Handle With Care
Inspired by French surrealism and California in the 1970s, the work of ceramicist Alison Andersson also has an ocean undercurrent.
Ojai resident Andersson; works from Rebekah Miles’s latest collection, All The Pretty Horses—prices range from $115 for a ring dish to $550 for a larger vase.
Photograph by Sam Frost
Inspired by French surrealism and California in the 1970s, the work of ceramicist ALISON ANDERSSON also has an ocean undercurrent. Ridged with the imprint of human hands, most of her pieces feature earthy palettes of creams, browns, and blacks, with the occasional pop of blue or a shock of white. Based in Ojai, Andersson also stretches into sculpture and painting, and her bespoke domestic wares can be found at the local boutique Hummingbird Inn. alisonandersson.com
Natural spires in earthen colors from one of Alison Andersson’s recent collections
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Beachy Keen
In his turn as a fixture on Bravo’s Million Dollar Decorators, JEFFREY ALAN MARKS became a household name in the interior design community…
In his turn as a fixture on Bravo’s Million Dollar Decorators, JEFFREY ALAN MARKS became a household name in the interior design community, and The Hollywood Reporter dubbed him one of the most-wanted decorators in town. During that breakout era, his 2013 book, The Meaning of Home, showcased his expert ability to capture the eccentric personalities of his luxury clients. In the ensuing decade, Marks got married and became a father, a shift that deeply impacted his own concept of home. It follows that his next book, This Is Home (Rizzoli, $55), is particularly focused on style at two of his own residences, including a 1925 beach cottage in Montecito. jeffreyalanmarks.com
The Miramar rug was inspired
by Miramar
beach and my water-polo days
in college.
Marks’ Miramar rug for The Rug Company, which takes its cues from Santa Barbara.
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Tropical Tribe
Pack your passport for prints and patterns
Beaded chairs, raoultextilesstore.com
Pack your passport for prints and patterns
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Image Maker
The popular impression of Santa Barbara owes a lot to photographer J. WALTER COLLINGE, who arrived in 1918 and shot local architecture and Montecito estates, gardens and beaches, and the city’s cultural life.
An unusual garden of cacti and succulents against a mountain backdrop caught the attention of J. Walter Collinge, whose evocative black-and-white photograph hints at Santa Barbara’s varied landscape.
Written by Joan Tapper
The popular impression of Santa Barbara owes a lot to photographer J. WALTER COLLINGE, who arrived in 1918 and shot local architecture and Montecito estates, gardens and beaches, and the city’s cultural life. Collinge was a friend of G. W. Smith and his go-to photographer when it came to shooting that architect’s designs, from Florestal in Hope Ranch to the Meridian Studios downtown, among others. An avid boatman, Collinge also photographed the Haida, the yacht owned by Max Fleischmann, yeast company heir and local philanthropist. His pictures promoted Fiesta, memorialized the palominos raised by Santa Barbara mover and shaker Dwight Murphy, and captured the members of the Denishawn Dance Company. In fact, among Collinge’s best-known work is the Fairy Ring, an evocative nude featuring that troupe’s dancer Doris Humphrey. His work is on exhibit at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum through May 11. sbhistorical.org
Garden. Photo by J. Walter Collinge (1883–1964). Courtesy Santa Barbara Historical Museum
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Sunny-Side Up
The garden-to-table ethos of JACKIE JOHNSON McBRIDE’s cooking style has led to a personal metamorphosis for the former national weathercaster.
Written by Caitlin White
Photography by Sara Prince
The garden-to-table ethos of JACKIE JOHNSON McBRIDE’s cooking style has led to a personal metamorphosis for the former national weathercaster. After leaving the studio life behind when her daughter was born and welcoming a son a few years later, McBride and her husband staked out a picturesque retreat in the hills of Montecito to raise their family. On a plot that includes enough lavender bushes to technically qualify as a lavender farm, an in-the-works vineyard, and, of course, her beloved garden boxes, she’s embracing the chance to spend time outside in the weather instead of just reporting on it.
“Living in Montecito was a lifelong dream, so being here feels magical,” she says. “And it truly is a dream for a gardener—I can grow food all year. I’m always looking for an excuse to be outside since the weather is so beautiful. I think gardening is the cheapest form of therapy, and there’s also something spiritual to me about growing a seed into a plant, taking care of it, and harvesting something beautiful and nutritious I can use to feed my family.”
Now creating seasonally (and meteorologically) influenced recipes as The Weather Chef, McBride’s emphasis on fresh, simple ingredients to create highly nutritious, beautifully plated meals has quickly earned her a devoted following. With a cookbook in the works and a focus on creating meals that are accessible for anyone to make at home, her recipes are best understood as love letters to Santa Barbara’s sunlight, soil, and produce. “I’m big on seasonal eating because it’s just so natural,” she says. “I walk to my garden and the meals I prepare that week are based on the fresh vegetables and herbs that are growing. There’s something to be said about knowing where your food is coming from and how it is grown. It just tastes better.” theweatherchef.com
Jackie’s Must-Haves
“Personalized FLAMINGO ESTATE OLIVE OIL. My friend got me a bottle for Christmas. Not only do I love the olive oil, there is also something special about it being personalized.”
