I love giving new life to old furniture. Unless you are prepared to spend some real money on quality furniture another option is to purchase an older piece (in sound condition) and give it a face lift with paint. I find that older pieces were built better and are very solid. Finishes are either dated or damaged and they are generally cheaper. A good primer and several coats of paint can update an old piece into a one-of-a-kind gem. I generally find a light sanding (rubbing out the edges) also helps give an older piece a more authentic look.
These cabinet was a ye olde mustard, that had it's place, but needed new life. It was to be placed in a young couple's kitchen for their children's art supplies.