. Lines include James Jeans, Joie Velvet Blazers, Krisa Motorcycle Jackets.

Custom bags and clutches include designers Rocio G, Emily Rosendahl and Simone Camille.

Scarves from Shai Shanti…great for gifts!

Woven cuffs in fall colors, luminescent sand dollar jewelry with gold accents.

H A W T H O R N P A D A R O B E A C H

3817 SANTA CLAUS LANE, CARPINTERIA

HOURS

Tuesday-Sunday 10 am to 5pm

805-684-6474

email: hawthornboutique@gmail.com

Jodi G Boutique in Montecito

nancys — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 22:05:19 +0000

Stylist Jodi Goldberg has selected some of the most creative and talented Los Angeles clothing and jewelry designers for a unique shopping experience, held at her showroom in Montecito. On display…clothing, cashmere, jewelry and handbags.

Designer Handbags for any occasion…

Lightweight sweaters and textured tops…ideal for fall weather.

Hand Knit Sweater Vests accented with fur trim…

Exquisite jewelry to pair with the latest fall fashion.

About Jodi G

When searching for an outfit for a special event, or shopping for a unique gift, Jodi infuses warmth, vision and attention to detail into each encounter. Following her creative spirit, Jodi began a career in fashion as a young woman of 17, styling celebrities, video shoots, commercials and album covers.

Jodi states, “I am blessed to be able to share my passion for beauty and design with all who come to my home studio. Having accomplished the vision I had for my family of walking into our home and landing in their own tranquil garden retreat, I now get to enjoy sharing this treasure with my clients and guests. A place where family, friends, and clients feel like they are removed from the chaos of daily life and surrounded by nurturing, natural beauty.”

“What fuels my own fires of creativity is that my clients always leave feeling refreshed, inspired
and beautiful.”

By appointment only. Please call Jodi Goldberg at 805.453.1119.

Email: jodig@cox.net

Julia Mora Design

nancys — Sat, 27 Oct 2012 18:15:56 +0000

Julia Mora Design is an interior design firm specializing in creating comfortable, inviting and peaceful spaces that reflect their clients’ personal style, the natural environment and Central Coast lifestyle. Julia offers clients custom designed furniture perfectly tailored for the spaces they love.

Before launching Julia Mora Design, Julia Mora was a senior designer under Brenda Antin in Los Angeles, CA. In business for over 12 years, she has completed many residential projects throughout Santa Barbara and Carpinteria.

Home styles have included contemporary beach homes, Hamptons, east coast-style coastal residences, California craftsman bungalows and Mediterranean estates.

“Many of my clients,” Julia explains, “have second homes in Santa Barbara, so they want a weekend house that has a relaxed, easy feeling… nothing too precious. I have been lucky enough to work with people who have trusted me to design their entire homes, sometimes down to the selection of bedding, or outfitting an entire kitchen, even the cocktail napkins. I guess you could say I’m a lifestyle designer.”

For Julia, having a vision is essential. “My goal with all of my design projects is to honor the architecture and style of a home, while incorporating my client’s personal style. I work closely with my clients to achieve a home that is a reflection of them; maintaining comfort
without sacrificing great style.”

Julia also feels, “Accessories are key in good design, and I often use vintage fabrics for pillow, found objects, and family heirlooms to make the rooms feel classic and timeless.”

Services Provided

Design Consultation and Furnishings

Custom Furniture Design

If there is a need for custom furnishings, Julia works with local craftsmen to create quality case goods and upholstery pieces at affordable prices.

Her furnishings feature natural elements of reclaimed white oak, raw metal, honed marbles, all of which create a warm and inviting environment. Upholstered furniture is often slip-covered in a washed linen or easy-care outdoor fabrics.

“I love mixing rustic woods with smooth surfaces that are easy to maintain and add a touch of elegance to an otherwise rustic table or desk. An element of surprise or blending unexpected surfaces and unique design accents create design challenges, which keeps me inspired… I’m always on the search for new ideas,” she explains.

Julia Mora is the in-house design consultant for Porch, a home and garden store in Carpinteria, specializing in rustic-modern furnishings and sustainable living. Her custom furniture line is on display and available to order in the Porch showroom.

J U L I A M O R A D E S I G N

805.637.9964

e-mail: julia@juliamoradesign.com

Visit the Website:

www.juliamoradesign.com

Fitness Impact Studio in Santa Barbara

nancys — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 01:50:00 +0000

Fitness Impact is a private fitness studio that offers individualized fitness programs for clients, helping them to achieve their fitness goals. The studio features functional and post-rehabilitation training, balance training, stretching and myofascial release techniques, as well as pilates, ballet exercises, kickboxing and core training.

“We offer a relaxing environment for our clients and our philosophy is to concentrate on one-on-one positive motivation,” says owner and former gymnast Mariana Sarisova, who graduated from the Russian Academy of Sport and Physical Culture. “Everyone has their own fitness goals…it’s our job to help our clients reach them in a nurturing setting that has all of the highest quality equipment necessary for a personalized workout program.”

Whether you want to lose weight, lose inches, get stronger, increase your metabolism, improve your nutrition, or just improve your overall health and fitness, their expert team of certified personal trainers are committed to providing the right game-plan for you to reach your goals.

Fitness Impact Studio offers one-on-one personal fitness training, semi-private and small group personal training. Their dynamic, fun, results-oriented workouts combine resistance training, cardio workouts, plyometrics, core training, functional fitness and flexibility.

Fitness Impact also has an on site personal massage therapist as well as Pilates, cardio and kickboxing equipment. They are the only fitness studio in Santa Barbara that features the
Pilates inspired Tower Trainer.

Visit the website for a list of class schedules that include…

Zumba Fitness class is a a cardio-based workout with sculpting exercises designed to tone the entire body from top to bottom. The unique Zumba Latin inspired international music and dance steps create a dynamic, exciting and effective fitness system. You will have fun while burning calories and strengthening your pelvic and core muscles. All levels are welcome!

Perfect Core is a low-impact fitness class focused on your core muscles. This class is a fusion of ballet, Pilates and best core exercises. It will help you to overcome lower back pain, get rid of that stabborn belly fat, and feel stronger and toned.

Knowledgeable trainers include…

Ksenia Sarkisova, BA, ACSM
Personal Trainer/Fitness Group Instructor/ Zumba Instructor

Macauley Grant, BA, NASM
Personal Trainer, Boot Camp Instructor

Nutritional Coaching
With tens of millions of Americans battling their weight on a daily basis, Marianna Sarkisova has developed a realistic and attainable way for people to live a healthy lifestyle. “I offer customized nutrition coaching plans that are easy to follow, work for a life time and most importantly, get results!” she states.

_______________________

Testimonials…

“Great people, great studio, great workout! the results are impressive…never felt better.”
Greg Tice, Santa Barbara, CA

“I always look forward to our training sessions. I love that Marianna really stresses my personal weaknesses and helps me improve. I see big improvement in my strength and all-over body tone due to her pushing me to always keep going and give 100%”.
Meghan Huffman, Santa Barbara, CA

_______________________________________

Call for an appointment or a private consultation.

The Fitness Impact Studio

1905 Cliff Drive, Suite E (across from Lazy Acres)

Santa Barbara, CA

805.845.2308
Email address: FitnessImpact@gmail.com

VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION:

www.fitnessimpactsb.com

Emily Rosendahl Leather Goods

nancys — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:58:33 +0000

Each bag is handmade, one of a kind, and unique as the woman who carries it… “I am inspired by the Old West, my Wyoming roots, and the Santa Barbara beach lifestyle.

Every bag I design is hand-made in my studio in Summerland, has rustic flare, and is made with love.” Each bag is designed around the hide. If suede or tanned hide is butter soft, it becomes a draping shoulder bag.

The Clutch Collection…the ideal gift item or accessory for holiday parties!

An amazing embossed scrap of cow hide too small for a bag suddenly becomes a clutch.

Hailing from a long line of creative and untamed women, Emily Rosendahl spent her life elbows deep in art projects. From painting to sewing, Emily’s love of art and design is evident. In 2007 during a visit to a saddle shop in her hometown of Jackson, Wyoming, Emily stumbled upon beautiful scrap of leather and was inspired to hand stitch her first clutch.

Emily is heavily influenced by the Old West, Native American culture, her Wyoming roots, and her Santa Barbara lifestyle. She makes each bag by hand to ensure they’re one-of-a-kind, individually beautiful, and have Western flare.

When Emily isn’t creating handbags at home in the Summerland foothills, she can be found riding horses where the mountains meet the beaches with her dog Milo.

A recent trip to Africa inspired her to create her latest collection of bags and clutches using hides purchased during her travels.

THE SAFARI COLLECTION/ FALL 2102

“A short time after returning from my trip, a box arrived containing 20 hides…the most stunningly beautiful batch of Springbok I have ever received. The rich chocolate browns blend seamlessly with the tan, and the white stripes are so clean and bright. It’s sleek, chic, and an absolute must for fall.”

“I have a little confession to make…I am mildly obsessed with zebra. They are fascinating, exotic animals that are truly 100% unique and original. I was absolutely mesmerized by each dazzle I encountered in Africa and fell in love with them. When I started planning my 2012 Safari Collection, I knew I had to incorporate zebra hide. Before anyone freaks out, I chose faux zebra (cow hide printed zebra) rather than real deal, ” Emily explains.

Elizabeth Peace Photography

Each bag is handmade, one of a kind, and unique as the woman who carries it…

For handbag inquiries, please email info@emilyrosendahl.com for more information.

Visit the website to view the complete collection of EMILY ROSENDAHL LEATHER GOODS:

www.emilyrosendahl.com

Cima Vista Tuscan Villa

nancys — Sun, 30 Sep 2012 23:29:35 +0000

Located on a private Montecito lane rests a magnificent Tuscan villa – the coveted 2004 Santa Barbara Showcase House. Harrison Design and Giffin & Crane teamed up to create stellar architecture with awe-inspiring details of unsurpassed international quality and style. Listed with Rebecca Riskin & Associates.

Situated on nearly eleven lush and private acres, the entire estate boasts mature landscaping and dramatic ocean, mountain, city and harbor views within one of the most elegant and refined
Montecito residences.

Through an oak covered archway, a stone and grass driveway opens to a grand motor court and intricate sandstone facade, where a hand-carved antique English oak entry door awaits. Inside, ancient imported Medina stone floors, soaring ceilings and Antequerra Limestone clad walls line the gracious entry.

Created for absolute luxury and designed to capture the ocean vistas, the formal living room has been meticulously crafted with hand-finished walls, lyptus wood ceilings and a hand-carved, imported
fireplace mantle.

With tall Wainscott paneling and stenciled walls, the formal dining room exudes the utmost in absolute elegance. A butler’s pantry, complete with built-in cappuccino machine and wine refrigerator, connects the dining room with the kitchen, a kitchen office/laundry room with bath, as well as an area created to house an elevator.

Limestone countertops and Siematic cabinets fill the delightful kitchen, which is open to a casual dining space and splendid family room offering antique beams and beautiful barrel-vaulted ceilings.

Enveloped by windows and doors leading out to the terrace, this “great room” offers beautiful ocean views while delicate rays of sun fill the entire space.

A magnificent corridor connects the kitchen, family, dining and living rooms, ending at a plush suite adorned with cork clad walls and deluxe bath, suitable as a separate guest wing or library. Double doors close off this part of the house, and a quiet patio lined with lush greenery offers complete privacy.

The sumptuous master suite envelops one end of the upper level, designed to capture the remarkable ocean and mountain views while creating a haven for relaxation. The barrel-vaulted ceiling lends to a light and airy feel while french doors open to a private terrace that overlooks the lush Montecito hillside and picturesque Santa Barbara harbor.

A deluxe master bathroom boasts an inviting soaking tub and large dual shower, while a sitting room or office completes the master suite.

A secondary stairway connects the kitchen wing to the lower level of the home, graced by a magnificent temperature-controlled wine cellar enclosed by massive glass and steel doors. An adjacent tasting area with walls of hand-crafted stone sets the stage for intimate dinner parties.

A well-equipped media room connects to a conservatory with pool access, surrounded by windows overlooking sprawling lawns and magnificent views. Completing the lower level is a sizeable room with full bath and a large mirrored wall, ideal for a gym, yoga studio or additional guest suite.

Outside, an extraordinary outdoor dining pavilion overlooks the sparkling, fully tiled pool and spa, surrounded by lush landscape and offering breathtaking mountain and ocean views.

Adjacent to the pool, a stone patio with an outdoor fireplace, grill and dining area offers an ideal place for informal gatherings.

A formal rose garden, vegetable garden, vast lawns and wildlife conservation area create the estate’s magnificent, secluded feel.

Beyond the oversized three car garage and detached office, a private and peaceful guest house lies at the north end of the property, secluded from the main house. Surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, the guest house was designed to evoke a “Santa Ynez Ranch” feel.

With doors, floors and ceilings built from reclaimed Chinese teak, a masonry fireplace, custom cedar windows and beautiful infinity tub, this guest residence was built with the same unsurpassed quality and design as the main house. An outdoor Jacuzzi adds the finishing touch to the guest area and this magnificent, Tuscan estate.

