I am no expert, but it appears (from the wood, shape and handles) to be a danish teak dresser - they date from around the mid-late fifties and sixties. Don't think they are particularly rare (check for makers mark eg) Borge Mogensen/Sorborg Mobler?), but they are lovely, and very on-trend (similar new version by West Elm sells for $1099). Didn't find one exactly like yours on ebay, but similar vintage ones listed start at around AU $550-$600 and go up from there. A great thrifting find!

I like the blue touches already in the room, which reflect the brickwork. Agree with lots of creams/ neutrals, just adding some blue in cushions, artwork. Maybe a bluish/cream rug, with a subtle pattern, not a solid color. Also I think the lights are a little lost. The high ceilings could take some quite large shades, maybe drums. And I agree that the central column could be painted to become the focal point as stated. Either white or quite a dark grey/ blue, ( it might darken up things too much, but it's only paint, can be changed). It might be sinful but I think I would replace it with plaster, then paint it. Finally maybe a dash of 60s burnt orange or mustard if you want to want to keep the retro theme.

I agree with oklouise- it might be worth waiting to see how happy you are with wall positioning and other issues. The cheapest option would be plasterboard/gyprock sheeting. Get some quotes- if you strip it yourself, then the plasterer do the sheeting and setting, then you paint. This would be prime time to insulate the walls (probably have no insulation given the period of the home), so don't let anyone convince you to gyprock straight over the top! If you can't afford plastering now, be aware it will take many cans of paint and primer to cover this dark coloured timber. If you are ok spending +$500 to paint something + your labour, to then rip it down in 6-12mth??

I think if you want a modern table re-sell this one and start again. The old fashioned style rosewood/mahogany tables which were French polished were very popular in the 80s and 90s and some people who have old homes still love them. I think there is no point trying to completely change it because the leg style etc is still old fashioned.