Hutch Brainstorming

I've been working on refinishing a table, and was hoping to have it ready to share today. Unfortunately, I've been sidetracked by an unforeseen injury and a paint color snafu. (More on that later.)

So instead, today I decided was as good a time as any to start brainstorming. About what, you ask? Well, remember how I said that the TV stand was just one of the many things that I got from my friend at work? Well, feast your eyes on this beauty.

Nice, huh?? And here's a shot of the inside:

It has some drawers and shelves that go in there as well, but they were in the house and I was too lazy/injured to bring them outside to the garage for the picture.

So, of course, I want to paint it. But other than that, I'm at a loss. What color to use, what function to give it...it's all up in the air.

Here are some ideas I've come across via my obsession Pinterest, all originally seen here.

I also came across this one, originally from here.

And I found this when I was flipping through my Better Homes and Garden magazine. (I couldn't find it online, so yes, this is a picture of a picture.)

So with all these ideas floating around, the big question is which inspiration do I use for this hutch that I am now the (proud) owner of.

1. To paint or not to paint? Definitely painting.

2. Light or dark? Leaning towards light - but I'm digging that black one. A lot.

3. Function? Leaning towards a closet or armoire for clothes - especially a lingerie armoire like the yellow one.

4. Placement? The answer to 3 sort of dictates the bedroom...

So, that's what I'm working with now. I think it could look cute in the living room, once I get my act together and whip that room into shape - but what purpose would it serve other than to hold junk? And if all my bedroom is rocking dark walnut furniture, is a random painted piece going to flow? 

Definitely an idea to sit on for a couple of days, 'cause there are so many good inspirations out there that can be implemented. Luckily, I have the perfect three-day weekend to use for said sitting on. (Happy Labor Day Weekend! Woohoo!) And hopefully, I'll fix the paint color debacle I'm currently dealing with, and be back sooner rather than later with a beautiful refinished table.