Offered at $12,900,000

Rebecca Riskin & Associates
1250 Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA 93108

Office
805.565.8600

email
riskinassoc@villagesite.com

Rebecca Riskin
rebecca@villagesite.com
DRE 00805720 & Associates

Dina Landi
dina@villagesite.com
DRE 01815307

Sarah Kelly
sarah@villagesite.com
DRE 01447045

Visit the website:

dennis@thompsonnaylor.com

Waterhouse Gallery in Downtown Santa Barbara

nancys — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 20:02:26 +0000

The gallery has a quality selection of original oil and watercolor paintings by award winning artists from the Western states, including the Santa Barbara regions.

Ahn “The Sentinel”

“Lake Michigan Avenue at Night”

Waterhouse Gallery was established in 1984 by Ralph & Diane Waterhouse. In 1991 the Gallery moved to its present location at the corner of State Street and Figueroa in La Arcada, a beautiful courtyard in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Cultural District. Waterhouse Gallery is close to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, the historic Courthouse and is surrounded by first class restaurants with ample parking in nearby city lots.

Slawson “Summer Days”

Nelson “Upper Westside”

Gallery Hours – Daily 11am to 5pm

WATERHOUSE GALLERY
La Arcada, 1114 State Street, Suite 9
Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Diane and Ralph Waterhouse
phone: (805) 962-8885
email art@waterhousegallery.com

The works shown on the Waterhouse Gallery website depict their entire inventory, which is constantly changing. For more information, please visit the website:

www.waterhousegallery.com

Rodrigo Gimenez Cocinero Catering

nancys — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 19:29:33 +0000

Interested in learning more about traditional asado (BBQ) and Argentinian-inspired menus for your next event or dinner party with friends? Private chef Rodrigo Gimenez’s goal is to provide intimate events that highlight his unique menus, but also the experience of preparing the food in the traditional Argentinian way of slowing cooking over embers.

“I want to create a very Argentinian experience which involves talking around the fire as the food slowly cooks over the embers and generally creating a very relaxed atmosphere that encourages everyone to slow down and enjoy the food over several hours,” he explains.

Born in Mendoza, Argentina, Rodrigo Gimenez first pursued a career in architecture before he became interested in food, delving into many varieties of cuisine and expanding his knowledge of fine food. He went on to spend five years in Italy, where his passion for
food and cooking flourished.

Catering Private Events

His catering company, Rodrigo Gimenez Cocinero, specializes in his unique fusion of Italian and Argentinean cuisines. Rodrigo offers a wide variety of specialty foods including the traditional technique of Argentinean wood fire cooking.

Gimenez uses three forms of authentic South American grills to cook his meat- A la Chapa, a grilling technique, which consists of placing meat between two burning wood; Al Disco, essentially an iron disk set above a fire, and A la Llama, mainly used for larger pieces of meat that are set standing next to wood burning fires to achieve the perfect blend of smoky, crispy outside, yet juicy and tender inside.

The menu consists of a wide variety of food, ranging from bocados (small appetizers) and empanadas to Iberico Ham and Pears with Parsley, Olive Oil and Garlic Sauce,Leg of Lamb in Malbec Stew, Pork Tenderloin with Burnt Brown Sugar, Orange Confit and Thyme, Salt Baked Trout with Parsley, Olive Oil and Garlic Sauce, oranges wrapped in bacon and anchovy bruschetta and Brie cheese and honeycomb desserts.

Empanadas and Chimichurri To Go

Order empanadas (frozen or cooked) and chimichurri sauces for pickup at the Goodland Kitchen in Goleta. For large or special orders please contact Rodrigo directly at empanadas@rgcocinero.com.

Cooking Classes

Rodrigo is available to teach private group classes in your home. Coming soon… If you’re interested in learning Argentinian grilling techniques or how to make empanadas and chimichurri sauces, upcoming classes will be held at the Goodland Kitchen in Goleta.

Rodrigo Gimenez Cocinero

Catering | Private Chef

805 450 3583

e-mail info@rgcocinero.com

A complete list of menu items can be found on the website:

www.rgcocinero.com

Lily in Montecito

nancys — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 23:08:37 +0000

Style mavens love Lily, a jewel box of a boutique located in Montecito with an eclectic mix of exclusive jewelry, designer clothing and exquisite gifts.

Hand embroidered silk kaftan from Lebanon, also available in creme-on-creme.

Mosaic mirrors from Thailand.

Local designers Vasant brings color and fun to her exceptional line of jewelry.

Italian glass bath accessories and locally made goat’s milk soaps and salts with essential oils…Lavender, Coconut and Garden Bouquet fragrances.

Quality handbags and sandals from well-known designer, Calleen Cordero.

Driftwood heart…ideal for a treasured wedding gift.

Dramatic Maharani Collection of Indian inspired jewelry.

STORE HOURS are Monday-Saturday 10-5:30pm, Sunday 11-4 pm.

1131 Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA

Linda O’Hare/Owner 805. 695.0625

E-mail: lilyinsb@gmail.com

Landscape Designer Pat Brodie

nancys — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 21:55:57 +0000

Pat Brodie has been creating gardens in Santa Barbara for the past 18 years. She has an eclectic design style and draws inspiration from Asian as well as traditional European gardens.

Originally from the East coast, Pat Brodie began her studies in landscape design and ornamental horticulture. Having spent 4 years in Japan and traveling throughout South East Asia, many of her gardens reflect these design influences, but her gardens always represent the Santa Barbara lifestyle of indoor/outdoor living and entertaining.

Pat is known for creating a mood; a place where people tend to linger and explore beyond what may be around the corner. Her knowledge of plant material, as well as a keen interest in garden and hard scape design, allow her to create inspirational, yet functional garden settings.

“Creating gardens is like painting in three dimensions. I love to play with texture and shades of green, fine grassy foliage against a hard stone or shiny broad leaves, splashes of color. ”

“I try to awaken all the senses. It may be the sound of water and birds, or the fragrance of flowers and herbs. The garden is a forever changing place where each season gives us something to look forward to,” Pat comments.

Pat Brodie’s work has been featured on many local garden tours, her garden projects have be published in Sunset Magazine, LA Times, and on Home and Garden Television.

_______________________________________________

Pat Brodie Landscape Design

P.O. Box 50345

Santa Barbara, CA 93150

(805) 969-4157

email pat@brodiedesign.com

__________________________________________________

Visit website:

www.brodiedesign.com

Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects Montecito Modern

nancys — Sun, 19 Aug 2012 02:55:11 +0000

A simple, yet elegant Montecito home that incorporates outdoor living, with an open floor plan that allows for both comfortable family living and entertaining.

Project architect Dave Mendro states, “What I have found to be most rewarding about our design for Tom Thayer’s home is the way people respond to the house…everyone that sees it loves it. I think its telling that if you asked anyone here in our office, from the young single people, to young couples, to older folks with families and kids; we can all see ourselves living there. This house strikes a chord with people.”

Over the years many of the firm’s clients have preferred project designs that have tended to be larger, more detailed and more elaborate. The owner’s vision was something much simpler. For this home design they went back to the basics.

“We went with what is essential and needed for modern living. Nothing extra, over the top, or overdone. The resulting size, scale and the understated feel of the home is special. It has everything that is essential for modern living, but it also has a Zen-like simplicity and elegance. There is definitely something to be said for going back to the basics and focusing on the essentials,” Mendro explains.

The indoor/outdoor relationship is key. The owner had lived in the Hedgerow neighborhood for years and had never noticed the quiet property behind the large hedge. To his credit, he wanted to preserve that secluded hedgerow feel and have the house design take advantage of and build upon the beautiful landscape. The team started with the idea of a courtyard design. The house embraces the site with north and south courtyards.

Large door and windows open directly onto the landscape, the fountain pool, and the distant mountain views and the sunlight. It is quintessential California indoor-outdoor living.

The great room design is accommodating for both living and entertaining. The size, scale, furnishings and amenities of the space are ideal, making it comfortable for the owner when he is alone and when family is visiting.

The space also works well for larger gatherings and entertaining. With the flow of the space, the kitchen, dining, living room arrangement, the way the room opens up seamlessly to the north and south courtyards, the house can comfortably accommodate entertaining on a grand scale.

“Another attribute I love about the design is what I would term as soft modernism. It was a valuable learning experience, working with local interior designer, Micholyn Brown. She has a great sensibility and everything she does is refined and elegant. But unlike many modern interior designs, it is also natural, tactile, and soft around the edges.

This sensibility transfused throughout her interiors and the building design.The result is elegant, modern, yet comfortable living spaces. You don’t feel like you’re living in a precious hard-edged glass house and that your life is dictated by the design. It is rather the opposite; the house is the perfect backdrop for comfortable elegant modern living and entertaining. And the owner’s outstanding taste in design and artwork certainly added to the process and final design.”

“It was a true team approach with none of the egos, conflicts, problems that can sometimes arise. I have to give credit to the homeowner, Tom Thayer. He is a producer by profession. He knows how to put together a talented team, provide a strong vision for what he wanted to achieve, and then step away and let the creative team do the work. When it’s your own home, it becomes personal and its not always easy to take that step back and let the creative team do their work.”

“Tom created an environment where we could all do our best.” says Mendro.

Photography/Ciro Coelho

The process for the project, from start to finish, was a a rewarding experience for all involved. “We were blessed with a wonderful team that included the homeowner, general contractor Rich Coffin, interior designer Micholyn Brown, and landscape architect Jeffrey Gordon Smith.”

General contractor Rich Coffin was involved from the beginning of the design process. The architects worked closely with Rich and his subcontractors, tailoring the design to meet Tom’s budget. Rich’s goal was to build the home in the most efficient cost-effective way possible. The house was constructed in only six months, on budget, with practically no changes and no compromises in quality. “This process is a model for the way we want to design projects in the future. The bar has been set high,” Mendro comments.

888 Linden Avenue

Carpinteria California 93013

805.684.8885

email: info@nmaarchitects.com

To view Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects portfolio, visit the website:

www.nmaarchitects.com

Cabana Home Designs for SB Design House and Garden

nancys — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 20:36:47 +0000

Steve and Caroline Thompson of Cabana Home designed a guest room suite for the Santa Barbara Design House and Gardens, 2012, using their signature style of mixing modern and traditional.

To Caroline and Steve Thompson, owners of Cabana Home, the essence of their store symbolizes the distinctive Santa Barbara lifestyle, relaxed sophistication. This husband and wife design team have built or redesigned 28 homes in Dallas, Santa Fe and Santa Barbara. Through the years they have mastered the art of creating beautiful living spaces, which have graced the covers of national design publications.

Steve and Caroline Thompson explain, “Our inspiration for our rooms in the Santa Barbara Design House and Garden started with the pumpkin-colored tile in the bathroom, which was installed before we started the project. The orange accents could have been a bit limiting in developing our color scheme. We decided to tie in the blue family – the complementary color to the orange family – in a “sea glass” shade to add life and balance to the story.”

“Architecturally, the house is classic with an East Coast vibe, so putting a Cabana Home/California twist on the interiors was essential to our team. Our signature is the juxtaposition of modern and traditional, so you’ll see antiques and one-of-a-kind items paired with contemporary pieces.”

The rooms share common elements that allow them to flow one to the other, subtly tying them together with a flair without being fussy.

The furniture is classic with a twist–a Cabana Home specialty. Cabana Home interiors strike a balance between traditional and contemporary elements. It is an approach frequently seen in European homes, where furniture and objects passed down through generations mingle with modern elements. Every Cabana Home interior is tailored exclusively to the client’s taste and is a hallmark of gracious living.

Cabana Home Design Team Steve and Caroline Thompson, Margaret Watson
Photography/Mark Lohman

Cabana Home is a home furniture and accessories store and interior design studio that symbolizes the distinctive California lifestyle, where natural beauty and spectacular scenery meet relaxed luxurious living. In addition to home furniture, accessories and custom fabrics and upholstery, the store also offers complete Interior Design services.

Downtown Santa Barbara (Between Pacific Coast Highway 101 and the ocean)

Operating Hours:

Open Mon thru Saturday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Sundays closed.

805.962.0200

email:

info@cabanahome.com

Visit the Cabana Home website: www.cabanahome.com

Thompson Naylor Architects Design French Normandy Home

nancys — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 19:53:04 +0000

A remodel and addition to an existing single story 3,440 square foot tract home on 2.9 acres, led to the creation of a charming French Normandy, 5 bedroom home, ideally sited on a heavily wooded lot at the end of a private lane in Hope Ranch.

The owner saw “what the house could become” and worked closely with architect Susette Naylor, of Thompson Naylor Architects, to design the home for the couple and their four teenage children. “She brought an enthusiasm based on her own experience and love for the French Normandy style and an understanding of what was needed to reinvent a basic tract house into a welcoming family retreat. To work with a client whose vision had that scope and richness was ideal, ” Susette comments.

“We were always mindful of the site – the views, the oaks everywhere on the property, and the romanticism of the style, but most important was the functionality and livability for the family. Each room was individual in its detail and expression but they all merged together through the use and flow of the family members. This manifestation of family life and their closeness was a goal for our work together; from determining where the laundry room would work best to the bedrooms nestled in the steep roof, looking down to the lagoon, creating a storybook effect,” Susette explains.

