Reputation Matters
710
• LIC# 00851281 / 02172820 / 00826530
543
2535/2605
Nancy Kogevinas, 805.450.6233 LIC# 01209514
9 PASEO DEL RIO,
2BD/2BA • $439,000 Ealand & Sideris Group, 805.698.9902 LIC# 01766178 / 00603730 OPEN SAT 12-3 / SUN 1-4
Waxing Poetic over 1521 De la Vina Street
This quaint little Victorian cottage seems like the perfect place to wax poetic. The home does not lack for carefully crafted antique details — starting with the fish-scale shingles on the front gable, the elaborate brass front doorknob, and the door hardware throughout the home. The owner calls the home “blue-collar Victorian,” but the original owners were fairly highbrow.
About 1890, Albert W. and Caroline G. Potter built this home and spent the rest of their lives here. They came here from Madison, Wisconsin, where Albert had been a successful attorney. The Potters were not related to Milo Potter, the man who built the Potter Hotel in 1902.
The existing records don’t say why the couple moved to Santa Barbara, but I suspect they came here for the same reasons that I moved here from Chicago: December, January, and February.
This area of De la Vina Street is a fairly sedate oneway street now, but back in the 1890s, it was much busier. De la Vina Street was the main route north out of Santa Barbara because State Street ended at Constance Avenue. The home’s residents could sit in rocking chairs on the front porch and watch carriages and wagons heading up and down the dirt road.
As I was researching the Potters, I was initially surprised that they had settled here. The couple had traveled up and down California in the 1880s, then returned to Wisconsin where Albert published a critical book titled The Plain Truth about California. Here’s an example of the book’s tone: “A summer in California is a long and tedious season; day follows day, week follows week, and month follows month of monotonous sunshine … tiresome beyond human ability to describe.” Oh, well! Somebody has to live here, right, Albert?
The Poets Arrive
Somehow, Albert swallowed his pride a few years later and moved here. Not long after, he was writing articles and poems praising our fair city. “Santa Barbara can not only be made a fine city that will compare with the best of its class but the exertions of its people if properly directed can make it the acknowledged Queen of this coast … it has an incomparable climate” (Santa Barbara Morning Press, May 23, 1893).
Later, Albert penned the following poem (Santa Barbara Morning Press, January 1, 1902):
Santa Barbara, Crown Jewel of the West,
The only place where comfort and rest Can be found for the weak and weary, When life is worn, and all things seem dreary. Where winter and summer are ever the same, And no difference is known excepting in name. Come away from the lands of heat and cold Don’t barter your lives for silver and gold.
His wife, Caroline, was also inclined to be poetic, writing for the Los Angeles Times, December 12, 1893:
Long years ago, so runs the ancient story, Two bells were sent from Spain to that far clime, New found, beyond the sea, that to God’s glory And in His house, together they might chime.
And to this day one bell is safely swinging Within its sheltering tower, where, clear and free, It hallows each day with its mellow ringing. The other bell, the mate, was lost at sea.
And when in gentle chimes the bell is pealing, The people listen; for they say they hear An echo from the distant ocean stealing –It is the lost one’s answer, faint, yet clear.
Please do not disturb the residents of this home.
A Surprise Gift
Not long ago, a descendant of a former owner showed up at the home with a file of documents related to the home’s history — the dream of every vintage homeowner. They also shared a photograph of the home from about 1910. The photo appears to show Caroline G. Potter with her daughter Helen J. Potter, who lived in the home until her death in 1939.
Betsy J. Green is a Santa Barbara historian, and author of Discovering the History of Your House and Your Neighborhood, Santa Monica Press, 2002. Her website is betsyjgreen.com
THE GREAT HOUSE DETECTIVE
by Betsy J. Green
This 1897 Indian head penny was found during a renovation of the house.
Close up of the detail of the front door knob of 1521 De la Vina Street
Panoramic Perfection: Modern Craftsman Retreat with Unrivaled Ocean, Island & Mountain Views Where sophisticated craftsmanship and breathtaking views create a life well lived.
