Conversations with Carol
Dennis Miller chats Broadway, Bradley Cooper, and what’s next for this iconic comedian at Lucky’s, their Montecito hang
Generations of Alli Addison’s kin have lived at Dana Adobe, which inspires her equestrian-themed Milton Menasco line
What’s Now
Marina Cortbawi, founder of Brooklyn-based atelier Merlette, hosted an intimate dinner on December 4 to celebrate the launch of the brand’s first boutique at The Post in Montecito.
Every year the Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) recognizes actors, directors, producers, and writers for excellence in film.
From cultural exchange to shopping for gifts, local bookstores
are alive with possibilities
Susan Read Cronin
Bronze sculptures with humorous and allegorical themes
Otto
Bronze Limited Edition of 24
4” H x 4” W x 7” D
In Partnership
A fresh Golden Quadrangle estate features five newly fashioned structures across three sculpted acres—adding up an elegantly harmonious whole.
A charming 1948 Spanish-Mediterranean home with vivid Santa Barbara hilltop views is faithfully renewed for the 21st century.
The longstanding luxury agent and his group are on a perpetual mission—to highlight the beauty of real estate and satisfy the most discerning clients in the business.
In Partnership with Santa Barbara Magazine
An enchanting 103+/- acre estate in prestigious Happy Canyon, Santa Ynez, crowned by a residence inspired by classic English manors. Completed in 2022 and reimagined by designer Jane Hallworth, the interiors blend heritage and contemporary elegance. A zero-edge pool overlooks manicured lawns and oak-studded mountains, while the pool house includes an exercise room, four-car garage, and potting room. An allee of sycamores leads to stables bordered by a kitchen garden and Rosa Rugosa hedge. The stables feature pine interiors, four stalls, a tack room, and a turret-designed manager's quarters. This private retreat offers breathtaking landscapes and refined living on the Central Coast. Presented by Riskin Partners Estate Group | Offered at $20 million Learn More
Elevate your lifestyle in this single-level mid-century ranch home in Montecito’s Lower Village, just a short stroll from Butterfly Beach and Coast Village Road. This vintage 1950’s residence features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, and a great room filled with natural light, and floor-to-ceiling doors opening to the gardens. The property boasts mature landscaping, including Ginkgo and fruit trees, a greenhouse, covered patios, and mountain views. Additionally, there is a built-out one-bedroom, one-bathroom ADU with its own entrance, kitchen, and living room. Approved plans are in place to transform the main house into an approximately 3,400 sq. ft. San Ysidro Ranch-style residence, providing a rare opportunity to create your dream sanctuary. Presented by Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group | Offered at $5.395 million Learn More
Step into timeless elegance with this classic 1928 architectural treasure, set on just under an acre in Montecito’s coveted Hedgerow neighborhood. A grand motor court and charming porte-cochère welcome you to a home brimming with potential. Thoughtfully designed for privacy and convenience, the property includes a discreetly placed three-car garage. Spanning over 5,500 square feet, the flexible floor plan offers five spacious bedrooms and four and a half baths, plus two offices (each with a closet and the potential to serve as additional bedrooms) in the main residence. An attached guest suite adds one bedroom and two baths, perfect for visitors or extended stays. This exceptional property is served by a shared well for landscaping with a low monthly flat rate, in addition to a district water meter for the home. Poised for restoration, this beautiful estate offers a rare opportunity to add your personal touch and revive its historic charm. Presented by Laura Drammer | Offered at $7.8 million Learn More
This gated sanctuary in Eucalyptus Hill seamlessly blends comfort and elegance, offering four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The open-concept design features spacious living and family rooms—both with fireplaces—a formal dining room, and a breakfast area with a bar, perfect for gatherings. The chef's kitchen boasts new appliances, a farmhouse sink, and picture windows framing the tranquil surroundings. The primary suite is a serene retreat, complete with a private balcony showcasing ocean views, a walk-in closet, and an en-suite bathroom with dual sinks. The backyard serves as a private oasis, ideal for entertaining or quiet reflection. This tranquil property is ready to welcome you home. Presented by Maureen McDermut | Offered at $3.095 million Learn More
A truly exceptional, one-of-a-kind property boasting panoramic ocean, island, coastline and mountain views from an expansive, level homesite. Two parcels in prime Hope Ranch location on 5.5 private and usable acres, with the single-level home opening north and south to breathtaking views. The property also features a lighted tennis court, detached guest quarters/office with half bath, gated driveway, motor court, and 6-car garage. There’s abundant room for a pool, horses, gardens, ADU, and a second home on the lower parcel with a separate private drive. The possibilities are unlimited. Presented by Randy Solakian Estates Group | Offered at $16 million Learn More