The family room was designed to accommodate the children and their many friends, just as the rest of the house was meant to be warm and welcoming. In addition to making sure that the layout of the floor plan provided for the right type of circulation and gathering spaces, paying attention to aspects of the design (ranging from faithfulness to the larger structural expression of heavy timber, down to the ornamental aspects of the delicate tracery of trim pieces) allowed for an enlivening of the architecture and home through the interplay of space and textures, and the modeling of space through light and activity.

Susette Naylor’s resume reflects a varied and diverse background – besides her Master in Architecture her academic degrees include an Anthropology A.B and a Masters in East Asian Studies. Her work history spans a variety of roles including serving as the Director of a joint educational project at Stanford and U.C. Berkeley to being principal designer for residential and institutional projects in Namibia, Africa.

This background has served not only to inform her work in her current position as partner in Thompson Naylor Architects but also her involvement in the community. She has been privileged to serve over the years in diverse ways; as a Human Services Commissioner for Santa Barbara County, being a part of the Guidelines subcommittee while a member of the Montecito Architectural Review Committee and the Process Improvement effort for the Planning and Development Department at the County of Santa Barbara. She was a member and chair of the Historic Landmarks Commission for the City of Santa Barbara, and a task force member of the Historic Resource Element of the General Plan.

(805) 966-9807

Email

susette@thompsonnaylor.com

VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION:

www.thompsonnaylor.com

Villa de la Guerra Historical Renovation by Leonard Unander Associates

nancys — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 21:43:59 +0000

Located steps from the Old Mission Santa Barbara, this historical residence was originally designed by Francis Townsend Underhill for the de la Guerra family in 1910.

Leonard Unander Associates, Inc., a Santa Barbara General Contractor, worked closely with the current owners, the Santa Barbara Historical Commission, and Kent Mixon Architect to restore the home while maintaining the original vision of Underhill’s design.

The restoration included all new infrastructure and systems, complete renovation of all interior and exterior finishes, and the re-construction of many of the existing stacked sandstone site walls. The entire building perimeter was excavated to expose the original foundation and allow for the significant structural retro-fit work and proper waterproofing of the subterranean living spaces.

The scope of work also included the addition of a subterranean two car garage, master bathroom, patio terrace, and swimming pool.

LUA worked closely with the Santa Barbara Historical Commissioner to replicate the detailing of the original design and in many cases created full-scale templates of existing features in order to ensure that the finished product matched the original.

Many of the original doors and windows were restored to their original condition.

The existing wood floors were protected for the duration of construction and refinished upon completion.

Meticulous attention to detail has marked LUA’s work since their inception as a Santa Barbara Contractor in 1977, and every project is a testament to their characteristic quality and craftsmanship.

Established in 1977, Leonard Unander Associates, Inc. is an award winning Santa Barbara Contractor. The custom homes built and remodeled by LUA in Santa Barbara, Montecito, Hope Ranch, and Santa Ynez are a lasting testament to the quality and craftsmanship that is the focus of each project.

Leonard Unander is a third generation Santa Barbara builder and has been joined in the business by his two sons, Leonard and Clint, and son-in-law, Brandon Friggione. This powerful team continues to provide discerning clients with the exceptional construction process and finish product that has made LUA one of Santa Barbara’s premier residential construction companies.

What LUA, Inc. clients are saying:
“We have built &/or remodeled over 15 high end homes in 3 states (California, Hawaii, & Washington). Nobody compared to LUA in terms of quality & attention to detail. If you have high standards & you want to be assured of the best possible outcome, there is really no other choice.”
- Rowland and Mary Hanson

“We chose LUA as the builder of our dream house because we were impressed by the family nature of the firm, their long experience in Santa Barbara, their good relations with the best subcontractors, their attention to detail and their integrity. They worked closely with our architect and our owner’s rep early on the project, which enabled significant cost savings via value engineering. They never deviated from best building practices. The quality of the work and professionalism of the supervision and management was superb. We are extremely happy with the finished product, Villa Ravello. We cannot recommend LUA highly enough.”
- Floyd Bradley

1328 De La Vina Street, Suite A
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
P 805.682.5685

Contact emails:
Clint Unander: clint@unanderconstruction.com
Leonard Unander, Jr.: leonard@unanderconstruction.com
Leonard Unander, Sr.: leonardsr@unanderconstruction.com
Brandon Friggione: brandon@unanderconstruction.com

For more information about LUA, a Santa Barbara Contractor, please visit the website:

Allen Associates Builds Home Using Green Features

nancys — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 18:50:16 +0000

After losing their original ranch style home to the Jesusita Fire, the owners realized they had been given an opportunity to build their dream home. Their goals were to build a Tuscan-style farmhouse oriented on the property to take advantage of the site’s natural amenities; the oak trees, mountain views and to have a large, welcoming kitchen as the center of the home.

Working closely with Allen Associates builders and Wade Davis Design, the entire family had input on the project, located in the Mission Canyon area. With a limited budget, the new home is small yet elegant. Marble floors throughout the downstairs, carved cedar corbels and columns from a 200-year-old Pakistan mosque, and a large pizza oven in the dining room are some of its unique features.

The simple massing and roof forms of the Tuscan architectural style helped to keep down both material usage and overall construction cost. The home is a Built Green Three Star rated project. Built Green is a self certification program sponsored by the
Santa Barbara Contractors Association.

The program has five levels – the Four and Five Star levels require 3rd party certification of energy measures. The Three Star level is the highest green level without 3rd party certification.

Building Features:
Energy Efficient
• Icynene insulation
• Heat Recovery Ventilator – for filtration and ventilation
• Energy efficient windows
• Energy Star furnace (95% AFUE)
• No air conditioning; the location and orientation of operable windows and doors capture the cooling breezes and allow for cross ventilation in the house; ceiling fans in all rooms.

The goal of the landscape design was to provide a functional outdoor space with low water use, low maintenance and fire resistant design. The home owners’ careers and lifestyles revolve around food, family and community. The landscape had to provide ample space for entertaining and contain a large variety of edible plants.

Landscape designer Pat Brodie explains, “We really tried to keep this a low maintenance garden and it has proven to be just that. With no lawn to mow, the garden crew can easily maintain the garden and schedule visits for every other week.”

Landscape Green Elements:
• Edible
To achieve this goal, three raised beds were created for seasonal vegetables and annual herbs. Perennial herbs and edibles were incorporated into the garden beds. Rosemary was used as a border defining the outdoor living space. Support for fruiting vines was provided. Several varieties of olives, citrus and deciduous fruit trees were planted in free flowing orchard like areas.

• Fire resistant
The landscape follows the guidelines set by the City of Santa Barbara for firescape design. Plants have been kept to a minimum adjacent to the house and a permeable gravel patio surrounds the home. Trees are planted 25’ away from structures and no vines are attached to the building.

• Low water use plant selection
Plant selections were made specifically for the micro climate of this site. California natives and insectary plants (plants attracting beneficial insects) were used along garden perimeter.

• Permeable paving
Decomposed granite was used for pathways and the driveway. Crushed ‘Bark Brown’ gravel was used for the patio.

• Natural resources protected
Existing Oak trees and native plants were protected. No invasive plants were introduced. Graded to keep all run off water on site. All landscaped areas covered with a 3’’ layer of mulch to conserve soil moisture and prevent erosion.

Erin Feinblatt & Lauren DeBell/photographers

Allen Associates SB Headquarters
201 N. Milpas Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Phone: (805) 884-8777
Fax: (805) 884-0029

Ventura Office
963 East Main Street, Ventura, CA 93001
Phone: (805) 641-0839
Fax: (805) 641-0889

To view full services and portfolio:

Ferguson-Ettinger Architects

On Location: Kenya Photography

nancys — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 15:30:04 +0000

Jeffrey Doornbos’ photography portfolio “On Location: Kenya,” is a collection of fifty plus images, which reflect Mr. Doornbos’ personal perspective on various aspects of the Kenyan lifestyle. Each image evokes the specialness of what are everyday occurrences, in this most
amazing part of the world.

“I didn’t want to just have pictures that document what I saw. I wanted them to be artful and evocative. One of the things I love about the process of movie making is that the story you end up with, is often times different than the story you start telling when you first put pen to paper. For me, it’s the same with moving pictures as it is with still photography.

Some of the shots that ultimately stand out in the end are pictures which, at the time of snapping the shutter, didn’t seem to be unique or remarkable in anyway. And other times, the ones I thought would certainly be stellar images, turn out to be expected and obvious.

It’s not until I see the shot, sometimes weeks later, that the elements of the story become clear. In all cases, I try to let the picture reveal the story it wants to tell, and then, like an old-school typesetter, set each stamp in place, making it ready for the printer.” – Jeffrey Doornbos

A portion of the proceeds from sales will benefit The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi.

Jeffrey Doornbos is a film-maker, actor, and veteran member of the international sensation Blue Man Group. He joined his girlfriend, local retailer Caroline Diani, on a trip to Kenya in December, and fell in love with the country and its people. As evidence, he took thousands of images, and after months of concentrated work editing them down, he has produced a body of 50+ images, that memorialize his experience. The sizes range from 5″x5″, 10″x10″, 20″x20″, & 30″x30″, depending on the image. Custom orders are also available.

For more information: OnLocationKenya@gmail.com

To purchase online, please visit the website:

www.OnLocationKenya.com

Spare Parts Dining Experience

nancys — Thu, 02 Aug 2012 21:38:59 +0000

Spare Parts is a concept rather than a physical location. Each week’s menu is unique and grows out of seasonally available products combined with the chef’s love for organ meats and off cuts. Every menu contains at least one dish composed of lesser known ingredients in an attempt to take the diner outside of their comfort zone.

Weston Richards is the Chef and co-founder of Spare Parts. He has been a chef in Santa Barbara for over 10 years, including 3 years as Chef de Cuisine of The Wine Cask and as the Sous Chef of Julienne for the past 4 years. He recently partnered with Alvaro Rojas of Space Untitled Inc., the parent group of several Santa Barbara restaurants including Milk & Honey, Alcazar and Meat & Potatoes. Together they host a “pop-up” dinners at various locations each week under the name “Spare Parts”. Each dinner has a fixed menu of 5 courses with approximately twenty guests in attendance.

“Our guerilla dining model allows us to not only appear in a variety of locations but also to craft a complete experience for our guests without being constrained by the brick and mortar of any one venue. One of my favorite parts about this format is hearing a diner say “Wow, I didn’t think I would like that, but that was really good!” Richards comments.

Spare Parts also refers to the fact that nearly all of the equipment, plates, silverware, and even tables have been, borrowed, donated, scavenged or reclaimed.

The Spare Parts dining experience is set apart from a typical restaurant in that it asks the diners to leave their experience entirely in the hands of the Chef. This allows the diner to experience each dish exactly the way it was envisioned. Diners are seated at a communal table (hand-crafted from reclaimed lumber by the owners), and invited to chat with each other and share wine by means of a small L’ombretta glass.

This informal tradition has really taken off and has become one of the signature aspects of the Spare Parts experience, adding to the overall convivial feel of an intimate dinner party.

The typical Spare Parts menu consists of 5 courses created from locally sourced, seasonally available produce, meat, and seafood.

$75 per person cash donation. Diners are invited to bring along a bottle of wine or beverage of their choice to enjoy with the meal.

(sample menu)

For more information, visit the blog for a list of past menus.

Join the mailing list and receive updates about future pop-up dining events:

www.sparepartsbistro.blogspot.com

A Willard Francis Modernist-Style Country Retreat

nancys — Thu, 02 Aug 2012 16:35:16 +0000

Beautifully nestled onto 6.34 acres, this impeccably restored home was designed by Willard Francis, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright, in the modernist style of architecture. The architectural firm Shubin and Donaldson were responsible for the design of the guest house and renovation and addition to the main house. All of the original details (wood work, metal windows and doors with original hardware, hand-crafted copper roof, and mitered corner windows) have been restored or rebuilt.

The western wing of the one story floor plan includes a gracious living room with adjacent formal dining area, a well appointed office, gourmet kitchen with breakfast room, various utility rooms and a large bedroom, gym or media room with full bath.

The eastern wing has three bedrooms, a delightful sitting room with fireplace plus a large master suite with two large dressing rooms and a beautifully designed master bath. The majority of the southern facing rooms are open onto the terraces and enjoy the panoramic ocean views. Large picture windows bring an abundance of light and views of the gardens into the interior of the home.

A two bedroom guest house offers the same quality of construction and detail as found in the main home. It provides a living room with fireplace, a kitchenette, private patio, large office and a two car garage. All of the inner workings of the house are of the highest quality. There are plans for a large barn/out building and gas pipes have been laid in the ground for a pool if one is desired.

Offset by a full horizon view of the Pacific Ocean to the south and a dynamic mountain expanse to the north, the property includes mature oaks, olives and an assortment of fruit trees, as well as over two acres of avocado trees which are serviced by an agricultural meter. There are copious beds of seasonal flowers, abundant roses and vegetable gardens. Original stone patios are the inspiration for the well designed walkways which meander throughout the grounds.