Perched on a promontory in Park Highlands, this modern Craftsman
655 Oak Spring Dr | $9,995,000 Montecito Chic Meets Modern Comfort
Nestled in nature with a sleek designer aesthetic, this 3-bed, 5.5-bath contemporary gem delivers serenity, style, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. With expansive mountain views, elegant finishes, and an open, airy layout, this home is an entertainer’s dream and a daily retreat.
930 San Antonio Creek Rd | $6,700,000
Resort-Style Living, Reimagined
Live like you're on vacation every day in this Spanish contemporary estate featuring 6 bedrooms, 6 full baths, and 2 half baths. Highend finishes and incredible versatility make this the perfect multigenerational retreat, with a spacious layout and indoor-outdoor flow ideal for luxurious living and entertaining.
305 E Islay St | $3,500,000 Historic Elegance in the Upper East A timeless Upper East beauty blending classic Santa Barbara architecture with sophisticated updates. This 3-bed, 2-bath home features rich character, grand living spaces, and a lush private garden sanctuary—steps from parks, dining, and downtown charm.
THE BEATING HEART OF SANTA BARBARA
603 JUAN CRESPI LANE, MONTECITO CA 93108
3 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS | OFFERED AT $7,495,000
Tranquil Oaks is a serene and secluded one-acre sanctuary designed by noted Montecito architect Bob Easton. The gracious, nearly 5,000 square feet three bedroom split level, three and half bath home exemplifies classic Mediterranean style. Nestled at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this exquisite residence is accessed through a historic neighborhood filled with classic homes and is adjacent to Montecito's Upper Village. The Village boasts delightful restaurants, charming meeting spots, unique boutiques, and more, all within .04 miles. Enter the property via artistic rusted iron private gates that open slowly and lead to the port cochere and three-car garage.
As you step into the foyer of Tranquil Oaks, you are greeted by soaring wood beam ceilings that rise dramatically over the impressive grand main room with floor-toceiling windows, built-in bookcases, and a fireplace. Handsome Saltillo tile floors throughout lead to the formal dining room, adorned with a tasteful chandelier and flanked by columns. This, and other rooms, are featured by French doors that open to several brick patios, into an enchanting garden with California Coastal live oak trees, ivy-covered follies, and a spacious lawn. The kitchen, designed for both functionality and aesthetic appeal, opens to a grand den or secondary sitting room with a fireplace. A few steps lead to the expansive master suite, tucked away with a luxurious bath. At the opposite end of the house, two additional en-suite bedrooms each with their baths provide comfort and privacy.
In the heart of Montecito, this prestigious property stands as a testament to timeless beauty and unparalleled craftsmanship. The lovingly cultivated grounds invite you to explore and revel in the natural splendor that surrounds you.
EWY AXELSSON
Broker Associate
703 COLINA LANE
SANTA BARBARA
Welcome to 703 Colina Lane, where old-world charm meets modern elegance in this ever-so-lovely Santa Barbara home. Perched above the city with sweeping ocean views from the living room, dining room, kitchen, and primary suite, this thoughtfully updated residence blends timeless character with contemporary upgrades. Inside, you’ll find beautifully refinished original hardwood floors, charming windows, and classic pocket doors that speak to the home’s vintage soul. The chef’s kitchen is a standout, featuring all-new custom cabinetry, sleek countertops, and top-of-the-line appliances—perfectly balancing function and style. The expansive primary suite offers a peaceful retreat with a walk-in closet, luxurious bath with dual rain showers, and direct access to a private deck overlooking the coastline ideal for soaking in California’s indoor/outdoor lifestyle.
Offered at $2,995,000
Suzanne Perkins
With profound gratitude and heavy hearts, we bid farewell to Suzanne Baker Neal Perkins, a trailblazer, mentor, and cherished friend whose extraordinary life was defined by elegance, courage, and excellence. From her early days as a Pan Am stewardess flying R&R missions during the Vietnam War to becoming one of California’s most respected luxury real estate icons, Suzanne’s path was marked by fearless ambition and unwavering integrity. She redefined what it meant to be a top agent, representing over $2 billion in sales, achieving #1 status with Sotheby’s International Realty, and consistently ranking among the nation’s best with Compass.
