For interest, I have sailed one of Phil Evans boats with a “flat” console for 5 years and have found it very easy to use. Adjustments are easy to make, even in a blow. It is possible to sit on the console but that doesn’t usually happen. If you happen to land on it by mistake it isn’t so uncomfortable as a bunch of cleats. We have not found it necessary to make any changes.
The Flying Fifteen Blog
Flying Fifteens – The Most Fun You Can Have With a Keel On….and GREAT Club Racing…!!!
The Flying Fifteen Blog 
Unlike your boat Mike, the one in the photo looks like it has a mainsheet hoop – which makes a great backrest for the seat if I recall from when I had one in a Fireball!