Living

As an industrial designer, Mark Jurey carefully studied his ridgeline 8-acre lot in the Templeton Hills before building his passive-solar home and designing a natural deer-friendly garden.

The volunteer Master Gardener Program, whose goal is to share sustainable gardening and landscape practices with home gardeners, is seeking applicants. The deadline to apply is Nov. 20.

In 2007, a leisurely visit to an olive oil farm led to a new career for Cindy and Bill Calabrese of San Luis Obispo.

For holiday celebrations and special occasions, many prefer a bottle of bubbly to add to the sense of festivity.

The Small Wilderness Preservation Society is getting a jump on the new year with its 2010 calendar celebrating the Elfin Forest in Los Osos.

The Arroyo Grande home of Claire Martin was built in 1938 when Craftsman homes were still at the height of fashion. But this home was, instead, a humble little cottage more evocative of Sears, Roebuck & Co. than of Craftsman-era pioneers Greene & Greene.

Matthias Clark learned the tile business in the most fashion-forward of U.S. cities – New York. As an apprentice to venerable 4th generation tile installer Armand Agresti, he laid tile in glittering skyscrapers and high-end residences from 1982 to 1988.

Q. We have a big apple crop this year. What’s the best way to store surplus fruit? Also, how do I dry walnuts that a neighbor gave me? -- The Kincaids, San Luis Obispo

Jenny Church knew there was something special about her son, Tom, when he was 21 months old.

Photographer Robert Frear, originally from Detroit, knows more about the Chumash than most Central Coast Californians.

A wide, open hearth offers plenty of comfort and ambience, especially on a chilly winter night. As for heat — it probably offers less than you think.

Q: What suggestions might be offered for growing allium on the Central Coast?

L ike many locals, Ann Reeves came to San Luis Obispo

As holidays go, El Día de los Muertos—known in English as “The Day of the Dead” — is far from bleak.

Nearly 20 top local and regional artists will give poetry readings at “Language of the Soul,” the upcoming 26th annual San Luis Obispo Poetry Festival.

A baker’s dozen of artists are involved with the annual fundraiser for CASA—Court Appointed Special Advocates — at EOC Estate Winery.

Six years ago, Dave and Cindy Condit decided to throw a Halloween party. To set the mood, they transformed their contemporary Spanish-style Templeton home into a macabre mansion. Each year since, the decorations have grown more elaborate.

When San Luis Obispo’s Fortini Home, Garden & Design opened in 2004, it was somewhat misunderstood.

Q: How do I get ready for a winter vegetable garden, and what do I grow?

Homemade Halloween costumes are cheap, easy and eco-friendly, since they often feature recycled clothes, props and accessories. Plus, most of the materials for the perfect costume can be found around the house or at your local thrift store. Here are eight ideas ...