U-G-L-Y

When we combined households 6 years ago, this bed found its way into our bedroom! I am not in love! It is U-G-L-Y! I have hated this thing since the moment that I first laid eyes on it.

The bed (and kitty).

I have plans to make matching nightstands similar to this only the bottom will have two pull-out drawers then three shelves above it:

For the foreseeable future we won't have the cash to replace pieces that we already have. So, I am looking for suggestions as to what can be done with this terrible thing to make it not so terrible . I am thinking at least, paint and remove the metal piece at the headboard. Maybe add an upolstered panel at the headboard? Please excuse the un-humg photos in the box in the background - I am still having serious heartburn about putting holes in our new walls....

**The trunk is also on the list to be refurbished. We got it for free, so i guess that we shouldn't complain... any suggestions with that would be much appreciated too....