“The IVY COVE UNION SQUARE MARKET TOTE is cute, well-made, and so versatile. I can take it to the market, shopping, or even to the beach. It’s a perfect travel bag as well, and takes up zero space when I’m not using it.”
“I live in my JENNI KAYNE COCOON CASHMERE SWEATER all year long. No matter how hot it gets during the day, as soon as the sun goes down I wrap myself in it.”
“A bleached pine cabinet, table, or buffet. Or if you want to splurge, get an antique French piece from THE WELL.”
“An olive tree in an antiqued pot is a must. I get most of my weathered pots from BOTANIK.”
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Stem Punk
The advent of spring at Lotusland, Montecito's lavish botanical garden, is always worth celebrating, and this year's Spring Equinox Extravaganza was an occasion that Ganna Walska, the eccentric founder of Lotusland, would surely have relished.
Lotusland and the Power of Flowers
Written by Lorie Dewhirst Porter
Photographs by Mariana Schulze
The advent of spring at Lotusland, Montecito's lavish botanical garden, is always worth celebrating, and this year's Spring Equinox Extravaganza was an occasion that Ganna Walska, the eccentric founder of Lotusland, would surely have relished. Engineered by two talented creatives—Louesa Roebuck and Dina Saalisi—the event was an opportunity to experience the spiritual and artistic significance of flowers in the midst of Madame’s exquisite garden.
Roebuck, author of Punk Ikebana and Foraged Flora, demonstrated her exuberant approach to flower arranging in a carefully constructed outdoor classroom, a breathtaking setting that took four days days to assemble. Guests were seated at tables covered with Roebuck’s vintage linens, and each table had a grouping of handmade ceramic vessels for composing arrangements. With large bunches of plant material nearby (scented geranium, wisteria, nasturtium, coral tree branches that were foraged and gleaned by Roebuck and Curtis Searle Fletcher in Ojai and Carpinteria), little encouragement was needed to coax guests to indulge in floral creativity.
Saalisi—a healer and wellness coach and author of several books, including The Art of Flower Therapy—led the group in affirmations and highlighted selections from Listening to Flowers, her hand-illustrated oracle deck of aspirations based on the flower remedies of Edward Bach, a renowned British medical doctor and homeopath. For the flower arranging, Saalisi gleaned bunches of sweet pea and fava bean in the Napa Valley and transported them to Lotusland with husband David Saalisi for the classroom setup.
Between flower arranging and oracle readings, guests were treated to beverages from Apiary Beverage Co. and sweet selections from Chocolate Maya. The day culminated in a leisurely wander through garden, and guests departed with their own flower arrangement and gift bags, made from recycled silk saris, filled with Saalisi’s oracle deck, a special flower remedy, and seed packets.
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Post Modern
Santa Barbara does everything its own way—including shopping. Although it’s a stretch to call the newly opened collection of 13 curated shops that fill out THE POST a mall, there’s a buzzy sense of purpose that harkens back to early ’90s mall culture as community gathering places.
A Curated Shopping Experience
Remodels and redesign preserved as much historic and original architecture as possible.
Written by Caitlin White
Photography by Ye Rin Mok
Santa Barbara does everything its own way—including shopping. Although it’s a stretch to call the newly opened collection of 13 curated shops that fill out THE POST a mall, there’s a buzzy sense of purpose that harkens back to early ’90s mall culture as community gathering places. But there’s also a freshness to the simplicity of this mostly outdoor space, which has been reimagined to include a roundabout at the entrance and includes several architecturally significant and historic buildings.
At the Las Aves Complex, located at Los Patos Way and East Cabrillo Boulevard, weathered bricks are the foremost design elements, with courtyard seating and an eclectic, large-scale fountain from local sculptor Marge Dunlap titled It’s Raining. The nearby Andrée Clark Bird Refuge is a recognizable landmark for most locals. And all the brands and businesses that are setting up shop either hail from the Central Coast or Los Angeles.
Developers David Fishbein and Joseph Miller of the Runyon Group seem to have an innate sense of how to make digital-first shoppers ease back into the brick-and-mortar world. L.A. residents will recognize the pair as the driving force behind Platform in Culver City and The Row downtown. Their spaces traditionally include expansive outdoor areas, plant life, lots of light, and sophisticated storefronts.
One of their own brands, The Optimist, was created in response to a perceived gap in the menswear game, and its second location at The Post carries a mix of hard-to-find brands and vintage accessories. Another retailer, Teller, is run by Fishbein’s wife, Jamie Fishbein, and has a similar curatorial bent that’s women-focused. Outside of the family-run businesses, one tenant, The Great, a lifestyle brand widely touted for Americana flair and sturdy basics from Emily Current and Meritt Elliott, slots in neatly.
