We did what you are considering with a cover panel to help support the countertop between our dishwasher and apron front sink; we notched out the bottom and ran toe kick in front of it. If you put a cover panel between your DW and stove (notched out or not), I would also put one on the other side of the stove or the DW so it looks symmetrical and "planned". Hillside House has a good point about countertop heights. I would measure very carefully to see that your countertops won't end up higher than 37" There is a gap of about 1/4 inch between the top of the cabinet and the countertop to take into account. It may very well be fine, but as you said, now is the time to be sure. Also check your dishwasher specs. I thought I had our measurements planned down to the fraction of an inch with our Ikea cabinets, but our countertops still ended up being 1/4-1/2 inch high than I expected, though that worked out well for us.

We found that the Ikea installers were cheaper than our own contractor. And probably faster, considering the leaning curve. We had about $7500 in cabinets (one of the most expensive) and $2400 in install costs. It went perfectly, they are real pros.

I need a contractor in the Chattanooga Tn area that has experience putting in an Ikea kitchen

Curious to know if anyone near me is working as an independent ikea kitchen installer and has photos of their work? My zip code is 60487. Thank you!