Furniture, Wood and Cabinetry Finishing - black lacquer wardrobe

In my house we have a fairly large black lacquer wardobe. The only problem with it is that it is hideous. It was my husbands back in his bachelor days. I would like to refinish it but am unsure of where to start. Here is the deal.... right now it has very ugly black and gold knobs, which i know that I can replace no problem. But glued to the actual piece is gold piping around the edge and a mirror in the top center of it.... I did not know whether there was anyway to get these off without causing significant damage. The item is really sturdy so I hate to give it up just due to its unappealing appearance.... Also I did not know if there are any tips available to someone who wishes to paint over black lacquer... Does it have to be stripped down first, I have no idea where to start.... Any help would be much appreciated...

Stripping is not needed for painting. The entire piece, however, will have to be sanded. All that's needed is a 'scuff sanding' - enough to remove the sheen and give the paint something to hang on to.

I normally prime this type of work (after sanding) with BIN or KILZ. You can then paint with the color of your choice.

Just wanted to say thanks for letting me know what to do about the lacquer.... I was unsure if there was a difference between the general attacking of such a project in regards to it being lacquer or paint. I only have one problem left before I start and that would be the gold piping and mirrors that are glued to the front of the wardrobe.... I did not know whether there was a good product that could be used to remove glue?

Glue removal basically depends on the age of the piece in question. Older glues (30+ years) will soften and loose their adhesion with repeated applications of warm white vinegar. Newer glues, particularly those from a factory setting, are almost indestructible.