A handful of restaurants, including Buellton’s beloved Little King coffee shop (part of the Bell’s Companion Hospitality Group) and a forthcoming location of Jackson and Melissa Kalb’s contemporary Italian L.A. spot Ospi, are also part of the development. In an era where so many developers build sleek and soulless modern structures, it’s a breath of fresh air for Fishbein and Miller to preserve and enhance the rustic charm of these spaces. At its core, The Post is a love letter to Santa Barbara’s way of life—outdoorsy elegance and nonchalant charm. 1809 E. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara, thepostmontecito.com
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A Greek Invitation
Mykonos is known internationally as one of the best nightlife hotspots in the world. But cultivating a global reputation as an epic party town doesn’t mean that’s all this Greek island has to offer.
The central pool at Kalesma Mykonos.
Photography by Giorgos Kordakis, Salva Lopez, Vangelis Paterakis
Mykonos is known internationally as one of the best nightlife hotspots in the world. But cultivating a global reputation as an epic party town doesn’t mean that’s all this Greek island has to offer. Cue one of the isle’s newer resorts, KALESMA (which translates loosely to “inviting”), a property that opened in 2021 on the northwest side of the island and continues to expand to meet a growing demand for a calm, cool, and collected haven in the midst of this wonderfully frenetic destination.
Greek design and architecture are the driving force behind the sleek, whitewashed look of the hotel, with interior styling and design from Vangelis Bonios—who worked on Bulgari hotels and the Valentino boutique early in his career—and his Studio Bonarchi agency. It would seem Bonios is still well-connected in the fashion world, because Kalesma is currently the only hotel in the world that features furniture from Rick Owens. Pieces like his Double Bubble sofa, in plywood and black leather, or the Curial chair, produced in elm wood, evoke an ancient simplicity and provide a stark contrast to the natural creams, tans, and browns of the hotel interiors. Each room has its own heated plunge pool, outdoor shower, and ocean-view terrace, making the ordeal of heading out to a noisy, crowded club less appealing.
The hotel’s positioning on the Aleomandra peninsula offers breathtaking 360-degree views overlooking Ornos Bay from almost every vantage point. The resort layout mimics a traditional island village by establishing shared social spaces at the top of the property and private social spaces set further downhill. Currently, Kalesma has 19 rooms, 12 suites, and 15 villas, but within the next year it will debut 19 more rooms and add significantly to the pool and restaurant offerings. The on-site restaurant, Pere Ubu, serves elevated Greek cuisine and will soon be supplemented by an all-day Greek taverna—think saganaki cheese and tomato-and-feta dakos salad. Close enough to town for a jaunt if guests are so inclined, Kalesma has built a reputation as the stylish enclave on Mykonos for those who prefer a little serenity. kalesmamykonos.com
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An Artful Staycation
The fifth iteration of Desert X, a biennial exhibition in California's Coachella Valley, is now open with 11 site-specific artworks. Since 2017, artists have been invited from around the world to visit and select a location to present and construct their work in the context of the American Low Desert.
Your direct connect to Desert X
Written by by John Connelly
The fifth iteration of Desert X, a biennial exhibition in California's Coachella Valley, is now open with 11 site-specific artworks. Since 2017, artists have been invited from around the world to visit and select a location to present and construct their work in the context of the American Low Desert. Generally on view for nine weeks, the artworks then disappear while following a “tread lightly” and “leave no trace” approach to the landscapes they engage. This year, artistic director Neville Wakefield partnered with co-curator Kaitlin Garcia Maestas to emphasize the fraught relationship between “unadulterated nature” and “the effects of human intervention.”
Highlights for our team include Unsui (Mirror) by the multimedia artist Sanford Biggers, consisting of two sequined sculptures in the shape of clouds towering 30 feet above a nearby community center. Located in a historic Black neighborhood formed by forced displacement more than 50 years ago, these unabashedly hopeful symbols suggest freedom, interconnection, and unrestricted movement. The typically windy neighborhood activates the sound and visual impact of the sequins, while the artificial cloud shapes draw attention to the natural beauty of the desert sky and landscape.
The act of being together by Guadalajara-based artist Jose Dávila features 12 gigantic marble blocks extracted from a quarry a few hundred miles away across the Mexican border. The blocks feature smooth and rough-hewn sides and are stacked carefully but precariously in a Stonehenge-like ring of six pairs near a Desert Hot Springs wind farm. Their migration across the border and clever location near the sleek monuments to environmental technology suggest both the history of previous civilizations and the precarious future of our current one.
Allison Saar’s Soul Service Station is a small structure resembling a filling station that visitors can walk to off the main road. Leading to the structure built from recycled materials such as tin ceiling tiles, cast-iron pans, reclaimed wood, and glass bottles are tires featuring inspirational messages that embody the project’s intent to provide “fuel for the soul.” Presiding inside the station is a life-size hand-carved female figure, guardian of the devotional objects gathered around her created by Saar and local students to express community prayers and wishes for healing and hope.
Cannupa Hanska Luger’s nomadic installation G.H.O.S.T Ride expands upon an ongoing project to reimagine sustainable land-based futures through Indigenous communities engaging with innovative technologies. The work features Repurposed Technological Archaic vehicle (aka RAT Rod), a hybrid Westfalian Land Rover covered in mirrored vinyl and driven to various sites. Its accouterments include industrial materials, a tipi-like structure with ceramic vessels for collecting water, and experimental light and sound systems. The overall effect is both ancestral and futuristic, asking us to consider future societies living in attunement with land and water and, according to the artist, “what we may learn from the desert if we focus on its knowledge.”
