Design dilemma: is painting over kauri sacrilege?

Our latest project involves a rather massive update of a c2000's home in Enner Glynn, Nelson. It's a pretty incredible project because the builder used recycled kauri timber for the flooring and kitchen cabinetry. Don't get me wrong, I am in love with the floors, but timber floors + timber cabinets + timber bench... it's a little much. And not in a good Scando wood on wood on wood way. 

So the dilemma is this: you probably couldn't source this timber again, or if you could, it would be $$$$$$. Does it therefore become design sacrilege to cover it up with two pot lacquer? Even if it is with dreamy double cod grey?

I have been faced with the dilemma before with a set of 1950s Italian mahogany chairs. I really wanted to lacquer them til I could see my own reflection in gloss black, because as beautiful as the red wood was, it just wasn't ME.

And you know what? That is ok. As my painter said: the wood will be still there underneath if anyone wants to bring it back. Ummmm I just hope I am not that person.

Bring on the spray booth!