It's Thursday, time for Style Source Faves, and I've got a very special book to recommend today.

Yes, it's a "design" book, but in this case, it's a lot more.  The book is a documentation of a five year reinvention of the designer's own home. 

The book:  Villa, by John Saladino.

I'll say it right now, I'm a sucker for books where the interior designer takes us into their own home.  It's one of the reasons I like Bunny William's book, An Affair With a House, so much.  Just as in yesterday's post where I talked about my love for before and after pictures, it fascinates me to see the design process from beginning to end.  Sure, looking at beautiful spaces can be inspirational, but it's more educational to see the journey.

The home, in Villa, is located in Santa Barbara and overlooks the Pacific (big-time gorgeousness right there!) It's a 1920s stone house, built in the style of a 17th century Italian manor, that Mr. Saladino first discovered in 1985.

The book is divided into four sections:  Architecture, Interiors, Landscape, Entertaining (which includes recipes - always a bonus.)  So, the reader gets to see not only the remake of the house, but also the reinvention of the terraces, outdoor rooms and gardens.  Ah, bliss...

Here's a little preview - the Drawing Room:



An abundance of gorgeousness - not to mention character and comfort!