Dyne - Look at local wrecking yards for a different dash. That way you can modify it however you want and switch it back later. This also helps to fabricate it so your car doesn't look trashed while you are building your new console, and you can take your time and do a great job.
Seamonkey - That looks like some good ideas you have. Think about installing your cpu in the trunk so you have more room for gadgets and such in your console. If you're not worried about system expansion, though, then the console is a good spot too (be sure to ventilate it
