u/Correct_Guess_8811

I am hoping to spruce up this fireplace surround, but I don't know where to begin. I am not sure what type of wood it is or how it was treated when it was installed (I believe about 30 years ago). There is some staining above the fireplace insert and the craftsmanship is questionable to say the least.

Any advice for how to refinish it? Should I try to strip it/clean it with something specific? Does it need to be sanded? There are some areas with a lot of texture from whatever was put on it previously. I'd like to keep the wood look, but maybe do a whitewash or bleach to tone down the color a little bit to give it more contrast with the floor. I don't have any expertise, but I do have lots of time.

Thanks for the help!