Discover the essence of Santa Barbara living in this 2.3-acre ocean-view estate, blending Moroccan flair with minimalist design. Nestled on a tranquil lane in Hope Ranch, a striking alfresco foyer invites you into this remarkable 6-bedroom home, where soothing sightlines and seamless indoor/outdoor harmony unfold. Expansive iron and glass doors link the great room to lush gardens and ocean vistas, while rich stone floors and luminous plaster walls create an ethereal canvas. Enjoy the luxury of a first-floor primary suite or take the elevator to an even grander second-floor retreat with 365 degree views. A 75' pool and spa evoke a private resort, while a studio ignites creativity. With hidden courtyards and lush gardens, this estate is not just a home—it's a masterpiece waiting to be experience! Presented by Riskin Partners Estate Group | Offered at $24.5 million Learn More
Escape to your own slice of paradise in this exquisitely renovated ocean-view estate. Recently updated by Giffin & Crane, the 12,300+ sq. ft. home beautifully merges traditional Spanish architecture with world-class craftsmanship and refined modern finishes. Offering breathtaking ocean and island views, this resort-style retreat ensures exceptional privacy while being conveniently located near hiking trails, San Ysidro Ranch, and Montecito’s Upper Village. The residence is designed for effortless single-level living on the main floor and boasts unique features such as a game room, home theater, wine grotto, elevator, gym, pool and cabana, hot tub, 3-car garage, and more! Presented by the Dusty Baker Group | Offered at $19.950 million Learn More
An enchanting ultra-private estate located in the heart of Montecito in the highly sought-after Cold Spring School District. Enter the gated 1+/- acre property, and you will find not only one, but two inviting homes providing a modern compound on the manicured park-like grounds designed for entertaining and serenity. Privacy coupled with proximity, the property is close to the Montecito villages, hiking trails, beaches, shopping, fine dining, and all that Montecito has to offer, making it the ideal place to call home. Presented by Emily Kellenberger & Associates | Offered at $5.995 million Learn More
Step into your dream coastal escape at this captivating Faria Beach bungalow, where the ocean is truly just steps from your door. Imagine waking up to the soothing sound of waves and living in a space that radiates California charm inside and out. The home features three bedrooms upstairs, a total of three bathrooms, and a 2022 renovated kitchen with quartz countertops and top-of-the-line Viking appliances. Your private patio offers more than just ocean views—it’s a front-row seat to nature’s show, with pelicans diving and dolphins gliding by. Indulge in luxury with a sunken fireplace and a built-in hot tub, perfect for evening relaxation. This is more than a home—it’s a lifestyle. Presented by Gary Goldberg | Offered at $4.995 million Learn More
Block Party
Enjoy a rambling tour of downtown’s home stores; you’ll be sure to discover something special to brighten your day (and your abode)
Ideas for reveling in the Southern California lifestyle abound in the boutiques here, plus the beach is just across the way
Everyone seems to know everyone else in this low-key, close-knit beach town with a penchant for vintage wares
Under the gaze of the Topa Topa Mountains you’ll find a big design destination with a small-town charm
Wine, windmills, and wide-open spaces set the stage for design-detailed lodging, home, and garden havens
Shokrian Vineyard is an organic vineyard with biodynamic farming practices. Our mission is to farm wine grapes in a natural, eco-friendly environment by enhancing the balance between the fruit and the vines. We grow fruit for handcrafted, boutique wineries as well as our own estate made wines.
Nestled in an oak tree-studded 21-acre vineyard located in the heart of Santa Barbara County, Roblar reflects the spirit of Santa Ynez Valley— rustic, authentic, and bold. Our philosophy is to foster a unique visitor experience of bringing together great wine, great food, and great friends.
SAMsARA produces limited releases of Pinot Noir, Syrah, Grenache and Chardonnay from carefully selected micro-sites within Sta. Rita Hill’s most highly regarded vineyards. Our wines showcase the distinctive natural elements at play on each vineyard, harnessed through a low intervention winemaking style.
Located on the iconic Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, Koehler is a family-owned and operated winery dedicated to the sustainable farming of our old-vine estate. By minimizing our footprint in the vineyard and maintaining a light touch throughout the winemaking process, we craft wines that are fresh, vibrant, and elegantly layered.
Andrew Murray Vineyards is a pioneering winery that shaped the modern era of Santa Barbara County Winegrowing. As a family-owned winery, we are dedicated to crafting exceptional wines from our highly acclaimed Los Olivos estate.
Book Club
Tomes to keep you dreaming
After surviving the 2018 Montecito mudslide, Mary Firestone interviewed trauma survivors and now shares her own harrowing story in Trusting the Dawn (Sounds True, $26). The book lends a fresh take on healing modalities, focusing on connection, hope, and choosing joy. Firestone says, “Experiencing extreme growth, positive change, and a new, wondrous perspective on what it means to be alive can contribute to a more connected, dynamic life on the other side [of trauma].”
