Explore the beauty of accident, age and patina in these homes

There’s something beautiful about decor that happens by accident. Have you ever thrown something together, planning to arrange it thoughtfully, only to realize that it looks perfect just the way it is? This is the foundation of the wabi-sabi concept: that beauty is found in imperfection, impermanence and the authentic.

Australian author Karen McCartney explores this style in her new book, Perfect Imperfect, with photographs by Sharyn Cairns and styling by Glen Proebstel. The interiors in the book belong to creative people from around the world. Here, McCartney walks us through five of them.

Well-chosen lighting, storage and decor can make your home feel inviting right from the start

You have only one chance to make a first impression. So it’s important that the entry to your house is welcoming to guests, reflects your personal style and makes you feel happy and comfortable as soon as you walk through the door. This space sets the tone for the rest of your home.

Look to these bathroom makeovers to learn about budgets, special features, splurging, saving and more

The most common bathroom size measures 8 by 5 feet — enough room for a single sink, a toilet and a shower or shower-bathtub combination. You may think there isn’t much you can do with an area of this size. But you’d be wrong. Here, five projects within these dimensions showcase clever ways to create virtual and literal space, and how to make big style statements on budgets small and large.