Frank Lloyd Wright believed in designing structures which were in harmony with humanity and its environment, a philosophy he called organic architecture. This remarkable home beautifully fulfills that vision.

_____________________________

Style: Modernist
Year Built: 1937
Lot Size: 6.34 ± Acres
Main House Bedrooms/Baths: 5 / 4 Baths & 1 Powder Room
Guest House Bedrooms/Baths: 2 / 1 Bath

_____________________________

Willard Francis Modernist-style Country Retreat
Carpinteria, California
$5,995,000

Sotheby’s International Realty®

1106 Coast Village Road

HARRY KOLB

Telephone: 805.452.2500

Harry@HarryKolb.com

For details on this listing visit:

www.sbestatehomes.com

Santa Barbara Design House and Gardens Designers

nancys — Mon, 30 Jul 2012 23:51:13 +0000

The Santa Barbara Design House and Gardens featured the work of designers Ryan Brown, Linda Chase, Caroline & Steve Thompson, Jaime Dietenhofer, LuLu DK & Carla Lane, Mary McDonald, David Phoenix, Ann Sutherland, Katerina Tana, Mark Weaver, Steven Weinstock and Michelle Workman.

Joining forces with the Jr. League of Santa Barbara, developers Joanie and Dennis Franz created a Design House and Garden project in Montecito. The shingle style estate, designed by architect Peter Becker, features a tree-lined drive, swimming pool, bocce ball court and an elegant two bedroom cabana.

Some of California’s most prominent designers and trade resources are working to created the perfect marriage of east coast style and west coast living.
A highlight of the talented designers involved with the 2012 Design House and Gardens:

Mary McDonald – Kitchen, Family Room & Loggia
Award winning Los Angeles-based designer and star of BRAVO! Million Dollar Decorators, Mary McDonald is one of today’s most sought after taste makers. McDonald’s style combines old-world elegance with a modern sensibility resulting in a fearless iconic style. Her ability to combine bold patterns, Chinoiserie, and classic influences with an impeccable sense of color has established her signature style. House Beautiful says “her work is timeless and glamorous all spun together with a keen fashion sense…. she’s a fearless, exuberant accessorizer.”

www.marymcdonald.com

David Phoenix – Master Suite
David Phoenix has earned his reputation as one of the country’s most influential designers with 20 years of design experience, fifteen at the helm of his own firm. House Beautiful recognized his talent, and awarded him the title of one of America’s Top Young Designers. David Phoenix has earned his reputation as one of the country’s most influential designers with 20 years of design experience, fifteen at the helm of his own firm. House Beautiful recognized his talent, and awarded him the title of one of America’s Top Young Designers. Whether it is an individual room or an entire residence, he draws from a multitude of styles, juxtaposing contemporary and classic, bold and subdued, to achieve a look that is inspired by the goals and aspirations of the Owner for the ambiance of their living space, rather than by a particular design vernacular or popular trend. He provides a wide range of services for his elite clientele, from consulting and space planning to the acquisition of art and antiques.

www.davidphoenix.com

Caroline and Steve Thompson – Cabana Home – Office, Guest Bedroom and Bath
Caroline and Steve Thompson, owners of Cabana Home, aim to capture the essence of California living at their design studios and home furnishings stores in Santa Barbara and Mill Valley. Recognizing California’s distinct appetite for casual and effortless style, the Thompsons take this taste for ease and combine it with a need for luxury and elegance. Between Santa Barbara, Santa Fe, and Dallas, the Thompsons have built or redesigned nearly thirty homes. The couple has mastered the art of creating interiors that are chic without being fussy; informal but with flare. Devoted collectors of contemporary art, the Thompsons also work with Edward Cella Art + Architecture, a gallery in Los Angeles, to showcase artist exhibitions in their retail space.
www.cabanahome.com

Ryan Brown – Guest Suite
Brown Design Group, founded by Ryan Brown, is a residential and commercial interior design firm based in California with offices in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. His passion for creating stylish, organic and contemporary spaces is matched by his efficiency and creativity in all of their projects. Utilizing a mixture of modern and rustic design components with simple and clean lines, the firm captures twenty-first century California living in a way that rejuvenates, inspires and encompasses the essence of living well.
www.browndesigninc.com

Linda Chase – Designer for Pavilion, Pool Bedroom & Bath suite, Gardens, and Outdoor Kitchen
Linda Chase began working in design over twenty-five years ago in a firm that specialized in the architectural design of national and international luxury commercial properties. She established her own design firm in New York City in 1984 and opened offices in Los Angeles in 1989. Her commercial design projects include the executive offices of Time Warner, Inc. located at Rockefeller Center, New York City, Palazzo Boutique in Beverly Hills and a collaboration on Twin Palms restaurants in Pasadena and Laguna Nigel, CA.
www.lindachaseassociates.com

Michelle Workman Transforms the SBDHG’s Living Room
“Interior design should embody the spirit and architectural style of the individual whose home is being transformed – literally, a physical manifestation of the client’s most inherent attributes”. As one of Hollywood’s most sought-after interior designers, with offices in Los Angeles and San Francisco, Michelle Workman possesses a client roster that includes such esteemed and influential individuals as Jennifer Lopez, John Travolta & Kelly Preston, Kirstie Alley and Leah Remini.
www.michelleworkman.com

Ann Sutherland – Front Porch
Headed by Ann Sutherland, Square Foot Studio’s clients include residential, institutional, office and restaurant projects. Sutherland appreciates and utilizes contemporary products and furnishings in her work and customizes products to reflect the needs of the client. All projects combine the highest of quality to achieve a luxury installation.  With 30 years in the trade as both a product and interior designer, Sutherland is also the president of the successful outdoor textile company, Perennials. In addition, she holds the title of President of the David Sutherland Showroom entity, with six domestic showrooms. She is active in the industry, participating as a popular guest speaker, panelist and advisor for numerous design industry events.
www.squareftstudio.com

Mark Weaver – Dining Room and Foyer Designer
“Good architecture, proper lighting, and sensitivity to scale and proportion are the elements that crate a great space or great room,” says Mark Weaver, who for more than 30 years has treated Los Angeles, and the world to a very special kind of interior design. Successful design comes from a seamless cohesion of antique and contemporary furnishings. Most important is the active collaboration between designer and client; a collaboration of ideas that demand of the designer acute listening and perception skills, as well as solid design instincts. Mark uses his considerable resources and vast product knowledge to integrate the old with the new, creatively blending clean, modern lines with classical projects filled with fine quality art and antiques.
www.markweaver.com

Carla Lane - Children’s Suite Designer
Los Angeles based , Carla Lane, is quickly becoming the go to designer for children’s rooms. Lane received her BFA in Art History and painting and infused her projects with color and pattern. Since establishing her residential design firm in 2006 she’s applied her eclectic California aesthetic to homes from Beverly Hills to Hancock Park and New York City.
www.carlalaneinteriors.com

Katerina Tana Designs – Cabana
Katerina Tana Design was founded in 1998. Katerina Tana is a Venice, CA based designer of homes, gardens and products. Centuries Ahead by Katerina Tana is her collection of unique tables featuring custom made tiles from the Iznik Foundation in Turkey. These museum quality pieces are the collectible treasures of years to come. A native Angeleno, but raised in London, spending summers on the Adriatic coast. A self-proclaimed citizen of the world, her travels have taken her as far a field as Bhutan, Burma, India and Tanzania. Her atelier space on Abbot Kinney Boulevard is a hive of activity with a wide array of current projects, all infused with the idyllic glow of Southern California. Katerina’s Belgian Linen textile line, Katerina Tana Collection-LOOM, is represented across the US at the David Sutherland showrooms, as well as showrooms in San Francisco and London.
www.katerinatanadesign.com

The national media sponsor, Traditional Home, along with the regional media sponsor, California Homes, have partnered with the Franzes and the Jr. League to undertake this gracious development with additional exciting exposure on season two of the BRAVO! network’s Million Dollar Decorators and an HGTV Special.

A visit with some of the SB Design House and Garden designers:

Visit the SBDHG website for more information:

www.sbdhg.com

Luxurious Downtown Condominium

nancys — Sun, 29 Jul 2012 21:31:32 +0000

Sophisticated downtown Santa Barbara living at its best. Luxury and style in this beautifully appointed, contemporary-style one bedroom, 2 bath, 1800 sq. ft. condominium. Listed with Diane Waterhouse/Sotheby’s International Realty.

This quality condo features high ceilings, hardwood floors, fireplace, viking appliances and granite counter tops in the gourmet kitchen.

There is a gated entrance, charming courtyard with fountain and lush landscaping, and a gated underground gated parking area.

Conveniently located in the heart of Santa Barbara, within walking distance to restaurants, theaters and shopping areas.

______________________

121 W De La Guerra Street, # 5
SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101
Price: 1,200,000
Bedrooms: 1
Bathrooms: 2

_______________________

Listed with Diane M. Waterhouse
License #: 01257696

Cell 805-886-2988

Sotheby’s International Realty
1436 State Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101-2309

Agent’s E-Mail
ladydirealtor@gmail.com

Web Site:
www.dianewaterhousesotheby’s.com

Montecito Modern Residential Remodel

nancys — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 23:26:49 +0000

The house remodel of a Montecito contemporary home, designed by Brett Ettinger of Ferguson-Ettinger Architects and built by Allen Associates Custom Home Building Division, has received a Grand Award from the 2012 EcoHome Design Awards.

Originally built in 1973, this Sycamore Canyon home had modern bones but lacked refinement. The major challenge for both the architect and builder was taking this small house; preserving its modest sensibility and making it feel grander than it was, then coming back almost surgically and giving it the craft and elegance it never had. The key sustainability goal for the project was to keep the home’s footprint small, while embracing the beauty and solitude of the site’s landscape.

The project, owned by Brian Donahoo of Montecito, was given the award for “achieving the rare balance between rich architectural design and sustainable performance.” The home is featured in this month’s issue of EcoHome Magazine, which sponsored the award program.

“Montecito Modern” is among this year’s 17 award-winning entries selected from a very strong field that included 104 submissions in eight categories from across the country. An expert panel of judges met for a long day of deliberations in EcoHome’s Washington, D.C., offices, evaluating and comparing each entry, looking for integrated design solutions and certified sustainable performance.

“The jury loved Montecito Modern’s elegant new entrance and acknowledged the project’s sustainability goals of increasing the home’s performance while preserving its compact footprint and protecting the beauty and solitude of the site,” said Christine Serlin, executive editor of EcoHome Magazine.

This is not the first time the merits of this project have been recognized. The home also received Best Residential Remodel up to $500,000 from the Santa Barbara Contractors Association, 2010 Builder of the Year Awards and the Best Whole House Remodel $250,000-$500,000 from Qualified Remodeler Magazine’s 2011 Chrysalis Award.

For more than three decades, Allen Associates has excelled as innovators in the construction industry, with the capacity to handle everything from small remodels to large custom homes and commercial projects.

“We are honored to receive this recognition,” said Bryan Henson, president of Allen Associates. “Allen Associates is committed to building using the best quality in the Santa Barbara area, and this award reflects that. As a custom builder, our goal for our clients is to create homes, offices and commercial buildings that are as resource efficient, comfortable, healthy and beautiful as possible.”

The client’s remodeling dreams were achieved with only 300 sq. ft. of space added to the original structure. Realizing this metamorphosis took careful planning and exact delivery. The result is a beautiful home perfect for the client.

Jim Bartsch Photographer

Allen Associates SB Headquarters
201 N. Milpas Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Phone: (805) 884-8777
Fax: (805) 884-0029

Ventura Office
963 East Main Street, Ventura, CA 93001
Phone: (805) 641-0839
Fax: (805) 641-0889

To view full services and portfolio:

Custom Horse Barn and Arena by Leonard Unander Associates, Inc.

nancys — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 19:20:00 +0000

This project was commissioned as a barn to match the architectural style of its adjacent historically significant Main House and outbuildings and was designed by the local architectural firm, DesignARC, and built by Leonard Unander Associates, Inc., a Santa Barbara Contractor.

The barn and arena were designed for the client to the specific requirements of their equestrian discipline. Herringbone brick floors were laid throughout the barn, with custom stall fronts by Lucas Equine, and exposed wood ceilings.

A custom tack room, kitchen, and ATV garage are other primary features of this project.

“From the very beginning stages of digging and waterproofing our basement to the finish tile, Quality Work at the best “cost/value” relationship possible has always been the method of operation. Our experience with their billing process, accounting system, planning, bid tab process has been excellent. As a final note I must comment on the LUA moral compass and their level of personal and business integrity without blemish.”
- Mark & Cathy Zoradi

“LUA, Inc. is a professional organization of impeccable integrity. They provide a finished product of the highest quality as a result of their willingness to work closely with their clients.”
- Linda and Doug Wood

“While living in New York at the time, my wife and I interviewed many general contractor firms before ultimately deciding on LUA, Inc. We were looking for a company that had an excellent reputation in Santa Barbara for delivering a high quality custom product with a focus on detail. It was also very important to have someone we could trust given we were 2500 miles away while our project was being built. And, we really wanted a firm that was known for keeping the construction site clean and would be respectful of our neighbors during construction. We were thrilled with the results!”
-Tom Kenny & Susan McMillan

1328 De La Vina Street, Suite A
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
P 805.682.5685

For more information about LUA, a Santa Barbara Contractor, please visit the website:

Coast 2 Coast Collections

nancys — Sun, 22 Jul 2012 14:42:43 +0000

The Santa Barbara store is the exclusive authorized retailer in our area representing Christofle fine silver, china, crystal and flatware. In addition, Coast 2 Coast carries Juliska, Vietri, Mariposa and Match dinnerware, serving dishes, glassware, linens and a large array of fine gifts for men, women and infants.

