Most furniture at the big box stores sucks balls.  Instead, painted found furniture is so much more chic and environmentally friendly.

Seek wood or metal odds-and-ends at your local thrift store or junk shop.  Choose paint in bright colors that pop.

Invest in a good hand sander which will make refinishing your finds easy instead of tedious.

Be bold in your color choices.  Matching is for cowards.

An unexpectedly colorful side table can freshen a room for a minimal investment.

If your style sways more Pottery Barn, try matte black paint or even high gloss.