I'll be interested in the responses. I'm in the same boat you are. I looked at the Thermador SbS yesterday and for the money, the inside plastic seemed kind of cheap. I wasn't impressed. Fell in love with the Sub Zero but that's not going to happen. So, I'm onto the Monogram or Profile or KA now. The guy at the showroom showed me the hinges on a non built-in model. You can see how the doors would need some extra clearance to open properly. The built-ins just look better IMHO but it's a delicate balance between asthetics and cost. I'm struggling with this.

My contactor, electrician and the granite fabricator were all here yesterday. They agreed they would do what it takes to do the job right - even if it means cutting into the sheetrock in the back of the range for the pipes and the shut off valve, and possibly move the outlet. Because of the construction of the range, it is evident now that there is supposed to be an inch or two of counter in the back. As long as the top front edges fit snuggly on the granite, I will be happy. Thanks for your input.

I am not a fan of MDF on cabinets. Any water splashed, sink overflows, dishwasher incidents, etc. can wreck havoc on them. Likewise, MDF shelves are generally a bad idea, particularly in areas where something might be put away very slightly wet (i.e, a plastic cup which you have not physically dried off, etc.). We have had these issues for years and won't have any MDF in our new house. I do think it might be fine somewhere there was no water (built in bookshelves, etc.), but I would keep it out of water rooms. As far as paint ability, I am not convinced of that. Definitely cheaper though . . .

Shape is not really the issue, it the plumbing. Fiberglass spas have a motor 5' from any jet, smaller plumbing, smaller jets ect. This cant really be achieved in a concrete spa. That said we have done some cool things to get close. Here is one example.