Christofle Porcelain Dinnerware including gold Guilloche Charger Plate, Malmaison Salad Plate, Coffee Cup and Saucer shown with Christofle flatware and crystal.
Mariposa wine coaster, dragonfly dish and ice cream scoop.

Coast 2 Coast has an extensive collection of high quality vintage costume jewelry dating from the 1940’s through the 1990’s featuring Chanel, Christian Dior, Givenchy, Miriam Haskell, Kenneth Jay Lane, Stanley Hagler N.Y. C and many more.

Stanley Hagler N.Y.C. 2012 Brilliant Yellow necklace with Miriam Haskell 1960′s Black & White Flower earrings. Stanley Hagler N.Y.C. White Floral Necklace – summer 2012 collection.

Vietri Dinnerware & Juliska Mouthblown Glassware, Bodrum “Surf” napkin & napkin ring shown on Juliska Country Estate dinnerware.
Ivory Acrylic Mother of Pearl Flatware by Vietri with napkins and napkin rings by Bodrum & Juliska.

Bellezza dinnerware by Vietri with shown with Vietri flatware.

Assorted Napkins and Napkin rings by Vietri, Juliska & Bodrum.

Vietri Incanto Lace Dinnerware with Mariposa Glitz tortoise glassware.
Mariposa Wavy String of Pearls salad bowl with servers.

Aqua sequined clutch with 1950′s Miriam Haskell earrings.
Vietri Dinnerware with Vintage Jeweled Starfish, Stanley Hagler N.Y.C. Aqua Plum Necklace -2012 Summer Collection-shown on Christofle Perles Dinnerware.

Black bead and Swarovski crystal evening bags.

Pewter dinnerware, clock, pitcher, wineglass and frame from Match.

BRIDAL REGISTRY services available and complimentary gift wrapping.

_____________________

Store Hours:
Monday thru Saturday: 10am-6pm Sunday: Noon – 5pm

La Arcada Courtyard, 1114 State Street, Suite 10, Santa Barbara, CA

Phone: 805.845.7888

Email: info@c2ccollection.com

VISIT THE WEBSITE:

www.c2ccollection.com

Sneak Peek into Caroline Diani’s Home

nancys — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 23:23:19 +0000

Caroline Diani, of DIANI Boutique, was born in Kenya, grew up in England and now travels the world. A sneak peek of how past aesthetic influences and cherished treasures, discovered during travel adventures, create a winning combination in the design of her Santa Barbara home in Mission Canyon.

About Caroline Diani

I was born in Kenya, grew up in England and live in Santa Barbara. I travel often.
I’m a buyer for my boutiques and web store. My inspiration for trends comes from observing people in the cafes and on the streets of LA, Paris, and NYC.
I’m a wannabe vegan. I’m a die-hard fashionista.
I’m crazy about my dogs. Routine drives me nuts.
Painting and drawing makes me smile.
I’m a photography addict. My happy place is on my paddleboard.
I heart chocolate covered almonds, and tequila.

Caroline’s home is a casual blend of textures, white walls, driftwood accents and splashes of color taken from nature.

Local photographer Jeff Clark’s aviation photograph is mixed in with family photos.

Hand blown glass balls offering just the right sparkle, in just the right place. Artifacts collected during family trips are found throughout the home and garden.

Wood Burl chair, photos taken of Caroline while growing up in Kenya.

Whitewashed floors and white cabinets create a clean, light color palette in the kitchen.

The master bedroom and bathroom’s soft colors create a soothing space to relax and regenerate.

Year round outdoor living areas provide a space for dining, a comfortable place to read and plenty of room for the family dogs to play.

Fresh herbs from the garden are picked and readily available for summertime meals by the pool.

Photography/Shannon Jayne Miller

DIANI Boutiques in downtown Santa Barbara…

There are two DIANI boutiques, located in an upscale shopping plaza across from the Arlington Theater. The clothing and accessories store is conveniently close to the shoe store, just a few doors away.

Caroline comments, “With quality and understated elegance as trademarks of the DIANI brand, the credo for both DIANI boutiques is simple: We want our clientele to always associate DIANI with style and comfort, and to see that we operate with a certain finesse unique to retail in Santa Barbara.”

“We will always offer exceptional merchandise that will allow clients to make DIANI their one-stop for signature, standout items. Our high standards of presentation and service are what we strive to remain synonymous with our boutiques.”

Be sure to check out Caroline’s style and travel blog at dianiliving.com

VISIT THE DIANI WEBSITE FOR ONLINE SHOPPING:

www.dianiboutique.com

Glen Oaks Stanford White Home

nancys — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 02:16:34 +0000

Nestled in coveted Glen Oaks, an exceptional 1895 Stanford White home set on over 3.5 sprawling acres with ocean glimpses and mountain views is the most charming Montecito estate offered. Whitewashed shingles, columned verandas and intricate finishes speak to the history of this luxurious, exceptionally comfortable estate. Listed with Rebecca Riskin & Associates.

Lovingly and artistically restored in 1994, the original layout and architectural features were largely preserved making this property a rare and enticing find.

In 1895, the Thaw family of Pennsylvania commissioned famed turn of the century architect Stanford White to design the original “Glen Oaks” estate. Best known for projects such as the Washington Square Arch and Madison Square Gardens, White was also famous for designing mansions for some of the most eminent families of the time, including the Astors and Vanderbilts. Though not his first collaboration with the Thaws, “Glen Oaks” is purportedly Stanford White’s only West Coast residential project.

A long drive through sprawling lawns leads to the motor court, where an ancient oak tree, laden with lanterns and Spanish moss, offers a romantic welcome at the front door. A column-lined veranda with multiple seating areas presents the perfect space to relax and relish the lush surroundings outside the 9 bedroom, 10 bath main house.

A grand but unassuming foyer invites guests to separate living and dining spaces, while housing the most charming powder room. To the left, French doors lead to the gorgeously decorated formal living room, complete with a wall of antique mirror surrounding an elegant fireplace. An original arch frames a sunny library with another fireplace and beautiful built-ins.

Down the hall, a fantastic guest suite or playroom with fireplace, wet bar and full bath, and a media room, also with fireplace and bar, have terrace and pool access.

An original arch frames a sunny library with another fireplace and beautiful built-ins. A fantastic guest suite or playroom with fireplace and full bath, and a media room housing an original wet bar, both have terrace and pool access.

To the right of the foyer, beautifully detailed original woodwork graces a large dining room perfect for entertaining and large family gatherings. A temperature-controlled walk-in wine cellar, stunning chandelier, marble fireplace and cozy bay window seating area complete the elegant ambience.

A connecting glass enclosed conservatory provides additional dining space and abundant light, with access to a beautiful garden and trickling stream.

A butler’s pantry with original cabinetry, generous storage and a large walk-in pantry serves as the passageway to a phenomenal, open plan kitchen and family room. A striking river rock fireplace and multiple dutch doors craft a charming, historical feel. Top of the line appliances, oak floors and a large marble island makes the space deluxe yet practical.

Off the main foyer, a sun-drenched staircase leads to a sumptuous master suite with ocean and mountain views, including a fireplace, sun porch and spacious terrace. Intricate, luxurious finishes and climbing rose vines design a dreamy master suite atmosphere.

Two bedroom suites accompany the master wing, one with a mountain view window seat and the other with a loft, perfect for children. Down the hall, a delightful guest suite opens to a terrace with fantastic property views. Several steps travel down to the next wing of the house, containing a guest suite with a freestanding tub, an office or additional bedroom, laundry and full bathroom.

Completing the wing is a gym, office, full bathroom and terrace, plumbed for a kitchenette which could make a great guest apartment. A back staircase provides quick access to the kitchen and family room.

Outside, the grand stone terrace encompasses built-in seating, a striking outdoor fireplace, grill, swimming pool, spa, water feature, cabana and bath. A full indoor kitchen with an ice machine and dishwasher is housed under the cupola, allowing for endless entertaining opportunities.

Vast lawns, palms and oaks slope across the property, while paths lead to a play area with a in-ground trampoline and tree house, a north/south facing tennis court with patio and tennis ball machine, and a charming home, which serves as a second residence on the property with its own drive and gate to East Valley Road. Formerly the bowling alley for the original Glen Oaks Estate, a three bedroom, two bath cottage features an original stone fireplace and woodwork, a sunken living room and bright eat-in kitchen. A vegetable garden, water feature, palms, magnolias, figs and several specimen trees complete the lush surroundings.

Included in the estate are three gated entrances for privacy and a three-car garage. With a total of 12 bedrooms and 12 bathrooms across 3.76 acres comprising two separate parcels, this estate offers one-of-a-kind casual elegance with an abundance of space, beauty and serenity.

Offered at $13,900,000

Rebecca Riskin & Associates
1250 Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA 93108

Office
805.565.8600

email
riskinassoc@villagesite.com

Rebecca Riskin
rebecca@villagesite.com
DRE 00805720 & Associates

Dina Landi
dina@villagesite.com
DRE 01815307

Sarah Kelly
sarah@villagesite.com
DRE 01447045

Visit the website:

www.thedaileymethod.com/santabarbara

A Day in Los Olivos Wine Country

nancys — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 20:14:35 +0000

The charming town of Los Olivos, a Santa Barbara county destination for wine lovers is becoming an LA urbanite get-away, home to boutiques, wine tasting rooms and fine restaurants. Once home to just a handful of vineyards, it now boasts more than 100 wineries. If you’re not a wine lover, you’ll enjoy the rural landscape, fine restaurants, inns and superb boutiques.

Located on the main drag of Los Olivos and nestled among various wineries and tasting rooms, Saarloos & Sons occupies a stately brown bungalow with a spacious lawn, wide porch, and double-wide entrance into the tasting room. The Saarloos family farms every vine themselves so they can bring you the highest quality wine. All of the Wines are under 400 cases in total production and some are as rare as 40 cases. Each wine is a limited release that takes best represents SAARLOOS & sons.

Tucked away on the right side of the tasting room is Enjoy Cupcakes, recently recognized as having some of the best cupcakes in Santa Barbara. The glass case is filled with a selection of delectable wine flavored cupcakes like Chocolate Blackberry Syrah, Tart Ginger Lime Chardonnay and Cherry Vanilla Merlot fill the glass case. Pairings of Saarloos wines and cupcakes have become popular during visits to the tasting room.

Saarloos & Sons & Enjoy Cupcakes
2971 Grand Avenue, Los Olivos CA
805.688.1200

VISIT THE WEBSITES:
saarloosandsons.com

enjoycupcakes.com

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Sides Hardware and Shoes, a Brothers Restaurant

Brothers Matt and Jeff Nichols, chefs and longtime Santa Barbara County restaurateurs, have opened their new restaurant, “Sides Hardware and Shoes, a Brothers Restaurant.” Recreating the American craftsmanship of the early 1900s, the new restaurant is offering full service of breakfast, lunch and dinner. Patrons have the choice of sitting at tables or at the bar that flanks the kitchen.

Sides Hardware and Shoes, a Brothers Restaurant
2375 Alamo Pintado Avenue
Los Olivos, California 93441
(805) 688-4820
Visit the Website: http://www.brothersrestaurant.com

____________________

Global Gardens

Olive Oil Tasting and Gourmet Food Products. They use only the freshest of organic, natural, pesticide-free ingredients to make their exclusive line of extra virgin olive oils, fruit vinegars, appetizer spreads, glazes, savory snacks and confections.

Global Gardens
2477 Alamo Pintado Ave., 805.693.1600
Open Daily 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

____________________

Los Olivos Cafe
The warmth of the wisteria-covered patio welcomes you at the Los Olivos Café. The connection between great wine and impeccable food is immediately apparent as you enter the restaurant. In the center, there’’s a massive concrete fireplace and bar connecting the Café to the Los Olivos Wine Merchant. You”ll find an impressive selection of fine wines produced in the California Central Coast – an exceptional wine list that has earned the Café the Wine Spectator’’s “Best Restaurant for Wines” since 2007.

Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café
P.O. Box 2052879 Grand Avenue
Los Olivos, CA 93441 805.688.7265

Visit the website:
www.losolivoscafe.com

_____________________

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON LOS OLIVOS WINE COUNTRY VISIT: www.losolivosca.com

SBMA Open Free Every Thursday Evening

nancys — Sun, 15 Jul 2012 22:59:02 +0000

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is pleased to announce a sponsorship from JPMorgan Chase that allows the Museum to be open and free to the public every Thursday evening from 5 – 8 pm. The program titled Chase Free Thursday Evenings begins September 6, 2012, and includes access to all galleries, brief docent talks in select exhibitions, and refreshments available for purchase.

