From priciest to least expensive: 1. there are built in fridges like sub-z and that ilk where the doors are flush to the surrounding cabinets. you can get panels for these, generally. 2. there are counter depth fridges where the doors stand proud of the counters by a few inches but the body of the fridge is flush to the counter. you can get panels for some of these. 3. there are standard fridges where the body of the fridge stands forward of the counters. I don't think these come with a panel option. I found about 1-2K difference in price between #2 & #3 so bought #3 for a new build and made a 6" alcove for the back to recess into. I had no problems with "lost" items, it seemed very similar to a #2 type fridge I had of the same manufacturer in a prior home. A fridge will last 10-20 years, your kitchen may last longer than that. I really liked the alcove option, it seems you will always win when you can buy a less expensive appliance with more space.

Counter depth is a little of a misnomer -- the box will likely be approximately the depth of your counter, but it can vary a bit. The door will stick out beyond cabinet depth. This is the version most folks are looking at -- budgeting $1,500-2,500. Built-in may be counter depth or flush. They will also be taller than standard fridge openings as well. And they run $6-7k and up, give or take. Outside of this forum and similarly obsessed folks, most who ask about counter depth are not asking for a built-in fridge. crl_ gave you my best tip for starting your search for either -- got to ajmadison and search by size. If there is a model to fit, they will probably have it there.

Hi, I have the same question. Did you finaly buy Dacor? Thanks

I am getting rid of a GE Cafe counter depth fridge in this size. I love the way it looks, but make sure that whatever you get has TWO cooling controls. Mine is going on 8 years old and it only has one cooling control, which means the cold air from the freezer is pumped into the fridge and any veggies will freeze if they are too close to the back of the fridge. The only safe place for a salad is in the door. I've turned the temp up in the fridge to 39F and still ... frozen celery, carrots, etc. The GE stainless steel is easy to clean and it stays clean looking. I'd go with the Bosch if it were me, love the look of those in the showrooms but I don't love their standard depth options (you have to get ice/water in the door, which I do not want). So, if the GE now has two separate cooling zones then I would get GE again. Aside from destroying produce I do love it, it's super pretty and the ice maker was a strong performer.