All projects are on view through May 11, free, and open to all. The Desert X app is on Apple or Google Play.
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Back to Nature
Designer, decorator, and hospitality expert Nathan Turner has clients all over the world, but he never forgets his California roots. For his latest fabric collection—nostalgic patterns printed on linen—he leans into natural themes that defined his childhood.
One of Turner’s most beloved local interior design projects is the Turner House at Alisal Ranch, a three-bedroom retreat with vintage decor, reclaimed barnwood paneling, and Pendleton accessories. A few of his recent fabric designs also lift inspiration from times spent at Alisal.
Designer, decorator, and hospitality expert Nathan Turner has clients all over the world, but he never forgets his California roots. For his latest fabric collection—nostalgic patterns printed on linen—he leans into natural themes that defined his childhood.
California Quail: “My brother and I raised quails from eggs, and every time I see one on our family’s ranch I like to think they’re descendants from the ones we hatched.”
Beautiful Spanish architecture and design inspired Hillhouse, a sweetly simple floral print.
The Valley Oak Stripe is an homage to California’s mighty woodlands: “I can’t see a giant live oak and not feel at home.”
The North Star Stripe “is inspired by the stacks of vintage horse blankets at the ranch.”
For Heaton, he wanted to pay tribute to the bright berries and brambles that most ranchers have encountered. “We have wild blackberry bushes on the ranch, so I knew I needed a traditional floral with blackberries.”
nathanturner.com
Turner: Ben Leake
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Shell Game
Born and raised in Santa Barbara, architect Jeff Shelton is the mastermind responsible for the renovation of the building that houses CLARK’S OYSTER BAR, a new addition to Coast Village Road. “We didn’t even give it a face-lift; we gave it a new face,” he says.
Newcomer oyster bar Clark’s is defined by its bright, airy aesthetic
Jeff Shelton and Larry McGuire
“We didn’t even give it a face-lift; we gave it a new face.”
Born and raised in Santa Barbara, architect Jeff Shelton is the mastermind responsible for the renovation of the building that houses CLARK’S OYSTER BAR, a new addition to Coast Village Road. “We didn’t even give it a face-lift; we gave it a new face,” he says. “I wanted to make it a place that people wanted to go into.” The building is done in Santa Barbara style, a compressive, plaster-covered architecture with slight Spanish influences and a geometric skyline. After being tapped by chef and owner Larry McGuire to help restore the structure and infuse it with a local aesthetic, Shelton’s other feat was to make the building entrance clear. “All doors should have a slight ceremony,” he says. “It’s a nice passageway, and you celebrate the entrance.” He worked with his brother, David Shelton, on the lighting in the building and in tandem with Bottenfield on the contracting and interiors. As delicious as the food and drink are, the experience of being inside the clean, bright space elevates dining at Clark’s to a special occasion. 1212 Coast Village Rd., Montecito, clarksoysterbar.com
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Trunk Show
Gray Malin X Orlebar Brown in Montecito
Gray Malin X Orlebar Brown in Montecito
Written by Lorie Dewhirst Porter
Photographs by Meg Sandu
Montecito Country Mart was ground zero for welcoming Spring, as Santa Barbara Magazine editorial director Jennifer Smith co-hosted a special collaboration between British menswear brand Orlebar Brown and fine art photographer Gray Malin featuring the luxury retailer's signature Bulldog swim shorts emblazoned with Malin's iconic photographs of three jet set locales: the Côte d'Azur, East Hampton, and Montecito's own Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club.
A seaside vibe pervaded the Mart's courtyard as guests were offered a Summer Breeze Spritz designed by T.W. Hollister & Co. and seasonal appetizers by Alma Fina Fonda. A colorful swim cart displayed the collab shorts collection alongside linen and terrycloth shirts, a chic capsule of must-have items for Santa Barbara's most fashionable men. "Orlebar Brown was the first company I ever collaborated with," says Malin, "and this partnership opened my eyes to how photography can transcend beyond just walls and into something people can wear." It's the second time Malin has collaborated with Orlebar Brown, and happily coincides with the photographer's 15th year in business (graymalin.com).
“Orlebar Brown was the first company I ever collaborated with, and this partnership opened my eyes to how photography can transcend beyond just walls and into something people can wear.”
The festive crowd included Trevor Hardy, Orlebar Brown's Chief Marketing Officer, Santa Barbara Magazine cover star actress Jordana Brewster, design duo Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent, photographer Matt Albiani, fashion designer Tracy Robbins, and philanthropist Sheraton Kalouria. Guests departed with fresh bouquets of springtime lilies enveloped in a wrapping paper version of Malin's image of the Coral Casino.
