Beyond the Facade

Photographer Holly Lepere captures the essence of American Riviera living in her debut book Private Homes of Santa Barbara.

By Nathalie Tovar

If you keep up with residential architecture and design publications, chances are you’ll recognize the name and work of renowned Santa Barbara-based photographer Holly Lepere, whose artistry and storytelling bring spaces to life. Her debut book, Private Homes of Santa Barbara captures twelve distinct residences in the Santa Barbara area, ranging from historic estates to modern retreats. It offers readers a unique and intimate look into narratives from design talents like Jeffrey Alan Marks, House of Honey, Studio William Hefner, and Amber Lewis, along with behind-the-scenes stories and the full creative journey of each project. 

For Lepere, this book is as much a tribute to her remarkable work as it is to the place she calls home. “It has been a privilege to celebrate the extraordinary work of my clients through my photography for this book—telling a complete visual story of each home through architecture, interiors, and landscape, while giving voice to the creators behind them,” she says. “I’m honored to share these residences in Santa Barbara, a place I’m grateful to call home.”

Private Homes of Santa Barbara, published by Gibbs Smith, is available for pre-order and will be released in October 2026.