Classic furniture styles transcend time, but sometimes their fabrics do not. Susan and James Alison's family room proves this point, showing that one of the easiest and most powerful ways to update a piece of furniture is by introducing a new covering.

Here, slipcovers and custom upholstery gave out-of-date pieces, such as a side chair and old coffee table, a second life. By repurposing them rather than throwing them out, the couple created affordable accents. They had recently purchased two new demi-sofas (bigger than a love seat, smaller than a sofa). "With twin 7-year-olds, we need plenty of seating," says Susan. "But we also wanted a chair or two for larger gatherings."

The makeovers saved the Alisons from the expense of buying a room full of furniture at once. Plus, the colorful fabrics give the updated pieces comfort and durability.