Beyond real estate, Suzanne was a passionate public servant, equestrian, conservationist, and visionary who gave deeply to her Santa Barbara community. She preserved open spaces, mentoring peers, and inspiring all who knew her. With signature grace, cheeky humor, and quiet strength, she showed us what’s possible when you lead with heart and purpose. Her legacy lives on in the homes she placed, the trails she protected, and the countless lives she touched. Thank you, Suzanne, for your bold choices, golden standards, and timeless example.
OPEN HOUSES
Goleta
7606 Hollister Ave Unit 309, 1BD, 1BA, Sat 1-3, $679,000, Village Properties, Nicole Powers 925-5481305, DRE#02185632
345 Kellogg Way #2, 3BD, 2.5BA, Sun 1-3, $1,099,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Brooke Ebner 805-4537071, DRE#01923719
5671 Cathedral Oaks Rd, 4BD, 2BA, Sun 1-3:30, $1,550,000, Sun Coast Real Estate, Matt Vaughan 805-689-9351, DRE#00767743
7055 Scripps Crescent, 4BD, 3BA, Sun 1-4, $1,950,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Chris Jones 805-7087041, DRE#01383462
5871 Stow Canyon Road, 4BD, 2.5BA, Sun 1-3, $1,995,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Jessie Sessions 805-7090904, DRE#01937789
5049 Via Lara Lane, 4BD, 4BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $2,300,000, Village Properties, David Marchetti / Carly Gribble 805-637-4160 / 805-9517255, DRE#02007487 / #02233358
4900 Via Los Santos, 4BD, 4BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $4,995,000, Village Properties, Lourika van Tonder / Cara Gamberdella 805-280-5865, DRE#02211987
San Roque
2624 State Street Unit 1, 2BD, 2BA, Sun 2-4, $1,249,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Michelle Madril 805-4530927, DRE#01961707
2965 Calle Noguera, 5BD, 3BA, Sat & Sun 1-3, $2,795,000, Village Properties, Sheela Hunt / Sara Beth Cutter 805-698-3767 / 808-9906200, DRE#01103376 / #01490414 The Mesa
510 Miramonte Drive, 3BD, 2BA, Sun 2-4:30, $2,395,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Ferenc Hodosy 805-452-7516, DRE#01012341
124 La Marina, 4BD, 3BA, Sun 1-3, $3,450,000, Village Properties, Pat Saraca 805-886-7426, DRE#01080801
315 La Marina Drive, 3BD, 3BA & 1PBA, Sat & Sun 1-3, $4,295,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Tyler Mearce / Renee Marvin 805-450-3336 / 805-698-1590, DRE#01969409 / #02056190
Saturday 5/31 & Sunday 6/1
Hope Ranch
1060 Monte Drive, 4BD, 3BA, Sat 1-4, $4,350,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Christian Webb 559-631-0825, DRE#02125765
210 Las Palmas, 4BD, 4BA, Sat 1-3, $4,995,000, Village Properties, Thomas Johansen 805-886-1857, DRE#01401533
4045 Lago Drive, 5BD, 4BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $6,750,000, Village Properties, Michael Dickman 805689-3355, DRE#02093312
4385 Via Presada, 5BD, 4BA & 1PBA, Sat 12-3, $6,750,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Greg Moss 805-886-6125, DRE#01069933
767 Las Palmas Drive, 5BD, 6BA, Sun 1-3, $8,125,000, Village Properties, Mandy Gocong / James Sanchez 805-698-4457 / 805-4481148, DRE#02219541 / #02003319
4099 Creciente Drive, 6BD, 3BA & 2PBA, Sat & Sun 2-4, $11,200,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Scott McCosker 805-451-1721, DRE#00494253
Mission Canyon
2870 Holly Road, 3BD, 3BA & 1PBA, Sat 1-4, $3,195,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Robert Heckes 805-637-0047, DRE#01723319
The Riviera
1825 Stanwood Drive, 3BD, 3BA & 1PBA, Sun 1-4, $2,375,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Joy Bean 805895-1422, DRE#00925828