Owned by luxury powerhouse Chanel, Orlebar Brown has an international reach with more than 40 direct stores and 250 locations worldwide including London, Paris, New York, Miami, East Hampton, St. Barths, the Côte d'Azur, and the Montecito Country Mart. Renowned for its tailored swimwear, the brand is a celeb favorite. 1016 Coast Village Rd., Montecito, 805-869-2039; orlebarbrown.com
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Art for the Soul
On Sunday, February 9, The Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) and Paseo Nuevo, with many local organizations and individuals, presented heART Heals, an event that helped bring the community together to heal and regain strength after the fires in L.A.
heART Heals: MCASB Unites Santa Barbara Through Art, Music & Yoga for Fire Recovery
On Sunday, February 9, The Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) and Paseo Nuevo, with many local organizations and individuals, presented heART Heals, an event that helped bring the community together to heal and regain strength after the fires in L.A. Devastating events aren’t new for us here in Santa Barbara: Many of us are still on healing journeys from the events of the Thomas Fire and the Montecito Mudslide that followed, which is why art, music, and yoga became a conduit and inspiration to create an environment where our community could come together and take the time to heal.
The Arts Terrace came alive as more than 100 participants enjoyed an opening ceremony by Danza Aztecs, music, and laughter from children and parents alike as they painted together with our amazing artist and MCASB Museum Associate Vero Sanchez.
Center Stage Theater became a calming restorative space with guided yoga by Laney Dobbs and immersive art projection by Cole Sternberg. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art was also present, leading artmaking with families building memory boxes.
In the spirit of rebuilding MCASB hosted an inspiring and educational panel with art industry leaders: Nathan Vonk (Sullivan Goss), Debby Peterson (collector), John Connelly (curator and consultant), and Lawren Joyce (advisor) on how people can help fire-impacted artists get back on their feet by collecting art. Many left feeling inspired to collect art and show up for L.A. galleries that will try to rebuild.
During the event we uplifted two great funds that are helping two greatly impacted communities. We encourage those of you who can to please consider donating to these amazing funds. Let’s help rebuild L.A. together!
The Grief and Hope Fund was created to help artists and art workers who have lost their homes, jobs, and studios as a result of the fires in L.A.
The Palisades Fire Domestic Workers Funds’ mission is to provide DIRECT AID to domestic workers who have lost their jobs as a result of the Palisades Fire.
SBIFF Celebrates 40
Long an important fixture on the local cultural calendar, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival lives up to its international status in more than one way, as a festival respected around the world, and with international cinema as one of the strongest components of the program
With a New In-House Home
Written by Josef Woodard
Photographs by Ingrid Bostrom
Long an important fixture on the local cultural calendar, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival lives up to its international status in more than one way, as a festival respected around the world, and with international cinema as one of the strongest components of the program. Executive director Roger Durling, in his 23rd year in charge of the festival founded by Phyllis De Picciotto, said during his introduction before the opening night film, Jane Austen Wrecked My Life, “early on, I leaned big on the international aspect of the festival. This is not an isolationist festival.”
And now this is 40. SBIFF celebrated its milestone anniversary over 12 days of screenings, celebrity tributes, and industry panel discussions at the Arlington Theatre, with the major new bragging rights of having acquired the new five-screen Film Center downtown (formerly the Fiesta Five). Between the Film Center and the year-round SBIFF-run Riviera Theatre screenings, the festival now boasts screening homes of its own.
On those screens, a balanced program of 185 titles, with 52 percent directed by women, were selected by program director Claudie Puig and team. In the mix were such crowd-pleasers as Trifole, Shepherds, and Rocco and Sjuul and artier fare, including the non-linear Lithuanian film Drowning Dry, Waves, Hakki, and Color Book. Documentaries and Santa Barbara–made and –oriented films also found their way onscreen, with an eye to serving a diverse array of audiences.
Personal passions naturally figure into one’s response to given films. For this avid fest-goer—having covered it from the first foray — and avid Neil Young fan, the Darryl Hannah–directed doc Coastal, chronicling a Young tour, was pure gold from start to finish.
SBIFF means different things to different viewers. For some, the main draw is all about close encounters with famous film makers and acting luminaries. On the tribute evening front, the starry roster of tributes kicked off with a strong double header of Angelina Jolie (Maria) and Ralph Fiennes (Conclave), in the spotlight.
The “Virtuosos Award” tribute to emerging talent was especially star-studded this year, including film and music luminaries Ariana Grande and Selena Gomez, inspiring a loud swarm of young fans in the Arlington and outside at the red carpet. In a variation on the journalist moderator theme, Timothée Chalamet was interviewed by his pal and Dune costar Josh Brolin — and the 29-year-old led the Arlington crowd in a chorus of “Happy Birthday” to the 57-year-old. Also in a concentrated focus was the film The Brutalist, with Adrien Brody and Guy Pearce paying tribute and husband-and-wife creators Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold at the directors and writers panels, respectively. As is customary, both coveted panels were well-stocked with current Oscar nominees.
There were local connections in the mix, as well, with Padaro Laner Kevin Costner onstage at the Arlington after the U.S. premiere of his Horizon: Chapter 2, and Montecitan Oprah Winfrey was slated to present the Montecito Award (aptly) to Colman Domingo, who was being fêted for his Oscar-nominated role in Sing Sing. Montecito-based Rob Lowe was on hand for presenting honors for the “American Riviera” award night, spotlighting Zoe Saldaña.
