Here's one I did. Have you considered velvet or leather for one of the fabrics? I find that these harmonize best with another fabric, rather than 2 fabrics of the same texture. I used mohair velvet and a brocade; sorry I don't have a better photo:

Doppelgänger. The two chairs are different despite their similarities. I think if you upholster them in an identical way it will serve to highlight the differences rather than make them look like a "set". Since you want a more contemporary look I would do them slightly different using the same fabrics in both. (I love the fabric Les found!) Maybe even keep one with cushion, and one without, like they are now. I would not paint the wood. I think the natural wood seems richer than painted in that style, and you are not going for a Shabby Chic look with the upholstery so don't paint them. With all that black in the fabric painting the wood black might be overkill and make them look flat and uninteresting. Of course this might depend on the overall decor in the room....Do you already have a lot of painted pieces? Or a lot of natural pieces?

Oh fabulous! I have been wanting to learn how to cane, they offer a class at a school a few hours away. Can I sand the wood and restain it? Or will that ruin it? And any ideas on age? My guess was early 1900's but I don't know that much about chairs.

Wow, everyone - THANK YOU SO MUCH! So here's where I'm at: 1. Although everyone is saying the room begs for a rug, I dread pulling out a vaccum or duster or sending the robot-vaccum out after each eating episode! This room gets lots and lots of activity, many meals, many kids, etc. That is the only reason I chose to stay with an easy-sweep floor. But I do see how the rug makes a great difference to the look and feel of the room. When the crowds quiet down in my life, I'm going to put a rug there. Will have to work on some other visual accents until then. 2. Yes, I agree that deep colors on the wall (and maybe ceiling) would add a great effect, and some drama to the room...but dark colors really pull me down. It was a long process, I tried several of the deep colors, and have come to realize that all I want is light, I can't exist in dark-colored spaces as beautiful as the room might be! Haven't come up with anything yet, that would stay within the 'light' I crave and would add a beautiful effect. If you have ideas, would love to hear! 3. I agree that the choice of table/chairs and buffet could be different, am not up to changing these yet although will have an eye out... Will move on with fabric for the chairs - thank you, all, for the suggestions! Was such a pleasure to read your input, advice, and suggestions!