1227 Viscaino Road, 4BD, 4BA, Sun 1-4, $4,275,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, The Olivers 805680-6526, DRE#01068228
Santa Barbara
4128 Via Andorra A, 2BD, 2BA, Sat 10-12, $795,000, Village Properties, Jill Agonias 805-895-9902, DRE#02150975
1031 De La Vina Street, 3BD, 3BA, Sun 11-2, $1,285,000, Epstein Partners/Keller Williams, Stan Aslanian 805-689-2265, DRE#01866069
1035 De La Vina Street, 3BD, 2.5BA, Sun 11-2, $1,385,000, Epstein Partners/Keller Williams, Stan Aslanian 805-689-2265, DRE#01866069
246 Calle Esperanza, 3BD, 3BA, Sat & Sun 1-3, $1,495,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Gabe Grandcolas 805450-4723, DRE#02136492
446 Stanford Place, 4BD, 2BA, Sat 2-4, $1,499,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Michelle Madril 805-453-0927, DRE#01961707
2235 Chapala St, 2BD, 1BA, Sat 2-4, $1,595,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Kathy Strand Spieler/Katie Spieler 805-895-6326, 00851281 / 02172820
3736 State Street #109, 2BD, 3BA, Sun 1-4, $1,645,000, Village Properties, Cimme Eordanidis 805722-8480, DRE#01745878
910 N Nopal Street, 2BD, 2BA, Sun 1-5, $1,695,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Bruce Fisher 805-570-1679, DRE#00879404
2535 Bath Street, 4BD, 3BA, Sat 12-3 & Sun 1-4, $1,775,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Nancy Kogevinas 805331-7577, DRE#01209514
3727 Pascadero Dr, 3BD, 2BA, Sat & Sun 12-3, $1,795,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Tricia Pennestri 905-7058797, DRE#02160635
220 Santa Barbara St Unit D, 2BD, 2.5BA, Sat 12-4, $1,850,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Beau Staley 805-550-2408, DRE#02024147
3891 Sunset Road, 3BD, 1BA, Sun 1-4, $1,950,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, The Olivers 805680-6526, DRE#01068228
7055 Scripps Crescent, 4BD, 3BA, Sat 2-5, $1,950,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Katya Sheets 805-7082323, DRE#02061444
4982 San Marcos Court, 4BD, 3BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $1,995,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Steve Breihan / Katinka Goertz 314-753-1899, DRE#01871645
5515 Longfellow Drive, 4 + bonus, 3BA, Sun 1-3, $2,095,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Chris Pedersen 805-6803269, DRE#02168925
840 Cheltenham Road, 3BD, 3BA, Sat 1-4, $2,195,000, Epstein Partners/ Keller Williams, Jen Stein 805-3195866, DRE#01786020
2760 Williams Way, 3BD, 2BA, Sat & Sun 2-4, $2,200,000, Village Properties, Elena Abel 415-2598098, DRE#02199747
350 Conejo Road, 3BD, 2BA, Sun 11-1, $2,295,000, EXP Realty of California Inc., Todd Shea 805-4537730, DRE#02028163
1024 Garden St #4, 2BD, 2BA, Sat & Sun 1-4, $2,395,000, Village Properties, Liz Benson / Emily McPherson 805-402-1945 / 805766-6014, DRE#02252004 / #02133962
4529 1/2 Hollister Avenue, 4BD, 2.5BA, Sat 12-3 & Sun 2-4, $2,399,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Chase Enright 805-708-4057, DRE#01800599
1274 Camino Meleno, 4BD, 2BA, Sat & Sun 1-3, $2,495,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Deborah Schroder / Steve Heller 805-770-0419 / 805252-2749, DRE#02187109
1435 Sycamore Canyon Road, 3BD, 2.5BA, Sun 1-4, $2,595,000, Epstein Partners/Keller Williams, Steve Epstein 805-689-9339, DRE#00994429
4477 Shadow Hills Boulevard Unit A, 4BD, 2BA & 1PBA, Sun 2-4, $2,595,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Chris Palme 805-448-3066, DRE#00989478
1086 Via Los Padres, 3BD, 2BA, Sun 11-1, $2,975,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Chase Enright 805-7084057, DRE#01800599
979 Debra Drive, 4BD, 2.5BA, Sat & Sun 1-3, $3,495,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Annette Vait / Gloria Easter 805-886-1926 / 805-5700403, DRE#00917775
