Does reupholstering a mid-century chair lower its value?

It can, depending on the piece. For important designer chairs, original upholstery in good condition is often preferred by collectors. Replacing it, especially with a fabric that is not appropriate for the period or design, may lower value.

On the other hand, if the original upholstery is badly stained, torn, or worn through, careful reupholstering with appropriate materials may make the chair more appealing and easier to sell. Many everyday mid-century chairs have been reupholstered over the years, and buyers often accept that.

Before reupholstering a chair you think may be valuable, consult an appraiser or a dealer who handles modern furniture. If you do reupholster, keep any original labels and tags attached, and consider saving a sample of the original fabric. Those details help buyers trust the piece later.