Continuing my conservative approach...

It's a production piece, probably not expensive, no significant provenance either of maker or owners (*other than present owner?), but seems to be well made. It has a simple, not complicated, exterior design.... quaint in overall appearance. It's approaching 100 yrs old. There are likely very few of these particular style desk still in existence.

There's the maxim "Primum nil nocere", do no harm. I vote to, at least, give this some consideration with your modifications, if possible.

Sonny