In truth, I can think of another change that might improve the design, but it would end up blocking the IrDA. I therefore don't think it's worth exploring if the fascia is supposed to be a functional replacement for the original.

The render posted was by Beaker, right? The form and function are at odd with each other almost as much as with the original fascia. Though a good job, the contours on the left is just too over the top and don't have a timeless feel to them. In fact the design already looks somewhat dated since first seeing it. It would also require completely custom buttons, which this new fascia does not.

Remember that there's still the possibility of custom knobs, so one (popular) aspect of Beaker's design will still be possible.

Bruno