Valentine's Day Ideas for Santa Barbara from ELITE Remodels

Faced with a blank canvas, the owners of this Solvang Home called ELITE to reimagine their home. Says Barbara, “Jerry and his team gave us a program from beginning to end. They took the few ideas I had and gave us something so much better than what we imagined!” Click to see our client remodel testimonial video, and call us today to learn about our Valentine’s season remodel offers worth thousands toward your project!

OUR VALENTINE’S GIFTS FOR YOU!

Offers are for remodel contracts signed by February 28.

KITCHEN REMODELS: FREE luxury upgrades including countertop allowance + cabinet hardware package — a $2,000 Value!

BATH REMODELS: FREE luxury upgrades including sink + cabinet hardware package — a $1,000 Value!

PLUS, all remodels receive our special “DATE NIGHT” gift certificates worth $500 for Ca’Dario Restaurant and The Lobero Theatre, and a bottle of fine champagne! OUR DESIGN-TO-DONE VALENTINE’S PROMISE OUR IN-HOUSE TEAM HANDLES EVERYTHING • A complete plan before we start • Design + Materials + Construction • One point of contact This Valentine’s season, let one team take care of everything — The way it should be. One Plan. One Team. Done Right. No chasing contractors. No surprise costs. No chaos in your home.

2026 DESIGN TRENDS:

Our designers continually keep their pulse on how styles are evolving to ensure our approach bridges the gap between current trends and your personal style. In the end, it’s all about YOU!

STATEMENT STONE Natural stone has long been a staple in design, but in 2026, we’re seeing more interest in slabs with bold, organic movement, featuring veining and patterns that feel almost sculptural. These surfaces act as both functional materials and artistic statements, bringing drama and warmth to kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces.

WARMTH & PERSONALITY In 2026, we’re saying goodbye to stark, impersonal interiors. Homeowners are now craving depth, warmth, and personality. Expect to see richer, more tactile finishes, beautifully stained woods, hand-crafted tiles, and patinated hardware that bring soul to a space.

ORNAMENTATION Returning are subtle curves, tailored trims, and architectural detail that adds drama without overwhelming a space. Design is becoming more emotional. It’s less about what’s ‘in’ and more about what feels lived-in, personal, and lasting. “Kitchens with personality have really become a must-have instead of something that feels out of reach. Clients are bringing more of their own inspiration than ever, and I’ve been noticing a clear shift toward raised-panel cabinetry with more ornate details.” — Andrea Fonseca,

ELITE Designer “Clients are asking for darker stained woods, creamy whites and adding touches of vibrance with metals, paints and wallpapers. There is also a shift toward using natural stone for the wow factor that manmade stone simply doesn’t deliver. In kitchens were seeing more organic hoods, Santa Fe textured walls, and semi-open floor plans. Clients are desiring spaces that are more intentional, personal, and grand!” — Grace Gambetta, ELITE Designer CONTACT US

WITH LOVE FROM ELITE! With so many reasons to fall in love (or back in love!) in Santa Barbara this February, we’ve highlighted a few events that will help set the mood.

FEBRUARY 4 — 14 SANTA BARBARA FILM FESTIVAL Experience Santa Barbara’s red carpet at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, where Oscar contenders and the industry’s best gather for 11 days of film screenings, celebrity tribute events, panel discussions and more! That’s a lot of days to reignite the flame!

FEBRUARY 14 VALENTINE’S LOVERS’ FLIGHT Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Pali Wine Co’s Lovers’ Flight, a thoughtfully curated four-wine tasting. This experience features sparkling wines, large-format Pinot Noir pours, chocolate-covered strawberries and live music, with a guided walk-through of each wine. Available all day at their tasting room, it’s an elegant way to mark the occasion — whether as the centerpiece of your evening or a perfect pre or post-dinner stop.

FEBRUARY 13 — 14 MIRAMAR 4-COURSE DINNER Rekindle the romance this Valentine’s Day Weekend with an intimate evening at The Revere Room, Rosewood Miramar Beach Hotel. Guests will enjoy a thoughtfully crafted four-course menu, designed to delight the senses with each course. Optional wine pairings are available to complement the flavors and elevate the experience, making for a truly memorable and romantic night.

Trina GrossiComment