Additional programming, such as films, lectures, and live music will be added on occasion.

SBMA’s Robert and Mercedes Eichholz Director Larry Feinberg states, “Through market research conducted last year, we found that an overwhelming number of people wanted to have extended hours at the Museum one night during the week. Thursday seemed an ideal day as we could follow in the footsteps of the success of the Downtown Organization’s 1st Thursday program. It is our hope that the community will begin to think of Thursday evenings as a time to explore the art and culture that Santa Barbara has to offer. We are very thankful for the generosity of JPMorgan Chase, which has enabled us to offer these extended hours for free to the public.”

“The partnership with the Museum affords Chase a great opportunity to further our support for the greater Santa Barbara community, education, arts and culture.” said Peter Barker, Chairman of California for JPMorgan Chase and Santa Barbara resident.

The Museum Café, Museum Store, and the Family Resource Center will also be open during these new hours, starting September 6th, 2012.

JPMorgan Chase Sponsors Free Evenings to Begin September 6
Museum Announces Changes in Admission

The Museum also announces additional changes to their regular admission policy effective September 1, 2012. SBMA is offering free admission to all Santa Barbara County students (from K – college) with current ID/proof of local residency, all Santa Barbara County teachers (K- 12th grade) with current ID, and all active U.S. military and their families with current ID. Also effective is an increase in the regular adult admission price from $9 to $10, and a change to paid admission Sundays. Admission for other students, children, and seniors remains at $6, and free for SBMA Members.

Feinberg adds, “In regards to our other changes in admission, capturing revenue from visitors to Santa Barbara is important, especially in light of the fact that the Museum receives virtually no funding from the government. We also want to make sure we continue to be an accessible resource of art, culture, and education to the local community. We hope that we are fulfilling this need and incentivizing families and educators to visit the Museum by offering free admission to all local students, teachers, and active military all the time, along with the new Chase Free Thursday Evenings.”

Chase is the U.S. consumer and commercial banking business of JPMorgan Chase & Co. Chase serves consumers and businesses in Santa Barbara through 10 branches and more than 950 in the state of California, mortgage offices, and online and mobile banking.

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is a privately funded, not-for-profit institution that presents internationally recognized collections and exhibitions and a broad array of cultural and educational activities as well as travel opportunities around the world.

Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA.
Open Tuesday – Sunday 11 am to 5 pm, Chase Free Thursday Evenings 5 – 8 pm
805.963.4364

Those interested are encouraged to check the Museum’s website at www.sbma.net for more detailed information.

Ciro Coelho Photography

nancys — Sun, 15 Jul 2012 20:34:08 +0000

Brazilian-born, US-based photographer Ciro Coelho’s eclectic career, which includes fashion, documentary and fine art, sets the mood for his interior and architectural images.

Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects

Coelho has been commissioned by world-renowned architectural firms and magazines for his ability to art-direct his own work, consistently capturing each project’s unique qualities with elegance and spontaneity. Coelho’s images have appeared on numerous books and publications in England, Italy, Spain, Germany, The Netherlands, China, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, and Brazil. In the US, they include The New York Times, Interior Design, Architectural Record, Robb Report, Luxe, California Homes, California Homes + Design, Sunset and LA Times Magazine.

Architects/ Barton Myers Associates, Inc.

Fluent in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish, Coelho has lived in four different countries and has traveled the world over. His fine art work is in public and private collections in the US and abroad. He is a guest lecturer on Architectural Photography at the Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, California, where he lives part of the year.

Ciro Coelho is available for US and international assignments. To inquire about his availability, or to purchase limited-edition fine art prints, please contact the photographer.

805-637-2230

27 East Cota St – 5th Floor Suite 503
Santa Barbara, CA 93101

To view Ciro Coelho Photography portfolio, visit:

www.cirocoelho.com

The Dailey Method Studio in Santa Barbara

nancys — Sat, 14 Jul 2012 23:32:52 +0000

The Dailey Method is designed to achieve amazing results in just a few weeks while providing so much more. Classes offer the perfect balance of lengthening and toning, aligning you both physically and mentally. The studio features a sunny retail space and ample on-site parking.

Classes are available multiple times each day, and the Santa Barbara location offers two studios, on-site childcare and a full service locker room.

“The hour-long Dailey Method workout is perfect for busy moms and anyone who wants an efficient and effective workout that provides quick physical results,” said Karen Bradshaw, owner of The Dailey Method Santa Barbara. “Our studio in Santa Barbara will help people achieve the longer, leaner and more toned bodies they seek – in a caring, encouraging and non-competitive atmosphere.”

The studio also features a sunny retail space and ample on-site parking.

Childcare available Monday-Friday at 8:30 & 9:45 classes.

The Santa Barbara Dailey Method Studio

2905 De La Vina Street (near Trader Joe’s)

805.845.1688

For a list of classes visit:

Allen Associates Building Contractors

nancys — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 23:20:43 +0000

Allen Associates specializes in residential and commercial construction for both new and remodel projects, balancing their green building expertise with sound construction practices. Loyal customers in the Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez Valley and Ventura County areas have relied on Allen Associates for objective advice and quality construction for over 30 years.

Allen Associates also has extensive experience in value engineering – the process of looking at a set of plans and suggesting ways to achieve the goal at a reduced cost – to offer their clients competitive pricing.

Allen Associates understands it’s not always easy to make construction decisions for your home and office. That’s why they are your trusted building advisor, helping you to select the appropriate products and systems for your job. “Buildings are like ecosystems, and choices about materials and structure dramatically affect the health of both the building and the occupants,” explains Allen Associates’ President Bryan Henson.

With seven LEED Accredited Professionals on staff, Allen Associates continues to stay on top of the latest developments in building technology and green building practices. Not only do they specialize in green building, Allen Associates has incorporated this philosophy into every aspect of the company. Prior to moving into their current offices, they remodeled the interior space to be an energy efficient and healthy work environment for their employees.

The office, which showcases the same environmentally sensitive products that they recommend to their clients, has won local and national awards for design and construction excellence. The company has established a set of minimum green standards addressing durability, wise use of resources, and energy and water efficiencies that are implemented on every project.

Allen Associates has three divisions that work to combine quality, environmentally sensitive buildings practices, a spirit of innovation and an eye on reducing costs:

Custom Building: Using their green building expertise, Allen Associates constructs custom homes, as well as large and small remodels. They also build unique new commercial projects and remodels.

Building Care & Repair: Why try to fix it yourself? For small repairs and preventative maintenance, existing and past clients can rely on their Building Care & Repair specialists. They can fix and install just about anything in your home.

Building Performance Specialists: Their home performance assessment and contracting service can help you save money on your utility bills, make your home more comfortable and healthier, and help out the environment as well. The company’s goal is to maximize the comfort, safety, durability, and value of buildings while minimizing their operating costs and environmental impact.

“We have maintained our ongoing relationship with Allen Associates for very good reasons. We have been in town long enough to know about the various firms, and there is no doubt that Allen Associates is the most respected in town. They do absolutely first rate work. They have very high standards of both workmanship and craftsmanship and they are extremely well informed about products, green or otherwise, used in residential building projects.”

“Allen Associates has achieved a reputation as one of the premiere local general contractors. They are known for their fine craftsmanship and business integrity. We are always confidant that our designs will be well executed and our clients well taken care of by the firm.”
Dennis Thompson, Thompson-Naylor Architects

Allen Associates SB Headquarters
201 N. Milpas Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Phone: (805) 884-8777
Fax: (805) 884-0029

Ventura Office
963 East Main Street, Ventura, CA 93001
Phone: (805) 641-0839
Fax: (805) 641-0889

To view full services and portfolio:

Day Tripping to Ballard, CA

nancys — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 01:27:13 +0000

Ballard is a combination of sleepy village and upscale bedroom community. The surrounding area is noted for its thriving and well-respected wine industry. The Ballard Inn, a four diamond restaurant and bed and breakfast inn, is in the heart of the village. Comfortably elegant accommodations, attentive staff, and award winning cuisine make The Ballard Inn & Restaurant one of the most sought after small luxury inns in the Santa Barbara Wine Country.

Voted one of America’s Top Ten Most Romantic Inns, it is located in the charming township of Ballard surrounded by the picturesque vineyards and orchards of the Santa Ynez Valley.

The Restaurant at the Ballard Inn is one of the most intimate and romantic dining destinations in the Santa Ynez Valley. With just 12 tables, soft music, candle light, and a roaring fireplace, the atmosphere is elegant and comfortable. During spring and summer, dine outside on the front terrace. Chef Budi Kazali has been named CCM® ‘s Ultimate Chef.

The Ballard Inn & Restaurant is proud to offer a number of outstanding boutique wines in their on-site tasting room. Each vintage poured in the tasting room is produced locally by family owned wineries with small productions; many are only available for tasting at the Ballard Inn. The wineries represented in the Ballard Inn Tasting Room rotate seasonally.

Currently they include a selection of fine wines from Baehner Fournier, Calzada Ridge, Chanin, Kenneth~Crawford, Luminesce, Quail Crossing, Storm and Thorne wineries.

Local Attractions and Activities

Rent mountain bikes, provided by Wheels for Fun, at the Inn and staff will be happy to suggest several routes that are ideal for beginner to advanced riders.

Take an afternoon stroll around the neighborhood and discover the charming Ballard’s Little Red School House, built in 1882 and still in operation today. The Ballard Country Church is an idyllic setting for weddings and celebrations.

Just a few minutes away, Seein’ Spots is small family farm that breeds and sells Mediterranean miniature donkeys.

The Marchi family raises the very finest miniature donkeys, having sought out proven bloodlines from all over the country. The foals are imprinted at birth and cared for daily with loving individual attention. The farm was originally The Ballard Apple farm with over 800 apple trees. They now have 80 trees with 12 different varieties, some of them antique varieties from Europe. Families have been coming to the farm to pick apples for many years, and the picking season runs from late August to November.

Owner Linda Marchi comments, “We started with two little donkeys in 1998 and fell madly in love with these sweet equines. It is our mission to educate everyone possible on how wonderful, intelligent, funny and affectionate these mini donkeys are. Visitors are always welcome at our farm. We offer kiddie rides to small children and encourage everyone get to know these sweet donkeys. We enjoy taking our donkeys to birthday parties and giving rides. Our donkeys have been “servers” at wine tastings and we have packed them with lunches for picnics.”

The family cares for a variety of animals and has rescued many animals including goats, turkeys, ducks, a zonkey, a mule, a pot belly pig, and a giant tortoise.

SEEIN’ SPOTS FARM, 2599 Baseline Avenue, Ballard, CA 93463
OPEN to visitors from 10:00am to 3:00pm Wednesday through Sunday.
VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.seeinspotsfarm.com

Other activities and local attractions

River Course at the Alisal – a 6,830 yards, the par-72 course is challenging but not punishing. The strategic placement of a variety of hazards rewards length and accuracy without severely penalizing casual and recreational golfers. The moderate central California climate and meticulous maintenance provide excellent year-round playing conditions.

Nojoqui Falls – A 15 minute moderate hike on a well maintained trail leads to a beautiful waterfall. The perfect site for a gourmet picnic lunch!

Farmers Market – Offers a unique array of products, fresh produce and flowers. Wednesdays from 4-7 (summer) 3-6 (winter) year round in Solvang.

Maverick Saloon – Visit a real “cowboy bar” and participate in their seasonal offerings such as western dance lessons, NFL night, live local music or comedy night.

Windhaven Glider Rides – The Santa Ynez Valley is one of the most picturesque gliding areas in the country. Surrounded by mountainous national forests, beautiful Lake Cachuma and the valley itself is dotted with vineyards and world class horse facilities.

Theater – Central Coast’s resident professional theater company PCPA Theaterfest is an outdoor seasonal theater located in charming Solvang.

The Ballard Inn & Restaurant
2436 Baseline Avenue
Ballard, CA 93463

800-638-2466 / 805-688-7770
email: innkeeper@ballardinn.com

VISIT THE BALLARD INN & RESTAURANT WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION:

www.ballardinn.com

Enchanting French Country Estate in Hope Ranch

nancys — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 17:38:00 +0000

Nestled between the sea and mountains in the exclusive Hope Ranch community, an approx 13-acre site spans across two of Santa Barbara’s most premiere parcels to showcase an enchanting French country estate. Private gates open to an expansive residence with breathtaking grounds. The drive winds past the charming barn and across a bridge over a peaceful stream and adjoining pond, arriving at a grand motor court and porte-cochere. Listed with Rebecca Riskin & Associates.

Beautiful stonework adorns the home’s exterior while a charming wishing well sits in the entry’s courtyard, all adding to the romantic appeal. Inside the spectacular main home, pitch-beamed ceilings, stone fireplaces, French tile and inlaid oak floors create a warm and elegant atmosphere.

A grand living room, family room, den and library offer endless opportunities for shared family time or privacy. The country kitchen boasts state-of-the-art appliances, two walk-in pantries and a welcoming breakfast area.

The formal dining room features a romantic fireplace and picturesque courtyard access, while the basement wine cellar could set the stage for intimate dinner parties.

The stately first-floor master suite enjoys a private spa and lap pool, encircled by a rose garden with stunning ocean views.

