chalk paint will prevent sanding job ... spend some time at the annie sloan websites to see if the result you can get with layering two shades might be closer to what you were hoping for ..

Generally, you clean to remove wax, dirt etc, then sand, then begin the painting process.

Sell it to someone who will appreciate it as is. This looks like a high quality all wood bookmatched piece from the 50s or 60s. Definitely don't want to sand the door or drawer fronts as you'll likely go right through the veneer.

Sell it and buy something cheaper that's designed to be painted over. This has carefully matched high quality veneer.

I’d keep it as is and change the hardware to something not brass and shiny. Then I would puchase another larger piece of furniture in the same stain to coordinate the look…like this more contemporary coffee table in this picture.

Find beautiful fabrics for accents pillows with that color in the fabric.

This is such a beautiful piece!! Buy something used from Craigslist or similar that needs to be refinished. I hate to see something so beautiful, painted. But, if you choose to paint, I do recommend chalk paint.

I agree with finding something that needs to be refinished and will refinish well.

just mho, ....I completely agree with the "no paint" vote on such gorgeous wood. Instead, Yes! Find a wonderful Used-from-Craigslist buy & paint with joyful abandon !

It's an entertainment center -- not an antique. Likely particle board under that veneer.

ppf, you just might be right about it being particle board under cheap veneer. If that's the case I wouldn't waste my time doing anything with it. I'd love trina124 to post a maker name or any info on its source. Pictures only tell a part of the story and I love a mystery.

Wow, thank you everyone for your comments. This peice was giving to me from a family member. It is in excellent shape. After looking in drawers etc. adivra you were right. First it is 2 peices and so heavy it took 4 men to put in my house, it is made by hickory chair. I decided to not paint. I don't know much about antiques etc, but does look like this peice is one. Thank you so much , I almost painted something that someone else would appreciate so much! Thanks again