How to Modernize a Traditional Chair

Paint the chair in a more contemporary color, such as red, black or bright white. If you have finished wood chairs, you may need to strip them of their finish before painting, though there are numerous specialty paints that can be applied directly onto previously painted or finished wood. Check with the manufacturer of the paint before applying it to your chairs. If you are currently using unfinished wood chairs made of wood such as pine or alder, they may need to be primed before you paint them, especially if the wood has dark spots.

Change the upholstery on the chair. Certain patterns such as floral prints and wide stripes can make your chair look dated and too traditional for a more eclectic or contemporary space. Thinner stripes, solid colors and geometric prints tend to look less traditional and will give your room and other pieces around it a more contemporary look. When replacing the upholstery, make sure the chairs aren’t overstuffed, as this leads to a more traditional look.

Replace the legs on the chair with those of a more contemporary style and material. For example, wood legs that are attached to the chair via screws can be replaced with metal legs to give them a more modern feel. Replacing the legs on the chair can be done in conjunction with painting the chair and changing the upholstery as well.

Place pieces that are more contemporary near the chair to make them look more modern. For example, side chairs can be paired with mirrored or highly polished end tables, and a dining room chair can be paired with a bold, contemporary table made from polished stone or glass. Putting contemporary accessories in places near the chairs will help even more.