Mirroring the expansive scale of the bedroom, oversized his-and-hers bathrooms and walk-in closets offer the ultimate luxury—her closet with built-ins and a laundry area, and his bathroom with an adjoining fitness room or private lounge.

Upstairs, four large bedroom suites each have stunning hillside views, generous closets and full bathrooms, while a fantastic media room provides a welcoming hub around a fireplace and wet bar.

Outside, an impressive wrap-around stone patio and sprawling lawns overlook a lighted tennis court with viewing pavilion and a lagoon-style pool, providing plentiful space for both entertainment and family recreation.

The deluxe pool house with kitchenette and full bathroom is ideal for a gym, guest quarters or art studio.

At the front of the property an exceptional stable hosts three horse stalls, each with run-ins, a feed room and an attached groomsman’s apartment adjacent to the riding ring.

For the avid equestrian, Hope Ranch offers a marvelous riding trail system throughout with beach access.

Completing this exceptional estate is a private walking path with exclusive access to Hope Ranch Beach—a highly coveted privilege to a famed piece of California coastline.

Romantic meandering pathways, vast lawns, elegant gardens, and incomparable sea and mountain views make this property truly enchanting!

Enchanting French Country Estate
Offered at $19,200,000

Rebecca Riskin & Associates
1250 Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA 93108

Office
805.565.8600

Rebecca Riskin
rebecca@villagesite.com
DRE 00805720 & Associates

Dina Landi
dina@villagesite.com
DRE 01815307

Sarah Kelly
sarah@villagesite.com
DRE 01447045

Visit the website:

Taste of Provence in Santa Ynez Wine Country

nancys — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 02:10:14 +0000

This French country home is authentically appointed and thoughtfully created among the oaks of beautiful Santa Ynez wine country.Situated on 10 acres of prime Oak Trail Estates area, the land is suitable for aspiring vintners and equestrians.The home features two master suites, four fireplaces, a wine cellar and a fully-appointed gourmet kitchen.Listed with Claire Hanssen/Prudential California Realty.

Offering great privacy and views, this home evokes flavors of Provence that blend with post and beam architecture. French doors, imported antique tile flooring and modern day luxuries with a comfortable, open floor plan provide the ultimate in gracious entertaining spaces that flow effortlessly from inside to out.

The home features a gourmet kitchen, wine bar and cellar room, a state of the art entertainment center, and four fireplaces.

Windows and French doors have stunning valley, vineyard and mountain views.

Encouraging outdoor wine country living, the exterior offers an incomparable formal rose garden and greenhouse, dining arbors, fountains, and many oak-shaded entertainment areas.

A fabulous rose court & green house with landscaping design by Sandra Divine, artfully blend natural beauty and grand vistas.

Convenient yet rural, this is the ultimate abode for the Santa Ynez Wine Country lifestyle.

Mas des Chênes

Offered at $2,995,000

Claire Hanssen
Prudential California Realty/Santa Ynez

Successfully Listing and Selling Distinctive Properties throughout the Santa Ynez Valley since 1984.

“Whether you are buying or selling a home in the Santa Ynez Valley, I want to earn your business. I invite you to contact me as I’d be happy to assist you with this important transaction. In addition, if you have any general questions about buying or selling real estate outside of our area, please contact me as I’m more than willing to help and have developed an extensive network of real estate professionals throughout California to help you,” Claire states.

Email: ClaireHanssen@west.net

Cell: (805) 680-0929

Please browse the website for listings, reports and important local real estate information:

www.clairehanssen.com

Interior Designer Micholyn Brown

nancys — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 11:54:00 +0000

Micolyn Brown’s interior design projects are known for their relaxed, yet classic feel that capture the Santa Barbara lifestyle. Many award-winning properties have been restored under the watchful eye of interior designer Micholyn Brown of Santa Barbara Style, who has been in business for over 35 years.

Elegant Mediterranean

This romantic Mediterranean Villa, located within the prestigious gated community of Birnam Wood Golf Club, is tucked into a lushly landscaped acre designed with privacy in mind. The home was built in 2001 with exceptional craftsmanship and the finest of finishes.

Micholyn’s services go beyond designing interiors. She is actively involved in the architectural details in new construction, changes and solutions in major remodel projects, selection and coordination of color palettes from interior to exterior, and all finish products such as flooring windows and doors and hardware.

Micholyn designs attractive, functional bathrooms and kitchens, selecting quality hardware and finishes. Together with her team, assistant Jannelle Taylor and contractor Gordin Gibbons, they provide complete design services.

Montecito Contemporary

This contemporary house was recently built in the hedge row area of Montecito. The open floor plan flows easily from one room to the next, from indoors to outside with a sophisticated flair. The house feels distinctly modern yet has a rustic warmth in the finish materials and furnishings selected by Micholyn Brown.

The color palette blends seamlessly from interior to exterior, using soothing tones of gray and mahogany with vibrant color accents.

Downtown Condominium

This downtown condominium has been designed with artistry, painstaking attention to detail and enriched with a host of elegant standards and contemporary flourishes. Sleek custom cabinetry is combined with stone counter tops. Designed for a couple who wanted to downsize to a more simple style of living, leaving the big house behind. It is sleek elegant and easy care within walking distance of shops and restaurants.

Moroccan Modern

A vine-covered walkway behind the adobe leads to a secluded, two-story retreat. The two bedrooms and bath have an open floor plan encompassing the living room, dining and kitchen areas. The outdoor seating area provides additional space for entertaining. Large wood-framed windows allow light to stream through onto the white-walled rooms that artfully blend contemporary and antique furnishings, accented with decorative pieces acquired on the couple’s many trips to Morocco.

Micholyn is often involved in coordinating appropriate landscaping and outdoor garden rooms for her design projects. She takes pride in bringing all elements of design together to enable a project to reach its full potential. “Working together with contractors and architects in a cooperative manner is always the best way to have a successful project in the end,” she comments.

Micholyn Brown’s award-winning projects have been published in Santa Barbara Magazine, Great Estates, SB Seasons Magazine, California Mediterranean, Home and Garden and Montecito Magazine.

MICHOLYN BROWN
Santa Barbara Style Interiors

3oo East Canon Perdido Street, C1 Santa Barbara, CA, 93101

phone: 805.452.1250

email: micholyn@aol.com

Winick Architects Designs Cielito Restaurant

nancys — Sat, 07 Jul 2012 00:10:44 +0000

Cielito is remodeled from the original which was built in 1926 following the 1925 earthquake. In recent years the site has seen several restaurants, but none have lived up to the promise of the iconic fountain and the magnificent space. The new Cielito is an expression of timeless elegance; a place which compliments both the inventive menu and the significant historic context of La Arcada.

Ciro Coelho Photography

The recent remodel of Cielito was designed by Winick Architects in Santa Barbara.

Barry Winick
Architecture + Interior Decor + Planning
404 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805.770.3400

Hope Ranch Home Built by Leonard Unander Associates

nancys — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 19:19:58 +0000

This Hope Ranch home, designed by designARC and built by Santa Barbara Contractor, Leonard Unander Associates, Inc. is a beautiful mix of Mediterranean exterior architecture and modern interiors by Chris Moore Interior Design.

The kitchen and master bathroom were thoughtfully designed and constructed with the family’s specific requirements in mind.

Warm tones in fabrics and furnishings complement more modernist elements like the exposed concrete of the fireplace in the Great Room.

1328 De La Vina Street, Suite A
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
P 805.682.5685

For more information about LUA, a Santa Barbara Contractor, please visit the website:

dennis@thompsonnaylor.com

Thompson Naylor Architects, Inc.

nancys — Sat, 30 Jun 2012 20:31:51 +0000

Thompson Naylor Architects is a full service design firm for residential, educational, and community projects, creating beautiful places while strengthening the community and protecting nature.

Services include consultation, feasibility studies, virtual and physical project modeling, representation at governmental reviews and meetings, coordination of design and construction teams, sustainable product guidance, and LEED specific design. They are eclectic designers who enjoy designing in a range of styles from traditional to contemporary.

The emphasis is on listening carefully to clients and thoughtfully seeking solutions that will satisfy their needs and dreams, meet their budgets, fit into the community and
protect the environment.

Thompson Naylor Architects is proud to be part of the green building movement.
“We are strongly committed to increasing green building awareness as well as our own expertise within the field,” the partners state. The majority of their staff members are LEED accredited professionals (USGBC) and Certified Green Building Professionals (NARI).

As part of the Green Building Alliance and Built Green Santa Barbara, Thompson Naylor Architects works consistently with like-minded “green” engineers, landscape architects, interior designers, and contractors. The firm is able to assemble and lead a design-build team, which can ensure the success of any green building project.

The firm has designed homes utilizing solar energy, daylighting, natural cooling, solar photovoltaics, rainwater collection and grey water recycling, and incorporated alternative environmental materials into many of our projects, including natural linoleum and bamboo flooring, recycled and recyclable carpeting, wheatboard and non-toxic treated woods, particleboard, paints and adhesives.

Dennis Thompson has a strong history of leadership in the local environmental building community. He served on the Community Environmental Council board of directors, was a board member and the president of The Sustainability Project, and was founder and the first president of the Green Building Alliance.

Thompson was the organizer of the Santa Barbara Solar Design Conference in 1982 and was instrumental in planning the “Designing for Sustainable Communities” and “Green Building Now” conferences in 1994 and 1996. Most recently, in 2006, he helped bring Ed Mazria, founder of Architecture 2030 and the “2030 Challenge” to speak in Santa Barbara in order to raise community awareness about global climate change.

RECENT AWARDS
LEED Platinum Award – Tipton Meeting House at the UC Sedgwick Reserve

USGBC California Central Coast Chapter 2010 Energy Efficiency Honorable Mention – Tipton Meeting House at the UC Sedgwick Reserve

LEED for Homes Award – Victoria Garden Mews

USGBC California Central Coast Chapter 2010 Energy Efficiency Honorable Mention – Victoria Garden Mews

2010 Santa Barbara Beautiful Award – McClair Residence

Client’s Comments

We LOVE the spaces that Dennis envisioned for use the window seat, the arch into the kitchen, the master bath entrance, and the new bathroom. Last night the near full moon came in through the skylight in the bathroom I said, “Thank-you Dennis!” It is a lovely feeling.
-Erroll Jahnke and Marilyn Helene Jorgenson

From conceptual ideas and drawings through completion, Susette was committed to perfection. Our Board’s responsibility in overseeing the project was made much less burdensome by her attention to detail and her uncompromising adherence to the plans and schedule. Given another building opportunity, Susette would again be my choice.
-Gail Kay, Board Member, Laguna Cottages for Seniors

My husband and I went into the house renovation process with fear and trembling after watching the suffering of others through the years. But what actually happened is one of the great surprises of my life—it has been an excellent experience and a beautiful outcome. Dennis gently led us through the complicated process of deciding what we wanted, then came up with a brilliant design, helped us with the details, and suggested a builder who was perfect for us. Now people knock on the door asking who we used and I happily give them the phone number!
-Carol Bason

(805) 966-9807

Email

susette@thompsonnaylor.com

VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION:

www.thompsonnaylor.com

Ocean View Estate on Cima Linda Lane

nancys — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:31:32 +0000

Dramatic and inviting Mediterranean estate with stunning ocean, city, mountain and harbor views. Elegantly sited on almost two acres, this Montecito property is designed for indoor/outdoor living with doors and windows throughout leading to multiple patios and terraces. The main residence offers 5 bedroom suites, including two master suites and an elevator.

Location, privacy and luxury – this property offers the ultimate Santa Barbara lifestyle.

The ground floor has a gourmet Kitchen and adjoining Family room, Formal Dining room, Formal Living room, Verandas and Loggia, Library and Guest Bedroom or Office.

Up a sweeping staircase are two Luxurious Master Suites each with a veranda, spa bathroom and spacious dressing area. Two additional bedroom suites are upstairs.

A short walk from the main house is a distinct guest house with a full bathroom and kitchen with its own wraparound deck and views.

The outdoor spaces include meticulous lush gardens, paths, quiet retreat areas along with a sparkling swimming pool, built-in barbeque and several dining areas.

Features:

5 Bedroom Suites including 2 Master Suites
Guest House with full bathroom & kitchen
Ground Floor Guest Bedroom or Office
Situated on 1.98 acres
Panoramic views of the ocean, city, harbor & mountains
Formal Dining room
Formal Living room
Library/Study
Manicured gardens & retreat areas
Pool & Built-in BBQ
Elevator in main house
Impressive driveway entrance with 3 Car Garage

Dramatic Ocean View Estate

1027 Cima Linda Lane, Montecito

$6,750,000

Nancy Kogevinas, Luxury Properties Director
After graduating from UCLA with a degree in economics, Nancy worked in Los Angeles, New York and London as a marketing and advertising executive with Time Magazine and The New Yorker Magazine. Intrigued by the real estate business, Nancy changed careers in the early 1990’s and has been successfully representing Buyers and Sellers for almost two decades. In 2007 Nancy was selected to be a Founding Director of Prudential’s Luxury Properties Division.
CONTACT: 805.450.6233 nancy@kogevinas.com

Linos Kogevinas, Luxury Properties Specialist
As the International Publisher of Time Magazine, Linos lived and traveled throughout the US, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa for much of his career. Upon retiring from publishing in 2005, Linos decided to put his experience and energy to use working with his wife, Nancy, to help manage her successful and growing business. With an international network of personal and business contacts, plus years of managing complex businesses around the world, Linos brings a wise and steady perspective to each transaction.
CONTACT: 805.450.6231 linos@kogevinas.com

To view a complete listing of properties:

www.montecitoproperties.com

Country Home in Santa Ynez

nancys — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 00:59:20 +0000

Leonard Unander Associates, Inc., a Santa Ynez General Contractor built this exceptional country home in the Santa Ynez Valley designed by Tom Meaney Architect.

