I wouldn't, it's too gorgeous.

absolutely would not paint it, but I have seen some of these that were stripped down and re-stained to a lighter color which looks awesome as well.

thanks for the comments... I have a bench on the one side and a huge play house on the other... ( my daycare ) but I want to make it look nice eventually it will be our living space again ...some day. I might just put my paint brush away ... or maybe just paint the walls a nice bright color.