My first question is why is the fridge so far from the microwave? Almost everything that gets microwaved comes from the fridge (frozen meals, leftovers, etc.), so it makes sense for them to be closer together. What if you moved the fridge over to the spot where the microwave is, moved the dishwasher to the other side of the sink and had that area to the left of the sink be basically the microwave/microwave prep area?

Another advantage of moving the fridge there is that it's closer to the sink, meaning it's more efficient to cook (take food from fridge > wash in sink > chop on counter to right of sink or on island > take to cooktop).

Also, are you in a neighborhood where fancy ranges are everywhere? Reason I ask is that a 48" range, or a 36" range plus oven, seems like a lot for a couple that (as you said) doesn't cook or entertain much or have kids at home. And getting that much firepower, range-wise, won't pay off on resale unless basically all comparable homes have it too AND you're planning to sell soon enough that these appliances won't seem outdated to the buyers.

ideagirl, thanks for your suggestions! I moved the fridge and DW, and put a MW drawer in the island across from fridge. That leaves room for double ovens where the fridge had been. It already has a Wolf cooktop, so we can use that instead of getting a range. Does this layout look like it will work?

The house we bought is a 4 BR, 4.5 BA "garden home" in an upscale area. I think most buyers in the area would expect two ovens and mid-to-high end appliances, but not necessarily a 48" range!

Thanks again for your help!

This post was edited by Sue987 on Tue, Jul 9, 13 at 4:50

We've always had over the stove microwaves. In preparation for the new kitchen, we've been moving it around to see where we like it. Even sitting on the counter, we find it difficult to see the itty bitty writing on the panel without bending over to get closer. I wonder if that is a problem with drawer microwaves? If you use yours a lot, make sure it is easy and comfortable to operate in the new location.

Thanks Cindy, I didn't think about that. The island seemed like the best place for MW to keep it close to fridge. But I'll definitely look at diff models to see how small the writing is on the panel. Good luck with your new kitchen!

I have a MW drawer. As far as the buttons, they are at the top, and slightly angled. Similar to a DW, which would be at the same height. There are also the codes for the special "cook" "reheat" "melt" etc. modes on the inside, top of the drawer. You don't have to bend over at all, because you are looking down into it when it is open.

We really like ours. We've had no problems. I am under 5' tall, though, so I really like having the MW lower. Over the range was hazardous for me. However, my DH is 6' tall and has no issues with our new drawer and uses it just as often as I do, if not more (he's our primary leftover eater.)