My name is Rachel Sharp
As The Chair Doctor, I specialise in reupholstery of statement chairs, focusing on vintage, mid-century, and antique furniture that deserves a second life.
I launched The Chair Doctor in 2013 after restoring a set of ten Ercol chairs for our newly renovated holiday let. That first project ignited a lasting interest in giving well-crafted furniture a second life. Since then, I’ve trained under experienced upholsterers, learning the intricacies of traditional and modern techniques. For me, upholstery is more than a skill, it’s a mindful practice and a form of artistic expression.
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What sets The Chair Doctor apart is a focus on statement upholstery. I don’t just recover chairs, I reimagine them. I’m known for pairing bold, design-led textiles with thoughtful upholstery techniques that elevate vintage and antique chairs, turning each piece into a one-of-a-kind statement chair. The end result is furniture that feels contemporary yet rooted in quality craftsmanship. I’m drawn to bold, design-led textiles that elevate vintage and antique forms, creating chairs that stand out without overpowering a space.
I work with both sourced projects and client commissions, carefully restoring structure, reshaping upholstery, and selecting materials that celebrate the personality of each piece. Whether it's a Victorian armchair or a Mid-Century classic, I aim to strike a balance between character, comfort, and contemporary style.
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At The Chair Doctor, sustainability and quality sit at the heart of everything. By reviving well-made furniture, I offer an alternative to mass production chairs that are built to last and made to be seen.
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If you're looking for a vintage chair with personality, a mid-century piece reimagined for modern living, or want to breathe new life into a beloved antique, I’d love to help. Have a look at my finished pieces or perhaps the unfinished projects just waiting for some vision.
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Hello
Recent Projects
The Egg Chair
From black ripped 1970s vinyl to wow factor with with Timorous Beasties linen fabric perfectly complimented by green velvet - a classic 1970s egg swivel chair transformed.
The Iron Back Chair
An antique Victorian iron back chair is a real family heirloom. Each layer is sewn over the iron frame, traditionally upholstered to last another 100 years and modernised by this gorgeous Liberty velvet.
The Rocking Chair
An antique rocking chair, reupholstered using traditional upholstery methods. Love this amazing quality Nina Campbell fabric which suits the tones of the wood so well.
The Parker Knoll
Parker Knoll little armchair - Original Parker Knoll - is an early model PK934 - covered in Linwood wave with just a touch of mauve piping.
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