1 Why buy?
When I spotted this dining set at a neighbourhood garage sale, the purchase was a no-brainer. I snapped up the table and five chairs – four sidechairs and one armchair – for a little over $150. At a modern furniture store, just one of the chairs (made over) would easily sell for at least $200. The pieces had classic mid-century lines, but the wood finish was tired and the upholstery fabric dirty and worn. A paint and reupholstery facelift would make it chic again. "Shopping secondhand sources is a great way to get style on a budget"

2  The makeover
This was a basic paint and upholstery makeover. I unscrewed the backrests from the chairs, then sanded all the chairs and the table. Next came priming and painting with two coats of semigloss white latex. But it's the upholstery that makes such a huge difference. I chose white faux ostrich from BB Bargoons, and the upholstery job was done by Vince Belfiore of J V M Interiors in Markham, Ont.

3 Other makeover options
Since this set is constructed of hardwood, it could have been stripped and
stained a deep brown or ebony tone. Mix it up by painting the table black and the chairs white, or the reverse. Try upholstering modern chairs like these in a traditional fabric – perhaps toile or damask. 

4  Styling tips
The new look for this set is fresh, bright and modern. It's just right for a
kitchen or dining room at home or the cottage. I played up the modern feel
with a lacy Moooi Random Light pendant. Sky blue and a hit of orange
make a clean, crisp colour statement.