It won't cause any problems as far as i can see, and if you're using a cat5 cable that would free up 3 extra wires that you can use for, say, the x button and the back button...
I just finished two pads using Stoli's design. I didn't cover the wood with sheet metal but instead stained it with a dark stain. It looks pretty good I think, I'm just wondering how long it will be ...