Santa Barbara Dream Home With Old World Charm

Kerin and Eric Friden own one of Santa Barbara's most popular hotels, El Encanto, so they know something about creating comfortable surroundings. The couple spent more than three years building their dream home, a 4,000-square-foot beauty inspired by their trips to Italy and Mexico.

The home is built of natural materials, including a Mexican stone called contera that was used on the floors and on the enormous 16-foot-high fireplace in the living room. The interior has plenty or Old World charm, thanks to the architectural design and the soft chenille fabrics covering many furniture pieces.