add some space in between "structures" as in have some top to bottom space throughout the tank ... they like to browse top to bottom and enjoy having paths to follow
maybe rest one end of the wood on a [edit]LARGER[/edit] rock to provide space underneath, then try go doe something similar to your first post, with lots of "cave levels" at either end ... well that is how mine is setup another than my driftfood allows for access underneath by design
my 2cents worth, all the LFS's have a similar low flat geography for cichlids, I say give them something a bit more natural ... which is not uniform
[edit] tbh didn't see the latest pic .. looks better, think the "space in between" thing still needs addressing (and can be done easily) .... go for height on one side with rocks (without it looking like a lego stack)