heh, I'm stupid.. I just realised that I don't plan on having an e-brake handle much longer.. and since the center console is designed to cover that spot as a trim piece to the handle, it will do me no good.. hence the reason i ripped out the LX console. I'm just going to get some carpet and cover that spot, and try to blend it in so that it looks natural, like there was never a cutout there.
This of course will be after I get the black carpet replacement... since the red stuff is 1)ugly and 2) getting fscked up and worn.