Karen McCartney introduces her new book with David Harrison - White Rooms - exploring the unifying power of white and shares a few images from the homes around the world shot by internationally renowned photographer Richard Powers. We're excited to have signed copies are available in this week's sale event so you can be one of the first to own the book. 

Karen has also collaborated with Murobond Paints on 'Compass', a range of whites to suit different spaces. Hear more about the book and the paint range at a long table discussion with Karen on 14th or 15th September at the Murobond Paints workshop in Sydney.

This is a book set to inspire through the use of the world's simplest decorating tool – the clever and strategic use of white. White paint, floors, objects and furniture, but not necessarily all used together, as colour and pattern have a role to play too. White is the ultimate in egalitarian decorating – it doesn't mind if your style is boho or modernist, country or classic – there is something for every taste and tips on how to make it work.

White Rooms showcases how style-setters globally have made use of white and then takes a deep dive into all the rooms in the home including outdoor space. I hope you enjoy the book, and then get out your paintbrush!

Image - Richard Powers

Masking the dominance of key architectural features such as a column is sometimes desirable. Here everything is painted white - even the furniture is white. This spartan space is given texture and warmth through rustic wooden tables and abstract artworks.

Image - Richard Powers

In a room with idiosyncratic features - stairs breaking the ceiling line and wide old floorboards with obvious gaps - the owner has chosen to unify the elements by painting everything in a shade of white. An old fashioned bed contrasts with a light by Philippe Starck.

Image - Richard Powers

Scandinavian style can, unless used judiciously, become rather predictable. In this interior, the simple lines and timber features of the Danish pieces are juxtaposed with strong angles and emphatic colour - golden yellow and turquoise.

Image - Richard Powers

A grouping of mid-century Swedish ceramics with vertically incised lines works beautifully against the monochrome artworks in the background. Variety of shape and height is key. The oyster white flowers supply the connection from earthy brown to the black and bright white.

Edited extract from 'White Rooms - Decorating with style, pattern and colour' by Karen McCartney and David Harrison with photography by Richard Powers (Penguin/Lantern $59.99). Order your signed copy now.