The outdoor living space features a fireplace, an outdoor kitchen, and a wood burning pizza oven.

Vaulted ceilings, wood floors, and expansive views of the valley mark this home. The owner of the home was the primary interior designer on the project and worked closely with Tom Meaney and LUA on
the interior detailing.

1328 De La Vina Street, Suite A
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
P 805.682.5685

For more information about LUA, a Santa Barbara Contractor, please visit the website:

La Candelaria in Carpinteria

nancys — Mon, 21 May 2012 16:19:31 +0000

This magical, walled villa abounds in romance, resting on approximately 13 acres of Carpinteria’s foothills. Like a jewel just off a road in the Spanish countryside, the seemingly 200-year-old La Candelaria estate makes a masterpiece out of newly built, inspiring details.

Large mesquite gates framed by massive, stone walls, open upon an oak-lined country lane, which passes ponds on either side before reaching a gravel motor court. A separate service gate mimics the main gate. Sprawling lawns, towering palms, hundreds of mature oaks, redwoods, rare plant specimens and the open sky introduce the villa, the peaceful song of birds the only ambient noise.

With a trickling fountain and striking fireplace, the Palm Court awaits through mesquite entry doors. Arched iron and glass doors envelop the two-story courtyard with an enchanting aura. Additionally, the property features a water well that produces about 55 gallons per minute.

Elegant formal living and dining rooms, an exceptional eat-in kitchen, an inviting family room, and a wonderful library encircle the Palm Court, each offering exquisite and unique finish details. From the design of the tile, stone and wood floors, to the groin-vaulted, coffered and wood-paneled ceilings, every inch of the home pays infallible attention to detail.

Handmade tiles decorate the floors, walls, and ceilings; stone fireplaces, corbels, balustrades and baseboards grace every room.

Other exceptional details include Venetian plaster, hand carved beams and intricate stone finishes in every bathroom. The home offers security alarms, radiant heated floors, and custom Crestron controls throughout.

The first floor also boasts three gracious bedroom suites each with French doors opening to the garden, large walk-in closets and lavish bathrooms.

A grand floating stairway reaches a sumptuous master suite. A vestibule leads into the expansive, sun-drenched bedroom. Here, French doors open onto a terrace, offering a view over the infinity pool the lakes beyond.

Alternate French doors open up to the mountain views and vast sprawling lawns at the front of the home. An elegant stone fireplace and impressive his-and-hers bath and dressing rooms complete this
remarkable space.

A separate staircase accesses two additional guest suites that enjoy separation via their own private living room. The home’s tower hosts a majestic, hidden dining room, where stone arches gaze over the home’s rooftops and out over the ocean, valley, and surrounding mountain range.

A motor court offers garages with capacity for six cars, four of which are located within a detached structure. This space also features an interior staircase that leads to a large guest suite or home office, a media room and a large terrace overlooking the impeccably landscaped grounds.

Outside, the home’s covered loggias boast brick-clad, groin-vaulted ceilings, while stone terraces overlook the tiled infinity pool. This gracious space allows breathtaking views of the distant ponds and the
utmost serenity of this new, elegant estate.

La Candelaria in Carpinteria is offered at $10,900,000

Riskin Associates
1250 Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA 93108

Office
805.565.8600

Rebecca Riskin
DRE 00805720 & Associates
Dina Landi
DRE 01815307
Sarah Kelly
DRE 01447045

Visit the website:

www.marshakotlyar.com

Idyllic Montecito Country Estate

nancys — Tue, 08 May 2012 21:40:56 +0000

Situated down a long gated driveway in an A++ location, this quintessential Montecito Country home has been impeccably renovated to feature bright and inviting spaces. The single-level main home offers 3-bedrooms, 3.5 baths, great room, gourmet kitchen and family room, dining room, and office/media room or 4th bedroom. Listed with Marsha Kotlyar.

Crisp, clean finishes throughout, including vaulted beam ceilings, wide-plank oak wood floors throughout, 2 fireplaces, crown molding/paneling, and a newer kitchen with superb appliances, custom cabinetry and beautiful travertine counters.

The master suite includes a luxurious marble bathroom and 2 walk-in closets.

There is also a separate pool cabana/guest cottage with wet bar and bath.

The peaceful and private one-acre property boasts manicured gardens, expansive lawns, dining and entertaining terraces, saltwater pool and spa, fruit trees, raised vegetable beds, and a 2-car garage.

Situated within the highly desired Montecito Union school district, this property is very convenient to the upper village.

Offered at $4,995,000.

Marsha Kotlyar
Estate Sales Associate

Office: (805) 565-4014

E-mail: Marsha@PruSB.com

Prudential Fine Homes
1170 Coast Village Road
Montecito, CA 93108
DRE # 01426886

VISIT THE WEBSITE:

Eye Society in Montecito

nancys — Tue, 08 May 2012 15:18:34 +0000

Eye Society is a retail concept developed by eyewear connoisseurs for like-minded eyewear purist and sells products of unquestionable quality and design integrity.They carry exclusive lines designed by Shane Baum of Baum Vision fame and unique selection of rare, vintage frames including Louis Vuitton, Paul Frank, MOSCOT, and Leisure Society to name a few.

Shopping at Eye Society is a unique experience; intimate and quaint, the mere 300 Square feet store is located in the upper village in Montecito.

Alisa Sydenham is the manager of the store. She has been in Santa Barbara for 6 years and is a 20+ year veteran in the eyewear industry. As an optician, she will recommend, measure, fit and adjust your glasses to you personally.

“The Montecito upper village is an ideal destination for personal care and a unique shopping experience. I enjoy working with customers who stop in the morning for an espresso and later in the day for a glass of wine, allowing me to personally show them our handcrafted, unique eyewear and sunglass lines in a relaxed setting. I take time explaining all the benefits, features and details, which make the each of the lines unique. It is a lifestyle shopping experience,” she explains.

For a more personal shopping experience, private appointments are available.

Eye Society is the exclusive dealer for many quality lines. REBECCA MINKOFF is a design collaboration with Shane and all frames are Limited Editions. ALEXANDER DAAS features polorized and non-polorized lenses and comes with a custom chain designed to keep your glasses and sunglasses close to our person so you won’t loose them and it is a stylish piece of jewlery. KILSGAARD from Denmark is simplicity and great styling in one! Annodized aluminum frames with italian zyls temples create a comfortable fit, bright fashionable colors and exquisite design is the best of what is coming out of Europe today.

MOSCOT infuses it’s unmistakably refined, downtown aesthetic with nearly 100 years of eyewear expertise and unparalleled craftsmanship to create it’s timeless eyewear: The MOSCOT Originals, MOSCOT Spirit and MOSCOT sun collections.

Other lines represented in the store are Original Penguin, Linda Farrow and Modern Amusement.

The Montecito store exclusively features the new LEISURE SOCIETY eyewear for prescription RX and Sunglasses, designed by Shane Baum.

Handmade in Japan out of 100% titanium, Swiss stainless steele screws and hinge mechanisms, zyls hand polished from Italy and the finest quality polarized lenses the world has to offer.

No detail was ignored when it came to designing this line. Leisure Society is the finest handcrafted quality and heirloom designed.

Baum said recently, “I appreciate good design, a pure creative process and impeccable service. Our humble little store in Montecito will cater to an exclusive list of discerning clientele that appreciate handcrafted elegance and Custom Creations. We think more like artists and take a jeweler-like approach to eyewear. To have something created for your face is an enlightening experience. It allows you to define the true you, by articulating your personal taste and complimenting your face to perfect proportion. To have a frame that defines you is a great thing.”

They will even replicate a frame or sunglass, which has long been out of production.

EYE SOCIETY, featuring rare, vintage and custom eyewear is the retail location for Leisure Society line of eyewear and is located in the Upper Village, Montecito.

Hours of operation Tuesday– Friday 10am- 6pm, Saturday 10- 2pm

1482 EAST VALLEY ROAD, MONTECITO, CA 93108

Please contact Alisa Sydenham/Manager for an appointment if you wish to see the collections or schedule an appointment for a custom fitting.

805-444-5182

Email: alisa@eyesocietyonline.com

Hawthorn at Padaro Beach

nancys — Sun, 06 May 2012 16:38:22 +0000

There’s a new boutique on Santa Claus Lane in Carpinteria…Hawthorn at Padaro Beach is an upscale women’s boutique offering clothing to fit the Santa Barbara lifestyle.

Hawthorn at Padaro Beach is for the woman who enjoys the casual elegance of the Santa Barbara seaside lifestyle. A carefully edited selection of cashmere, cotton tops and dresses, lounge wear, and beautiful jewelry and accessories.

Lines include Global Girls sandals, Bella Luxx, Goddis Style, Subtle Luxury.

“Whether you are going to the beach, brunch, or out on the town, we have the clothes that you need to be stylishly, yet comfortably dressed for any occasion, ” explains owner Karen Bauer.

“We are thrilled to have Blakeney Sanford’s art on our walls. If you missed her opening, stop in to see her unique pieces,” Karen comments.

Quality jewelry lines, including Heather Gardner Malibu and Laura Levy.

Leather clutches and bags from Emily Rosendahl, Global Girls beaded sandals and a variety of beach bags and designer jeans.

3817 SANTA CLAUS LANE, CARPINTERIA
(next to Garden Market)

HOURS-Tuesday-Sunday 10-5

805-684-6474

email: hawthornboutique@gmail.com

Deer Lodge Enclave

nancys — Sat, 05 May 2012 21:23:48 +0000

Nestled in a heavenly enclave between Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley, this romantic, rustic, yet elegant property wins the best of both worlds.The John Deere family built the original adobe hacienda in the early 20th century.The estate has been restored and elaborated upon to what is now an incredible wonderland.The compound offers multiple residences and approximately 180 acres of spectacular grounds.

Just off the San Marcos Pass, a long drive meanders beneath a canopy of oak trees through a lush yet manicured woodland to the welcoming motor court. Above the motor court sits a detached garage that currently houses classic cars and two guest homes; one with two bedrooms and three baths, the other with one bedroom and two baths, and both lavishly furnished with full kitchenettes and large living rooms.

A stone pathway meanders down to the original adobe, on its way passing three bedroom suites with entrances wrapped around a courtyard. A red tiled roof covers the luxurious, sprawling hacienda, wherein pitched wood beamed ceilings and sweeping valley vistas span every corner.

The living and dining rooms flow into one another, both enjoying impressive native stone fireplaces.

Off the dining room, a reading nook shaded by ancient oaks offers a serene escape. Also off the dining room, the eat-in kitchen presents a large farmhouse table.

A center island, custom cabinets, and top-of-the-line appliances makes this an ideal gathering place for the expansive property.

Down the hall finds an elaborate master suite that includes an office, large sitting room and intimate master bedroom that all open up onto a traditional, covered veranda in true hacienda style.

The deluxe master bathroom enjoys double sinks, a steam shower, freestanding tub, and an enormous dressing room.

Several additional structures scatter the property nearby, including a wine cellar, a fully loaded gym, a game room, and an extraordinary pool house. The game room offers a wet bar and half bathroom. A large entertaining terrace with an outdoor kitchen overlooks the entire valley and can host more than 30 for dining.

Perfect for entertaining, a Sonos sound system plays customized music throughout the property. Next to the pool house, a large and beautiful swimming pool with an infinity edge occupies another fantastic part of the property.

The pool house itself enjoys impressive stone fireplaces both inside and out, a large kitchenette, media area, and fantastic outdoor living space.

The property additionally boasts a bocce ball court; a deluxe tree house and fort; a 150-foot-long zip line; a lighted sport court; and a 300-vine vineyard (of Syrah and Grenache) planted and tended to by the famous vignerons of the Beckman Estate; a three-bedroom, two-bath caretaker’s house; a two-car garage located conveniently near the main house; and a gardener’s storage house. Walking trails have been carved throughout the property, making hiking possible within the privacy of the property.

Offered fully furnished, this one-of-a-kind compound presents a truly magical and exceptional opportunity.

Offered at $10,900,000

Rebecca Riskin & Associates
1250 Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA 93108
805.565.8600

Rebecca Riskin
cell 805.452.0222
rebecca@villagesite.com
DRE 00805720 & Associates

Dina Landi
cell 805.708.5019
dina@villagesite.com
DRE 01815307
805.565.8600 — fax 805.565.8600

Sarah Kelly
cell 805.708.3177
sarah@villagesite.com
DRE 01447045

Visit the website: