The chair, like no other piece of furniture, has the ability to evoke such deep feelings of ownership that even the most affable hostess will let you know, “You are sitting in my chair.”

Chairs are one of my personal favourite items of furniture. I love the ease with which they can change, enhance, and make a room come alive, in such an affordable way. I love them for being so practical, functional and individual; they don’t need a set to exist.

Considering the average person spends about eight hours a day in a chair, is it any wonder that some have created an emotional and physical bond to a particular chair? You may recall the Frasier episode with Frasier’s dad, Martin Crane, who claimed he’d prefer to live in a nursing home, if his beloved, outdated, tattered, held-together-by-silver-electrical tape, La-Z-Boy recliner was not allowed in Frasier’s ultra-modern, highly styled apartment. Would he really?

A chair is probably one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to transform any room. All you need is yards of fabric, limitless amounts of imagination and the willingness to step outside of your décor zone.

First, have an idea of your colour scheme. Maybe you would like something to complement, contrast or make its own “look-at-me statement”. Don’t be mousey. A chair is a relatively small piece of furniture to redo, so take a giant leap — impersonate a designer!

Take a look at material like leather, for durability, its nowness yet timelessness, its modern and contemporary appeal. In other words, a very versatile alternative to fabric. If using leather, avoid the expected black, brown or beige. Take a second look at colours like teal, red, orange, pink, jewelled green, and ocean blue.

If leather is a tad outside your budget, choose an excellent quality leatherette, which is available in a wide range of colors, similar to those of leather; avoid the variegated tones, not a good look.

Think florals, not the wishy-washy tiny prints (granny prints). Go for significant, bold prints, inspired by iconic prints like Marimekko. When using bold prints two chairs are more than enough, unless they are small dining chairs, especially in a small space. Unless, of course, you are farming bees, then, by all means.

Take a look at brushed suede, which is also quite durable and again available in an array of colours and shades.

Don’t be afraid to look at men’s pinstripe suit fabric in grey, it makes for a sophisticated, ultra-masculine look. This look works beautifully in a bedroom setting, especially for a bachelor pad. Finish room with dark or slate grey walls for a classic design.

Try patchwork fabric for a vintage, fun, truly one of a kind chair. Ideal for a child’s bedroom, playroom or family room. Look to design houses like Roche Bobois for their use of prints and texture in a single design. Not for the timorous.

Take another look at classic denim, for its timeless, nostalgic feel. Perfect for a casual chair or a wonderful contrast on a Queen Anne chair finished in a whitewash frame.

Whatever fabric you choose, a great way to modernise your chair is to add upholstery tacks or some tufting to the back or seat. These elements add a hint of elegance to even the simplest chairs, allowing them to stand out.

Be inspired by your inner artist, and do it for you, not for anyone to love.

And, yes, I insist you step outside your comfort zone and do something bold and daring. Please note I made no mention of red velvet fabric, so slowly step away from the roll… further, further, now turn and don’t ever look back.