In all, the 2025 edition confirmed that SBIFF is in fine and forward-motion shape in its ripe middle age.
RH Reimagines Montecito’s Historic Firehouse
RH Reimagines Montecito’s Historic Firehouse and Celebrates Its Unveiling
Friends and neighbors gathered for a first look at the space, originally built in 1931
As reported by our sister publication, C Magazine
For more than half a century, Montecito’s regional firehouse, designed by Alexander Bertrand Harmer, was filled with the community’s first responders. But on Thursday, December 12, RH chairman and CEO Gary Friedman unveiled RH Montecito, The Gallery at The Old Firehouse. The reworked space, which pairs dining with design, was filled with the San Francisco firm’s latest collections and drew guests including Gwyneth Paltrow, Amanda Chantal Bacon, Victoria Jackson, and Charlotte Ronson, with interior designers Birgit Klein, Amanda Masters, William Laman and Bruce Gregga, Marc Normand Gelinas, John De Bastiani, and architect William Hefner. Behind the building’s classic façade, visitors walked through a sandstone courtyard with Japanese boxwood hedging and silver date palm trees to reach the RH Firehouse Grill with Mediterranean-inspired interiors complete with oak beam ceilings, limestone tabletops, and glass-and-steel French doors as well as a Wine & Barista Bar, an Interior Design Atelier, and installations of extensive RH launches.
The evening, benefitting the Montecito Firefighters’ Charitable Foundation, included a wide array of delectable offerings, including Cipriani New York Bellinis, Petrossian caviar, and Champagne from Ruinart, as well as a Vesper martini bar, Patron margaritas, and passed bites by Annie Campbell. As guests toured through the newly created space, they also got a look at the restaurant’s lush garden, where guests will dine beneath heritage olive trees and birds of paradise.
Sublime Stays
Extraordinary experiences that feel more like new worlds than luxury hotels
Set in the foothills of the Leoganger Rocky Mountains in Austria, Forsthofgut Naturehotel is a ski-in, ski-out resort with breathtaking views
and unparalleled slope access.
Extraordinary experiences that feel more like new worlds than luxury hotels
Written by Caitlin White
Photography by Patrick Langwaller
What began as a simple forestry station in 1617 has developed into a 400-year-old luxe hostelry in western Austria. Located at the foot of the Leogang Mountains, NATURHOTEL FORSTHOFGUT is still owned and operated by the original founders, the Schmuck family, five generations on. With 109 rooms and suites, this property is a tranquil alpine escape renowned for its direct access to ski slopes during the winter—which transform into excellent hiking and biking trails in warmer months—and its spectacular destination spa.
“This property is a tranquil alpine escape renowned for its direct access to ski slopes and its spectacular destination spa.”
Forsthofgut translates roughly as “forest farm estate.” That theme, along with the region’s natural splendor, is reflected in almost every part of the property. The serenity and sense of escape found in the forest is a major component of the waldSPA, which is the first of that brand in Europe. Updated in 2021, the expansive facility includes a chemical-free swimming lake during the summer months, an onsen bathing area, an infinity pool, a Finnish lake sauna, and a 30,000-meter garden. There is an adults-only zone and a separate family-friendly area with baby and children’s pools, and three distinct water slides.
The hotel’s culinary philosophy highlights three kinds of cuisine: Alpine-Mediterranean dishes, a vegan menu, and R50 offerings—made with ingredients sourced within 50 kilometers of Forsthofgut. Additionally, Mizūmi is an on-site Japanese restaurant, Restaurant 1617 is reserved for celebrating traditional Austrian specialities, and the hotel’s Botanist Bar is a haven for an elegant cocktail or a nightcap.
With grounds that extend over 1.5 acres, the limited number of rooms ensures an atmosphere of seclusion. Accommodations like the Chalet Suites and the Garden Loft Suites—which come with a private loggia—and the three-bedroom Thoman Alm cottage offer options for families and groups, as well as for couples seeking a relaxing mountain getaway. forsthofgut.at/en/nature-hotel.com
A Palatial Sojourn
“Each of the 53 private riads that make up the village-like property is unique, outfitted with designs crafted by Moroccan artisans.”
When it comes to elegant hotels, the ROYAL MANSOUR MARRAKESH is the epitome of Maghreb luxury. Each of the 53 private riads—traditional houses with a courtyard or garden—that make up the village-like property is different, ranging from one to four bedrooms and outfitted with local designs crafted by Moroccan artisans. Some of the riads are equipped with roof terraces that offer sweeping views of the Atlas Mountains, while subtle details such as zellige tiles, carved plaster, and custom furniture and rugs ensure the interiors are equally stunning. The Grand Riad in particular is almost 20,000 square feet and includes the ultimate luxury—a private pool and hammam. The hotel’s four signature restaurants mean guests can enjoy elegant international cuisine: La Grande Brasserie from Michelin-starred chef Hélène Darroze offers French fare, La Grande Table Marocaine specializes in traditional foods from the region, Sesamo is the place to indulge in Italian delights, and Le Jardin’s menu is a fusion of contemporary Asian and Mediterranean dishes. Bars and lounges scattered throughout provide myriad opportunities to unwind. For even more relaxation, the Moorish-style spa offers facials, body wraps and massages, hammam treatments, and wellness programs. royalmansour.com
Italian Gem
Porto Piccolo’s playground on the Adriatic
Spectacular cliffside views define the PORTOPICCOLO SISTIANA RESORT, which is Tivoli Hotels’ first foray into Italy. Although it opened just last summer, this 58-room resort already has a timeless aura, thanks in part to the car-free environment that’s a hallmark of this area on the Gulf of Trieste, close to the Duino Cliffs Nature Reserve. The private beach and luxury marina ensure guests can slip into a lifestyle that revolves around basking in the resplendent water and sun.
