bath walls

We recently leased (possible purchase in the future) an older home approximately 80 years old. The home is in great shape but desperately needs updating on the inside. The bathroom walls are 9 feet high, no vent or window, and the material used is a formica type , 50ish style plastic covering. The sheets are not glued down, they may be tacked in places. The seams are covered with a tin-like material. I have never seen anything like it before and it might have looked great way back when, it really is an eyesore now. Its white with gold starbursts. Can i paint over it?? I would rather not take it down and replace it with drywall at this time. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

leather

 

I would assume you could paint over it. Lightly scuff sand it, and clean it thoroughly. Use an oil based bonding type primer.

 

Though it was a very long time ago. I think it was put up like cheap paneling - maybe in the late 50's or early 60's???
Is there anyway you can get a better look- either by removiing a medicine cabinet or outlet?

Anyway, follow prowalls advice to paint!