Wonderful ironing center. I have one that is similar. DH built a big board top to go on a dresser that we had in our guest room before we bought new furniture. I added a couple layers of Warm and Natural batting and covered it with heavy cotton fabric. I love it. I didn't think about having him build in a shelf for mats. Hmmmm---I wonder if he could raise the top a few inches and add a shelf. LOL