The property’s mixed-use development includes 20 residences, a partnership with Purobeach club, and the soon-to-open 38,000-square-foot spa, part of the distinguished Tuscan wellness brand Terme di Saturnia. For now, a wellness zone in the hotel is equipped with a sauna, a steam bath, a Jacuzzi, and a relaxation area. The fitness center features state-of-the-art Technogym equipment, cardio machines, weight stations, and daily group-fitness classes.
And what would any Italian hotel be without food? Within the beach club, the Purobeach Restaurant offers a mix of dishes for lunch and dinner influenced by Marrakesh, Miami, and Melbourne. The Azul Lounge is the place for terrace-side drinks and all-day dining, and Ocyan’s breakfast buffet and fresh Mediterranean cuisine for dinner are additional options. tivolihotels.com/en/tivoli-portopiccolo-sistana
Photography by Francisco Rivotti
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One to Watch • Merlette
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.
Merlette makes its debut at The Post
On December 4, Marina Cortbawi, founder and designer of Brooklyn-based atelier Merlette, hosted an intimate dinner to celebrate the launch of the brand’s first store at The Post in Montecito.
Guests—including Marina Cortbawi, Atherton Johnson, Kate Foley, Daniele King, Amanda Chantal Bacon, Samantha Wennerstrom, Victoria De La Fuente, Jen Huang Bogan, Kathryn Brolin, Jennifer Smith, Gina Tolleson, Becky Brooks, Kelley Phleger, Lauren Preston, and Lindsay Parton—enjoyed Oat Bakery castelvetrano olive focaccia; kale salad with spiced carrots, manchego, pepitas, and lemon garlic dressing; paella de mariscos y pollo with saffron rice; and paella de verduras with soyrizo and artichoke hearts. Dessert was lemon myrtle passionfruit pavlova made by the host.
Launching as a long-term pop-up, Merlette will be part of The Post, a new Runyon development that honors the area’s rich heritage and natural beauty. The store will operate until May 2025, offering an immersive experience of the Merlette lifestyle. California, with its diverse landscapes, was a natural choice for Merlette’s first brick-and-mortar location. “This is a significant milestone for Merlette,” said Cortbawi. “Eight years into our journey, we are excited to bring our brand to life in a space that feels true to our values. Montecito, with its serene beaches, lush gardens, and relaxed pace, perfectly embodies the essence of Merlette. Its quiet charm and natural environment, combined with a year-round climate for our transeasonal garments, made it the ideal location.”
The Montecito boutique, designed in collaboration with Netherlands-based designer Paul Somers and Merlette’s CEO, Ivo Lamers, reflects Merlette’s commitment to artistry and refined luxury. Nestled within a charming courtyard and framed by cascading wisteria, the space resonates with the brand’s aesthetic. In addition to Merlette’s signature womenswear collections, the store will feature a curated selection of unique artisanal homewares, fine jewelry, Poetica laundry and body care products, and luxurious scarves, showcasing Merlette’s dedication to luxury craftsmanship.
The Post, situated at 1801 East Cabrillo Boulevard, Santa Barbara, represents the latest visionary project by L.A. developers David and Joseph of Runyon, who are meticulously reimagining the historic Las Aves complex. This development is conceived as a vibrant communal hub, offering a discerning selection of retailers and dining establishments that encapsulate the spirit of Santa Barbara and Montecito.
Savor Savvy
Four hot spots blend bold flavors with sleek design
Bibi Ji’s new setting complements its flavorful Indian fare.
Four hot spots blend bold flavors with sleek design
A Spicy Vibe
Written by Hana-Lee Sedgwick
Photography by Andrew Purcell
Founded in 2018 by Alejandro Medina and Rajat Parr, BIBI JI is known for its modern take on Indian cuisine and extensive natural wine program. Since relocating to Santa Barbara’s Arts District, Bibi Ji has gotten even better, bringing even more energy to the heart of downtown. Situated across from the Granada Theatre, the expanded space showcases an eye-catching interior, with walls bathed in shades of pink with black accents, creating a dynamic setting that complements the vibrant flavors of the food.