3855 Calle Cita, 4BD, 3BA, Sat & Sun 1-3, $3,798,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Caleb Overton 805-4537080, DRE#02117608
930 San Antonio Creek Road, 6BD, 8BA, Sun 1-4, $6,700,000, Village Properties, MarLa Gamberdella 805570-3407, DRE#02139725
1103 Harbor Hills Drive, 4BD, 4BA, Sun 1-3, $7,450,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Jenny Easter 805-4556294, DRE#01858581
272 El Cielito, 3BD, 6BA, Sat & Sun 1-3, $7,750,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Michael Pinero 310-213-4481, DRE#01800009
HOT TIPS FOR A COOL SUMMER
MemorialDay weekend marks the unofficial start of summer here in Santa Barbara. As we take time to honor and remember those who have served our country, many of us also begin preparing our homes for the warmer months ahead. Whether you’re planning to entertain guests, tackle home improvement projects, or simply enjoy more time outdoors, now is a great time to ensure your home is ready for summer.
Start by refreshing your outdoor spaces. Patios, decks, and garden areas often need a bit of attention after the winter. Cleaning surfaces, checking loose boards or railings, and setting up comfortable seating can help make these areas more enjoyable for gatherings or quiet evenings. Adding umbrellas or shade sails is a smart way to keep things cool during peak sun hours.
While we rarely see a decreased risk of wildfires, summer is certainly a time to be mindful, particularly in our hillside and rural areas. Clearing dry brush, cleaning out gutters, and inspecting your roof can help protect your property and keep your family safe. If you haven't already, this is also a good time to review defensible space requirements and make sure you're prepared in case of an emergency.
Don’t be fooled by June gloom. Inside wise, it’s time to check your cooling systems. Servicing air conditioners before they’re needed can save you from discomfort
during our late summer heat. If you use ceiling fans, make sure they’re rotating counterclockwise to circulate cooler air.
Now is also the perfect time for some easy DYI around the house before it turns into a bigger issue. Checking window seals, testing smoke detectors, and inspecting water lines or hoses can save you both time and money down the road. And if you’re planning any larger home improvement projects, schedule contractors early as summer is one of the busiest seasons for renovations in Santa Barbara.
For those looking to reduce water use, summer is a great time to consider drought tolerant landscaping. Native plants not only look beautiful, but they also require less maintenance and support our local ecosystem. Be sure to check with the city or county for available rebates or conservation programs.
If you’re planning to travel this summer, remember to secure your home before you go. Smart locks, timers for indoor lights, and a trusted neighbor to collect mail can offer peace of mind while you’re away. And if you're staying home and entertaining, take a moment to check your grill, secure your pool area, and enjoy the season safely.
From all of us at the Santa Barbara Association of REALTORS, we wish you a safe and relaxing start to summer. Let’s take this weekend to remember our heroes and make the most of the season ahead.
Summer Knight is a Santa Barbara native and top producing Realtor at Sun Coast Real Estate. Summer has been a member of the Santa Barbara Association of Realtors for over 20 years and currently serves as the President of the Board of Directors. Reach Summer at 805-886-1261 or summer.k.knight@gmail.com.