In a bright, heartfelt, humorous memoir, 3 Sisters, 3 Weeks, 3 Countries (Still Talking)(BookBaby, $15), Elizabeth Moore Kraus proves that sometimes it takes being a half world away (specifically Ireland, England, Scotland) to rediscover things about yourself and the people—in this case three sisters in their 60s, Liz, Les, and Rie—you love. “Eat, Pray, Love this is not,” the author says. “Think more along the lines of Eat. Laugh. Lost. That’s something the Moore sisters do, oh, so very well.”
A Map to Your Soul (Rodale Books, $26), by Dr. Jennifer Freed, sheds light on the elements (fire, earth, air, water) that manifest in each of us. The guide helps readers discover their personal map, with self-care rituals to design their best life. “I wanted to share a pathway to full self-expression, turning gifts and strengths into community contribution,” says Freed, Goop’s resident psychological astrologer. “Getting elemental is the best way I know to teach the fundamental and worldwide basics of astrology.”
All Signs Point to Paris (Mariner Books, $29) is a rom-com-like memoir of one woman’s search for a second chance at love. Author Natasha Sizlo—“divorced, broke, freshly heartbroken, and reeling from her father’s death”—is gifted a session with L.A.’s most sought-after astrologist, who tells her that an ex is “the one,” because his birthdate and birthplace (November 2, 1968; Paris, France) line up with her astrological point of destiny. The nonbeliever says, “Oui” and books a ticket to Paris with her sister and two besties for the trip of a lifetime.
California Elegance: Portraits From the Final Frontier (Mondadori, available at Chaucer’s Books) profiles people who have shaped the destiny of the Golden State, including scientists, politicians, designers, firefighters, and, appropriately, treasured local denizen Mahri Kerley, who has elegantly helmed the venerable Chaucer’s Books since 1974.
For a taste of eye candy, pick up Michael Haber: The Elements (Art/Society Publishing, available at Field + Fort), a large-format tome featuring a curated collection of images snapped by the talented local lensman during the course of his awardwinning career producing stunning commercial campaigns for the likes of The Gap, Old Navy, and Tommy Bahama. Don’t miss the author’s book signing on December 11, 3-6 p.m., at Summerland’s Field + Fort.
Artist Symeon Shimin (1902-1984)—whose work includes an important mural at Washington’s Department of Justice building and the movie poster for Gone With the Wind—is being rediscovered thanks to The Art of Symeon Shimin (Mercury Press International, available at Tecolote Book Shop). The book is edited by his daughter, UC Santa Barbara dance professor emerita Tonia Shimin, with essays by local arts writers Charles Donelan and Josef Woodard.
(Flatiron Books, available at Chaucer’s Books) is an insightful (and often witty) firsthand account by UC Santa Barbara student Via Bleidner detailing her experiences attending high school in the land where McMansions and Kardashians are the norm.
Architecture buffs will be thrilled to know that Santa Barbara Architecturefrom Spanish Colonial to Modern (Tailwater Press, available at tailwaterpress.com) is back in print. The latest update of this comprehensive compendium—which was first published in 1975—includes a foreword by local architect Marc Appleton and images by local photographer Wayne McCall.
Alexandra and Michael Misczynski, the wife-and-husband team behind the L.A. design firm Atelier AM, showcase eight of their new projects in Houses: Atelier AM (Rizzoli New York, $70), with photographs by François Halard. rizzoliusa.com.
In Partnership with Santa Barbara Magazine
Great Schools
From Pre-Kindergarten through 12th Grade, throughout Santa Barbara
The Waldorf School of Santa Barbara is committed to providing a healthy, broad, reverent education that honors the head, heart, hands—the whole—of the child.
South Coast Montessori offers an authentic Montessori program for children 3 months through 12 years old.
Ojai Valley School is an independent boarding & day school for 290 students — Pre-K through 12th grade — on two campuses in Ojai.
At Anacapa School, learning starts with community. Our inclusive, tight-knit community fosters close relationships, community involvement, and diverse opportunities for personal growth.
Crane Country Day School is a co-educational Kindergarten–8th Grade independent school located on 11 beautiful acres in Montecito.
The Knox School of Santa Barbara for Gifted and Talented Children serves children in grades Junior Kindergarten-8th.
LAGUNA BLANCA—Thriving Together. From your first year to your senior year, Laguna Blanca is fully invested in your success.
The Riviera Ridge School provides student-centered, inclusive and individualized learning opportunities for every student.
Since 1965, Montessori Center School has developed children ages 18 months through sixth grade into independent, self-motivated, confident learners.
Founded in 1976, SANTA BARBARA MIDDLE SCHOOL is an independent co-educational day school specializing in grades 6-9.
THE CURRENT ISSUE
THE CURRENT ISSUE
Santa Barbara Magazine
Winter 2024
Voted Best City and Metropolitan Magazine
Maggie Awards, Western Publications Association