Here, diners can indulge in a range of signature items, including spicy Crispy Cauliflower, tender Murgh Tikka, and creamy Dal Makhni, alongside seasonal specials highlighting local ingredients. A rotating selection of no-intervention still and sparkling wines, including those from Parr’s and Medina’s personal labels, only add to the experience. It’s no wonder the space has been listed in the Michelin Guide California for the fourth year in a row. 1213 State St., Santa Barbara, bibijisb.com
Gastro Bistro
Written by Hana-Lee Sedgwick
Photography by Mariah Green
The newly opened BAR LOU, in the former Oliver’s space along Montecito’s Coast Village Road, adds a California twist to southern French and Mediterranean flavors with local ingredients. The international influences are showcased in shareable dishes like the must-try Vadouvan-spiced cashews, Harissa Beef Kofta with fattoush, and Halibut Almondine. The renovated interior exudes the elegance of a modern French brasserie, with marble tables, dark wood accents, and stylish midcentury touches, and the spacious patio allows guests to enjoy Montecito’s idyllic weather. “Our goal is to create a special place for people to gather over a meal,” says Jessica Schmidt, director of operations. “The style is French bistro, yet it retains the warmth and approachability of a neighborhood gem. The menu follows suit, offering plates that highlight what’s fresh and in season.” 1198 Coast Village Rd., Santa Barbara, barloumontecito.com
Whiskey a Go-Go
Written by Caitlin White
Photography by Andrew Purcell
This tiny neighborhood bar in Montecito might sound like the kind of place where a mechanical bull rules the night, but RODEO ROOM is a high-end whiskey lounge with specialties like wagyu-washed Nikka Days Japanese whisky and fig bourbon. An entire section of the menu is dedicated solely to old-fashioneds; wine, beer, and zero proof selections are available; and a host of elevated small plates are made from scratch in a kitchen that serves until 10 p.m. Pendant lighting and accent wallpaper, a polished animal skull lording over a row of leather booths, and a statement wall hanging of cowboys out on the range complete the room’s rugged, masculine vibe. And if you’re looking for a spot to hit up on the earlier side of the evening, the happy hour runs every day from 5 to 6 p.m. with a selection of drinks and plates that will run you only $8, including Korean-style wings and crispy brussels sprouts with chili honey, lime, and parmesan. 231 W. Montecito St., Santa Barbara, rodeoroom.com
Latin Accent
Photography by Meg Sandu
Chef and restaurateur Ramon Velazquez recently debuted his much-anticipated ALMA FONDA FINA at the Montecito Country Mart, showcasing his innovative Mexican cuisine but with a focus on coastal flavors and local ingredients that celebrate the Pacific’s bounty. The menu strikes a balance between bold and refined, featuring standout dishes like Ceviche Cuixmala, Scallop Aguachile, Rib Eye Chicharron with queso fundido, and branzino topped with mojo verde and pistachio. Further transporting guests is the restaurant’s interior, which features bright magenta booths, crisp white walls and tables, and striking gray-and-white-tiled floors, creating a vacation-like ambiance. 1024 Coast Village Rd., Ste. A, Santa Barbara, almamontecito.com
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Main Attraction
Every year the Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) recognizes actors, directors, producers, and writers for excellence in film.
Written by Jennifer Blaise Kramer
Images courtesy of SBIFF
Every year the Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) recognizes actors, directors, producers, and writers for excellence in film. This year it will celebrate the festival’s 40th anniversary February 4–15 with a stellar lineup. To kick things off, Will Ferrell received the prestigious Kirk Douglas Award for Excellence in Film at a black-tie event (which is a fundraiser for the festival and its educational programming) on December 11 at the Ritz Carlton. Other key events will honor Angelina Jolie, Ralph Fiennes, Zoe Saldaña, Timothée Chalamet, Adrien Brody, and Guy Pearce, while dozens of films will be screened and panels assembled throughout the city.
“Comedy is the hardest, and you make it look easy, Will. Congratulations! Dad loved you.”
In addition to the festival’s anniversary, SBIFF is celebrating an expansion: a new state-of-the-art film center downtown. In renovating the old Fiesta 5 theater, SBIFF will have an anchor and the ability to serve the community year-round, screening independent and foreign films and documentaries. “People are hungry to go to the movies, but they want different, thoughtful programming, state-of-the-art projection and sound,” says Roger Durling, executive director for SBIFF. “People want an experience and also a sense of community. I feel the festival provides the latter, and now we will have a year-round canvas, a bigger tent in which to welcome everyone. And the fact that we will also be helping with the revitalization of the downtown corridor is icing on the cake.” sbiff.org
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Get in the Groove
Our holiday gift GUIDE inspired by some of Santa Barbara’s iconic music venues
Our holiday GIFT GUIDE inspired by some of Santa Barbara’s iconic music venues
Don’t miss Mozart Marathon, Saturday, January 18, granadasb.org
Don’t miss the country line dancing, Saturday, December 14, mavericksaloon.com
Don’t miss the Christmas Mashup (costume required), Friday, December 6, studissoundroom.com
Photo Credits: Granada Theatre for SB Mag Dec/Jan 2008 photographed by Andrew Southam. Interior, Courtesy of The Granada Theatre. Bo Derek for SB Mag Winter 2014 photographed by Randall Slavin. Katy Perry for SB Mag Aug/Sept 2008 photographed by Tierney Gearon, Studio interior courtesy of STUDIO. Edited by Charlotte Bryant Medina.