OPEN HOUSES
Upper East
2335 State Street, 3BD, 2BA, Sat 2-4 & Sun 1-4, $2,365,000, Village Properties, Emily McPherson / Marilyn Moore 805-766-6014 / 805-689-0507, DRE#02133962 / #01255085
Montecito
62 Canon View Rd, 4BD, 4BA, Sun 1-3, $3,395,000, Village Properties, James Krautmann 805-451-4527, DRE#01468842
939 Arcady Road, 5BD, 5BA, Sun 12-3, $5,350,000, Epstein Partners/ Keller Williams, Stan Aslanian 805689-2265, DRE#01866069
595 Freehaven Drive, 5BD, 5BA & 1PBA, Sat 2-5, $5,575,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Kathy Henry 805-637-4400, DRE#01403548
603 Juan Crespi Lane, 3BD, 4BA, Sat 12-3, $7,495,000, Village Properties, Ewy Axelsson 805-6894124, DRE#00582003
Saturday 5/31 & Sunday 6/1
1285 E Mountain Drive, 4BD, 7BA, Sun 1-3:30, $10,950,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, JJ Gobbell 805-4035785, DRE#02063124
Summerland
2176 Ortega Hill Road Unit A & B, 5BD, 2BA, Sat 11-1, $2,075,000, EXP Realty of California Inc., Juliet Amin 949-521-9915, DRE#02241040
Carpinteria
780 Calle Rey Mar, 3BD, 2BA, Sat 10-12, $1,795,000, Epstein Partners/ Keller Williams, Jen Stein 805-3195866, DRE#01786020
5533 Callejon Ave, 4BD, 3BA, Sun 1-3, $3,195,000, Village Properties, Liz Benson 805-402-1945, DRE#02252004
Santa Ynez Valley
320 5th Street, 3BD, 2BA, Sat 12-3, $1,350,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Danielle Travis 808-280-1123, DRE#01209580
1311 Meadowvale Road, 3BD, 1.5BA, Sun 11:30-1:30, $1,495,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Ursula Santana 805-455-9025, DRE#01209580
1214 Coast Oak Dr, 4BD, 3BA, Sat & Sun 12-2, $1,799,000, Village Properties, Lisa Allen 805-705-3460, DRE#01242652
2475 Grand Avenue, 4BD, 3BA, Sat 11-2, $2,295,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Laura Drammer 805-4487500, DRE#01209580
925 Chelham Way, 5BD, 2BA & 1PBA, Sat & Sun 2-4, $3,495,000, Sotheby’s International Realty, Joe McCorkell / Nicole Dever 805-455-7019 / 805-570-5226, DRE#02051326 / #02110739
Ventura
1711 Rialto Street, 3BD, 2BA, Sun 1-3, $799,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Karen Musser 805-895-3958, DRE#01266118
Realtors: submit your open house listings at INDEPENDENT.COM/ OPENHOUSESUBMISSIONS
Email: openhouses@independent.com with questions $25 PER LISTING OR FREE FOR INDEPENDENT ADVERTISERS
Summer Knight
Centrally located in the desirable Peabody School District, this delightful cottage perfectly blends classic charm with everyday convenience. Situated on a spacious lot, the home welcomes you with inviting front and backyards - ideal for relaxing or entertaining. Inside, the open-concept living room features a cozy fireplace and beautifully crafted built-in cabinets that add warmth and character. A large, two-car garage offers laundry facilities and generous storage space. A wide driveway provides ample off-street parking, and the serene backyard provides a peaceful sitting area with potential for a future ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit). Just minutes from downtown Santa Barbara, the historic Mission, local parks, the beach, Cottage hospital and the vibrant De La Vina corridor, this home offers the best of coastal California living.
805.895.6326
KathySpieler@gmail.com DRE 00851281
KATIE SPIELER
805.245.4582
KTSpieler@gmail.com DRE 02172820
Commercial Projects Worth a Second Look
Since the founding of Giffin & Crane nearly 40 years ago, the vast majority of their projects have been custom homes and remodels. Occasionally, however, their expertise in building unique, comfortable, and safe living spaces has been put to use locally in the commercial construction market. Here are a few standouts.
VALLEY INN: This three-month project took place during the 220-acre luxury resort’s slow season, with strategic tenting to keep the workflow moving and protect new excavations during winter storms. The scope included a new pool pavilion with hot tub, dressing rooms, outdoor showers, a dozen private cabanas, and a commercial kitchen and adjoining dining area, plus spa treatment rooms with fireplaces. Suite access was opened up with improved pathways, surrounded by five acres of newly installed specimen trees, decorative gardens, and an edible greens garden for the inn’s chef. Architecture by David Bury & Company. Landscape architecture by Leland Walmsley.
rustic highlights, including exposed beams and patio dining. Architecture by AB Design Studio. Interiors by SFA Design.
COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL: Overseen by Geoff Crane, whose grandfather co-founded the private school in 1928, the project’s scope included an all-new kindergarten classroom to match the surrounding historic buildings, plus a state-of-the-art library and art center. For more efficient drop-off and pickup, the parking lot was expanded and remodeled with a roundabout and upgraded with permeable pavers over a deep layer of gravel to facilitate groundwater basin replenishment during the rainy season. Architecture and engineering by Blackbird Architects and Fields Devereaux Architects & Engineers.
USE: Working closely with two clients with differing tastes and budgets, this mixed-use commercial project was handled as all-new construction across a pair of adjoining lots on a
businesses occupy the ground floor, accessible via the main road through town, while the second levels feature cottage apartments with their own driveways and primary
Giffin & Crane has been building custom homes in Santa Barbara since 1986.
by Keith Hamm
MIXED
Summerland hillside. ADA-compliant
access from the backstreet. Architecture by Shubin Donaldson.
MONTECITO DINING: Located in the heart of Montecito’s Coast Village corridor, this extensive commercial upgrade formerly Oliver’s vegan restaurant opened up parking and ADA access as modern spaces showcased a comfortable ambiance without upstaging the menu. Moroccan and South of France influences complimented the building’s original
CRANE
OJAI
2bed/2bath (easy modification to a 3 bedroom) single-level home with mountain and city views. Enjoy the with vaulted ceilings, an updated kitchen, living room fireplace, and dual-pane windows/sliders. The features a stainless steel Viking stove and dishwasher. The second bedroom is over-sized, as it was previously The spacious backyard features a large deck and natural landscaping. This backyard is ready to be transparadise. There is plenty of room for lawn, fruit trees, jungle-gym, trampoline, and more. Towering over a gorgeous oak tree providing wonderful shade over the deck. This home is located on a very quiet,
away cul-de-sac at the end of Kenwood Road. Attached 2-car garage with interior access.
1,750 sq. ft. Alta Mesa home with unobstructed ocean and island views.
5 BED + 4 BATH 2,582 APPROX SQFT
This beautiful Spanish-style Hacienda is nestled in one of Montecito's most coveted neighborhoods. Set atop a knoll in a magical, tranquil setting, the gated estate features a main residence with primary suite and guest bedroom, a 2-bedroom guest house with media room, plus a separate 2-room office. The main house offers a stunning great room and spacious interiors that open to flower-filled balconies and an enchanting courtyard with fountain. Seamless indoor-outdoor flow, lush gardens, mature specimen trees, and a versatile floor plan define refined yet relaxed living. A detached 2-car garage completes this unique and timeless property that blends elegance, comfort, and the charm of classic Spanish architecture. MONTECITO,
OFFERED AT $7,500,000
REAL ESTATE SCOOP
JOHNSON RECEIVES RCE DESIGNATION FROM NAR
Brian Johnson, CEO of the Santa Barbara Association of REALTORS® is being honored by the National Association of REALTORS® with the REALTOR® association Certified Executive (RCE) designation, which recognizes exceptional efforts made by the REALTOR® association executives.
Brian Johnson is one of over 540 REALTOR® association executives who have achieved this mark of excellence. Local and state association executives who hold the RCE designation represent REALTORS® in 48 states/territories.
“This is truly an honor, and I am very proud to be receiving this designation. It is a high point in my career as an association executive,” Johnson said.
Prior to becoming a candidate for the RCE designation, applicants must document their association management and academic experiences. Once they have completed this first step, eligible candidates must successfully complete a multiple-choice exam, which is based on a comprehensive understanding of association operations and management practices.
Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of areas critical to REALTOR® association management, including association law, governance and issues related to member services. To retain the designation, RCEs must be recertified every four years.
Johnson will receive an award plaque from representatives of the California Association of REALTORS® during an upcoming event.
REALTORS®: Share your industry info in “REAL ESTATE SCOOP.” Email sarah@independent.com for details.
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Brian Johnson, CEO of the Santa Barbara Association of REALTORS®
